Cannot move imported STL object after importing

[Anonymous]

When I import an STL file into my project, I can only move it when it's first imported. After it's initially placed, I am unable to move it again later on. When I go to Modify>Move, it won't let me select the object

It also does this with OBJ files.

How can I move the imported STL/OBJ files again after import?

Thanks!

[Anonymous]

Hi, a mesh can only be inserted and moved while in Create Base Feature mode.  To get back into that mode for the base feature of your mesh, look in your timeline for an icon of a white paper with a blue arrow, near the time when you inserted the mesh.  Double click on that icon (or select it then right click and choose Edit)...note that the response may lag due to the size of a mesh, and may have to try a few times to enter it.  You'll know you are in the editing of base feature if there is a button in the upper right that says "Finish Base Feature."  Now you can move the mesh, and when done press that button saying finish base feature.

Good luck!

Jesse

[Anonymous]

I tried this once and it lost my latest changes, so I had to click "undo" until it reverted to my most recent changes. Therefore this option, while it seems to work, makes me nervous.

I found I can't move the STL imports when I'm in the Model workspace. But if I go to the Sculpt Workspace (click Create>Create Form (purple circle, in the column to the right of workspace selection)), I can move my STL imports anywhere I want, when ever I like. It is then reflected back to all other workspaces.

For tsplice objects made in Fusion 360, this is done in "Model Workspace", but to move STL import meshes it has to be done in the "Sculpt Workspace".

Doesn't seem right, but it works. It's enough for me to get by for now.

[Anonymous]

Yeah, for some reason imported meshes need to be moved in base feature/direct modeling mode, of which the Sculpt environment is also (notice while in Sculpt environment that there is no timeline events created).   There are two other ways I deal with imported meshes, the first being to copy the mesh by selecting and right clicking the mesh in the browser tree and selecting Copy, then going to Model > Create new base feature and then pasting the mesh and moving it while in the new base feature.  The second way is to, while in Base feature mode, go to Modify > Mesh > Mesh to Brep, which converts it to a regular body (can convert back to mesh in similar fashion later). 

Good luck!

Jesse

[Anonymous]

Thanks Jesse.

The Mesh -> BRep fails because my STL has too many facets, and I was unable to get it to work pasting into new base feature. So For now my only option is moving them in the Sculpt workplace.

Thanks again for your help!