This comprehensive FAQ guide will shed light on 25 commonly asked questions about different conversion processes within AutoCAD.

We’ll tackle how to convert a physical drawing into a digital AutoCAD file, how to convert between various file formats, the steps to transform 2D drawings into 3D models, the procedure to scale drawings, and many more topics. We’ll also explore how to convert an AutoCAD drawing to different image formats, and even to 3D printable files. The answers provided aim to be detailed, clear, and user-friendly, empowering both beginners and experienced users to perform these conversions with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions About Conversion in AutoCAD

1. How do I convert a drawing to AutoCAD?

The conversion of a drawing into AutoCAD format requires scanning the drawing first, to create a digital version of it, which can then be imported into AutoCAD. You can then manually trace over the drawing using the tools in AutoCAD. Alternatively, you could use software like Scan2CAD, which can automate the process of converting a scanned drawing into AutoCAD.

2. What file formats can be converted to AutoCAD?

AutoCAD supports a wide variety of file formats for conversion, including but not limited to DXF, PDF, DGN, JPG, PNG, TIFF, BMP, and certain 3D formats such as STEP and IGES. Always check the latest version of AutoCAD for the full list of supported formats.

3. Can I convert a PDF to AutoCAD?

Yes, you can. With newer versions of AutoCAD, you can directly import PDF files, which will automatically create lines, polylines, text, and raster images from the imported PDF geometry. However, the success of this process greatly depends on the quality of the PDF and how it was originally created.

4. How can I convert a DWG file to a different version of AutoCAD?

To convert a DWG file to an earlier version, you can use the “Save As” feature in AutoCAD. Click on the application menu, then “Save As”. In the “Files of type” dropdown, select the desired AutoCAD version. Now you can save your drawing which will be compatible with the selected AutoCAD version.

5. Is it possible to convert a 2D drawing to 3D in AutoCAD?

Yes, it is possible to convert a 2D drawing to a 3D model in AutoCAD. This process involves creating 3D shapes from your 2D outlines using commands like ‘PRESSPULL’, ‘EXTRUDE’, ‘SWEEP’, etc. However, it requires a deep understanding of both 2D and 3D tools in AutoCAD.

6. Can AutoCAD convert raster images to vector format?

Yes, AutoCAD can convert raster images to vector format using the ‘Image Trace’ function, which can recognize raster shapes and convert them into vector geometry. However, the quality and accuracy of the conversion depend heavily on the quality of the original raster image.

7. How do I convert a block in AutoCAD?

To convert a block back to individual objects, you can use the “EXPLODE” command. This will break the block into its constituent parts, making them individual objects again.

8. What is the process to convert a polyline to a line in AutoCAD?

To convert a polyline to a simple line in AutoCAD, you can use the ‘PEDIT’ command. After activating the command, select the polyline you want to convert, then choose the ‘Decurve’ option.

9. How can I convert a DWG file to a DXF file?

You can convert a DWG file to DXF in AutoCAD by using the “Save As” feature. Click on the application menu, then “Save As”, and select “DXF” from the “Files of type” dropdown. Then, save your file in the desired location.

10. Is there a way to convert text to a polyline in AutoCAD?

To convert text to a polyline, you need to first “Explode” the text to turn it into lines and arcs. Then, you can use the ‘PEDIT’ command to convert those lines and arcs into polylines.

11. How do I convert inches to millimeters in AutoCAD?

You can use the ‘SCALE’ command to convert units in your drawing. To convert from inches to millimeters, select your entire drawing, activate the ‘SCALE’ command, select a base point (usually 0,0), then enter the scale factor. For conversion from inches to millimeters, the scale factor is 25.4.

12. Can I convert a drawing from imperial to metric units in AutoCAD?

Yes, you can. This is typically done by using the ‘SCALE’ command, similar to the conversion from inches to millimeters. However, you need to choose the correct scaling factor for your specific situation. The scaling factor will depend on the units your drawing is currently in (like inches, feet, or yards), and the metric unit you want to convert to (like millimeters, centimeters, or meters).

13. How can I convert a 3D model to 2D in AutoCAD?

To convert a 3D model to 2D, you can use the ‘FLATSHOT’ command, which creates a 2D representation of the 3D objects based on your current view. Alternatively, you can use the ‘SECTIONPLANE’ command to create a 2D section drawing of your 3D model.

14. What are the steps to convert a line to a polyline in AutoCAD?

To convert a line to a polyline, you can use the ‘PEDIT’ command. Select the line you want to convert, then choose the ‘Yes’ option when AutoCAD asks if you want to turn it into a polyline.

15. How do I convert an AutoCAD drawing to a JPEG image?

You can convert an AutoCAD drawing to a JPEG image by using the ‘EXPORT’ command. Choose “Other Formats”, then select JPEG from the dropdown list. Choose the location to save the image, and click ‘Save’. You can adjust image quality and size in the following dialog box.

16. Can I convert an AutoCAD drawing to a Revit file?

While you cannot directly convert an AutoCAD drawing into a Revit project, you can import DWG files into Revit. These will be imported as 2D lines, not as intelligent, parametric Revit elements.

17. How can I convert a spline to a polyline in AutoCAD?

To convert a spline into a polyline, you can use the ‘PEDIT’ command. After activating the command, select the spline, then choose the ‘Convert to Polyline’ option. You can specify the desired level of precision.

18. Is it possible to convert a 2D drawing to a 3D model using AutoCAD LT?

Unfortunately, AutoCAD LT does not support 3D modeling. You would need the full version of AutoCAD or another 3D capable software to convert a 2D drawing into a 3D model.

19. How do I convert a shapefile to AutoCAD format?

AutoCAD Map 3D software allows you to directly import shapefiles into AutoCAD. If you only have standard AutoCAD, you’ll need a third-party tool or you need to convert the shapefile into a DXF format first, which AutoCAD can read.

20. Can AutoCAD convert a DWG file to a PDF?

Yes, AutoCAD can convert a DWG file to PDF. Simply go to the ‘Export’ section under the ‘Application Menu’, then select ‘PDF’. Choose your settings and click ‘OK’. Choose the location to save your PDF and click ‘Save’.

21. How can I convert an AutoCAD drawing to a SketchUp file?

To convert an AutoCAD drawing to a SketchUp file, you can save the AutoCAD drawing as a .DXF or .DWG file. You can then import this file into SketchUp. Please note that 3D AutoCAD data can be imported as 3D data, while 2D data is imported into SketchUp as 2D.

22. What is the process to convert a 3D model to a 2D elevation view in AutoCAD?

To create a 2D elevation view from a 3D model in AutoCAD, you can use the ‘VIEWBASE’ command which automatically generates 2D views from 3D models. Alternatively, you could use the ‘FLATSHOT’ command, or manually draw the 2D elevation view by tracing over the 3D model.

23. How do I convert an AutoCAD drawing to a PNG image?

To convert an AutoCAD drawing to a PNG image, you can use the ‘EXPORT’ command, then choose “Other Formats”. Select PNG from the dropdown list, choose the location to save the image, and click ‘Save’. In the following dialog box, you can adjust image quality and size.

24. Can I convert a CAD file to a 3D printable format in AutoCAD?

Yes, you can convert a CAD file to a 3D printable format in AutoCAD by exporting it to a STL or OBJ file, which are commonly used for 3D printing. Use the ‘EXPORT’ command and select the appropriate file type. Ensure that your 3D model is a solid or a watertight mesh before exporting it for 3D printing.

25. How can I convert a drawing to a different scale in AutoCAD?

To scale your entire drawing to a different scale, you can use the ‘SCALE’ command. Select the entire drawing, choose a base point (usually 0,0), and then enter your desired scale factor. You can determine your scale factor by dividing the desired scale by the current scale. For example, if your current scale is 1:100 and you want to change it to 1:50, your scale factor would be 50/100 = 0.5.

Mastering the varied conversion processes in AutoCAD greatly enhances your productivity and the scope of your projects. Whether you’re an architect wishing to digitize blueprints, an engineer needing to convert units, or a designer looking to 3D print a model, these FAQ responses aim to guide you through the necessary steps.

It’s important to note that while AutoCAD has wide-ranging functionalities, it is also complex and detailed. Consequently, users might require some time and practice to efficiently perform these conversion tasks. Remember, Autodesk and numerous online forums offer further resources for learning and troubleshooting. Happy drafting!