Splitting a solid into 2 through a fold - or better solution.

[Rickpage76]

Hi,

I'm looking for a bit of advice on the best way to model these kind of parts.

As you can see, you can't flat pattern the part because of the obvious overlapping flanges.

Due to the main profile (Sketch 1) being either folded up or down means this is usually going to happen.

I'd like to split the part across the fold & create 2 solids which can then be unfolded correctly.

My problem is how to best cut out the fold so the flat pattern is clean with no errors.

I didn't manage to do this with either the split or cut command.

I've also tried unsuccessfully to create 2 solids from the beginning because there is a 5deg difference.

I've included 2 files

The profile & the actual part.

The profile should follow the entire part

Imagine instead of the fold the part would be welded at 5deg instead.

Hope this makes sense.

Thanks

[kacper.suchomski]

Hi

The bend (connection) between the segments must be made in the outermost wall (this small collar). Then the unfolding will be possible.

In the current version, the surfaces overlap after unfolding - this is not technological.

[Rickpage76]

Not quite sure what you mean, could you post an example please.

Don't worry your not doing my homework there are dozens of different versions 🙂

thanks

Inv2024

[Rickpage76]

Your method of cutting is helpful, but did it make 2 independant solids to unfold & is this the best way to draw such a part?

[kacper.suchomski]

If you want 2 solids, then skip creating the bend and create a Split instead.

Finally, export the solids into separate parts. 

[Rickpage76]

I tried this and couldn't get it to work.

Attempted to create 2 different solids but because the parts are 5deg different the auto mitre didn't work for me  when adding the flanges.

Can you show me how it's done correctly?

Thanks

[kacper.suchomski]

First, show what didn't work. Take screenshots of your workflow and describe where you stopped. 

[Rickpage76]

Just for clarity.

I've drawn the part perfectly as file INV Forum1.ipt

However!

How would you draw this part as 2 solids so you can export them seperately & flat pattern correctly.

Ripping in the obvious place to create the 2 solids.

I'm sure the experts can solve this one easy.

Thanks

[kacper.suchomski]

Yes, it is possible, as I described above. Split and Export (make components) tools will do it. If you think otherwise, show where you are having trouble. 

[Rickpage76]

Solved

[kacper.suchomski · Accepted solution]

You've been given a workflow that I've done dozens of times. If you think it's not working for you, show me where so that experts can look at that particular case.

In general, the Split and Make Components tools work fine and will solve your problem. 

[johnsonshiue]

Hi! This is the approach I would use. Sweep the profile along a 90 angled path. Then split the swept body into two solid body at the miter. Use Thicken/Intersect on each body to clean up the side detail faces.

Many thanks!

[Rickpage76]

Hi johnsonshiue,

If you find the time could you show me your method in a video clip.

Many Thanks

[johnsonshiue]

Hi Rick,

Here is the workflow I had in mind. See the attached part. It should be fairly straight forward to follow.

Many thanks!

[Rickpage76]

Hi,

That looks a nice way of making the part, however it doesn't include the 5degree difference in solids (INV FORUM1).

This was why I was using the fold command.

I guess your method would work with a 3d sketch but I've not used them before.

Thanks

[johnsonshiue]

Hi Rick,

It does not have to be a 3D sketch. You may create two 2D sketches on two different planes. One is 5 deg off the other. The Sweep command allows you to select connecting lines in different sketches.

Many thanks!

[Rickpage76 · Accepted solution]

Hi,

I spent this evening looking at the way you made the part.

It's a great feature of Inventor that you can use End Of Part to see the various steps used to complete the model.

You're correct in that a 3d sketch isn't required.

Thanks.

Rick