Chapter 29: Using SolidWorks Sheet Metal Tools
Note
You can export a *.dxf file of the Flat Pattern directly from the model without creating a drawing. n
Edge Flange feature
The Edge Flange feature is very flexible and can be changed in several ways. If you have not kept
up with the changes to Edge Flange for the last couple of releases, then you may find some
surprises.
Edge Flange is intended to turn a 90-degree flange from a selected straight edge in the direction
and distance specified using the default thickness for the part. The default process for this feature
is that you select the tool, select the edge, and then drag the distance, clicking a distance reference
such as a vertex at the end of another flange of equal length or typing a distance value manually.
You can select multiple edges from a part that do not necessarily need to touch one another. That
is all there is to a simple default flange, although several options give you some additional options
for angle, length, and so on. Figure 29.11 shows the Edge Flange PropertyManager, as well as a
simple flange.FIGURE 29.11The Edge Flange PropertyManager and a simple flange