IPT to vector PDF

[SEC_CAD]

I am looking for the best way to go from an ipt model of a label to a vector file that a printer can use to make the labels.

My product has 9 variants and there are 5 labels per variant so there are 45 labels to be defined. I want to have the labels printed in sets of 5 labels.

The graphics are mostly white on black text but a logo has 2 additional colours. There is a QR code. There are clear openings for LEDs to shine through. The text and LED windows need to align with features in my CAD model, which is why I designed the labels in CAD.

I used the following long winded process to create a vector PDF using a mix of Inventor and AutoCAD. The printer used this file but remastered it in Adobe Illustrator (without my knowledge) which caused several errors to be introduced. I am looking for a process that will prevent too much work when the files change and will eliminate errors creeping in (i.e. eliminate the need to remaster the files in a graphics package).

My previous method was:

- Group the 5 labels into an Inventor assembly

- In AutoCAD model space; import the IAM

- Use FLATSHOT to create a 2D representation of the labels

- EXPLODE the flatshot

- JOIN all the lines that make the first label. Repeat for other labels.

- Create layers for each of the colours

- HATCH each character in the appropriate colour. This has to be done in small lots, otherwise AutoCAD hangs or selects the wrong areas (enclosed loops like "8" and "B").

- In paperspace; Centre and scale the VIEWPORT

- Export the PDF

This was a lot of work. It took 11 hours for just 3 sets. The QR code has since been added, which makes paying attention to hatching the correct areas super important and prone to mistake. It successfully produced a vector PDF but the printer felt the need to remaster it.

Is there a better way?

If I export to PDF directly from the IPT or IAM top view I get a bitmap PDF which is not suitable for printing.

If I create a DWG in Inventor with a colourised base view the colour fill is just an approximate bitmap. There is no way to eliminate the outlines of characters.

When I export the Inventor DWG to PDF then the PDF is vectorised but there has been a huge downgrade, even at 4800 DPI - e.g. ellipses show as diamonds and curves are stepped.

IPT/IAM Model

Inventor DWG base view

Vector PDF from Inventor DWG at 4800 DPI. Notice how the ellipse around the (R) has become a diamond.

I cannot maintain CAD models and print artwork separately. It is too much work and there is no guarantee that they will not have discrepancies. How can I export my label CAD models so that they can be used by a printer without the need to remaster in a graphics package?

[SORRY - I cannot share files of proprietary items] 

[Logos_Atum]

Hey there,

that´s quite something you´re at. I´ve been working for a company that designed and printed type/ name plates, protective covers and stickers for industrial applications about 20 years ago. 

If you can provide a sample file, I´ll give it a shot with Inventor and the remainder. It just needs to have the same structure you seek to use as a basis. In the meantime you can check here, and if this meets your requirements.

If it does, I can surely help you. What I can say for sure is that Illustrator can be avoided completely if you go for multi layer labels that are punched by means of a tool, rather than a print and/ or a foil cut. They are superior in any regard (acid resistant, impervious to wear, price per piece plummets after the tools are paid...) manufactured this way, but the tool you´ll need is much more expensive and you´ll need a company that has the time as well as the tools.

Till then