Converting 3D file to DXF file for foam cutting

[Anonymous]

Someone sent me a STP file of a drill machine and asked me to make a DXF file so that the object can be cut into foam for a toolbox.

I can't figure out how its possible to convert a 3D object to a 2D DXF drawing with only the outer contours? When I try to convert the drawing to DWG I get all of the lines and a rotatable model in Autocad.

Hope my english is somewhat understandable.

Thanks!!

[JDMather]

Can you Attach the *.stp file here for demonstration?

[tyas.swinnen · Accepted solution]

Hello @Anonymous 

I would suggest you make a simple IDW of the part you have and then export that with some views to a DXF.

Suggested workflow:

- Create a drawing file of the part/assembly,

- Place the 'correct'/needed views without hidden lines,

- Export the drawing to DXF (File > Export > 3D format [choose DXF]).

If this helps, please mark this post as solved 🙂

[mcgyvr]

Open the step part file..

Right click on the face you wish to export and select "Export Face As" and save as dxf..

Done

Simple..

(Make sure that your selection filter is set to "Select Faces and Edges")

[tyas.swinnen]

@mcgyvr Usefull feature, but this won't work for the requested application I believe.

You need a contour of the part (according to a certain plain) so they can make a foam cutout.

Or am I mistaking?

[mcgyvr]

---

@tyas.swinnen wrote:

@mcgyvr Usefull feature, but this won't work for the requested application I believe.

You need a contour of the part (according to a certain plain) so they can make a foam cutout.

Or am I mistaking?

---

@tyas.swinnen  That really depends on the shape of the part they are making..

Often times a "foam cutting" part may just be a simple 2d profile that one could easily get from the method I posted. 

A picture or the actual step file will allow us to easily determine what method is best/easiest. 

[tyas.swinnen]

@mcgyvr You're right, depends on the situation.

[johnsonshiue]

Hi! On top of what experts had mentioned, you may want to check Inventor App store. There might be an app for you.

https://apps.autodesk.com/INVNTOR/en/List/Search?isAppSearch=True&searchboxstore=INVNTOR&facet=&coll...

Many thanks!

[Anonymous]

This worked wonders, thank you! And as you've mentioned below I did need the contours so right clicking and exporting face would get me nowhere.