What are the key differences between generative sheet metal design and aerospace sheet metal design?

GSMD (generative sheet metal design) and ASMD (aerospace sheet metal design) are two workbenches in CATIA V5 tailored for different applications:

Generative sheet metal design

• General-purpose sheet metal design for various industries.
• Licensing requirements requires SM1 or SMD license.
• Handles simple to moderately complex geometries.
• Wall, flange, bend, cutout, stamping.
• Supports folding and unfolding for manufacturability checks.

Aerospace sheet metal design

• Specialized for aerospace applications, including hydro-formed or break-formed parts.
• Requires a P3 installation and SL3 license.
• Designed for highly complex geometries, including double curvatures.
• Web, surfacic flange, joggle, cutout with advanced curvature support.
• Surfacic flange, joggle, cutout with advanced curvature support.

The web tool, available in aerospace sheet metal design, is an advanced version of the wall tool used in generative sheet metal design. While both tools create primary walls, the web tool supports more complex geometries, such as 3D curves and surfaces that do not lie on a single plane. It allows users to define boundaries using multiple surfaces and curves, making it ideal for aerospace applications.

Both workbenches can be used in conjunction, for example:

• Use GSMD for simpler features like planar walls or flanges.
• Switch to ASMD for advanced features like webs or joggles.
• This flexibility allows users to leverage the strengths of both workbenches within a single project.