Help Open SchoolCAD

Help Part Studio features

Import

Bring in a STEP file as parts, such as hinges, screws, LEDs and motors from supplier websites, or a model from Onshape or Fusion.

  • Import AdvancedPart Studio toolbar
What other CAD programs call it
SchoolCADOnshapeFusionSOLIDWORKS
ImportImportUpload / InsertOpen / Insert Part

Import brings a 3D model into your design from a STEP file. Many suppliers let you download a STEP file of what they sell, such as a hinge, a battery holder or a motor. Import it, then design around the real part: put the screw holes in the right place, and leave room for the motor. You can also bring in a model you made in Onshape or Fusion.

A STEP file ends in .step or .stp. It holds exact 3D shapes, so imported parts are exact solids. You can drill, cut, mate and draw them like your own parts.

How to use it#

  1. Download the STEP file, or export one from your CAD program: choose Export, then STEP.
  2. Click Import and choose the file.
  3. The parts appear in the view and in the parts list, named after the file. If the file holds several solids, each one becomes a part.
  4. Put them in place with Mate or Transform, or with Move by (below).

Options#

To move the parts or change the file, double-click the Import feature in the feature tree. Its name starts with Import.

OptionWhat it does
Move byMoves the imported parts along X, Y and Z, in mm.
Replace file…Swaps in another STEP file, such as a newer version of the part.

The top of the dialog shows the file's name, how many solids it holds and its size.

Tips#

  • The STEP file is kept inside your design, so it goes with it when you use Save file.
  • To change the shape of an imported part, change it in the program it came from, export it again, then use Replace file….
  • Imported parts have no material yet. Right-click a part in the parts list to choose one, so its mass and cost are right.
  • Download just the part you need, not a whole machine. Files must be under 6 MB. For a file over about 1.5 MB, SchoolCAD reminds you to use Save file, because the browser may not be able to keep it.
  • Import needs SchoolCAD's exact 3D engine. The first time, it takes a few seconds to start. The status bar says Exact geometry: on when it is ready.

If it does not work#

  • That STEP file is over 6 MB. Simplify it (or export just the part you need) and try again.
  • That does not look like a STEP file. In your CAD program use Export → STEP. The file is another type, such as an STL.
  • That file could not be read as STEP. Export it again as STEP (AP203 or AP214). AP203 and AP214 are kinds of STEP file. Choose one of them if your program asks.
  • There are no solid bodies in that file (only surfaces or lines). SchoolCAD needs solid shapes. Look for a solid version of the model.
  • The 3D engine is still starting. This will appear in a moment. Wait a few seconds.
  • Importing a STEP file needs the 3D engine (OpenCascade), which could not start on this computer. Try another computer or web browser.