Working with imported models from different CAD programs often leaves SOLIDWORKS users with a single, uneditable “dumb” solid. However, SOLIDWORKS provides tools to make these models more manageable by turning that “dumb lump” into an editable geometry. Here’s a guide on how to use these tools to transform your imported models for greater flexibility and ease of use.
For a step-by-step visual demonstration, watch the YouTube video embedded below after reading this guide.
Getting Started: Importing Your Model
To demonstrate, Eric from the SOLIDWORKS Training team opens a model in an IIs file format, which originated from another CAD program. When imported, the model appears as a single feature without separate parts or features for editing, making modifications challenging. The first step is to remove the 3D Interconnect link, which allows for more customisation of the imported model.
Breaking the Link: Right-click on the imported feature and select Break Link. While this action is irreversible, it unlocks the ability to modify and edit the part.
Running Import Diagnostics: Once the link is broken, running Import Diagnostics allows SOLIDWORKS to detect and repair potential issues, as imported models may not always have perfect data integrity. Here, SOLIDWORKS identifies and fixes all issues, creating a more stable model for editing.
Editing Features of the Imported Model
Now that we have a stable imported part, let’s explore how to adjust key features of the model, like fillets and holes, even without traditional feature history.
Modifying Fillet Radius
Suppose you want to adjust the radius of a fillet around the perimeter of the model. Even though the model doesn’t have a dedicated fillet feature, SOLIDWORKS offers a way to identify and edit this element.
Selecting the Fillet: Choose one of the filleted edges and select Edit Feature.
Adjusting the Radius: The tool detects the fillet’s radius, allowing you to increase or decrease it as needed. In this case, Eric increases the radius, demonstrating that SOLIDWORKS can “recognise” fillet features and enable quick adjustments.
Editing Holes in Imported Models
SOLIDWORKS also allows you to identify and modify hole features, even if they were not originally defined as holes within the imported model.
Selecting the Hole: Using Control + Select, choose the holes you wish to modify and then right-click to access Edit Feature.
Converting to a Hole Feature: SOLIDWORKS recognises the geometry and converts it into a hole feature, making it easier to customise further.
Adding Customisation: For example, you can change the hole to a counterbore hole or adjust dimensions to fit specific hardware, such as a button head screw.
Why This Method Matters
These editing capabilities are incredibly useful when working with models from suppliers or vendors using different CAD software. With the ability to edit imported features, you avoid complex workflows and additional modelling steps. The ability to create editable features also allows for downstream use, such as creating pattern-driven assemblies.
The Edit Imported Models tools in SOLIDWORKS are invaluable for users working with imported geometry. By breaking links, running import diagnostics, and using feature recognition tools, you can efficiently adapt models to meet project specifications without recreating the geometry.
For a more detailed, hands-on demonstration of these tools, watch the video below. These tips can help streamline your design process and ensure that imported parts work smoothly in your SOLIDWORKS projects.
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