How to use A23D 3D Models in SOLIDWORKS

This guide explains how to import 3D models downloaded from A23D into SOLIDWORKS (2020 and later) for use in product design, mechanical engineering, and visualization projects.

1. Download and Extract the Model

1. Sign in to your A23D account.
2. Browse to the asset you wish to use.
3. In the Software dropdown on the asset page, select Solidworks.

• A23D automatically delivers the model in the format best suited to SOLIDWORKS (.obj) - no manual format selection required. Keep the .obj, .mtl, and texture files together because the model references its dependent files.

4. Click Download and save the .zip to a known location on your computer.
5. Extract (unzip) the archive to access the .obj model and texture folder.

2. Import the OBJ Model

1. Open SOLIDWORKS.
2. Go to File > Open.
3. In the file browser, change the file type filter to Mesh Files (*.obj, *.stl, *.ply...) or set it to All Files (*.*).
4. Navigate to the extracted .obj file, select it, and click Open.
5. In the Import Options dialog:

• Import as: Choose Graphics body for the fastest visualization performance, Solid body if you need the geometry to participate in mass properties or section views, or Surface body to work with boundary representation surfaces.
• Units: Set to Meters (A23D models are authored in real-world meter scale).

6. Click OK. SOLIDWORKS imports the model as a Mesh body in a new Part document.

3. Position, Scale, and Use in Assemblies

1. To reposition or scale the body, use Insert > Features > Move/Copy Bodies for precise control over translation, rotation, and scaling.
2. To bring the imported model into a larger assembly, save the Part as a .sldprt file and add it as a component in your Assembly file via Insert > Component > Existing Part/Assembly.

4. Materials and Textures

SOLIDWORKS' Appearances system reads the base color from the OBJ's .mtl material file. For native PBR material fidelity, open the asset in SOLIDWORKS Visualize and apply A23D's accompanying PNG texture set there. In SOLIDWORKS CAD, use the Appearances task pane for color, bump/normal, roughness/glossiness, transparency, and other preview/appearance controls.

Additional Resources

Importing Mesh Files - SOLIDWORKS Help
OBJ Mesh Import Improvements - SOLIDWORKS 2023