When importing CAD data into DFM Concurrent Costing for a sheet metal analysis, what data is supplied?

Data from CAD models, imported through SolidView Pro to sheet metal analyses, include the Approximate envelope dimensions of the part (the average thickness is estimated by DFM Concurrent Costing) and the Area of part (approximately half the surface area of the CAD model.) The estimates for the Perimeter of blank, and Unfolded length and Unfolded width are based on the approximate envelope dimensions; these numbers should be reviewed for adjustment.

No CAD data is transferred for holes, form features and bends. The DFM software provides some default responses for an initial estimate. The actual measurements for these features can be ascertained from the CAD model, and entered directly in the appropriate response fields.

One way that area and perimeter totals for form features, hole dimensions and bend lengths can be calculated is by using the CAD dimensional data for the basic inputs to DFM Concurrent Costing's geometry calculator.

The updated DFM Concurrent Costing User Guide contains more information (Chapter 4) on using the geometry calculator with sheet metalworking analyses. Go here to download it.