However in some circumstances when the design requires certain types of geometry you can use non sheet metal feature tools then insert bends or convert the part to sheet metal.
Making sheet metal parts in solidworks.
The sheet metal specific features make it easier and faster to create a sheet metal part than designing a part then converting it to sheet metal.
These methods are explained through a truck bumper example.
There are specific sheet metal features you can use to create sheet metal bodies quickly.
To convert a solid part to a sheet metal part.
Select use gauge table.
In this week s video tech tip we take an in depth look to one of the sheet metal features.
Click insert bends or click insert sheet metal bends.
Create the solid part.
The fixed face remains in place.
Click convert to sheet metal sheet metal toolbar or insert sheet metal convert to sheet metal.
You can create a configuration in a sheet metal part that shows the flattened part.
Learn three methods for creating sheet metal parts in solidworks and the pros and cons of each.
Sheet metal gauge bend table.
In the propertymanager under bend parameters.
Open the sheet metal part for which you want to add a drawing.
Drawings of sheet metal parts can also contain views of the bent sheet metal part.
Designing a part with sheet metal specific features uses fewer features and editing tools and eliminates the use of the rollback bar.
Create a part by sketching the part profile then extruding a thin feature part.
From the view palette drag the flat pattern to the drawing sheet.
To create a sheet metal part with sharp bends.
You can adjust the size of the drawing view under scale by selecting use custom scale and typing a value.
Select a format or click ok to use the default format.
Solidworks includes sheet metal specific features so you can create a part as sheet metal without having to convert it to sheet metal.
Creating sheet metal flat pattern configurations.
Click make drawing from part assembly standard toolbar and click ok to open the drawing sheet.
Sheet metal gauge bend tables store properties for a designated material.