How To Use Inventor Drawing In AutoCAD?

Understanding the Process of Using Inventor Drawings in AutoCAD

To effectively utilize Inventor drawings within AutoCAD, follow a systematic approach. It allows for a seamless transition and adaptation of files between the two software environments. Below are detailed instructions on how to import, export, and manipulate these files.

Opening an Inventor Drawing in AutoCAD

To start utilizing an Inventor drawing in AutoCAD, you must first import the file:

1. Launch AutoCAD.
2. Navigate to the top menu, and select Application.
3. Choose Import from the drop-down list.
4. In the Import File dialog box that appears, locate the Files of Type dropdown.
5. Select Inventor (*.idw) from the list.
6. Browse to the location of the Inventor drawing file you wish to import.
7. Select the file and click Open to initiate the import process.

Exporting Inventor Files to AutoCAD

If you want to convert an Inventor drawing into a format compatible with AutoCAD, follow these steps:

1. Open the desired Inventor drawing.
2. Go to the File tab.
3. Select Export and then choose Export to DWG.
4. When the Save As dialog box appears, set the Save as type to AutoCAD DWG files.
5. Complete the process by clicking Save.

Creating a Drawing Model from Inventor Files

To create a drawing model in AutoCAD from a part or assembly file, adhere to the following steps:

1. Right-click on the part or assembly file in the browser.
2. Select Create Drawing View from the context menu.
3. The Create New File dialog box will appear. Choose the standard .idw template.
4. Click Create to finalize the drawing view.

Editing Drawings in AutoCAD

Once your Inventor drawings are in AutoCAD, you can modify them using the following steps:

1. Select an appropriate editing tool from the toolbar.
2. Choose the objects you wish to modify in your drawing.
3. Follow any prompts that appear to direct your adjustments.
4. Finalize your modifications by pressing Enter or Esc to end the command.

Exporting IDW Files to DWG within AutoCAD

To export IDW files to DWG format using AutoCAD tools:

1. Open the Inventor Task Scheduler.
2. Select Convert IDW to DWG.
3. Right-click within the Task Scheduler and click on Create Task, then select Convert IDW to DWG.
4. Specify your active project within the Convert IDW to DWG dialog box.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can AutoCAD open and edit IDW files directly?

AutoCAD cannot open IDW files directly. However, they can be exported to DWG format for use in AutoCAD.

Is it possible to convert 3D Inventor files into 2D drawings in AutoCAD?

Yes, it is feasible to convert 3D files into 2D drawings by creating drawing views within Inventor before exporting to AutoCAD.

What should I do if I encounter issues while importing files?

If you face issues during import, ensure the file path is correct, the file format is supported by AutoCAD, and that you have the necessary permissions to access the file.