How to Load Drawing in AutoCAD?

Methods to Load Drawings in AutoCAD

Loading drawings into AutoCAD can be accomplished through various methods depending on the file type and your specific needs. Here’s a detailed approach to understanding how to effectively import, insert, and manage drawings in AutoCAD.

Importing a Drawing

1. Initiate the Import Command: Start by typing IMPORT in the AutoCAD command line. This command opens the Import File dialog, allowing you to choose the desired file.

2. Select File Type: In the dialog, locate the section labeled “Files of type.” Click on the dropdown menu and select the appropriate file type, such as Solidworks files denoted by (*.sldprt).

3. Locate the File: Navigate to where the Solidworks file is stored on your computer. Select the file you wish to import and click on the “Open” button.

4. Verify Insertion: If the drawing does not immediately appear in the workspace, check the import tray icon. Right-click on this icon and select Insert to ensure the drawing appears in your current workspace.

Loading a Template

1. Access Tools Menu: Go to the Tools menu and select Palettes, followed by dbConnect. This opens the dbConnect Manager.

2. Import Template Set: In the Manager, locate the tree view on the left. Right-click on an existing drawing file, then select Import Template Set from the context menu.

3. Choose a Template: An Import Template Set dialog box will appear. From here, browse through the available templates, select one, and click Open to load it into your workspace.

Inserting Multiple Drawings

1. Use XREF Command: If you want to reference multiple drawings without modifying the original files, utilize the XREF command. This allows you to create a reference link to each drawing.

2. Using the INSERT Command: For working directly with the original drawings, the INSERT command will enable you to bring in multiple drawings as needed.

Combining Drawings

1. Access Layout Tab: Open a primary drawing and switch to the Layout tab at the bottom of the window.

2. Insert Group: Find the arrow next to the Insert group and click on it. From the dropdown, select Import Drawing/Data.

3. Select Source Files: An Open dialog box will appear. Choose a file you wish to merge into your current drawing and click Open. Repeat this step for additional files if necessary.

Managing Open Drawings

• Viewing Open Drawings: To manage how open drawings are displayed, enter TASKBAR in the command line. Set its value to 1 for a separate taskbar item for each open drawing.

• Closing Unused Drawings: To streamline your workspace, close any drawings that are not in use by selecting them and clicking the close option.

FAQs

1. Can I load a STEP file into AutoCAD?
Yes, you can load STEP files in AutoCAD by selecting the Insert Tab, navigating to the Import Panel, and then choosing the STP file to import.

2. How do I resize an imported drawing in AutoCAD?
To resize an imported drawing, select the object(s) and type SCALE. Specify a scale factor greater than 1 to increase the size accordingly.

3. Is it possible to copy a drawing from one AutoCAD file to another?
Yes, you can copy and paste between different AutoCAD drawings using the clipboard. Select the desired objects, right-click and choose copy, then move to the target drawing and paste them.