Is there a way to modify a STEP file? Specifically I want to modify screws/bolts etc. I can easily download a STP file from McMaster so I am thinking that I download a 1/4-20 x 1 socket head cap screw. Then I would extrude that to make 1/2 or 1 1/2 long etc. I saw one post where it was suggested that I could just select the end face and extrude that. I cannot get that to work. Another post suggested converting to SAT file. I have tried saving it as an Alibre part with no luck. Am I doing something wrong or am I just dreaming? Limitation on Atom 3D?
Modify a STEP file?
- Thread starter GordonL
- Start date
You can add features on to the imported STEP file. You'd have to 'project to sketch' from the end face - not just select it. You can then use the sketch to define a cut or boss.
Some screws include either true helical threads, or patterned ribs to represent threads - either would make modifying the length trickier.
Should all be possible in Atom3D, but might be simpler with direct editing tools in Pro / Expert.
Some screws include either true helical threads, or patterned ribs to represent threads - either would make modifying the length trickier.
Should all be possible in Atom3D, but might be simpler with direct editing tools in Pro / Expert.
I think that my best solution is to just remove the whole screw/bolt/shank portion below the head which would give me a screw of "0" length. Then I could just add a shank of whatever length that I wanted. Most of the fasteners that I use are 10-32 and smaller SHCS. I am not publishing these designs but they are just for my personal use so exact representation is not really important. I am already using the unthreaded part and with the screws being under 3/16 dia. the chamfer does not show up anyway.
The ideal would be if I could add or subtract a piece in the middle of the shank but that does not seem to be an option.
The ideal would be if I could add or subtract a piece in the middle of the shank but that does not seem to be an option.
Atom3d doesn’t allow you to import 3d models. It also has no way to modify them because it doesn’t have Boolean operations.
It would be very easy to just build a 1/4-20 by 1” socket head cap screw from scratch. The tricky part is the thread, but it’s really easy once you know how to do it.
It would be very easy to just build a 1/4-20 by 1” socket head cap screw from scratch. The tricky part is the thread, but it’s really easy once you know how to do it.
Dean - Atom3D very much can import 3D models. True it doesn't support Boolean operations, but there are other ways to modify imported models.
NateLiquidGravity
Alibre Super User
YES it can be modified. You can add features to imported dumb solids, you can project existing geometry from the import.
True you don't get the original feature tree - but that's also true of Alibre Design Pro & Expert (and most other 3D CAD systems).