Flat Pattern from solidegedge file

[rtowne72]

I am trying to get a flat pattern from the attached file which was created in SolidEdge.  I am using 2018.2.3 Inventor and when I choose create flat pattern, no flat pattern is generated although Inventor believes it has.  What am I missing or what step need to occur?

Steps Done:

1. Import model with anycad
2. convert to sheet metal with standard k-factors/sheet metal defaults
3. choose create flat pattern
4. no flat pattern shown but Inventor shows a flat pattern in tree/stack

[TheCADWhisperer · Accepted solution]

Can you Attach *.ipt or *.zip file?

Have you set the correct Thickness variable to match the part?

Is the part modeled correctly (following the 4 rules of sheet metal)?

[rtowne72]

I set the thickness as you suggested and it did create the flat pattern.  Thank you for the reminder.

As for the 4 rules of sheet metal, please share as I am not a Sheet Metal user but need to be versed to support users.  This was drawn by an engineer in another facility from our Company, and as the CAD manager it is a struggle keeping standards between CAD systems.  

[TheCADWhisperer]

1. Sheet metal is constant thickness.

2. Sheet metal must have bends.  (as opposed to sharp corners - which would violate #1)

3. Sheet metal bends must be cylindrical or conical.  (excepting Lofted Flanges)

4. Cut edges are generally perpendicular to the flat in the Flat Pattern state. (not beveled cuts - and often an issue when cut-across bends are not modeled correctly)