Lets start with a few SolidWorks tips to getting it right
the first time. When you are creating your model make it out
of several parts that come together in an assembly. This insures
that each part is separate when exporting, this also makes
it easier to render and to animate. A rule of thumb is to
build it like it would be built in reality, this is more time
consuming but gives the model much more versatility. You can
always simplify later.
Starting in a SolidWorks 'Assembly'. I have 3 parts
(tire, wheel, and brake pad), you may have as many or as few
as your model needs.
In the 'Parts Menu' you will need to select the entire
Assembly by clicking on its title (as seen below).
Next you will export the model by choosing 'Save As'
from the File menu. You will need to select the type of file
you will be exporting. This will be a Stereolith or 'STL',
the type of file used in Stereolithography. Choose a file name,
and set the coordinate system to 'default'. Last but
not least you will need to adjust the output options by clicking
on the 'Options' button. By exporting the model from
the Assembly each part will maintain its position in the model,
saving you time and the chance for mistakes.
In the 'Options' menu, you will need to adjust your
setting to match those below. This will guarantee that your
model will look its best and be very easy to work with, and
hey you could even get it produced with a few grand. If you
have problems with mesh quality later on you may choose to
increase the 'Total quality' using the 'Custom'
setting.
Once you click 'Ok', SolidWorks will think for a bit
(see the progress bar at the bottom of the screen). After
this process is done you will be prompted with its results
(below), if this looks right you have properly exported the
file and you can click 'Yes'. Congratulation!
Now you will need to start 3dsMax to begin the import of
your new STL. From the File menu in 3dsMax, select 'Import',
and one at a time import each of the models parts.
As you import each part you will be prompted with the below
import screen. By selecting the options I have below you will
maximize the quality of your model in 3dsMax insure that you
computer will not lockup on you. The 'Quick Weld' is
the key to making this whole process work. You will need to
make sure that these options don't change as you import each
part.
Your parts should all be imported now and they should be
in the exact location you placed them in the Assembly in SolidWorks,
which makes the extra effort worth it.
You are now free to assigne materials, edit, render, and
animate you model. Also feel free to mix it with of models
of any type.
Here are two shots of my finished product.
