How do I Create a Cylinder From a Rectangular Sheet Metal Component?

[Anonymous]

Hello,

Newbie here...

I just wanted to know if there is an easy way of turning the component shown in the screenshot below into a cylinder? (I want to effectively 'roll' the sheet up).

I understand that there are other simple ways of creating cylinders but the reason I started like this was because it's easier for me to put holes into a flat surface rather than a curved one.

I would be very grateful for any advice or alternative methods that I could use.

Thanks for your time,

Dan 

[JDMather · Accepted solution]

---

@Anonymous wrote:
....I would be very grateful for any advice or alternative methods that I could use.

---

Model using the Sheetmetal tools.

Contoured Roll

Unfold

Cut holes

Refold

Flat Pattern

[mcgyvr]

You could use the bend part command...

BUT wouldn't you rather learn to do it right?

if so you would use the sheet metal environment and then Unfold/refold or cut normal,etc..

What version of Inventor are you using? (so someone can provide a sample that you can open)..

IMO.. learn to do it right.. Don't continue doing it the wrong/tougher way..

oops.. JD beat me..

[Curtis_Waguespack · Accepted solution]

---

@Anonymous wrote:

Newbie here...

---

Hi danharrison56,

Since this is new to you I thought a couple of quick videos might be of use.

One of how to set up the sketch for the Contour Roll feature, how to create that feature, and how to use the Unfold tool.

And a 2nd of one approach to the hole patterns and then showing the use of the Refold tools.

I hope this helps.
Best of luck to you in all of your Inventor pursuits,
Curtis
http://inventortrenches.blogspot.com

[Anonymous]

Hello Curtis,

The video tutorials are brilliant! 

Thank you very much for them and for replying very quickly. It's great to know there is so much help available out there.

Cheers,

Dan