3D Data is the default file type for Creo Elements/Direct Modeling.
When you save 3D Data, cross-references are created among the files. To avoid data corruption, we recommend that you:
• Save all assemblies and parts that belong in the same top-level assembly in the same folder or directory.
• Type only a file name without any directory or path in the Filename field.
• Change the folder from the Save dialog before you select the items to save.
File names that already exist are indicated with an asterisk (*).
Which file type should I choose?
• Save your data in a package file if you are working alone, or if you do not plan frequent modifications to the model. Package files are also convenient when you need to send your entire assembly to a partner. The package file format is slower to update, because it overwrites all the model data.
• Save your data as 3D Data files if you plan to share an assembly with other team members, or if you will make frequent modifications. When you save with the 3D Modified file type option, Creo Elements/Direct Modeling only saves the changes you have made in your current session. This is usually the fastest way to save.
• Save a Session file if you need to easily restore your environment settings. These files are most helpful when you create animations and other visualizations of your model. Use them for temporary storage of projects in progress.
Session files may not be compatible among different versions of Creo Elements/Direct Modeling.
• Save an Environment file when you want to restore your environment settings for a future session.
To save or export a file,
1. Click File > Save.
2. Click Save in and browse to the folder where you want the files saved.
3. Select the assembly, part, or workplane you wish to save in the Structure Browser, or click in the Viewport to select elements to save.
4. Select a File Type.
You can see realistic thumbnail representations of package and bundle files in the Thumbnails view. However, realistic thumbnails are available only for files that were created or saved in Creo Elements/Direct 19.0 or later versions. Similarly, you can also see realistic thumbnails in Windows Explorer.
5. Click Options:
◦ If you are saving 3D Data files, you will see a list of all the items that will be saved. Double-click an instance or contents name in this list to change its file name.
◦ If you see other options, click Help in the options dialog for more information.
6. Type a name for your file, if this option is available.
7. Click Save.
Notation in the Save dialog
Elements you have selected appear at the top of the Save dialog. Next to each element's name, you will see notation in parenthesis that provides some basic information about the element.
A typical entry in the selected elements list may look like this:
washer (P:M5x15,S1,RO,M)
The notation in parenthesis provides the following information about the element:
• washer - instance name
• P - a part
• A - an assembly
• PF - face part
• PW - wire part.
• M5x15 - contents name
• S - shared part, assembly, or face part. The number that follows is the group number indicating which assemblies are shared with each other. All assemblies displaying the same group number are shared.
in the options dialog for more information.