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      How to flatten a 3D model for laser/waterjet operations.

      Creating a sheet metal body allows you to flatten the 3D CAD to a format usable for laser or water jet cutting of the profile or details.

      Issue 

      The 3D model is not flat but must be flat for laser/waterjet operations.

      Answer

      Convert the solid to a Sheet Metal component and flatten it.

      1. Inside the Design workspace > Sheet Metal tab > Create dropdown > Convert to Sheet Metal
      2. Select the body to convert

        Note: The 3D body is now a Sheet Metal Body, and the explorer tree reflects this. This opens up options within the Sheet Metal tab to manipulate the model in ways that are conducive to this type of work.
      3. Within the Sheet Metal tab > Create dropdown > Create Flat Pattern
      4. Select the stationary face; this is the fact that all the surrounding geometry will attempt to flatten to the best possible.
      5. Select Finish Flat Pattern - The Flat pattern can then be toggled on/off in the Explorer.

        Now that your model has been flattened, you can export it as a DXF file to create your waterjet or laser toolpathing.