First Time Using Sheet Metal - Need Crtics....

[Anonymous]

Hello all,

I have ventured my way into the sheet metal realm and fought my way through making my first sheet metal part and flat pattern.  This part was made without any tutorials/ guides and is relatively simple (3 90 degree bends).  I would like some feedback on my workflow and possibly easier/alternate ways to of achieved the exact part I produced. I am more than certain I did wayyyyyy too much work (as Mr JD Mathers likes to put it).  One thing I know I did correct was fully constraining eeeeeeeeeevvvvvvverrrrry sketch!.  I have attached the file below as well as a snapshot of my Model Browser (for those who just want to take a peak).

[JDMather]

I didn't check this for accuracy.  Quick example.

 Now that I understand the geometry I could eliminate the second mirror feature.

After bit more thought - I could do as a Revolve rather then Mirror and eliminate the 45° plane as well - but I think I would rather do as mirror.

There is problaby merit to doing those chamfers as features as well rather than in the sketch, but I thought I would go for the shortest feature list.

On third thoughts - this one bugs me.  I'm going to have to start over from scratch and do it right.

[Anonymous]

Thank you JD.  Ahhh mirror command (doh!) Would of saved me a slew of steps as well as grouping the Corner Rounds.  So as far as simplifying the part is concerned, my use of the tools availble were correct?

[JDMather]

Your part was good, especially for a first attempt at sheet metal.

[JDMather]

Here is another solution - I like this one better as it uses datums for you dimensions without calculations.

[Anonymous]

Thanks JD! I think I am starting to get a decent grasp on sheet metal (or atleast the introductory aspect of it).  I appreciate your time and effort.