Exporting DXF Files
Overview
WAM currently accepts 2 file types for importing drawings. DXF is one of the two and is commonly associated with more technical software. Despite this many drawing type software can also export to this format.
However, not all DXF versions or file settings are compatible with WAM. We have included walkthrough for five commonly used programs; two technical CAD software, and three drawing application. We hope by following the steps listed, you shall be able to generate WAM compatible DXF files.
Fusion 360
Fusion 360 .dxf Export
1. Create your sketches and extrude profiles to solid.
2. If you are using text make sure it is converted to a path and extruded as a cutout.
3. Create a final sketch on the face which needs to be cut.
4. Export this sketch by right-clicking and saving as .dxf.
5. At this point you are ready to import the sketch into WAM
SolidWorks
SolidWorks .dxf Export
1. Create sketches and extrude profiles to solid
2. Make sure the text (if any) is converted to a path and extruded as a cutout.
3. Once you are finished designing, go to save as and save as .dxf. Make sure the DXF file version is R2013 or before.
4. Select the option on the left pane to Export Faces/ loops / edges and select the face you want to cut. Make sure export as a single file is selected and click green check mark.
5. You will then be given a preview you have to hit save to continue.
6. You are now ready to import the dxf into WAM.
Adobe Illustrator
Illustrator .dxf Export
1. Create all shapes as paths as one layer
2. Add text to a different layer.
3. Select all layers and go to “export as”. Or select all the feature you would like to cut., then go to “export as“
4. Select .dxf from the drop down menu and hit save.
5. In the next window that appears make sure the scale is right and outline text is selected. Then select okay.
Inkscape
Inkscape .dxf Export
1. Create all shapes as paths and add text to a different layer.
2. Select the text and go to Path and select Object to Path. This step is vital, otherwise shapes and text will be exported into DXF. WAM can only work with vector elements in DXF, not with other elements.
Vectors are referred as “path“ in Inkscape.
3. Go to save as and select .dxf from the dropdown menu.
4. Retain the standard values and export the file.
CorelDraw
CorelDraw .dxf Export
Create your sketches in a single layer
2. Select all geometry and Convert to Curves (Object - Convert to Curves). This step is vital, because WAM can only work with vector elements. Vectors are referred as “curves“ in CorelDraw.
3. Select Export and then Save As .dxf
4. Select “AutoCAD 2007-2021 (DWG/DXF R2007)” and export the file.
Make sure the Export Units match the units you used to create your .dxf and the setting you wish to use in WAM.