Macro for Part to Flat Pattern DXF?

Hi,

I have a few questions please... hope this makes sense:

I need a Macro (or whatever) that can take a SolidWorks Sheetmetal Part file
and generate a DXF Flat Pattern. It can work in two parts, i.e. generate a
SW Drawing file first then a macro for DXF...

I have no idea if this is hard or easy, but if it can be done it will save
me from having to do a boring job of converting 100 or so part files to 1:1
flat DXF's - yuk!

I have searched and not found an answer to this...

Any Macros or third party software out there? but preferably free or low
priced.

If not is there software to automate generate flat patterns or better yet
punch files (assign the tools etc) directly from a SW part file. Currently
we take the part file, create a drawing file. save it and a DXF copy, import
it to the sheetmetal software, then use it to assign tools, prints punch
lists...

Thanks for your input,

Aron

 

Yes, this can be done with a macro. If you were to attempt writing it
yourself, you might start by recording a macro, running through the
process and then modifying the macro to suit your needs.

I have such a macro, but it is configured for our file structure and
uses a database for file references. I can be reached at 541.482.9555
x 319 if you need some help or would like to contract me to write a
macro.

Dave

 

Set up a blank drawing sheet, set view to hide all types, and in tools/
options document properties under sheet metal, uncheck display sheet
metal bend notes. Save this as a drawing template - maybe call it flat
pattern - in your normal template folder.

Open the sheet metal part file, then, File/make drawing from part,
drag the flat pattern onto the sheet, hit esc. Then with that view
highlighted, edit/copy to dwgeditor. Put you cursor in the dwgeditor
window, ctrl-v, then save the dxf. At least the first couple times do
a reality check to make sure your dxf is scaled correctly.

You should be able to either macro most or all of this, or set
keyboard shortcuts for each command. It can go really fast.

Most punch and nesting software can auto-tool your parts.

Good luck, Diego