Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
So, What's Next?
Starting out with a sheet metal component is unusual for a topic on Autodesk
Inventor. Now, just to make sure nobody thinks it was an accident, you'll make
another sheet metal component. Of course, the real reason you're going to cre-
ate another sheet metal part is that it's the next logical component to build. For
this component, you'll use Sheet Metal tools that are advanced in their capabil-
ity to create geometry, but easy to learn and use.
In this chapter, we'll also begin to explore Inventor's assembly capabilities and
the interactions between the components in an assembly. I think you'll fi nd that
assemblies are logical; if you struggle, the solution is most likely found in think-
ing about the pure geometric aspects of building things. Just like the Sheet Metal
tools, you'll learn the assembly tools as you go and in context, rather than by
my piling a bunch of functions on you.
Developing a More Challenging Part
The Sheet Metal tools were added to Autodesk Inventor way back in the year 2000.
Over the years, these capabilities have steadily expanded; but until Inventor 2010,
you were limited to Bend/Break operations. There was no capability to cause
deformation or to transition from one shape to another. Having these tools
included opens up tremendous possibilities.
The fi rst feature-creation tool you'll use is lofted fl ange. A lofted fl ange is a
sketched feature, so to use it you must have a sketch. Actually, because this tool
is made for transitioning between sketches, you'll need to make two sketches:
1. Create a new fi le using the Sheet Metal (in).ipt template.
2. In the Draw panel, fi nd the Polygon tool and start it.
If you want a square, and you always want it to be a square, the
Polygon tool can be a quick way to make one — especially if you
want the square to be located based on the center of the sketch. Of
course, it's great for making any regular polygon.
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