How to Open Autodesk Inventor File in Solidworks?

Introduction to File Conversion between Autodesk Inventor and SOLIDWORKS

When working with different CAD systems, efficiently transferring data between software platforms can be crucial for engineering and design projects. Translating files from Autodesk Inventor to SOLIDWORKS requires specific steps to ensure that the geometry and associated data are preserved. Here’s a comprehensive guide to opening Autodesk Inventor files in SOLIDWORKS.

Step 1: Save Your Inventor Model as a STEP File

1. Launch Autodesk Inventor and open the design file you wish to convert.
2. Navigate to the File menu and select Save As.
3. In the Save As dialog, set the file type to STEP File (.step; .stp).
4. Click on Options to configure the export settings. Here, you can select how you would like the geometry to be structured.
5. Choose Solid Geometry for export if you want a solid model, or select appropriate options if surface geometry is also required.
6. Once the options are set, click OK and then Save to create the STEP file.

Step 2: Import the STEP File into SOLIDWORKS

1. Open SOLIDWORKS and go to the File menu.
2. Select Open, then browse for the STEP file you saved from Autodesk Inventor.
3. In the dialog that appears, ensure the file format is set to STEP AP203/214 (.step; .stp).
4. Click on the Open button to import the STEP data.
5. After the import process completes, you will be presented with the imported model in SOLIDWORKS.

Step 3: Verify the Imported Model

1. Once the model is open, inspect it thoroughly. Check for any missing features or anomalies that may have occurred during the conversion.
2. If you notice any discrepancies, utilize SOLIDWORKS tools to amend the model as necessary.
3. Save your work by going to File and selecting Save As, saving it as a native SOLIDWORKS file format (e.g., .sldprt or .sldasm) for future modifications.

Alternative Methods for File Transfer

There are additional methods to consider for more complex needs and compatibility:

• Direct Import: If both software versions support importing, direct import capabilities may allow you to bring the Inventor file into SOLIDWORKS without intermediate formats.
• Use of IGES or Parasolid Formats: If you find challenges with STEP files, experimenting with other formats like IGES (.iges or .igs) or Parasolid (.x_t or .x_b) might yield better results depending on your design’s specifics.

FAQ

1. Can SOLIDWORKS read Inventor files directly?
No, SOLIDWORKS does not have the capability to directly open Autodesk Inventor files. A conversion process is necessary, typically using STEP files.

2. What is the best file format for transferring files between Inventor and SOLIDWORKS?
Using the STEP format is generally recommended, as it tends to maintain geometry and feature history better than other formats like IGES or Parasolid in many cases.

3. Will I lose design features when converting from Inventor to SOLIDWORKS?
While most geometry should convert successfully, some advanced features, constraints, or specific details may not transfer perfectly. Always double-check the imported model for fidelity to the original design.