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      How to export multiple flat patterns on a single .dxf file using myCADtools

      In this article we will look at exporting multiple sheet metal parts into a single .dxf file using the Sheet Metal Manufacturing tool in myCADtools.

      The Sheet Metal Manufacturing tool allows you to export .dwg or .dxf files that contain the flat pattern views of a sheet metal body/bodies of a SOLIDWORKS document.

      A unique function with the Sheet Metal Manufacturing tool is the ability to export multiple flat patterns to a single .dxf file which is not possible with the ‘Export to DXF / DWG’ function within SOLIDWORKS.

      Where can I find Sheet Metal Manufacturing tool in myCADtools?

      The Sheet Metal Manufacturing tool can be found under the production tab in myCADtools.

      Exporting multiple flat patterns on a single .dxf file.

      To export multiple .dxf files, we need to observe the following procedure:

      1. Click, ‘Browse to add document’ and locate the sheet metal parts you would like to add.
      2. Click options.

        Under the options tab we have 4 additional sub tabs:

        • Location of the generated file - Saved location for the .dxf file.
        • File Name - The file name of the .dxf file.
        • Properties - Output properties to be displayed on the .dxf file.
        • General Options - A set of options that will determine the file output (.dwg / .dxf)
      3. Determine .dxf saved file location.
      4. Enter a file name for the .dxf file.
      5. Select desired properties to be displayed on the .dxf file.
      6. Click General Options.
      7. Under export:
        1. Select DXF as the extension output file.
        2. Set scale as desired.
        3. Set margin distance between views as desired.
      8. Under grouping
        1. Select Group views in a single file.
      9. Under alignment:
        1. Select desired alignment. In this article we will select Standard alignment.
      10. Under geometry:
        1. Selected geometry can be applied as desired. In this article we will select Export geometry only.
      11. Once all options have been selected, we can now go back to the File Selection tab.
      12. Click Apply.
      13. A .dxf file named Sheet metal Parts was created and saved into the file location as the Sheet Metal parts.
      14. Double click on the .dxf file to open.
      15. Four sheet metal parts were successfully exported to a single .dxf file displaying the desired properties as selected.

      Exporting multiple Sheet Metal parts to a single .dxf file is only unique to Sheet Metal Manufacturing tool. This function can not be replicated by SOLIDWORKS Sheet Metal feature or by the Batch Converter tool.

       

      Date published: 10/06/2022