Transforming Multi-Body Parts into Separate Files in SOLIDWORKS

Multi-body parts can be easily transformed into separate part files using the “Save Bodies” feature in SOLIDWORKS. This multi-body part option offers a significant advantage in the SOLIDWORKS working environment. The variety of features available in part mode allows for detailed designs without creating an assembly.

In our scenario, we are working with a plumbing part. Regardless of your part’s nature, creating an assembly from a multi-body part is a straightforward process in SOLIDWORKS.

How to Save Bodies in SOLIDWORKS ?

The “Save Bodies” function simplifies the export of each body into its own part file and provides the option to create an assembly from the selected bodies. Before proceeding, make sure to prepare your model for export. To optimize efficiency, give explicit names to the bodies you intend to save, as the body name will be used as the default file name for the new part.

• Naming Bodies: In the “Solid Bodies” folder, select a body, then use the F2 key on your keyboard to assign a new name to each of them.

• Accessing Save Bodies Function: You can access the “Save Bodies” function by right-clicking on the “Solid Bodies” folder or by navigating through the Insert > Features > Save Bodies tab.
• Selecting Bodies: Within this function, select the bodies to export by activating the appropriate checkboxes. By clicking the “Save” icon, all bodies in the file will be automatically chosen.
• Visual Appearances: To include visual appearances in the new part files, check the corresponding box. If this option is not enabled, all visual features of the bodies in the new files will be excluded.

 

• Exporting as an Assembly: To export the bodies as an assembly, press the “Browse” button to specify the desired destination folder and assign a name to the assembly.

By confirming with the green checkmark, you save the bodies as parts, subsequently integrating them into an assembly by positioning them relative to the assembly’s origin, thus ensuring their precise insertion.

Advantages of the “Save Bodies” Function

These newly created parts are generated as derived parts, establishing an external relationship between the new parts and the original parent model. Within the parent model, the “Save Bodies” command is represented as an item in the tree, thus preserving historical traceability.

These newly created parts establish an external relationship with the original parent model as derived parts. The parent model includes the “Save Bodies” command as an item in the tree, thus preserving historical traceability.

In summary, the “Save Bodies” function in SOLIDWORKS offers several advantages:

• Easily export part bodies to separate part files.
• Simplify the creation of assemblies from multi-body parts.
• Manage parts and assemblies efficiently.
• Increase flexibility for modifying and updating designs.

By using this function, you can streamline your workflow and enhance collaboration within your SOLIDWORKS projects. Furthermore, explore our previous blogs to discover additional topics that can enhance your design processes.