How to View Inventor File in AutoCAD

Understanding Inventor Files and AutoCAD

Inventor files, typically with extensions like .ipt (parts) and .iam (assemblies), are commonly used in 3D modeling and design. AutoCAD, on the other hand, is primarily a 2D drafting tool but does support different 3D functionalities. This article will detail the steps to view and manipulate Inventor files within AutoCAD 2025.

Steps to Open Inventor Files in AutoCAD

1. Prepare the File:

   • Ensure that the Inventor file you want to open is saved on your computer. It should be in a compatible format (usually .dwg or .dxf) for smoother integration.

2. Launch AutoCAD:

   • Open AutoCAD 2025 on your computer.

3. Access the Import Function:

   • Navigate to the “File” menu located at the top left corner of the interface.
   • Select the “Import” option.

4. Select File Type:

   • In the Import File dialog box, find the “Files of Type” dropdown menu.
   • Choose “Inventor (*.ipt)” to filter the visible files.

5. Locate the File:

   • Browse through your files to find the specific Inventor file you wish to import.
   • Select the file and click the “Open” button.

6. Adjust Import Settings (if necessary):

   • Depending on the complexity of the file, you may be prompted to adjust certain settings specific to the file’s features before completing the import.

Importing a 3D Inventor Model into AutoCAD

1. Initiate the Process in Inventor:

   • Start your session in Autodesk Inventor, and tap on the “File” tab located in the upper left.

2. Choose the Open Command:

   • Expand the “Open” submenu and select “Import DWG”.

3. Select the Drawing:

   • Browse to find the DWG file that you exported from Inventor or any other DWG file you want to work with.

4. Follow the Wizard:

   • When prompted by the DWG/DXF File Wizard, choose “AutoCAD or AutoCAD Mechanical File” and click “Next” to continue with the process.

Opening Specific Inventor Files

How to Open IPT Files

1. Use Windows Explorer:

   • Right-click on the IPT file.

2. Open with Inventor View:

   • Select “Open With” and choose “Inventor View” to view the file.

Importing to Inventor

1. Access the File Menu:

   • Click on “File” followed by “Open”.

2. Import CAD Formats:

   • Within the dialog box, set “Files of Type” to display the CAD formats available.

3. Select the File:

   • Choose the desired file and click “Options” to modify any import settings before finalizing the import.

Converting Inventor Files for Compatibility

1. Open Your Drawing in Inventor:

   • With the drawing file active, navigate to the “File” tab.

2. Export as DWG:

   • Click on “Export” and select “Export to DWG”.

3. Adjust Save Settings:

   • In the Save As dialog, change the “Save as type” to AutoCAD DWG files to ensure compatibility for AutoCAD.

FAQ

Can I open AutoCAD files in Inventor?

Yes, you can import AutoCAD files (.dwg or .dxf) into Inventor by using the “Open” command and selecting the appropriate file type.

What software is needed to view IPT files?

To view IPT files, you need Autodesk Inventor or Autodesk Inventor View. These programs allow you to open and manipulate the file directly.

How do I convert a part file to a different format?

To convert an IPT file to another format like OBJ, use a file conversion tool, upload your IPT file, and proceed with the conversion process as instructed by the chosen tool.