Building Tube Assemblies in SOLIDWORKS
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VTube-LASER can reverse engineer tube and then build that tube in SOLIDWORKS as a fully-constrained 3D parametric model. This page describes the basic steps to create an assembly from a part using VTube-LASER and SOLIDWORKS.
STEP 1: Measure One of the Parts in VTube-LASER
Measure the first pipe and create a measured tube shape.
STEP 2: Build the Part in SOLIDWORKS
Use the File tab in Measure Tube Data to send the measured part to SOLIDWORKS.
STEP 3: Save the SOLIDWORKS Part File
Save the part to a unique SOLIDWORKS part file on the disk.
STEP 4: Repeat Steps 1 through 3 for all the parts
Be careful to not move the assembly. Repeat the first three steps for each tube.
STEP 5: Start a New Assembly
Start a new assembly. These steps show how to insert four parts from the SOLIDWORKS part files.
STEP 6: Cancel the New Assembly Feature
In order to insert the tubes in the proper location, we need to establish the common origin in a plane. So press Cancel new assembly first.
STEP 7: Create a Reference Plane at the Origin
Insert a new plane, then press Finish. It is not necessary to change the location of the plane - since it is already centered around the world origin.
STEP 8: Press Insert Components in Assemblies
Press Insert Components.
STEP 9: Select Multiple SOLIDWORKS Files
Use Ctrl + or Shift + to select multiple parts to include in the assembly.
STEP 10: Select the Origin
Point to the middle of the plane and click. Do this for each part until all the parts are inserted at the origin.
STEP 11: Repeat STEP 10 for Each Part
Click the origin at the center of the plane for each part.
STEP 12: Exit the Sketch
Exit the sketch after all the parts are inserted.
The Assembly is Complete
SOLIDWORKS should show a completed assembly.
Other Pages
- Back to the VTube-STEP page
- Back to the VTube-LASER page
