Pattern Development Sheet Metal Level 1

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Pattern Development: Sheet Metal Level 1 by Brian Coey was funded by BCcampus Open Education.

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Introduction

When wanting to build a project, we need to first imagine it. The process of pattern development gives us the ability to take that visual representation and actually create the object. It allows us to turn two-dimensional metal, into three-dimensional objects, which is the basis for everything we fabricate.

As a sheet metal worker, we work with different lines, angles and shapes. We work with geometry. Be it in the field or in a shop, geometry is a tool we use in many different ways. From creating 2D patterns of 3D objects, to making sure roof panels are installed square, to locating duct runs and penetrations, geometry is used everyday by a sheet metal worker. This is the foundation for which all layout is done. Craftspeople who excel at this stage are able to quickly transform any complex ideas into reality.

Points, Lines, Angles and Shapes

In geometry we deal with many different shapes. All shapes are made up of various points, lines and angles.
Lines

We can define a point (A) as a single location on a shape or line.
A line (A-B) is made up of 2 points. There are different types of lines:

• horizontal (level with the horizon),
• vertical (up and down, also known as plumb),
• tilted (neither vertical nor horizontal), and
• arcs (a line from a radius point).

We also have lines which are parallel or equal distance apart and lines which are perpendicular or at right angles to one another

Angles

An angle is formed at a point at where 2 lines meet (vertex). We deal with three different types of angles:

• Right angles are at 90° and are very important in layout,
• Obtuse angles, which are greater than 90°, and
• acute angles, which are smaller than 90°. Shapes

Shapes

With a combination of points, lines, and angles, we start to create shapes. Triangles (A-B-C), squares or rectangles (A-B-C-D), and circles are some of the most common shapes seen in the sheet metal industry. It is a combination of points, lines, and angles that make up different shapes —or in our case, our patterns.