1. Home
  2. Solidworks CAD Design software
  3. Joining parts-need help

Joining parts-need help

Hello,

I have often looked for the functionality in SW to allow me to merge/join/union all the parts within an assembly so that all the parts in the assembly meld into one unparameterised dumb solid lump (regardless if all the parts had interference or had clearances).

In SW2K3, all I can find is the Join feature which still needs reference to the original parts. Ideally I want to create an unparameterised dumb solid that is a physical representation of the original assembly, but, once created, is independent of the original assembly. This is useful in packaging studies where all you need (to load) is the physical solid representation of an assembly (not all the sketch/feature info that goes with the parts/assembly) to use a reference to check clearances/interference etc with other components/assemblies. I know that SW has the "lightweight" load option but this does not affect the actual file sizes.

Anyone got any comments on this?

Cheers

Bullman

Reply to
Bullman
Loading thread data ...

When I need to do this, I export the joined part as a parasolid and then import the parasolid version back into SolidWorks. The result is a dumb solid with no dependence on the SolidWorks files used to create it. In addition to making the part independent, it can result in smaller file sizes with quicker loading times. Once the parasolid is imported, it can be saved as a SolidWorks file to avoid having to re-import the parasolid each time you use it.

I hope this helps.

Reply to
John Eric Voltin

Open your assembly Save As -> Part

Does exactly what you want. This feature was introduced with SWX 2003, IIRC.

Reply to
Arlin

Thank you very much gentlemen,

I tried the "save assembly as a part" and noticed that each component is now seen in the assembly tree as an unparametrised solid body each with its own name.

Is it possible to further merge/join all those unparameterised solid bodies into one solid body lump? Perhaps even further reducing the size of the file?

Cheers

Bullman

Reply to
Bullman

There a some options during the 'Save as Part' Proccess that you could experiment with (going off of memory here):

  1. Save exterior surfaces
  2. Save all bodies
  3. Save exterior bodies

I believe the surfaces option is by far the least intensive (at least after saving the part). But, if you want to show your new part in a drawing, surfaces are not handled well in SWX drawings (they are always hidden by default).

Reply to
Arlin

I have a magazine article that I wrote that steps you through the process (with some screen shots for clarity) of joining parts together and then exporting and importing to do what you are asking for. I also put in some error finding help to get through the rough spots. Email me if you want a copy.

WT

Reply to
Wayne Tiffany

PolyTech Forum website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.