Can You Open an OBJ File in SolidWorks?

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Can You Open an OBJ File in SolidWorks?

If you are a SolidWorks user, you may have come across OBJ files at some point. OBJ is a widely used file format for 3D models and is supported by various software applications.

However, SolidWorks is primarily designed to work with its native file formats such as SLDPRT and SLDASM. So, the question arises – can you open an OBJ file in SolidWorks?

The Native File Formats of SolidWorks

Before we delve into the compatibility of OBJ files with SolidWorks, let’s briefly discuss the native file formats of SolidWorks.

SLDPRT: This is the file extension used for individual parts in SolidWorks. It contains all the information about the geometry, features, and properties of a specific part.

SLDASM: This file extension represents an assembly of multiple parts in SolidWorks. It includes references to individual part files (SLDPRT) and information about their arrangement and relationships within the assembly.

SolidWorks and OBJ Files

By default, SolidWorks does not directly support opening or importing OBJ files. This means that if you try to open an OBJ file using the standard open dialog in SolidWorks, you won’t find it listed among the compatible file types.

Importing OBJ Files into SolidWorks

Although there isn’t a direct method to open an OBJ file in SolidWords, there are workarounds that can help you import OBJ files into your projects.

  • Third-Party Conversion Software: One way to import an OBJ file into SolidWords is by using third-party conversion software or plugins. These tools allow you to convert the OBJ file into a format compatible with SolidWords, such as STEP (STP) or IGES (IGS).

    Once the conversion is done, you can open the converted file in SolidWorks and work with it as you would with any other part or assembly.

  • Free Online Converters: Another option is to use free online file converters. These websites allow you to upload your OBJ file and convert it to a format recognized by SolidWorks. Keep in mind that the quality of the conversion may vary depending on the converter you choose.

Working with Imported OBJ Files

Once you have successfully imported an OBJ file into SolidWorks, it will be treated as a regular part or assembly within your project. You can apply various operations and modifications to it, just like any other native SolidWorks file.

Note: It’s important to remember that when working with imported OBJ files, there may be limitations compared to working with native SolidWorks files. Some advanced features and functions specific to SolidWorks may not be available or may require additional steps for compatibility.

In Conclusion

While SolidWorks does not directly support opening or importing OBJ files, there are methods available to work with them in your projects. By using third-party conversion software or online converters, you can convert OBJ files into formats compatible with SolidWorks. Once imported, these files can be manipulated and modified like any other part or assembly in your project.

If you frequently need to work with OBJ files in SolidWorks, consider exploring additional plugins or extensions that may offer enhanced compatibility and functionality for handling these types of files.