Creating flat pattern of tube end profiles with frame generator

[dcook87725927]

I've designed a 3D space frame with about 30-40 tubes. Each tube has a unique end profile since it is not a rectilinear frame.

Is there an easy way to create a "flat pattern" of the profiles of the end of the tubes in Inventor? I think there is a way to do this by converting the part to a sheet metal part, ripping and then unfolding it. But that will be very time consuming to do for all the frame members.

It seems like there would be a utility in Inventor to do this. We want to be able to print out this flat pattern, cut it out, and then trace it onto the tubes to grind the profiles by hand.

Thanks in advance!

[JD Mather]

You will have to do one-by-one as you describe.

Alternatively you could create your own custom profile for the frame generator with a rip in the profile from the start.

[dcook87725927]

That's what I was afraid to hear...

Thanks for the reply.

You will have to do one-by-one as you describe.

Alternatively you could create your own custom profile for the frame generator with a rip in the profile from the start.