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When working with large assemblies and collaborative design workflows, it's crucial to understand how files are connected. In the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform, this is made easy with the Relations feature, which allows users to view file dependencies such as:

• Which assemblies a part is used in
• What components an assembly contains
• Which drawings reference a specific CAD file

Let’s walk through how to check these dependencies both from the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform and directly from 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS.

1. Checking Dependencies from the 3Dspace and Bookmark editor:

Launch your bookmark editor widget and select the CAD File > Click ‘I’ Icon to access the information panel > Click the relation tab to view the CAD Dependency & Parent child relation.

2. Checking Dependencies from the Product Explorer:

Launch your Product Structure Explore widget and select the CAD File > Click ‘I’ Icon to access the information panel > Click the relation tab to view the CAD Dependency & Parent child relation.

3. Checking Dependencies from the 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS:

You can access CAD Dependency from within your 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS my session task pane > Right click the component and select relations to view the Relation of the CAD File.

Why Use Relations?

• Prevent accidental deletions or edits to shared parts
• Ensure assemblies and drawings are always in sync
• Save time tracing issues by instantly seeing usage links
• Improve collaboration across teams by sharing dependency views

Conclusion:

Whether you're managing large assemblies or collaborating with a multi-site team, the Relations feature in the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform empowers you with full visibility over your CAD data.

Stay informed. Stay connected. Stay in control — with 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS.

The 3D Sheet Metal Creator is a powerful tool that makes designing sheet metal parts quick and easy. It combines everything you need in one place—creating, storing, validating, and managing your designs. Powered by 3DEXPERIENCE® Works, this tool helps you bring your products to market faster.

Why Choose 3D Sheet Metal Creator?

• Tailored for Sheet Metal Designers: Specially designed to simplify sheet metal design processes.
• Cloud-Based Flexibility: Work from anywhere, anytime, and on any device.
• Streamlined Design Workflow: Save time with a single modeling environment for easier assembly design.
• Innovative Features: Eliminate guesswork with tools that help create precise, folded parts.

Key Features of 3D Sheet Metal:

• Easy Design & Bending  : Create complex sheet metal parts with precision.
• Accurate Flat Patterns : Ensures proper unfolding for manufacturing.
• Bend Allowance & K-Factor :  Maintains design accuracy.
• Material Optimization : Reduces waste and cost.
• Quick Prototyping : Faster design-to-production process.
• Standard Libraries :  Pre-built components for easy assembly.

Getting Started with 3D Sheet Metal :  Step by Step 

1. Open 3DEXPERIENCE Platform:

• Go to your web browser and log in to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform.
• Make sure you have the 3D Sheet Metal role assigned.

Launch xSheet Metal:

• In the dashboard, find and open the xSheet Metal
  Create a New Sheet Metal:

• Click on New Component to start a new structure.
• Choose a name and save your project in the cloud.

2. Start Designing Your Sheet Metal Part
   Sketch the Base: Start by creating a 2D Sketch on a plane

Sketch Your Design: Use the Sketch tool to draw the basic shape of your metal part. 

• Select the 2D Sketch tool.
• Draw lines, arcs, and curves to form the basic outline of your part.

3. Apply Sheet Metal Specific Tools
   Define Parameters: Set the thickness of the sheet metal and any other important measurements.
   
   
4. Add Bends and Features:
   
   

• Bend Tool: Use the Bend tool to bend your part into the desired shape.
• Flanges and Holes: Add features like flanges, holes, and cutouts.
• Bend Radius: Specify the bend radius to ensure your part will be manufactured correctly.

5. Using Mirror and Miter Features

The Mirror and Miter features in 3D Sheet Metal Creator on 3DEXPERIENCE automate tasks, enhance precision, and improve sheet metal design quality.

6. Generate the Manufacturing Drawings
   
   
   

• Flat Pattern: The software can automatically create a flat pattern of your sheet metal part, which helps manufacturers know how to cut and bend the sheet metal.
• Create Drawings: Use the drawing tools in 3DExperience to generate 2D manufacturing drawings of your part.
• Add Dimensions: Make sure to add all necessary measurements, angles, and tolerances. 
• Export the File: Save or export the design as needed, typically in formats like STEP, IGES, or DXF for use in other software or for manufacturing.

Benefits of Using xSheetMetal

• Cloud-Based Access – Work from anywhere without software installation.
• Seamless Collaboration – Share and edit designs in real time.
• Automated Design Tools – Speed up sheet metal creation with intelligent features.
• Direct DXF Export – Easily generate files for manufacturing.
• Integrated with 3DEXPERIENCE – Connect with other Dassault Systems apps.
• Error Reduction – Built-in validation minimizes design mistakes.
• Quick Unfolding – Instantly flatten sheet metal parts for production.

Conclusion

xSheetMetal makes sheet metal design easy, fast, and accurate. It helps you create, modify, and export designs quickly while working from anywhere. With smart tools and cloud-based collaboration, it improves efficiency and reduces errors.