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

 

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.

--
- John

John Eric Voltin
Mechanical Engineer
Agile Technology, Inc.

512-633-0394

 

Open your assembly
Save As -> Part

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

 

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

 

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).

 

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