GENERATE MIDDLE SURFACE
This function automatically generates the middle surfaces of sheet-metal parts.
The following example creates a middle surface of a part with varying thickness.
1. Once this function is selected, the SELECT SURFACE window appears and enables the user to select a seed edge surface. See Figure 5.2.7.
Figure 5.2.7 Select Seed Egde Surface
2. After selecting the seed edge surface, the THICKNESS window appears with the thickness calculated as the Figure 5.2.8 shown. The data field allows the user to enter an average of the thickness of the part. After accepting the given thickness value, the program will automatically group the surfaces through the thickness and highlight the corresponding surfaces. Refer to Figure 5.2.9. At the same time, the OPTION window appears (Figure 5.2.10).
Figure 5.2.8 Thickness window
Figure 5.2.9 Thickness Surfaces
Figure 5.2.10 Select Options
3. ADD EDGE SURFACES and REMOVE EDGE SURFACES are used to add or remove surfaces from the thickness group if the program does not produce perfect grouping. In this example, it is necessary to add some surfaces. See 5.2.11.
Figure 5.2.11 Add Thick Surfaces
4. After the thickness grouping is done, click GROUP TOP SURFACE (Figure 5.2.9) to group the top surfaces of the part (Figure 5.2.12). The grouped surfaces are highlighted and the SELECT OPTION window appears (Figure 5.2.13).
Figure 5.2.12 Grouped Top Surfaces
Figure 5.2.13 Select Options
5. The program groups the surfaces for the top faces. If the result is not perfect, select ADD TOP SURFACE or REMOVE TOP SURFACE to adjust the result. In this instance, three surfaces are added to the top surface group. The result is seen in Figure 5.2.14.
Figure 5.2.14 Grouped and Added Top Surfaces
6. Click GENERATE MID SURFACE in Figure 5.2.13 to generate the middle surfaces of the part.
7. Middle surfaces of the part are generated by offsetting the top surfaces. They are included in a new part MIDSURF1. Refer to the yellow part in Figure 5.2.15.
Figure 5.2.15 Middle Surfaces of the Part