SolidWorks is a powerful CAD software widely used in the engineering and design industry. When you want to showcase your SolidWorks designs or collaborate with others who may not have access to the software, opening your SolidWorks file in a 3D viewer can be extremely helpful.
There are several file formats that SolidWorks supports for exporting your designs, including STL, OBJ, STEP, and IGES. These file formats are commonly used for 3D printing, visualization, and collaboration purposes.
To open your SolidWorks file in a 3D viewer, follow these simple steps:
1. Export your SolidWorks file: In SolidWorks, go to File > Save As and choose the desired file format for exporting. If you're planning to 3D print your design, STL format is commonly used. If you want a more universal format for 3D visualization or collaboration, OBJ, STEP, or IGES are great options.
2. Choose a 3D viewer: There are many 3D viewer options available, both online and as downloadable software. Some popular choices include Autodesk Viewer, Sketchfab, and Glovius. These viewers support various file formats and provide tools for interacting with and presenting your 3D model.
3. Import your file into the 3D viewer: Once you've selected a 3D viewer, follow the specific instructions for importing your SolidWorks file. Typically, this involves uploading the file directly from your computer or cloud storage.
4. Explore and showcase your design: After importing your SolidWorks file, you can now explore and showcase your design in the 3D viewer. You'll be able to rotate, zoom, and pan the model to view it from different angles. Some 3D viewers also offer annotation and measurement tools, making it easier to communicate and collaborate on the design.
Opening your SolidWorks file in a 3D viewer is a convenient way to share your designs with clients, colleagues, or anyone who needs to review the model. It can also be beneficial for design presentations, as you can easily demonstrate and explain your design in a more interactive manner.
In conclusion, knowing how to open your SolidWorks file in a 3D viewer expands the accessibility and usability of your designs. By exporting your file in a compatible format and using a 3D viewer, you can effectively showcase your designs and collaborate with others, regardless of whether they have access to SolidWorks or not.
