Folding and unfolding

Fold and Unfold are two related features that do the opposite of each other. As the names suggest, they allow you to unfold bends in your model and then refold them. This can be very useful for making certain types of cuts and other features and will be explained in more detail in the next section.

To use the Unfold feature:

1. First, create a new part document and make a Base Flange 100x100mm in size and 1mm thick. The default Sheet Metal properties can be used.
2. Add Edge Flanges to all four of the edges. These should be 50mm high and at a 90° angle and can use any Flange Position.
3. To unfold the bends, select the Unfold feature.
4. Now select the Fixed Face. This is the face that won't move when the bends are unfolded—for example, in this case, it is the square Base Flange in the middle of the Edge Flanges, as illustrated in the following screenshot:

Figure 5.5: Selecting the Fixed Face

5. The bends to be unfolded...