Convert assembly file to surface model?

[Trisha]

I need to send a 3D model to a customer. Is it possible to convert my assembly model into a surface model, to protect the model?

[Pablo Ferral]

Look into 'Shrink wrap' and derived parts.

 

Check out his article in CADalyst magazine by Mark Flayler:

http://www.cadalyst.com/cad/inventor/prepare-semi-unintelligent-parts-with-suppression-and-sculpt-wrapping-13958

[Trisha]

Thanks! I have tried to use shrinkwrap, and this seems to work fine onsmaller models without many details. But when I try to convert largerassemblies, inventor crashes and I have to start all over :/

[JD Mather]

... inventor crashes and I have to start all over

 

What version of Inventor? Have you installed all Service Packs and Hot Fixes?

[Lazer]

I use shrinkwrap often with no problem so I cannot think other that what JD said. Derived part should work (open a new part and click derived part then select the assembly) If all else fails delete the inner workings and leave the shell.

[Fletcher]

Shrinkwrap will not work on large models (eg. over 3k parts). and shrinkwrap (even as a single solid) can be reversed by saving as STP and and then reopening in inventor.