SOLIDWORKS: Sheet Metal Design

Learn to design parts and assemblies using the sheet metal tools in SOLIDWORKS.

Introduction

• Getting ahead with sheet metal design in SOLIDWORKS
• Using the exercise files

1. Interface and Sheet Metal Basics

• Looking at the sheet metal tools
• Using and customizing the ribbon
• Understanding sheet metal
• Bonus: Laser cutting

2. Sheet Metal Flanges

• Creating a base feature
• Looking at the Flange tool
• Creating tabs
• Making an edge flange
• Using the Edit Flange Profile tool
• Using the Miter Flange tool
• Making a swept flange
• Using the Jog feature
• Making hems
• Bonus: CNC turret punch press
• Bonus: Shearing

3. Sheet Metal Cuts and Corners

• Unfolding and folding parts
• Making normal cuts in sheet metal
• Adding cuts across bends
• Making closed corners
• Adding welded corners
• Making a cross break
• Bonus: Break forming

4. Converting to Sheet Metal

• Using the Convert to Sheet Metal command
• Adding sketched bends
• Importing geometry
• Looking at the Rip feature
• Creating a lofted bend
• Bonus: Deburring

5. Multibody Parts

• Building a chassis
• Using the pattern tools
• Using Mirror Symmetry
• Using the Split feature
• Exporting individual parts
• Bonus: Welding

6. Forming Tools

• Using forming tools
• Modifying a forming tool
• Creating a custom forming tool
• Forming across a bend
• Bonus: CNC machining

7. Sheet Metal Assemblies

• Basic assembly techniques
• Adding cuts in context
• Creating parts in the assembly
• Using patterns and mirrors
• Bonus: Hardware

8. Sheet Metal Drawings

• Using ordinate dimensions
• Looking at the sheet options
• Creating flat patterns
• Saving to DXF or DWG
• Automation with the SOLIDWORKS Task Scheduler
• Preparing for manufacturing

Conclusion

• Next steps