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Show HN: Customizing Sheet Metal for Laser-Cutting
Hi HN,
We’ve launched a public beta for customizing sheet metal. Right now it’s only for rectangular objects. Before we create alike configurators for the other shapes we’d really appreciate your feedback.
https://metalscut4u.com/calculation/?id=1 https://metalscut4u.com/calculation/?id=1
Choose a SURFACE TYPE
Choose THICKNESS
Choose FORM “Rectangle/Square”
Enter “Width” and “Length” and then launch “Customize my Shape”
- brudgers 8y agoI'm not sure that in a "production" setting, step by step specification is better than a "full featured" dashboard. Supposing I have ten parts, the step by step process is a slow way to communicate it. A random access form is probably better for sophisticated users (and sophisticated users are a bigger segment of the sheet metal market than first timers). Don't misunderstand me, the program shows a lot of work and polish. But animated transitions are low priority if I'm ordering sheet metal. When I'm ordering sheet metal, my time is probably money. Good luck.
- bastimori 8y agoYes, you're totally right: it’s a lot of clicking around even before you get to actually start designing. With a full featured dashboard we could offer a walk-through for first-timers and switching between a professional and prosumer mode/menu. Thank you for your feedback brudgers!
- matt_the_bass 8y agoHow do you differentiate from protocase.com?
- bastimori 8y agoFor everything beyond custom electronic enclosures you should choose our approach ;) Yes, their approach of having identified basic shapes that serve as a good starting point to customize these to one’s individual specifications seems to be the same. Most of the times we all have quite similar problems we need solutions for, but just a little custom. Have you used their services before? What did you like and what did you dislike? How could they service your needs better? Thanks @matt_the_bass for making us think about our offering
- matt_the_bass 8y agoI’ve used them for a number of years for low volume sheet metal parts. They are more expensive dive than a local shop but they are ALWAYS fast turnaround and never have a problem. I can’t tell you how many issues I’ve had with various machine shops over the years. I wish they did more complicated machining too.
- bastimori 8y agoThank you all for your input so far! What do you think about a feature where you can upload your own design files/.dxf and check for manufacturability and get a quote? Not so much regarding market size etc. but versus the offering of ready-to-make shapes?
- ddingus 8y agoI would find this easier working from shape first. Did precision layout for many years. Looks promising. It was not clear the part would arrive bent, or just cut?
- bastimori 8y agoThanks ddingus, Yes, we’re definitely include bend objects in Version 2. For now, just cutting. Did you have any specific 3D object in mind?
- ddingus 8y agoI don't. And can flatten anything I want easily. Have done it every way, from old school descriptive geometry, bend deduction, neutral surface.. you name it. I asked about already bent pieces wondering about your market. Not everyone can bend. You may sell more, if you offer that. Looks like you are headed that way. :D
- bastimori 8y ago“Shape first” is a great idea! Anybody else in favor for a “shape first” approach? Or maybe additional to the materials first approach
- ddingus 8y agoShape and material are both at the top of a typical spec process, IMHO.