Field Precision title

STL import from SolidWorks, facet display Step 1: Export an STL file from your CAD program. Import complex shapes into Geometer and MetaMesh from 3D CAD programs

Geometer and MetaMesh can import parts from any 3D CAD program that creates files in STL (STereo Lithography) format. Programs that support STL include SolidWorks™, AutoCAD™, ProE™, NX™, Rhino™ and Solid Designer™.

There are several reasons why we picked STL files as the medium for shape translation:

  • The neutral file format is simple and rigidly defined. Developers of three-dimensional CAD programs can not add proprietary features. All future versions of your CAD program will work with MetaMesh.
  • Because part replication through computer-controlled milling is a widespread application, most 3D CAD programs support STL export.
  • The convention of recording one solid object per STL file is well matched to the procedure of summing parts to build an assembly in Geometer and MetaMesh.
  • There is a wealth of information on STL files available on the Internet. Furthermore, there are many free or low cost utility programs for viewing and/or modifying the files.
For instructions on exporting STL files from a variety of CAD programs, see https://www.fieldp.com/stl_export.html.

It is easy to handle STL objects in Geometer. The model is available for fabricating parts after you load the text or binary file. You can use a model for multiple parts and combine it with the standard geometric models available in Geometer. You can add rotations and shifts to position the STL model in space. Geometer supports OpenGL perspective views and also orthogonal views with reference grids for precision work. The program includes utilities for direct modification of STL files (scaling, reflection, conversion to binary,...).

When the geometry is complete, you export an assembly script from Geometer. MetaMesh uses the information for automatic generation of a fully conformal, hexahedron mesh. The program has the unique and extraordinary ability to build a mesh with logical structure for high-speed finite-element solutions.

The transfer of complex 3D information between CAD and FEA programs can often be a nightmare. The process is straightfoward with Geometer and MetaMesh for the following reasons:
  • Use of a well-defined neutral format for solid geometries.
  • Option to divide an assembly into manageable parts.
  • Complete data transparency for diagnosing problems.
STL import from SolidWorks, Geometer display Step 2: Load the STL model into Geometer and use it to create one or more parts. Add multiple STL parts or standard solid models to an assembly.
STL import from SolidWorks, MetaMesh mesh display Step 3: MetaMesh automatically creates a structured, conformal hexahedron mesh from the Geometer assembly script.