Prepare models for tube-laser workflows
Open and analyze a supported single-size STEP modelSelect the bends to unbendSet bend stretch and cut-feature methodsPreview and export the straight STEP model
Unbend Model: tube unbending software
Review the recognized tube, choose which bends to unbend, apply stretch compensation, control how local features are cut, and export the finished result as a STEP file.
Bend stretch control
Apply one global stretch percentage across selected bends or enter an independent override for an individual bend. The corrected and removed lengths remain visible for review.
Cut-feature orientation
- Use Global
- The feature follows the Global Cutting Method selected for the model.
- Normal to Surface
- The cut follows the tube's changing local surface normals as the selected bends are straightened.
- Perpendicular
- The cut keeps one fixed cutter plane as the feature is mapped onto the unbent stock instead of following changing local surface normals.
Supported tube profiles
Unbend Model supports validated round, square, and rectangular tube. The STEP model must represent one continuous part made from one unformed material size. BS Tube preserves the recognized profile dimensions, wall thickness, centerline, bends, and mapped cut features while constructing the result.
Partial unbending
Choose any combination of bends instead of unbending the entire part. Selected bends are straightened; cleared bends remain formed. The preview, length calculations, mapped features, and exported STEP reflect that partial manufacturing state.
STEP export
Preview the full or partial unbend result and export its STEP geometry for the next stage of the tube-laser programming workflow.
Product Demonstrations
See Unbend Model in action.
Watch the workflow with both square and round tube models.
Unbend Model SQ Tube
In this video, we import a square-tube model into BS Tube, unbend it, and you can export the result as a STEP file for use in tube-laser software. Apply one global stretch factor to every bend or adjust each bend independently. Individual holes, slots, and other cut features can also be configured for Normal to Surface or Perpendicular cutting.
Unbend Model Round Tube
In this video, we import a round-tube model into BS Tube, unbend it, and you can export the result as a STEP file for use in tube-laser software. Apply one global stretch factor to every bend or adjust each bend independently. Individual holes, slots, and other cut features can also be configured for Normal to Surface or Perpendicular cutting.
Developed length and bend data
The source centerline length includes straight lengths and bend arcs. For a selected bend, the arc length is CLR multiplied by its angle in radians. Stretch settings correct the selected bend contributions; review the displayed removed length and developed length before exporting.
Need the manufacturing centerline first? See STEP tube centerline extraction. For bend tables rather than solid geometry, see the LRA and YBC coordinate guide. STEP export prepares geometry for downstream software; it is not a machine-specific laser program.