Sketchup file to Solidworks file

[Chris333]

Does anyone know how to get a Sketchup file to work in Solidworks?  Someone wants one of my files and well I guess Solidworks is way different.

I'm sure someone has done it?

[pjm20]

I haven't tried it but SketchUp->STL->Solidworks could work.

[Chris333]

Supposedly stl's cannot be edited in Solidworks.

[Lemosteam]

@Chris333 , Try exporting the Sketchup file as a step file ( .stp). Solidworks is Catia’s cousin and may be able to import the .stp file as a native (editable, but not parametric) solid body. This is your best bet.

[rodsup9000]

 Chris,
 I don't know if the free version is capable of exporting a 3ds file, but "pro" does.
3ds files works with a lot of CAD programs. If need be, I can convert it to a 3ds file for you.

[JeffB]

Supposedly stl's cannot be edited in Solidworks.

They can, but not easily and often not in ways that you want or are helpful. 

I've done it with a few models, but can't remember offhand how, I'd have to look it up (YouTube works for this).

The whole ordeal was frustrating and the end result was a compromise between what I could and couldn't do.

Jeff

[bbussey]

If it imports as a solid model into SolidWorks yet you cannot modify after import, you can cheat with a combine common command. Extrude a box that encompasses the imported model but don’t merge them. Then perform the combine common. The result should be an editable version of the imported part.

[Sokramiketes]

What does editable mean in this case? 

I'm worried the expecitation would be a step by step editable build with sketches... where one could just change some dimensions and have the parametrics rebuild... and that's not likely to be doable between systems.

Right?

[Chris333]

I don't use stl files, but save them that way to print and share. I just assumed it was a standard.

Someone using Solidworks wanted to take my design and scale it up. That means different couplers and stuff like that.

Just wish I could send him a magic file to help.

[rodsup9000]

 Chris, I'm sending you a email

[Chris333]

Rodney converted them to 3ds files. Hopefully that will do it. Thanks!