Flattening a tube (part file)

[ttaktn]

We have several part files of complicated chassis tubes with cut outs at angles to all three planes. For manufacturering purposes we have to present these in a dxf file of the flattened profile of the tube. (i.e. splitting the tube down the centreline and unrolling!)

We have found a way of doing this which involves having to remodel the entire part and all the cut outs as a sheet metal contour flange. This allows the flatten command to be used. Is there a simpler and quicker way of doing this directly from the part file?

Thanks

 

[donyoung]

Hi,

at least in V17 there is a function to have a part cut and
then convert it to sheet metal. Whether it will work in
your particular case I don't know

dy

 

[PatCouture]

try inserting it as a part copy in a sheet metal file, then create a round flange at the same od as the original part to be able to flatten the tube. to reproduce the cutouts you can switch to part mode and use the boolean feature "intersect" then you have your model that you can flatten.

Good luck

Patrick