Tutorials

1 0 Intermediate
Sheet Metal Design and Press Brake Application in SolidWorks — Training Content Module 1: Introduction to Sheet Metal Design Objectives: Understand the fundamentals of sheet metal parts. Learn about bend allowances, K-factor, and design constraints. Familiarize with sheet metal design standards for manufacturing. Topics Covered: What is Sheet Metal Design? Common Manufacturing Methods (Laser Cutting, Press Brake Bending) Overview of Material Properties Design Guidelines for Sheet Metal Module 2: SolidWorks Sheet Metal Tools Overview Objectives: Explore SolidWorks sheet metal feature set. Understand the difference between solid and sheet metal modeling. Topics Covered: Sheet Metal Toolbar Sheet Metal Parameters: Thickness, Bend Radius, K-Factor Base Flange/Tab, Edge Flange, Hem, Jog, Sketched Bend Flatten and Unflatten Features Exercise: Open a new part. Enable the Sheet Metal tab. Use the Base Flange/Tab feature to create a 2mm thick sheet base. Add Edge Flange to create a simple box shape. Module 3: Creating a Sheet Metal Part Objectives: Create a real-world sheet metal component from scratch. Understand best practices for designing for bending. Step-by-Step: Start with Base Flange/Tab to define the main shape (e.g., rectangular plate). Add Edge Flanges to form sides (adjust angle and length). Add Reliefs for bends (Tear, Obround, or Rectangular). Use Sketched Bend to simulate press brake bends manually. Apply Corner Treatments (Corner Relief, Corner Trim). Check Flat Pattern for laser cutting and press brake compatibility. Module 4: Understanding Bend Calculations Objectives: Learn how SolidWorks calculates bend allowances. Apply correct K-Factor for accurate flat pattern dimensions. Topics Covered: Bend Allowance vs. Bend Deduction K-Factor Explanation (Typical values: 0.3 to 0.5) How to set custom bend tables in SolidWorks Controlling bend direction and bend radius Exercise: Create a U-shaped bracket. Calculate the flat length manually and compare with SolidWorks flat pattern. Modify the K-factor and observe changes. Module 5: Exporting for Manufacturing Objectives: Prepare a design for laser cutting and bending. Generate flat patterns and technical drawings. Topics Covered: Creating 2D Flat Pattern View in Drawings Adding Bend Notes and Bend Lines DXF/DWG Export for Laser Cutting Assigning Bend Directions (Up/Down) Exercise: Generate a drawing of your sheet metal part. Add a Flat Pattern view. Ann