Trying to reduce file size
Trying to reduce file size
(OP)
My project is to make a simplified installation model of an engine. I have a crankcase model that is very complex, so my thought was to simplify it to reduce the model size.
I removed all the interior features and several exterior features that are not functional. Here is the result:
Casting model 24.0 MB
Casting with machined features added 16.1 MB
Simplified casting model 23.8 MB
I am baffled about why the model was reduced only .2 MB, and why the machined model, which is actually the casting model with lots more detail added, is even smaller.
Could someone clue me ? Thanks.
I removed all the interior features and several exterior features that are not functional. Here is the result:
Casting model 24.0 MB
Casting with machined features added 16.1 MB
Simplified casting model 23.8 MB
I am baffled about why the model was reduced only .2 MB, and why the machined model, which is actually the casting model with lots more detail added, is even smaller.
Could someone clue me ? Thanks.






RE: Trying to reduce file size
You will see some people tell you about Unfrag or Ecosqueeze. Be aware SW does not support those Apps and if for some reason they corrupted a file, then SW will not support the repair of that file.
Regards,
Scott Baugh, CSWP
3DVision Technologies
www.3dvisiontech.com
www.scottjbaugh.com
FAQ731-376
FAQ559-716 - SW Fora Users
RE: Trying to reduce file size
The first thing to look at if trying to make a simplified representation of a part is to go to: Tools\Feature Statistics. This will show you how much time is needed to build each feature, therefore tell you which feature(s) you should target at simplifying/suppressing. With each iteration you can actually see what percentage of rebuild time you just saved.
Ken
RE: Trying to reduce file size
But, you know 23MB isn't that big anymore. I've been working on some individual files that blowup to over 120MB. With the tessellation off.
Geometry patterns can have a big effect too.
But like Scott says, after a save as the file size is reduced, but after you open it, it will increase again. Not much you can do about that.
Later,
John
RE: Trying to reduce file size
Regards,
Scott Baugh, CSWP
3DVision Technologies
www.3dvisiontech.com
www.scottjbaugh.com
FAQ731-376
FAQ559-716 - SW Fora Users
RE: Trying to reduce file size
When I send out the engine for people to fit in their products, should I save it as a lightweight or some other format?
RE: Trying to reduce file size
I bless the name of my Lord Jesus the Christ!
RE: Trying to reduce file size
Do you want them to have full access to the file(s)?
Regards,
Scott Baugh, CSWP
3DVision Technologies
www.3dvisiontech.com
www.scottjbaugh.com
FAQ731-376
FAQ559-716 - SW Fora Users
RE: Trying to reduce file size
That option doesn't work as well as it used to. The reason it did was because of the Bitmap file that is saved for the preview (which is included in the MS shade file).
Extruding a block around your part helps control the file size, but the file save as will blow your mind when you check the file size between each file.
Regards,
Scott Baugh, CSWP
3DVision Technologies
www.3dvisiontech.com
www.scottjbaugh.com
FAQ731-376
FAQ559-716 - SW Fora Users
RE: Trying to reduce file size
Complex Casting of exhaust manifold with 5 configurations
Regenerate model in all configurations: 138Mb
Convert model to newer release of SW using conversion wizard and then open in new release and SaveAs: 7.38Mb.
All the bodies, display lists, etc. were stripped out through this process leaving essentially the feature tree information. As soon as I start working on the model it will swell up again, especially if I work on each configuration before a save.
SaveAs Copy should do a good job of stripping out the shadow files.
RE: Trying to reduce file size
I don't know who the model will be sent out to so it could be SW, ProE, or anything else. I guess I would handle each case as it comes up and save it in the format they want.
It would be best if they could not access the model to change anything. It is only intended to be placed in their piece of equipment so that they can figure out clearances and how to mount ancillary equipment.
RE: Trying to reduce file size
Then I would export the files out in an appropriate data translation for each CAD system that they have.
Parasolid, STEP, IGES, ACIS.
Regards,
Scott Baugh, CSWP
3DVision Technologies
www.3dvisiontech.com
www.scottjbaugh.com
FAQ731-376
FAQ559-716 - SW Fora Users
RE: Trying to reduce file size
Making the best use of this Forum. FAQ559-716
How to get answers to your SW questions. FAQ559-1091
Helpful SW websites every user should be aware of. FAQ559-520
RE: Trying to reduce file size
Regards,
Scott Baugh, CSWP
3DVision Technologies
www.3dvisiontech.com
www.scottjbaugh.com
FAQ731-376
FAQ559-716 - SW Fora Users