can you export big assemblies into simplified shell in solidworks

3 min read 23-01-2025

can you export big assemblies into simplified shell in solidworks

SolidWorks assemblies, especially large ones, can become unwieldy. Managing them, sharing them, and performing analyses can be computationally expensive. Exporting to a simplified shell can drastically reduce file size and complexity, making these tasks much more manageable. This article explores effective methods for exporting large SolidWorks assemblies to simplified shell representations. We'll cover various techniques and considerations to achieve optimal results.

Understanding the Need for Simplified Shells

Large SolidWorks assemblies, packed with numerous components and intricate details, often present challenges:

File Size: Huge file sizes lead to slow loading times and difficulties in sharing and transferring data.
Computational Cost: Complex geometries consume significant resources during simulations, rendering, and analysis.
Collaboration: Sharing large assemblies can be impractical for collaborators with limited resources.

Simplifying an assembly into a shell representation addresses these issues by replacing detailed geometry with a simplified surface model. This preserves the overall shape and external dimensions while drastically reducing the complexity.

Methods for Exporting to Simplified Shells in SolidWorks

Several methods enable the export of SolidWorks assemblies to simplified shells. The ideal approach depends on the desired level of simplification and the intended application.

1. Using the "Simplified Representation" Feature (Recommended)

This built-in SolidWorks feature offers a controlled and efficient way to create simplified representations of your assembly. It allows you to specify the level of detail, preserving critical features while removing unnecessary complexity.

Access: Found within the SolidWorks FeatureManager Design Tree. Right-click on the assembly and explore the "Simplify" options.
Customization: Adjust settings like simplification level, feature suppression, and detail preservation to balance simplicity and accuracy.
Advantages: Non-destructive process; you retain the original assembly. Easy to manage and update.

2. Exporting as a STEP or IGES File

These neutral file formats are widely compatible with other CAD software. While they don't inherently simplify the geometry, they allow for importing into software that might include simplification tools. Often, this is a good first step before further simplification.

Export Process: File > Export > Export as STEP or IGES.
Considerations: Choose appropriate settings for unit system and precision. May require additional simplification in the receiving software.

3. Creating a Shell Feature Directly

For situations where a purely surface representation is needed, creating a shell feature directly within SolidWorks might be appropriate. However, this involves more manual work and may not always capture the full assembly accurately.

Process: This usually requires creating individual shells for each component, then combining them into a single simplified representation.
Complexity: This method is more labor-intensive and requires significant SolidWorks expertise.

Optimizing the Export Process

To achieve optimal results when exporting to simplified shells, consider these best practices:

Define Simplification Criteria: Clearly establish the acceptable level of detail. What features are crucial, and which can be safely removed?
Test and Iterate: Experiment with different simplification settings to find the best balance between file size and accuracy.
Consider File Format: STEP and IGES are versatile, but other formats (like STL) may be suitable for specific applications (e.g., 3D printing).
Clean up the Assembly: Before exporting, remove unnecessary components or features that don't impact the overall shape.

Post-Export Considerations

Once the simplified shell is exported, you might need to further refine it depending on the intended use. This could include:

Mesh Refinement: For analysis or rendering purposes, consider mesh refinement to improve accuracy and visual quality.
Software Compatibility: Ensure the simplified shell is compatible with your target software.

Conclusion: Streamlining Your SolidWorks Workflow

Exporting large SolidWorks assemblies to simplified shells significantly reduces file size, enhances collaboration, and lowers computational costs. By leveraging the built-in simplification features or employing suitable export formats, you can effectively manage and utilize even the most complex assemblies. Remember to carefully plan the simplification process and iterate to find the optimal balance between file size and accuracy for your specific needs. Remember to always back up your original SolidWorks files before undertaking any simplification process.