Importing Mesh Files

You can import a scanned file with mesh data into the SOLIDWORKS software without using the ScanTo3D add-in. The software imports the file and associated mesh data into a solid or surface body. You can select and reference the converted facets, verticals, and facet edges. You can also maintain the mesh as a mesh model in SOLIDWORKS that allows graphical viewing of the mesh model.

To import mesh files:

  1. Click Open (Standard toolbar) or File > Open.
  2. In the dialog box, in Files of type, select Mesh Files (*.stl, *.obj;*.off;*.ply;*.ply2).
    You can also import *.3mf and *.wrl file formats as graphics bodies, solid bodies, and surface bodies.
  3. Browse to a file to open.
  4. Click Options.
  5. In the dialog box, set Import as to one of the following and click OK.
    • Graphics Body
    • Solid Body
    • Surface Body
    The software can import and create multiple solid bodies from the mesh file, provided the mesh is closed. If the mesh is not closed, the Import as Solid Body option automatically creates surface bodies for all bodies that cannot be imported as solid bodies.
  6. Click Open.
    The file is imported.