Assembly constraints?

[dirktheeng]

Are assembly constraints available through the API?  I can create bodies inside of components, but it doesn't look like there is a way to assemble components together through the API.  Am I missing something?  If I am correct about it not being currently part of the API, is it going to be part of the next release?

[ekinsb · Accepted solution]

There are several areas of Fusion functionality not yet exposed through the API and assembly joints is one of those. It is something that will be exposed but not in the upcoming release. The good news is that Fusion releases come quickly so you should see it relatively soon.

[123megamind]

I am building an app that requires the assembly joints/mates/constraints in Fusion360 assembly files.

1. Is using the API the only way to get this data and be able to reconstruct the assembly in my app?
2. Also any update on when the API will expose this info as mentioned?
3. Is there further readings on this topic as I'm sure other developers have come across this issue?

[ekinsb]

The ability to create, query, and edit joints is coming in the next Fusion update which is expected towards the end of September.  You can build an assembly now by placing the parts in their correct position but there won't be any relationship between parts if the user needs to interact with the assembly.  You'll need to wait for joints to be exposed before you can do that.

[ekinsb]

I'm not sure what I was thinking when I wrote that response.  Support for joints is already available as of the July update.  Support for as-built joints, joint origins, and rigid groups is coming in the September update.

[123megamind]

Excellent news.

1. By "joints" are they all the usual ones available such as face, point, edge, revolute, slider, ridgid, cylindrical, planar, pin-slot, ball, center, ground, angle, distance, coincedent, drive joints, etc. 
2. What are the "as-built joints, joint origins, and rigid groups"?

[ekinsb]

Yes, the API supports all of the types of joints that you can create using the 'Joint' command.  If you look in the 'ASSEMBLE' panel, in addition to the 'Joint' command you'll also see the 'As-built Joint', 'Joint Origin', and 'Rigid Group' commands (and a few others).  The functionality supported by those three commands is what will be supported in the upcoming update.

[123megamind]

This makes me very happy thanks. Do you know where to find the "how to/docs/examples/tutorials" info on this topic? My goal is to have a fully constrained assembly in my custom app that will be able to reflect changes in Fusion. Other people must have accomplished this but I can't find any to ask how they did it.

[ekinsb]

There isn't an overview topic for joints yet, although I probably should write one because they are fairly complex.  However there are several samples in the API help, as shown below.