SolidWorks 2010 Bible

Part VII: Working with Specialized Functionality

Coplanar faces

When the Coplanar option is selected, any faces that are coplanar with any selected faces are also

selected Corner Trim and Break Corner features. The Corner Trim feature is available only when

the sheet metal part is in its flattened state. The Corner Trim PropertyManager also has the Break

Corner Options interface built right into it. However, the Break Corner feature is only available

when the sheet metal part is in its folded state. Figure 29.23 shows the combined interface. Both

functions are included here, and SolidWorks treats them as if they are part of a single function.

FIGURE 29.23

The Corner Trim PropertyManager, including the Break Corner Options panel

When finished, the Corner Trim feature places itself after the Flat Pattern feature in the

FeatureManager. It similarly follows the suppress/unsuppress state of the Flat Pattern feature.

When the Break Corner feature is used on its own, it is placed before the Flat Pattern feature. With

this in mind, it seems best to use Break Corner as a separate feature unless it is being used specifi-

cally to alter the Flat Pattern in a way that cannot be done from the folded state.

Break Corner on its own is primarily used to remove sharp corners using either a chamfer or a

rounded corner. This tool is set up to filter edges on the thickness of sheet metal parts, which is

useful, because these edges are otherwise difficult to select without a lot of zooming. Break Corner

can also break interior corners.

One of the main functions of the Corner Trim feature is to apply bend relief geometry to the Flat

Pattern. The three available options are Circular, Square, and Bend Waist. These options are shown

in Figure 29.24.