Make a flat pattern for bent tube in SolidWorks

This SolidWorks tutorial provides a method for creating a flat pattern for bent tubing by adapting the Sheet Metal tools [01:20]. Since tube bending is typically done by calculating the centerline length (the average of the inside and outside edge lengths) [00:46], the video first demonstrates measuring the edge lengths of the solid tube. The core technique involves creating a "No Shell" configuration to temporarily convert the hollow tube into a solid piece of flat stock [02:27]. By using the Convert to Sheet Metal tool on this solid bar, the software calculates the correct bend allowance and generates a flat pattern with bend lines [03:40]. Finally, the video shows how to create a technical drawing that includes both the formed tube view and the calculated flat pattern for manufacturing [05:11]. Video Chapters [00:00] Introduction to calculating the centerline length of a bent tube [01:20] The need for a true flat pattern with bend locations [01:28] Activating the Sheet Metal tools tab [02:27] Creating a "No Shell" configuration to turn the hollow tube into a solid bar [02:45] Rationale: The Sheet Metal tool works on any uniform thickness geometry [02:59] Using the Convert to Sheet Metal feature and setting the K-Factor [03:40] Using the Flatten command to generate the flat pattern and check the total length [04:22] Creating a technical drawing with the formed tube view [05:11] Adding the flat pattern view using the "No Shell" configuration