Problem

Users can import Autodesk Inventor files into SOLIDWORKS with geometry or feature data. These files are of the ".IPT" (part) and ".IAM" (assembly) types. This article goes over importing Inventor Files and common troubleshooting practices. 

Solution

To import feature data into SOLIDWORKS, ensure that Autodesk Inventor 11 or later is installed on the same computer. The free Inventor Viewer software cannot be used to import feature data, as it can only be used to import geometry data, and it doesnt need to be installed in most cases. If Autodesk Inventor is not installed, SOLIDWORKS will import the files with only geometry data.

To open Inventor files in SOLIDWORKS, please follow the instructions below.

1. Select File > Open

2. Set "Files of Type" to Autodesk Inventor (*.ipt,*.iam), and select "Options"

   

3. Set the Import Options as desired, and select "OK"
4. Browse to the file to open, and click "Open" to import the file

If SOLIDWORKS hangs during the import process and generates a message that it cannot open the version of the Inventor file, then upgrade either Inventor or the Inventor Viewer to the latest available version.

If SOLIDWORKS still hangs after upgrading Inventor when importing Inventor files and the same incorrect version message is displayed, then try the following to resolve the issue.

1. Toggle 3D Interconnect to use the other type of file translator system in SOLIDWORKS (Enabling SOLIDWORKS 3D Interconnect).
2. Run a repair of SOLIDWORKS (How to Repair SOLIDWORKS – Hawk Ridge Systems)
3. Perform a clean re-installation of SOLIDWORKS (How To Uninstall And Remove SOLIDWORKS Products – Hawk Ridge Systems).
4. If none of the above helps, please contact Technical Support.

For additional support, existing customers can submit a ticket or new customers can contact Hawk Ridge Systems.