Bending Factors Affect the Flat Pattern
Dimensions given on a flat pattern are affected by several bending factors, like k-factor and bend radius, during the 3D modeling stage. The flat pattern drawing doesn’t always list these factors. However to match the other dimensions that are included, it would require your manufacturer to work with incorrect or unachievable sheet metal forming factors. This makes matching these dimensions during the modeling stage difficult and time-consuming.
Fabricator Tooling and Equipment Limitations
Your manufacturer may not be able to match dimensions when creating the actual sheet metal part due to tooling and equipment limitations. Since each metal fabricator has its own tooling, bend factors, and equipment to develop the flat blank, it is better to fully dimension to formed views for that manufacturer. This allows your fabricator to develop their flat blank to meet your finished part dimensional requirements.
