NX11 Flat Pattern Helix Template

[jfpz]

My end goal is to create a flat pattern of a complex part so a template & drawing can be made.

I have a swept feature that I wish to make into a sheet metal pattern so I can flat pattern it. The feature is swept along a helix. I want to fold the helix flat. I try to convert the helix into a sheet metal part, which seems to work, but when I try to Flat Pattern or Flat Solid the error is "Unable to create body." I did create the helix in modeling, then switch to sheet metal - not sure if this is doable.

Any ideas? Or better methods to flattening a helix feature? Or Sheet metal features that will allow me to remodel this item more easily?

Thanks

 

[jfpz]

The actual geometry is even more complex, and I sometimes get a message when I convert to sheet metal:

The body did not fully convert. The body has:
-non-uniform material thickness,
-has geometry that could not be converted.
These areas will be defined as non-sheet metal areas.

 

[Dave K]

What version are you using? You might try "Flattening and Forming", or if that doesn't work "Fabric Flat Pattern", to get it flat.

-Dave

NX 11, Teamcenter 11

 

[Ehaviv]

As shown in the picture the flatten
is simply a plate with the helix length.

 

[jfpz]

Thank you, flattening and forming did produce a flat object, but it was not useful here as it lost its position relative to the rest of the model.

I think a better question is how to model a helix with sheet metal tools, if this is possible. The rest of the model is easy to convert to sheet metal and then readily produces Flat Patterns. Modeling the helix into sheet metal tools will allow me to create a single flat pattern - and Ehaviv's comment is true, the helix should theoretically just be a straight section of that path length. I just need it to work in the context of the model (connected to the top and bottom sheet metal pieces) that were not pictured above.

 

[jfpz]

For example, the following link shows a SW method called lofted bends for modeling a helix in sheet metal. I wonder if there is an NX equivalent work around.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W_jDzBkaUh8

 

[Lars1978]

Please see the file attached....is this what you mean?

Made with NX12.0.2.9 mp 1



Lars
NX12.0.1.7 native
Solid Edge ST10
Inventor