Using the Surface Flatten Feature in SOLIDWORKS

Starting in 2015, SOLIDWORKS has included a new surface feature called “Flatten Surface” for SOLIDWORKS Premium users. This functionality is useful for creating templates for manufacturing. Examples of using this feature include working with developable surfaces such as sheet metal parts with non-standard bends, creating decals and body panels, and other cases where an exterior surface is added to a solid body.

Note: SOLIDWORKS is able to flatten both developable and non-developable surfaces/faces. However, non-developable surfaces/faces deform when flattened.

Example: Estimating Decal Shape for a Lantern Top

1. The above part cannot be converted to sheet metal for creating a flat pattern, and the end goal is to place a decal on each of the four sides.
2. To estimate how the decals need to be cut out, we can use the Surface Flatten command. You can find it in Insert > Surface > Flatten...
3. In the PropertyManager, select the faces that you need to flatten in the blue box. Select a vertex or edge touching the faces to flatten from in the pink box. A preview of the flat preview can be checked on to see the yellow preview in the graphics area. Adjust the accuracy value as needed. Click the green check to finish the command.
4. A surface body is generated. Like other solid/surface bodies, it can be hidden or isolated.
5. To verify the result, consider using the Measure tool to compare the surface areas of the flattened and original surfaces. You can also right-click the flattened surface and click Deformation Plot to check where and how much the flattened surface is stretched or compressed.
6. Place the part and its surface body in a drawing view, and you can print it out as a template for cutting out the decals.

For further technical support, please contact Hawk Ridge Systems at 877.266.4469 for the U.S. or 866.587.6803 for Canada and support@hawkridgesys.com.