To import CAD files as meshes

As an alternative to the working natively with CAD files, Netfabb's classic CAD import converts CAD models directly and permanently into triangle meshes.

The classic CAD import is a module.

Using the classic CAD import you can:

• Select multiple files, as well as individual parts of assemblies, even across multiple assemblies.
• Split assemblies into individual parts during loading (parts are placed in groups).
• Preview file contents and selection state of assembly parts.
• Specify resolution and precision for converting CAD to mesh.
• Specify the unit of length for conversion.
• Visualize assemblies using different colors.

To import CAD files

1. Choose File > Import CAD File as Mesh.
   Note: This still prompts you whether to use the new functionality of handling parametric parts natively. Clicking Yes uses it, clicking No does not use it this time, and clicking Ignore will never use it again.
2. Click Open to navigate to and load one or multiple files into the drop-down selection.
   
3. If you selected multiple files, you switch between them using the drop-down menu at the top of the context view.
4. Select Auto Update to update the preview image whenever you make changes to import settings.
   Tip: Disable this temporarily if you want to change multiple settings that may result in a large amount of triangles, such as high detail levels and bigger units.
5. Select the Detail level for converting CAD information into mesh.

   When you change the detail level, Netfabb reloads and reconverts any files already loaded, and changes the number of triangles shown, provided Auto Update is selected. The number of triangles used is shown in the Triangle Count box under Preview.

   The Detail setting is global and immediate, meaning that when multiple files are loaded, and the Detail setting is changed, the import will update immediately, and for all loaded files, to the new setting. Depending on how many files you have loaded, and to which Detail setting you switch, recalculating may take a long time.

6. If you know the unit of the source file, set it in Default Units.
7. Select Show Triangles to highlight the triangle mesh in the preview image.
8. Use the color box to switch between the part's actual color or the default display colors that Netfabb assigns to parts.
9. Select Split Assembly Into Parts if you do not want to load the assemblies as one part.
10. To import only the selected parts and assemblies, select them in the list below and click Import; otherwise, click Import All.