SMP/IS software combines the design features of a CAD system and the power of a manufacturing system into one package through its CAD interfacing feature. You can import previously-created 3D or 2D CAD data to build intelligent sheet metal models.

3D Import/Export
Converting CAD geometry into an accurate 3D model is quick and easy. With your CAD data in an IGES or DXF format, select the entity input option. The CAD geometry is quickly displayed. You may then choose a starting point on the CAD geometry, identify the thickness and typical bend radius, and select various other edge features. The Feature Analyzer program will automatically track around the 3D CAD file. It will recognize various entities such as: bend lines, holes, external and internal edges, sharp corners, radius corners, etc., and create a formed part model.

After completing the importing process, any necessary changes to the model can easily be made. The 3D model is instantly unfolded into a 100% accurate, fully-dimensioned flat pattern, and then passed through other stages of the SMP/IS software to produce the completed part.

2D Import/Export
SMP/IS can read in several languages including: IGES, DXF and MI. After the 2D CAD file is read in, you can display any or all of the part's layers and separate them using the preprocessor.

SMP/IS allows up to sixteen different views of a single part. For those engineers who design directly in the flat layout, the geometry can be viewed simultaneously in the orthographic and the flat views. You can select hole locations, descriptions, sizes and angles individually with just one cursor pick or polygon-select several holes at once. The 2D CAD geometry can be with or without thickness. You can even handle those tedious, compound bend angles automatically.

Even if your 2D geometry is incorrect, it can be easily adjusted. Feature locations can be pulled out of several different views simultaneously to assist you in working with flanges that are not true to any view.

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