Export Sketches (2D) into DXF file format

[john.n.johnson]

The method I used to export 2D sketches into DXF files, where each file would represent each of the "triangles" and used by a waterjet service provider to cut each of the pieces. The service provider's preferred file format is DXF. To generate the files, I followed the approach as follows. 

1. Select the sketch. 

2. Go to File and Export in DXF.

Unfortunately, when I viewed the files in an "online DXF Viewer." they were unusable. 

I have attached my model.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Notes;

1. I used scaling to create the "triangles". Not sure if this would cause the issue?

2. The service provider is also open to using STEP file format.

[wersy]

Create sketch to the plane of the body

Intersect

Save to DXF

[jhackney1972]

A lot of "online DXF viewers" are not reliable.  I would download a copy of Autodesk  DWG TrueView and use it for viewing files.

[harry.doldersum]

If your business partner is open to use STEP format, then that would be the best way to go, in my experience.

As for 3rd party tools, either for laser cutting or waterjet, one can often experience the recent DXF output to be incompatible. Should these tools also be able to accept DWG format, the DWG TrueView program, as referenced above, could convert the new format to older versions, which would be acceptable for those tools (format 2013 would suffice, but it can go back to the 2000 format, I believe).

Using STEP would be the easiest way forward, I'd say.

[john.n.johnson]

Hi wersy, many thanks. I did not know about using the intersect function. I followed your workflow and used the Autodesk Trueview to check the file. However, I only got half the triangle when using the viewer. Any suggestions/guidance?

[john.n.johnson]

Hi John, many thanks. I followed the workflow per wersy (above) however, I was only able to view half the triangle when using Trueview. Any thoughts?

[john.n.johnson]

Many thanks Harry. I'll be sure to check with the service provider to ensure compatibility and correct choice of file format.

[jhackney1972 · Accepted solution]

Creating a DXF from the back of the larger body works just fine for me.  I posted the DWG TrueView image below.  I am confused however since the model is really not suitable for a DXF as the interior sides are tapered ad the image shows.  Post a video of your DXF process, if that is what you want, so the Forum users can see your issue.

[john.n.johnson]

Harry, from your response, it appears that you have experience with waterjet/LaserJet setup/execution. Another challenge I have is how to present the service provider with the bevel feature on the inner-side of the triangle. Any thoughts?

[Warmingup1953 · Accepted solution]

I would use a free add-in DXF for Laser. It's simplicity in itself has an option to Tidy up after and it essentially uses the new sketch-on-face technique others have described. It prompts a file name from the Body's name. I use kerf =0.00 but occasionally use it with a minimal setting where the production of good dxfs is problematic. You have a huge number of faces and this would be a real time saver. oh,....and it's FREE! https://apps.autodesk.com/FUSION/en/Detail/Index?id=7634902334100976871&os=Win64&appLang=en

[john.n.johnson]

My sincere apologies. I selected the wrong sketch. Getting the full sketch.

Question: how do I show/include the cross section per your visual?

As always, many thanks for your help John

[Warmingup1953]

Probably ask your contractor...He'll need the appropriate hardware and software like these guys: 

[john.n.johnson]

Thanks much Warmingup1953. I tried this and found it to be quick and easy. Would be great if (like JoinerCAD), there was an icon on the design page or in a dropdown menu other than having to go to the utilities tab.

Many thanks

John

[john.n.johnson]

Thanks Warmingup1953. The service provider I use is PWJET. They are located 30 min from my house. They have a waterjet unit that can run up to 90,000 psi and does the tapered cuts. I went to their facility to check this in action. No problem at all. 

[Warmingup1953]

Yes, it's very quick and leaves the Timeline clear. I have ended up with the Shortcut here:...But no idea how I managed it!

[john.n.johnson]

Silly me. Yes, I found mine in the same place. Quick and easy.

Many thanks

John

[jhackney1972 · Accepted solution]

You can create a Cross-Section, in the Design Environment, using the tool shown below.  You will need an origin plane, construction plane or sketch across you model to identify the cut plane.

[john.n.johnson]

Thanks very much John. In the past, I would use the drawing function and then do a cross-section. Your methodology is much simpler/easier. As always, thanks for sharing your knowledge.

John

[harry.doldersum]

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@john.n.johnson wrote:
Harry, from your response, it appears that you have experience with waterjet/LaserJet setup/execution. Another challenge I have is how to present the service provider with the bevel feature on the inner-side of the triangle. Any thoughts?

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Especially in cases where 3D features (as the bevel) are in the picture, we send the STEP file - as it has all those details.  Getting the same result from a DXF & a dimensioned production drawing would just take additional cost...