How Do I Export a 2D Drawing From SolidWorks?

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Are you using SolidWorks to create 2D drawings and wondering how to export them? Look no further!

In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of exporting a 2D drawing from SolidWorks step by step. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Open the Drawing

To begin, open the SolidWorks software and navigate to the drawing file you want to export. Double-click on the file to open it.

Step 2: Set Up Your Drawing

Before exporting, it’s important to make sure your drawing is set up correctly. Ensure that all necessary views are added and properly arranged on the sheet. You can use tools like Model Views, Projected Views, and Section Views to create a comprehensive representation of your design.

Add Annotations and Dimensions

Annotating your drawing with dimensions, notes, and other annotations is crucial for clarity. Use the Annotation tab in SolidWorks to add any necessary callouts or text notes. Additionally, use the Smart Dimension tool to add dimensions accurately.

Select Sheet Format and Size

If you haven’t already done so, choose an appropriate sheet format for your drawing. The sheet format determines elements like title block, company logo, and other standard information displayed on your exported drawing. You can find various pre-defined sheet formats in SolidWorks or create your own custom format.

Step 3: Exporting the Drawing

To export your 2D drawing from SolidWorks:

  1. Select File > Save As

  2. In the Save As dialog box, choose a location on your computer to save the exported drawing.

  3. From the Save as type drop-down menu, select the desired file format. SolidWorks supports various formats for exporting drawings including:

    • DWG: AutoCAD Drawing
    • DXF: Drawing Exchange Format
    • PDF: Portable Document Format (recommended for easy sharing)
    • TIF/JPG/BMP/PNG: Image formats

  4. Provide a name for the exported drawing file and click on Save.

  5. If prompted, choose any additional export options such as scale, units, and layout settings specific to your chosen file format.

  6. Click OK to complete the export process.

Tips for Successful Exporting:

Saving as PDF:

If you choose to save your 2D drawing as a PDF file, consider the following tips:

  • To ensure high-quality output, set your preferred DPI (dots per inch) in the Save As dialog box.

  • If you want to export multiple sheets into a single PDF document, enable the “Combine multiple sheets into a single file” option if available.

  • You can also specify password protection or other security measures if necessary.

Saving as Image:

If you export your drawing as an image file (TIF/JPG/BMP/PNG), remember the following:

  • Choose an appropriate image resolution. Higher resolutions result in clearer images but also larger file sizes.

  • If your drawing is too large for a single image, consider exporting it in sections and then stitching them together using image editing software.

With these tips and steps, you should now be able to successfully export a 2D drawing from SolidWorks. Remember to double-check your exported file to ensure that all elements appear as intended. Happy exporting!