In this post I will explain the procedure of how to create the CAD of a complex thin structure using SolidWorks 2018. Here, we will consider a biomedical stent which is a tiny mesh structure inserted into human arteries to treat blocked arteries. The procedure is more commonly known as angioplasty where the stent is inflated inside the artery to restore the blocked artery.
1. Create sketch
Create a sketch of an arc of radius 5mm and an angle of 45 degrees.
2. Extrusion
Then select the ‘Base Flange’ option under the sheet metal tab in SolidWorks and give a length of 5mm and 0.1mm.
3. Unfold sheet
Now straighten the sheet by using the ‘unfold’ option. Select a straight edge under the fixed face entry and base bend under Bends to unfold.
4. Cut extrude
Then make a cut as shown in the flat sheet as shown with the Cut Extrude option.
5. Fold sheet
Bend the sheet again using the fold command.
6. Mirror body
Mirror the body carefully to achieve the desired pattern. The CAD can be downloaded from GrabCAD.
Step 1: Create sketch 
Step 2: Extrusion 
Step 3: Inputs for unfolding sheet 
Step 3: Sheet after unfolding 
Step 4: Sketch for cut 
Step 4: Sheet after cutting 
Step 5: Sheet after folding 
Feature manager tree in SolidWorks 2018
