Which non-manifold surface modeling file is best to recover?
I have a non-manifold modeling file. I think I brought a file that someone worked on with another program
But it's separated into surfaces, so I need to solidify it again
The method I'm using now is to project through a sketch, pick a border, and pad it again
I've tried join to work more comfortably, but non-manifold configuration are detected Error
I had to draw the curvy part again
And there are some sides that are sticking out
What should I do?
Accepted answer
Sounds like you have a bad file.
I would do the same as you. Try to Join all the surfaces together and then use the CloseSurface command to convert it to solid.
Often when I've done this, some of the surfaces are missing or don't have common edges. I've had to add the missing surfaces with Fill, using the edges of adjacent surfaces. Depends on how many surfaces are non-manifold.
Redrawing the part might be a better/quicker alternative.
Can you go back to the provider and get a better file? STEP files are usually better than IGES.
1 Other answer
To recover a non-manifold surface model in SolidWorks, the best approach is to import the file as a solid body if possible, but if it's already broken into surfaces, use Import Diagnostics (under "Evaluate" tab) to detect and heal faces or gaps. If that fails, use Knit Surface with the "Try to form solid" option to stitch surfaces together. For problematic areas like overlapping or open edges, manually trim, extend, or rebuild surfaces using tools like Boundary Surface, Filled Surface, or Surface Loft. Avoid sketch-based patching unless necessary—stick to surface tools for complex geometry. STEP files usually retain surface info best for such repairs.
