How To Import Fusion 360 To Solidworks?

Understanding the Conversion Process from Fusion 360 to SolidWorks

Transferring designs from Fusion 360 to SolidWorks can be accomplished, but it requires careful steps to maintain the integrity of the model. This article outlines the process you need to follow, ensuring that your designs are accurately migrated while preserving their features.

Step 1: Export the Fusion 360 File

Begin by exporting your Fusion 360 project into a compatible file format. The recommended format for transitioning to SolidWorks is STEP (.step) or IGES (.iges). Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the project you want to export in Fusion 360.
2. Click on the ‘File’ menu located in the upper left corner.
3. Select the ‘Export’ option.
4. In the dialog that appears, choose the STEP or IGES file format from the ‘Type’ dropdown menu.
5. Name your file appropriately, select where you wish to save it, and click ‘OK.’

Step 2: Prepare SolidWorks for the Import

Once you have your Fusion 360 file exported, it’s time to prepare SolidWorks for importing this file.

1. Launch SolidWorks on your computer.
2. Go to the ‘File’ menu and select ‘Open.’
3. In the Open dialog box, click on the dropdown next to ‘Files of Type’ and select STEP AP203/214/242 (.step, .stp) or IGES (.igs, .iges), depending on the format you exported from Fusion 360.
4. Navigate to the location where you saved your exported file and select it.

Step 3: Import the File into SolidWorks

The actual import process is straightforward but may require configuring certain settings depending on your needs:

1. After selecting the file, click on the ‘Open’ button.
2. A new dialog may appear, allowing you to configure how you want the model to be handled upon import.
3. Review and adjust any options, including whether to import as a solid body or surface body.
4. Once your configurations are set, confirm to proceed with the import.

Step 4: Verify and Edit the Imported Model

After the import is complete, it’s crucial to verify that all components have been transferred correctly.

1. Navigate through the Tree Structure on the left side of the SolidWorks interface to check if your model components appear as expected.
2. Inspect the dimensions, features, and overall geometry to ensure accuracy.
3. If adjustments are needed, you can edit the model just like any other native SolidWorks file.

Conclusion

The process of transferring designs from Fusion 360 to SolidWorks may seem daunting at first, but by following these structured steps, you can successfully migrate your files while minimizing data loss. Ensure you familiarize yourself with both software environments, as this will ease the transition and enhance your workflow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I import assembly files from Fusion 360 to SolidWorks?
While the process outlined above primarily covers part files, you can import assembly files by first exporting each component as a STEP or IGES file and then reassembling them in SolidWorks.

Q2: What should I do if the imported model is not accurate?
If the model does not import correctly, double-check your export settings in Fusion 360. Ensure you are using compatible formats and consider re-exporting with different settings to improve fidelity.

Q3: Are there limits to the file sizes I can work with between Fusion 360 and SolidWorks?
Both software applications have their limits, but typical CAD file sizes should be manageable. For particularly large models, it’s advisable to break them down into smaller components before exporting and importing.