Developing flat pattern from final sheet metal part

[LnTxn]

Would like to find website or formula where I can develop a flat pattern from a final bent-up sheet metal part. Need to calculate set-back and bend up/bend down information to show on final drawing. Any information would be appreciated. <p>Stephen<br><a href=mailto:LnTxn@aol.com>LnTxn@aol.com</a><br><a href= > </a><br>

 

[kaival]

That is covered in the advisory circular document AC43.13. I have looked on the web with no luck so far.

 

[LnTxn]

Kaival:<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Appreciate the information. If I find out I'll let you know if you like! <p>Stephen<br><a href=mailto:LnTxn@aol.com>LnTxn@aol.com</a><br><a href= > </a><br>

 

[LnTxn]

kaival,<br>I have found the following for AC43.13.1 under:<br><A HREF="

http://www.faa.gov/abc/ac-chklst/ac212-98/AC2-12.PDF"

TARGET="_new">

http://www.faa.gov/abc/ac-chklst/ac212-98/AC2-12.PDF</A>.<br>Let

me know if this helps.In appendix 4 it shows on the first page as AC.13-2A and the cost is $18.<br>SN 050-007-00806-6. <p>Stephen<br><a href=mailto:LnTxn@aol.com>LnTxn@aol.com</a><br><a href= > </a><br>

 

There are some software programs that address this. You could do a general search. Try DELCAM. I think that's where I saw it

 

[Kenneth]

Many of the current &quot;midrange&quot; solid modeling/drafting CAD packages (including SolidWorks) have extensive, built-in, sheetmetal capabilities, including the ability to automatically &quot;flatten&quot; a &quot;bent up&quot; sheet metal part. Don't know if this is specifically what your looking for, but if so, you try posing your question on the SolidWorks Forum: forum559 . A lot of the guys there are undoubtedly using SolidWorks for sheet metal design...

 

[johnfalky]

After working in a precision sheetmetal fabrication shop, then reading FAR43 again, I realize that their setback calculations can be generic to the point of not being useful. I embarassed myself severely by using these FAR setback calculations when I got incorrect results and could not complete critical inspections on time on the Granite table with the height gage.
I recommend that for good setback calculations, you go OUTSIDE of the Aerospace community and look some netsites that relate to precision sheetmetal fabrication, especially in the computer enclosure industry. By searching, you will quickly find that there are some excellent publications out there on these topics that are NOT commonly found or used in the Aerospace Business.