SolidWorks 2010 Bible

Part VII: Working with Specialized Functionality

Lofted Bends feature

The Lofted Bends feature enables you to create transitions between two profiles. The range of func-
tionality available through the Loft feature is not available with Lofted Bends; it is limited to two
profiles with no end conditions or guide curves. Both profiles also need to be open contours in
order to allow the sheet metal to unfold.

Lofted Bends is not part of the Base Flange method, but it is part of the newer set of sheet metal

tools available in SolidWorks. Figure 29.30 shows what is probably the most common application

of this feature. The bend lines shown must be established in the PropertyManager when you create

or edit the feature. Bend Lines are only an option if both profiles have the same number of straight

lines. For example, if one of the profiles is a circle instead of a rectangle with very large fillets, then

the Bend Lines options are not available in the PropertyManager.

FIGURE 29.30

The Lofted Bends PropertyManager, a sample, and a Flat Pattern with bend lines