STL Files Exported from SolidWorks Use Corner of Part as Origin, Rather than Original Origin

Problem

When importing a STL file into SOLIDWORKS, some users notice that the origin of the imported STL file is now located on the corner of the boundary box of the part rather than the original origin.

In the example below, the SOLIDWORKS part on the left has the origin at the center of the cube, while the imported STL on the right shows the origin at the lower‑left corner of the part’s bounding box.

Solution

This behavior occurs when the STL file is exported from SOLIDWORKS without enabling the option “Do not translate STL output data to positive space.” Enabling this setting preserves the part’s original orientation and global coordinate position.

Follow the steps below to export the STL correctly:

1. Open the SOLIDWORKS part that will be exported as an STL.
2. Select Tools > Options.
3. Navigate to the Export section.
4. Change the File Format dropdown to STL.
5. Check the box for Do not translate STL output data to positive space.
6. Click OK to save the export settings.
7. Re‑export the STL file.
8. Reimport the STL into SOLIDWORKS to confirm the origin matches the original part.

For further technical support, please contact Hawk Ridge Systems at 877.266.4469 for the U.S. or 866.587.6803 for Canada and support@hawkridgesys.com.