What is CAD Conversion?
CAD stands for Computer-Aided Design. It refers to creating 2D and 3D design files on software platforms like AutoCAD, Solidworks, CATIA, and others.
CAD conversion is the process of converting CAD files from one proprietary software format into another format supported by a different CAD platform. For example, converting a Solidworks assembly file (.sldasm) into an AutoCAD drawing file (.dwg) or a STEP neutral file format (.stp).
The need for converting CAD files arises when companies, clients, or vendors use different CAD software. Converting the files allows collaboration across teams working on the same project while using disparate design tools. The converted files can be opened, edited, and shared between the different systems.
Some key benefits of CAD conversion include:
Opens up the CAD files to a wider range of users, teams and companies beyond just one CAD software system
Allows data to be ported across different CAD, CAM, CAE, PDM/PLM systems
Prevents loss of design data due to software becoming obsolete or unsupported
Facilitates collaboration across organizations without mandating the same CAD system
Allows outsourcing design work across teams using different CAD tools
Enables long-term preservation and retrieval of design data in the future
In summary, CAD conversion bridges compatibility gaps between different proprietary CAD software to support collaboration and data accessibility across teams and over time. It eliminates data silos and gives freedom to use specialized CAD tools as per project needs.
Why Convert CAD Files?
Converting CAD files from one format to another provides several important benefits that can save time, prevent data loss, and improve collaboration in design teams. Here are some of the key reasons you may need CAD conversion services:
Wider Accessibility of Files: By converting original CAD files into more universal and widely supported formats like STEP, IGES, or DXF, the files can be accessed by more people across different teams. Rather than having to install the original software, the converted files can be opened using various CAD packages.
Prevent Data Loss: Many older CAD systems become obsolete over time. Converting the files to newer formats preserves the original design data and prevents loss of intellectual property when the old software is no longer compatible.
Collaborate Across Platforms: Companies often use different CAD software based on preference or expertise. Conversion facilitates collaboration, allowing files to transfer between teams using AutoCAD, Solidworks, CATIA, MicroStation, etc. rather than having to standardize on a single platform.
In summary, converting CAD files boosts productivity and communication by making the data accessible across geographic and organizational boundaries. It provides insurance against file obsolescence while giving teams the flexibility to use their preferred CAD environments.
How Does CAD Conversion Work?
The process of converting a CAD file from one format to another involves 3 main steps:
Export the original CAD file to a neutral file format - Common neutral file formats used for CAD conversion include STEP (.stp), IGES (.igs) and DXF (.dxf). These preserve CAD data in a standardized way without being tied to any specific CAD software. The neutral format should contain all the necessary geometry, features, metadata, and other information from the original file.
Import the neutral file into the target CAD system - The receiving CAD software needs to have the ability to import the neutral file format. Most modern CAD platforms support common formats like STEP and IGES. The neutral file is then imported or opened in the target CAD system.
Address any data or feature translation issues - No conversion process is 100% perfect. There may be some loss or changes to the original data when going through neutral formats. Critical attributes may get missing or simplified geometries substituted. The converted file needs to be carefully checked against the original to identify such issues. Any problem areas need to be addressed manually to restore critical data. Interactive editing may be required to get a satisfactorily accurate conversion.
The specific export and import steps vary between CAD platforms. But following these key principles helps maximize data integrity during CAD conversions. Paying attention to translating critical design elements can prevent negative surprises and avoid losing vital engineering data.
Limitations of CAD Conversions
CAD conversions can be extremely useful for collaboration and data preservation, but the process does have some inherent limitations and risks. Some key limitations to be aware of include:
Features may not translate perfectly between CAD systems - With all the variances between CAD programs, there is potential for data, annotations, custom objects, etc. to get lost or improperly translated in the conversion process. For example, 3D solids may convert into surface bodies or get split into multiple parts. The conversion is not always seamless.
Potential data or accuracy loss - Subtle design nuances and critical dimensions could potentially get altered or lost entirely when moving CAD files between different platforms. This can lead to inaccurate designs that no longer match the original intent or specifications. Risks tend to increase with complex CAD models.
Reliability issues with complex conversions - The more complex the original CAD model (e.g. large assemblies with hundreds of parts, intricate surfacing, etc.), the more likely that conversion errors will occur or that the new file will become unstable and crash-prone. Some conversions are just not feasible.
While CAD conversions provide useful interoperability between systems, they should not be treated as perfect 1:1 data transfers. Careful inspection of converted files is required, along with an awareness of potential accuracy or integrity issues. For critical engineering data, it may be advisable to recreate certain complex CAD models natively in the target software when feasible.
Types of CAD Conversion Services
CAD conversion services offer various options to convert your files from one format to another. Here are some of the most common types of CAD conversions:
Paper to CAD Conversion
This service converts paper-based drawings, sketches, and plans into digital CAD files. The paper documents are scanned and then specialized CAD drafters use the scans to recreate the drawings in CAD software. This allows old legacy drawings to be brought into the digital world and reused.
The process involves:
Scanning paper drawings at high resolution
Importing the scanned images into CAD software
Tracing over the scans to recreate vector CAD drawings
Converting any raster scan data into CAD geometry
Adding any missing dimensions, annotations, layers, etc.
Paper-to-CAD conversion produces fully editable and reusable CAD drawings.
PDF to CAD Conversion
PDF to CAD conversion extracts CAD drawings from PDF documents. PDFs contain vector information that can be imported and converted into native CAD formats.
The typical PDF to CAD process is:
Importing the PDF into CAD software
Extracting the CAD vector data
Cleaning up any missing or broken geometry
Exporting into the required CAD for
PDF to CAD provides editable CAD files from locked or secured PDF documents.
Image to CAD Conversion
Raster image formats like JPEGs, BMPs, and TIFFs can be converted into CAD drawings through image-to-CAD services. This vectorization process converts pixel data into defined CAD geometry.
Image to CAD conversion goes through the steps of:
Importing the raster image
Processing and filtering the image
Detecting edges and contours
Tracing outlines into CAD linework
Adding any dimensions or text
By converting images to CAD, raster drawings can be edited and repurposed.
2D to 3D Conversion
This service converts 2D CAD drawings like floor plans or part blueprints into 3D CAD models. The 2D data provides the footprint, and CAD technicians build up the third dimension based on specs.
The 2D to 3D process typically includes:
Analyzing the 2D drawing
Extruding surfaces to add thickness
Modeling any additional 3D features
Adding materials, lighting, and renderings
2D to 3D conversion generates photorealistic 3D CAD models from 2D technical drawings.
Point Cloud to CAD
3D scan data from laser scanners and other metrology tools is converted into CAD models through point cloud conversion services. This generates as-built 3D CAD models of existing parts and structures.
Point cloud data goes through:
Registration and cleanup of the scan data
Surface reconstruction
Simplification and smoothing
CAD modeling of key features
Export into the required CAD format
Point Cloud to CAD produces high-precision CAD models from scanned real-world objects.
Choosing a CAD Conversion Provider
When selecting a CAD conversion service, there are several key factors to consider:
Experience with Your Type of Conversion
Look for a provider with extensive expertise in the specific type of CAD conversion you need (2D to 3D, PDF to CAD, etc). An experienced company is less likely to encounter unexpected issues during the conversion process.
Ask about their experience with your particular CAD software and file types. Have they completed similar projects before? Can they share examples? Experience matters.
For complex conversions, choose a provider known for technical expertise in that niche. You want to avoid beginners learning on your project.
Quality Assurance Process
Ask about their quality assurance process. Do they check files before delivery? What do they do to ensure accuracy?
Some providers will give you a certificate of accuracy. Others may request you to review a sample file first. Understand their process.
Conversion accuracy significantly impacts downstream work. Rigorous QA prevents back-and-forth corrections later
Security and Confidentiality
If the CAD files contain sensitive IP or design data, choose a provider that guarantees confidentiality. Ask about their security practices
Some providers allow you to monitor the process in real-time through online dashboards or require signed non-disclosure agreements. Understand how your data is secured.
Encrypted file transfers and secure data storage are essential for IP protection during conversion.
Pricing and Turnaround Time
Compare pricing models - per file, per hour or value-based. Per-file pricing is easier to budget but may have caveats.
Ask about turnaround time. Can they complete the work within your timeframe? Rush orders often cost more
Understand exactly what is included in the quoted price. Get guarantees about accuracy and revisions needed.
Go with a provider offering the optimal balance of price, speed and accuracy for your needs. Checking reviews can help too.
Tips for Accurate CAD Conversions
When converting CAD files, it's important to take steps to minimize errors and ensure the highest accuracy. Here are some tips:
Start with clean, simplified drawings - Remove any unnecessary layers, objects, text, or dimensions from the file before conversion. This reduces complexity and chances for error
Use neutral file formats like STEP or IGES - Neutral CAD formats preserve the most data when transferring files between different software. DXF can also work for less complex drawings.
Check for errors and data loss after conversion - Carefully examine the converted file for any missing or flawed geometry, text, dimensions etc. Check that key design intent has been maintained.
Provide clear instructions to the conversion team - Give detailed notes on what you need to be converted and any special handling required. Provide background on the software originally used.
Following these best practices will help avoid common data loss issues when converting CAD files. Taking the time to simplify drawings and use robust neutral file formats reduces the chances of error. Carefully vetting converted files ensures the new version meets the quality and accuracy needs of your workflow.
Converting In-House vs Outsourcing
When it comes to CAD conversion, companies have two main options - handle conversions in-house or outsource the work to a specialized service provider. There are pros and cons to each approach.
In-House Conversion
Pros
More control over the conversion process
No need to share proprietary data externally
Internal staff are familiar with your design data
Potentially faster turnaround time
No service fees for outsourcing work
Cons
Requires trained staff and conversion expertise in-house
Need to purchase and maintain conversion software licenses
The added workload for internal teams distracts from core design work
Difficult to handle overflow conversion work or seasonal spikes in demand
Lack of specialized skills like point cloud or BIM conversions
Outsourced Conversion
Pros
Access to specialized conversion expertise and technology
Scalability to handle any conversion volume or workload spikes
Free up internal teams to focus on core competencies
Potential for faster turnaround depending on provider capacity
Shared accountability and service guarantees for quality
Cons
Loss of control and visibility into the conversion process
Added cost and service fees
Security risks of sharing proprietary data externally
Communication gaps due to a lack of internal product knowledge
When to Outsource Conversion
Outsourcing CAD conversion is recommended in situations where:
Conversion volume fluctuates significantly
Rare or complex conversions like BIM or point cloud data are needed
There's a lack of in-house expertise to handle a conversion
Adding conversion capacity quickly is a priority
Allowing design teams to focus on core work is desired
Handling simple, everyday conversions internally can be efficient. For special projects or overflow work, leveraging an outsourced provider is advised. A hybrid model blending internal and external resources offers the most flexibility.
CAD Conversion Tools and Software
Converting CAD files between different formats and applications can be done using both desktop and cloud-based tools. Here's an overview of some of the most popular CAD software options for conversions:
Desktop CAD Software
AutoCAD
The industry standard CAD software by Autodesk. It allows importing and exporting DWG and DXF files for conversion. Other formats require add-on converters.
Solidworks
A feature-rich 3D CAD system is used widely in engineering design. It can import and export STEP, IGES, DWG, and other standard formats.
Onshape
This is a full-cloud 3D CAD system that makes collaboration easy. It can import and export major CAD formats including STEP, IGES, STL, DXF etc.
FreeCAD
An open-source and freely customizable CAD application. It supports importing and exporting STEP, IGES, STL, DXF, and other standard CAD formats.
Cloud-based CAD Converters
CADconvert
An online CAD conversion tool that supports DWG, DXF, STEP, IGES, STL, PDF and image formats.
FileConvert
A free web app for converting DWG, DXF, DWF, STL, PDF, image, and other formats online.
Convertio
Supports online conversion for CAD formats including STEP, IGES, STL along with PDF, TIFF, JPG, etc.
Offline CAD Converters
Teigha File Converter
A desktop app for bulk converting DWG, DXF, DGN, STEP, IGES, STL, PDF, and image files. Has a free trial.
DWG TrueView
A free DWG viewer and converter by Autodesk. Exports DWG as PDF, image, DWF and other formats.
3D Systems Print To CAD
Batch converts STL meshes to CAD formats like STEP, Parasolid, SAT, and more. 30-day free trial.
So in summary, both paid and free tools are available for CAD conversion needs, ranging from full desktop CAD suites to lightweight online converters.
Alternatives to CAD Conversion
Converting CAD files from one format to another is not always necessary if teams can collaborate directly through native file-sharing or multi-CAD tools. Here are some alternatives to consider before undertaking full CAD conversions:
Direct File Sharing
Share native CAD files directly without conversion if your partners use the same CAD platform. For example, collaborate on AutoCAD DWG files instead of converting to DXF.
Use built-in collaboration features in platforms like Fusion 360, Onshape or SolidWorks to share design data via the cloud. Partners can co-author the CAD model in real time.
For occasional sharing, export PDFs from your CAD platform to share 2D documentation rather than full CAD conversions. PDFs retain geometry, measurements, and visual accuracy.
Multi-CAD Collaboration Tools
Solutions like CAD Exchanger, CTC CoreTechnologie and others enable multi-CAD workflows without conversions. Partners can work on the same model from different CAD systems.
These tools connect various CAD file formats through conversions done in the background. Design teams see it as real-time collaboration.
Multi-CAD tools keep track of revisions between teams and allow rollback when required. Great for complex design reviews and vendor collaboration.
Early Export to Generic Formats
Export 3D models to generic formats like STEP, IGES or STL in the initial concept phase, before committing to feature designs in native CAD.
These early exports can be easily shared and imported across all major CAD platforms for conceptual design reviews, avoiding later conversion needs.
Building geometry first in generic formats makes it easier to transfer to detailed CAD as concepts get approved. No data loss from later conversions.
Comments