Ductwork parts, transitions such as rectangle-to-round or cones, are easy to define. In most CAD systems today, it is really quite easy to model ductwork transitions in 3D. Getting the correct flat pattern is another story. Today's CAD programs, like SolidWorks, Solid Edge, and Inventor, include an unfolding feature. For AutoCAD, you need to purchase a third party program such as ProFold.

Using the ductwork transition tools below, you can create a DXF file of any standard rectangle (square) to round transition, and any cone transition. Both the 3D and flat pattern are included in the DXF file on separate layers. You may then import the DXF file into your CAD system, like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Solid Edge, and Inventor. A Rectangle (Square) to Round Transition can be produced by entering the diameter of Round, the length and width of the rectangle, the height of the transition, and the number of segments desired. A Cone Transition can be produced by entering the diameter of the top and the bottom, as well as the height of the cone. The flat layouts are computed automatically.

Now any manufacturer can produce flat layouts for transitional 3D shapes in minutes instead of hours, without having to manually calculate using time consuming techniques.

The following shapes are available with full parametric input: