One such example is the topic of Splines versus Polylines. It’s also worth noting DXF files are unitless, so they are saved out in the units they were created in.Īdditional export options are available by clicking “ Options…” from the File -> Save As dialog box and there are some key export options to be aware of for exporting a DXF or DWG file. Once the file is saved out it’s a good idea to verify it in a 2D CAD tool, such as DraftSight. Assemblies cannot be saved out directly as DXF/DWG, but if a drawing of an assembly is created, that can be exported.
Non-sheet metal parts can saved out in this manner as well, but require choosing a View or Face to save out to DXF/DWG. It’s preferable to have the Flat Pattern active on the screen before initiating the File -> Save As if planning to adjust this. If the DXF/DWG origin is intended to be different than the part origin, then it is necessary to define Output Alignment.
Leave the radio button checked for Sheet Metal and then enable the entities to export under the Entities to Export fields. In this workflow, the part is exported by performing a File -> Save As operation and choosing DXF or DWG as the file type. One of the most common use cases is exporting Sheet Metal parts. This article and companion video cover key options and workflows for exporting parts and drawings from SOLIDWORKS as 2D DXF and DWG files.
