sheet metal modeling

[je696763]

I am trying to model a sheet metal part in solidworks 2003 by lofting 2 sketches. My problem is that I cannot keep the thickness constant throughout to be able to add a sheet metal feature later. I'll describe a simplified version of the problem area of the part. If looking at the part from the side when flattened, it would look like a flat sheet with a bend from one side to the other on a diagonal. When you create this affect using a loft with 2 sketches the thickness of the bent section is changed. This makes sense, but I do not know of a better way of doing it without laying it out on a flat sheet. I would appreciate any help that could be given.

Thanks,
Jeremy Estes

 

[SBaugh]

I'm not sure what the shape is, even in your simplified version.

Sheet metal must stay the same thickness to be considered Sheet metal in SW. You may look at trying to use Conical shapes in SW Sheet metal.

Best Regards, Scott Baugh, CSWP
3DVision Technologies

http://www.3dvisiontech.com

http://www.3dmca.com

faq731-376
When in doubt, always check the help

 

[sirmick]

Loft your shape as a solid. Then shell the lofted feature. You will than have to add a cut to the shell so a realistic flat piece can be developed.

 

[TheTick]

How abotu lofting a surface and then using "thicken"?

 

[SBaugh]

Sheet metal has the new lofted-bends, but it still has to stay one thickness. Scott Baugh, CSWP
3DVision Technologies

http://www.3dvisiontech.com

http://www.3dmca.com

faq731-376
When in doubt, always check the help

 

[SnowCrash]

Is your starting section drawn as a rectangle? Try using a line and thin feature.

Crashj 'would like to be thin, too' Johnson

 

[je696763]

Thanks everyone for all of the help, I think I can make something work with that.

Jeremy Estes