opening and editing files

[Anonymous]

i downloaded a file online (well actually i downloaded a folder with several files). i can open the files in autodesk inventor without any issues, so opening isnt the problem. the problem is that i cant edit the objects in any way. i cant add sketches, change demetions, add extrutions, etc. i can view all the changes made to the object in  the sidebar thing 9forgot what its called) but i cant click on them or change them in any way. ant tips on  how i can open the object in cad and make changes to it. btw my computer has Autodesk Inventor Professional 2014 - English.

[kennyj]

Hello!

The files downloaded; where they Inventor files (.ipt/.iam)?  Some file formats are not made to be edited (straight out of the shoot), so a .STP (STEP), .STL or .SAT file format will open in Inventor but will require some "tricks of the trade" to actually be able to edit / manipulate this information.  I am going to guess that since there was a folder of files, you have downloaded an inventor assembly and the other files are the assocaited parts for that assembly.

The other likely culpret is the files are write protected.  For example, a file that has been downloaded from Vault but not checked out will allow you to look, but changes require a Save-As or you much check it out.

I suggest trying a Save As and rename the file, see if you can edit your copy.  The Browser bar (the sidebar) also will show features that are linked to other parts or derived parts.  It is possible there are missing links - try to open the individual parts through the browser (rt click, open) and see if you get a link error or if the part file opens.

Try also if itis an assembly to make sure you have a full load; turn off Express Load - this will show the parts, but they are not loaded into the project for edits.

There are a few thing to try.  Hopefully some will help!

Kenny

[JDMather]

Attach example file here and end all doubt.

[Anonymous]

kenny, they were stl files so i tired copying them and changing the copies to iam/ipt. but now cad cant even open the iam/ipt files 

[mcgyvr]

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@Anonymous wrote:

kenny, they were stl files so i tired copying them and changing the copies to iam/ipt. but now cad cant even open the iam/ipt files 

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STL files are a little different compared to something like a step or iges file..

They are faceted surface/mesh files for the most part..

In order to allow modifications/measurements,etc.. you need to get mesh enabler addin from the autodesk apps site and convert the mesh to a base solid feature..

Then you can do something with it.

Note: just like any other neutral cad format (stl/step/iges,etc..) you will not have a history/feature tree that you can just go in and edit individual features like you can with a native cad format. But modifications can be done..

STL files are really meant to be a direct output from a CAD format that can be used by a 3d printer.. Its not meant to be an exchange format between cad systems..