Sheet Metal Parts Enhancements

Sheet Metal Multi-body

The multi-body part environment is extended to include sheet metal parts. You can now use a top-down workflow to create multi-body sheet metal parts. Use the Make Components or Make Part command and then open the derived components to create flat patterns for each part in a multi-body part file.

The New solid body option is available in the following commands:

• Face
• Contour Flange
• Contour Roll
• Lofted Flange
• Split

The following features support multi-body workflows:

• Flange, Corner Hem, Bend
• Cut, Fold, Rip, Punch

Zero Bend Radius

Support for zero bend radius is added to the following commands:

• Face
• Bend
• Flange
• Contour Roll
• Lofted Flange
• Hem
• Fold

Punch Tool

The quantity of punch tool instances is added to the PunchTool dialog box, Geometry tab.

Thickness Detection

When you convert a part to sheet metal, you are now prompted to select a base face. This pick allows Inventor to measure the material thickness for you. After you select a face, the Sheet Metal Defaults dialog box appears. The measured thickness is displayed in the Thickness value box. Click OK to accept the measured thickness value.

Dismiss Warning

You can permanently dismiss the warning message when you make edits to the flat pattern.

Export DWG and DXF

Some shop tools were unable to use an exported DWG or DXF flat pattern file if a bend centerline crossed a hole in the bend. A new option is added to the Geometry tab in the Flat Pattern DXF or DWG Export Options dialog box. Check the new Trim Centerlines at Contour option in the Geometry tab to trim bend centerlines to the edge of the cut.

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