importing STEP file into AutoCAD and using Union and Subtract...

[Anonymous]

I am using a Altium to create a PCB assembly and it has the ability to generate a 3D model in the form of a STEP file.  I am trying to create an enclosure that mates with the PCB assembly and follows the shape and contour of the components and I am using AutoCAD 17 with Windows 10 Pro.  I was planning on using the Subtraction feature to generate the contour of the enclosure, but the imported STEP file isn't seen as a 3D body and it doesn't work.  I can use the EXPLODE command to reduce the Block Reference to 3D Solid but I would have to do that to hundreds of parts and some parts require multiple levels of EXPLODE to get it to the root 3D Solid.  Is there a way to convert the entire imported STEP into one 3D Solid????  This seems like it would be a common thing to do, but I am not a CAD expert.   Thanks for you help in advance.

-F Houde

[natasha.l]

Hello @Anonymous, 

I just want to verify that the 3d objects have been imported using the steps outlined >here<.

In this case, "Union" or the "Surf" commands can be used to merge objects into one 3d solid object. Keep in mind that the objects need to be the same type in order for the "Union" command to work.  

Please "Accept Solution" if a reply or replies have helped resolve the issue or answered your question, to help others in the community.

[Anonymous · Accepted solution]

Thanks for the reply.  I did import it correctly so that wasn't the issue.  I found out that way for me to avoid this was change the export setting found in Altium (software used to generate STEP file).  I just set it to "Export As Single Part".   Once I imported into AutoCAD then I only had to do one Explode command then it was then a 3D object.  Problem solved.  Hope this helps other people.

-F Houde