How do I change curved shaped into flatten shaped in Solidworks?
I'd like to print this track in 3d printer but because of it's shape there are supports which causes waste of filament.Do you have any idea that can get rid of this situation
Accepted answer
Is it actual SolidWorks model or STL?
You can try using "deform" but the part may not fit once you get it somehow flat
as @Bob.Wiley suggested it may make more sense to re model it, maybe even breaking it into simpler (print in place) modules .
I would print this part on its long side that would make it stronger, if you don't want any supports add 45° chamfers on all the over hangs (if it doesn't mess up your assembly)
2 Other answers
If you flatten that shape then the teeth will be somewhat distorted. Depending on the application that may not matter. However the best method would be to redesign it in the flat shape to begin with.
Your model has a flat surface on two sides. So why not print it sideways?
