FreeCAD and Mesh Import

    From FreeCAD Documentation

    Post-Import

    After import the model is (for FreeCAD), just an assembly of faces. You might want to convert the model into a shape FreeCAD can recognize and that could be altered in FreeCAD.

    To do this:

    1. Switch to the Workbench Part.svg Part Workbench
    2. Select the mesh, and go to the Part → Create shape from mesh or press the Part ShapeFromMesh.svg Part ShapeFromMesh button
    3. Click OK in the dialog
    4. Select the newly created shape
    5. Go to Part → Convert to solid
    6. Select the newly created solid
    7. Go to Part → Refine shape or press the Part RefineShape.svg Part RefineShape button

    Note: The last step is not necessary, but it will clean the solid of most of its residual edges on planar and cylindrical surfaces.

    Errors

    "cannot convert because shape is not a shell"

    Well, your shell seems to have errors, maybe it is not closed (has holes). Since the capabilities of the mesh workbench in FreeCAD are a little limited at the moment, you might want to try examining and repairing of your model with third-party software. After doing that, you may try importing and converting of your model again.

    Third Party Programs

    • Meshlab
      • License: Open Source (GPL V2)
      • Runs on Windows 32/64 bit, Linux and macOS
    • netFabb basic
      • License: Freeware
      • Runs on Windows XP/7/8, Linux and macOS

    Tutorials

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