Extract mesh from analysis tool

[Anonymous]

Hello, all.

We have a part that was generated as a loft in Inventor 2017. It is a large panel that will have a graphic "skin" applied to it. It is also a compound curved surface.

We are trying to generate a mesh model of just the top face, so we can unfold it to give us a "flat pattern" to send to the graphics manufacturer.

The closest I can come is to perform an analysis on the part, which will allow me to display a mesh on that surface. However - I can't do anything with it. Is there some way to extract this mesh in such a way that I can take it into 3DS Max (or other) and unfold/unwrap it? Have attached base solid, which was derived, so (2) files attached. 1362-111_052.ipt - model for which we need surface mesh

Test 17.ipt - base model for derivation

Any alternative workflow approach also much appreciated.

Thanks!

[JDMather]

I was able to Unwrap using free Autodesk MeshMixer.

Unwrap

You might also investigate -

https://bit.ly/InventorBeta

[JDMather]

Note: The above example was one that I had already recorded - it is not using your geometry.

Another example.

[JDMather · Accepted solution]

But my original image was of your geometry.

[Anonymous]

Thank you! This is doing the trick.

Also found another "unfolder" called "Exact Flat" that works well, and is free:

https://www.exactflat.com/online/

[johnsonshiue]

Hi! Just to clarify a bit, ExactFlat is free to try but not free. Inventor team is working on a command called Unwrap. If you are interested, you can sign up Inventor Beta (https://bit.ly/InventorBeta). You will be able to try the workflow in an install-free environment and discuss the workflows with the project team members.

Many thanks!