Save to External File and Link

[chrisCFHNJ]

Is there no way to save out a local subassembly to an external file, so that the layout assembly refers to that file? 

https://a360.co/35trutb

I like the idea of breaking the link to the library file and making different sizes of cabinets, but I then need to be able to save them out in external files so I can make drawings, fabricate, etc. Thoughts?

[jhackney1972]

It sounds like you want to start using Derived Assemblies or Components.  These are external files that can be "Derived" into your assembly that will update automatically if anything changes in them.  You attached an assembly file but did not explain what you wanted to see with it.

[chrisCFHNJ]

Thank you for the helpful reply. Derived components are not exactly what I was hoping for, but it is something that can be useful in other situations. 

I attached the assembly to try to show what I am wanting to do. It contains 1 external design, and then several components that I created by copying the external and breaking the link to the external file. This works well – I can bring in one standard parametric cabinet, break the link, and quickly make all the different sizes I need. But then when I am done, I would like to save them back out as external. It sounds like that is not an option yet in Fusion 360, as far as I can tell. It would be a great thing to add.

[jhackney1972]

If you keep your sub-assembly together that you want to save out to an eternal file, you would use the command I used in my Screencast, Save Copy As.  This takes whatever you have selected in the Browser and saves it, to the folder of your choice, as an External File and leaves it in the current assembly.  In the attached Screen Capture, I have selected an internal sub-assembly, then right click and select Save Copy As.  This will do what you are describing.

[chrisCFHNJ]

That does do exactly what I want but (as I understand it) with one exception: The copy that is saved out is not linked to the one in the layout. Correct? 

[jhackney1972 · Accepted solution]

You are correct.  There is a possible solution if you would like to replace the existing sub-assembly with the just saved external sub-assembly but it depends on your assembly structure.  If your assembly is composed of external components and your have an external component you wish to replace it with, you can use the Replace Component command.  This command only works with external referenced components and sub-assemblies.  It is a new command that was just added in the last update.