An assembly lets the user define specific relations between bodies in the modeling space mainly based on geometries. For example, if there are two parts that have holes, it is possible to set one of the holes on each part to be co-axial. With an assembly, a dynamic relationship is set between the parts.
Shapr3D doesn’t support assemblies yet, but there are plans to make it possible in the future. In some cases, Shapr3D’s Align tool can act as a replacement tool for assemblies because it positions parts together. The difference between the Align tool and an assembly is that assembly relations are dynamic. Currently in Shapr3D, when you move the parts away from their point of connection, they become independent from each other. The assembly will move all the connected parts together.
Shapr3D supports loading assemblies created in Solidworks. However, the dynamic property of an assembly will be lost upon importing it.
Importing a Solidworks assembly file to Shapr3D
There are multiple ways to save a Solidworks assembly file to import it to Shapr3D.
Directly importing the main SLDASM file to Shapr3D
Refer to Solidworks’ File Menu (SOLIDWORKS Visualize Connected) to learn how to export the main SLDASM file, and then follow: Import files.
The parts that are used in an assembly are regular CAD models called part in Solidworks with a file extension of SLDPRT. These parts can be located anywhere in the storage system. The parts have a link that helps locate them from anywhere in the folder structure of the given storage system. The link is a standalone file, which is the assembly file with the extension of SLDASM.
To make sure the assembly can be transferred properly, the link (SLDASM) and the parts (SLDPRT) should be transferred altogether.
Save the assembly file as a Parasolid format (x_t)
Refer to Solidworks’ Parasolid Export Options to learn how to save a Solidworks assembly file as a Parasolid format, and then follow: Import files.
Save the assembly file as a STEP format
Refer to Solidworks' STEP Export Options to learn how to save a Solidworks assembly file as a STEP format, and then follow: Import files.
Save the assembly file as a virtual component
Saving the assembly file as a virtual component is the most secure method because it stores all subassemblies and parts internally in one file. However, this method might require you to change the way you organize your assemblies in Solidworks – which might not be an option.
Refer to Solidworks’ Saving Virtual Components to External Files to learn how to save a Solidworks assembly file as a virtual component, and then follow: Import files.