This example will show an excellent case for the use of flange walls. Not only will it reduce the time required to create the model, but it will significantly reduce the total number of features required. Flange wall truly does have enormous capability, especially when used in conjunction with other feature types.

In addition we will show some of the key differences between flange wall and flat wall feature types. Proving what historically took many features but can now be done in a fraction of that:

• We will begin with our base model (Figure 1)

• Add a cut in center of part (Figure 2)

• Create a flange wall and choose all four edges (Figure 3)

Steps:

1. Pick one edge
2. Move mouse over any of the other three edges
3. Press and hold Shift key
4. You should see the all four edges highlight in Cyan. If not ,drag your mouse around the area of the edge until you see all four edges highlight. (This should be done while pressing the shift key down)
5. Left mouse WHILE the four edges are highlighted
6. All four walls will appear
7. Release the shift key
   
   Key Points:

• With this flange wall we have created four walls in one feature

• The rips between each of the four walls are centered

• Notice that the sheetmetal is actually incorrect at this state. What this means is in the flat state the adjacent edges of these four walls will intersect. 

Let’s now address this sheetmetal discrepancy:

• In the flange wall creation we can change corner reliefs

• Try setting to Rectangular or Obround (Figure 4)

• Complete the feature

• Here you can see with notes turned on the Obr information for the corner relief (Figure 5)

• Now use the unbend feature on the model. Notice that the corner reliefs are now created in 3D. Also notice that the material that would have intersected has been automatically removed. This means that the unbend feature determines what the required cut should be on each of the four walls and makes the adjustments. You would not see this automatic material removal with flat wall creation. (Figure 6)

• Bend back the model to its original form. It is now showing the material bent up with the correct amount removed. Had we used a flat wall this would have required many more features and parent child relationships. This in turn would have made it more difficult to change the geometry. (Figure 7)

• With the flange wall we can edit definition and quickly change properties on all four walls (Figure 8)

• Let’s modify the flange feature to see how it updates. We will change the angle and height (Figure 9)

• As soon as we complete the feature the model will now update with the correct resultant walls. Figures 10 & 11 show the before and after

Using this type of feature and integrating bend and bend backs into your design will reduce the amount of features needed for your models.