Is it possible to unbend or create a flat pattern of these sheet metal bodies?

Is it possible to unbend or create a flat pattern of these sheet metal bodies?

danson.jm
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Message 1 of 6

Is it possible to unbend or create a flat pattern of these sheet metal bodies?

danson.jm
Contributor
Contributor

I've searched the forum for an answer but can't figure out what exactly my issue is. The component is made of 8 sheet metal bodies. The original bends were created using the "bend" tool in the sheet metal environment. After that I made many modifications to get all the edges to align (move, offset, split body, etc...you can see in the timeline). I now would like to create a flat pattern for each of these bodies. Is this possible, or is there a change I can make to my workflow that will allow it to be possible? The specific issue I am having is that when asked to "select stationary face" in either the "flat pattern" or "unbend" tools, I am unable to make a selection.

 

A couple notes:

--I'm aware the edges of these bodies are not perfectly square to the faces. Is that an issue?

--I created the sheet metal body with the "convert to sheet metal" tool. I have confirmed that the thickness of the original extrusion matches the thickness of the sheet metal rule. 

 

Would greatly appreciate any insights. Thank you!

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Message 2 of 6

TrippyLighting
Consultant
Consultant

How would you manufacture this in real sheet metal?


EESignature

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Message 3 of 6

laughingcreek
Mentor
Mentor
Accepted solution

the asymmetric scaling on the bodies has caused the thickness to very from section to section.  no longer conforms to sheet metal rules.

Message 4 of 6

danson.jm
Contributor
Contributor

Wow, thank you so much for the fast and simple solution!

Message 5 of 6

danson.jm
Contributor
Contributor

The flat pattern for each of the bodies (strips) will be laser cut. The 15 degree bends will be made on a brake and all the bent strips will be TIG welded to each other. I believe just spot welded. It's not meant to appear as one cohesive sheet. It is sculpture. I am helping the artist adapt their current manual process into a digital workflow to allow them to take on a large commission.

Message 6 of 6

danson.jm
Contributor
Contributor

@laughingcreekThank you so much! That makes perfect sense but I'm not sure I would have thought of it. Your fast reply is greatly appreciated!

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