topic Re: DXF file for Flat pattern sheet metal. For punching machine? in Inventor Forum

DXF file for Flat pattern sheet metal. For punching machine?

ole_sundheimNU96T — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 09:58:24 GMT

Hi,

We are making junction boxes at work, where we prdoce DXF files of the flat pattern of the 3D parts.

However, the machine that is beeing used to produce the flat pattern parts, are a punching machine.

The software on the punching machine recognize the line features from the DXF file.

So if you have circular hole of 20mm, the software recognizes that and automaticlly puts on a 20mm punch tool in the software. Example attached.

In the DXF out put option you can try and smooth curves out, but as you see on the attached DXF, it does not do it completely.

I know inventor does it right, but since we are using orlder machinery to produce flat pattern parts, is it possible to get more strait lines, and remove the curves, sp the tool insertion software is more automatic?

Hope this is understandable. i tried to past som capture regions, but was unable to past them in here...

Re: DXF file for Flat pattern sheet metal. For punching machine?

CCarreiras — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 11:02:14 GMT

Hi!

You can select a different setting in the 3D model.

I believe if you set the corners as "TEAR" and "Trim to bend" will be better for achieve the geometry you need.

Also depends on how you model the part.

Can you upload the "box.ipt" 3D model?

Re: DXF file for Flat pattern sheet metal. For punching machine?

ole_sundheimNU96T — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 11:08:10 GMT

it got much better with tear an straight line.

However when i export to dxf, i go to geometry pane, on spline simplification, i choose Linear Approximation, and sett the tolerance to 0.002mm.
I atill do not get straight lines in the DXF file.

I am sure there is a way to fix this, but that is why i need help from you brilliant guys 🙂

Is it possible to get a straight relief shap in those bends? i have tried, but nothing happends. Then we will get straight lines anyway. quick weld tuch up in weldeing.

Re: DXF file for Flat pattern sheet metal. For punching machine?

johnsonshiue — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 21:09:57 GMT

Hi Ole,

I suspect "Intersection" or "Straight Line" option in Bend Transition may work better for you.

Re: DXF file for Flat pattern sheet metal. For punching machine?

ole_sundheimNU96T — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 05:43:30 GMT

doesen`t do much. I have found that i can do a flatt pattern cut to get straight line. it will not show up on the 3D model, but does not matter. the important thing here is to get a clean DXF file that the punching machine can handle.

I have added the ipt file here, so if anyone else have some good ideas.

Re: DXF file for Flat pattern sheet metal. For punching machine?

johnsonshiue — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 22:54:34 GMT

Hi Ole,

Do you mind sharing the part, which you changed the Bend Transition option with? I would like to see why it does not work for you.

Many thanks!

Re: DXF file for Flat pattern sheet metal. For punching machine?

ole_sundheimNU96T — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 05:36:56 GMT

box.ipt is on the third post in this thread 🙂

Re: DXF file for Flat pattern sheet metal. For punching machine?

johnsonshiue — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 20:51:44 GMT

Hi! I guess I was not clear on my reply. I should have attached the result to clarify the behaviors. I assume these two types of Bend Transition are what you are looking for. Please take a look at the attached part.

Intersection:

Straight Line:

Many thanks!

Re: DXF file for Flat pattern sheet metal. For punching machine?

ole_sundheimNU96T — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 06:39:08 GMT

Thank you.

You fixed this 🙂