Still having problems with sheet metal models

franz_balleis127

Somewhere I still have an understanding problem with these sheet metal models. Was able to solve the problem in response to my question, I now face the same decision. But ...

 

John_vd_Werff

I tried this on one of my models and have the same problem. Neither Extrude-Add or Tab works in the flat view.
But adding a Tab in the 3D model does work. Have you tried that?
The Sheet Metal tools only work on an active (not finished) Sheet metal part.



Onshape sheet metal implementation is a bit inconsistent imo:
- you can use extrusion to remove material from a sheet matal part, but not to add material
- blend tool works on sheet metal (in most cases), chamfer tool does not
- in the flat view material can be removed, but not added (not shure if this was always the case?)

dirk_van_der_vaart

As I can see on your screenshot you are trying to add something?
The dialog is on Remove?
Difficult to see without a link to the file.

franz_balleis127

dirk_van_der_vaart said:

As I can see on your screenshot you are trying to add something?
The dialog is on Remove?
Difficult to see without a link to the file.

Yes, this is the first thing I noticed. OnShape still gives me this dialog. I'll try the tab right away.

franz_balleis127

Working with TAB also is not a solution ?

franz_balleis127

I think I analyzed and found the problem. It seems that you can only attach further parts to the end edges of the sheet metal. In my case, this flange had already been reduced in area. The new edge can then no longer be referenced because it is not a defined end edge in the sheet metal model.

John_vd_Werff

Tab tool does work on a similar part (link to part)



You might consider to rebuild your model from start, first the main geometry and add details like blends, holes etc later on.
Or you can share your file (unless it is confidential) to allow forum members to check which feature causes the problem.

franz_balleis127

I think I analyzed and found the problem. It seems that you can only attach further parts to the end edges of the sheet metal. In my case, this flange had already been reduced in area. The new edge can then no longer be referenced because it is not a defined end edge in the sheet metal model.

Yes in your case it do work, cause you add the part to an endedge. I made a redesign and now ist's ok

John_vd_Werff

Nice to hear that you solved it.
In my experience with different CAD systems it is always a good practice to minimize the number of features in a part. 
But I also think that some of the Onshape sheet metal tools are not as robust as they should be.