Maya to Solidworks via DXF or IGES

[rhonedog]

I have a client that needs something modeled in solidworks. He has asked me to create some models in Maya and export them as a format that Solidworks can accept. (Solidworks being a CAD program).

Are there any disadvantages to creating the models in maya, and exporting them as a dxf or iges file? I have no CAD experience, so i dont know if I should expect any issues.

Mike R

[joojaa]

No history! Its the biggest drwback so essentialy all he gets is a buch of nurbs surfaces or polygons (mind you CAD/CAE users wont like polygons)

wich means its fine for rference and occasional solid (if its intelligent enoug to do the conversion proe is!). But thats about it.

the philosofy is just that much different. But the client will know this (hopefully, and he will if he ever has used a iges modell).

[rifz]

I would really do lots of tests before you start on the project, to see if the converted files with work for him and do what he need. solid objects are very different from Maya objects.

[kabab]

Your going need to watch out for a few things here.

Firstly what do they want to do with the object you are going to create ?

I am asuming its a very organic type shape otherwise they wouldn't bother creating it in maya.

I would use IGES for sure you just got watch out for how solidworks handles the surfaces it will either like bounded or trimed surfaces you may need some 3rd party app such as CADFIX to convert between those settings.

Programs like Solidworks are solids based systems VERY different to maya and the likes so unless it has some surfacing tools you won't be able to manipulate the object to much but you should be able to make drawings from it.

[joojaa]

solidworks can do surfacing but an eingeneer wont be happy with iges(or even worse dxf) unless its totaly final and never ever needs changing! Because its pain in the ass (ben there done that!). so ask them why and what they expect!