To Open or Import AutoCAD DWG Files as an AnyCAD Reference Model

Note: To learn about importing Mechanical Desktop 2009 files in Inventor, see Importing Mechanical Desktop 2009 files.

Open an AutoCAD file directly as an Associative DWG and create 3D Inventor models of 2D layouts.

The following workflows are available:

• Open an AutoCAD DWG to view, plot, and measure the file contents. Objects display exactly as they do in AutoCAD.
• Import AutoCAD DWG files using the DWG/DXF File Wizard.
• Import or place an AutoCAD DWG file into a part or assembly file to produce an associative underlay.
  • Use the Project DWG Geometry command to project DWG underlay geometry and then extrude the projected sketch.
  • Create 3D Inventor models based on the DWG geometry created in AutoCAD.
  • The 3D model created in Inventor will associatively update when the 2D geometry changes in AutoCAD.
  • In an assembly file, use the Joint and Constrain command to create relationships between a DWG underlay geometry and a part or assembly.

Open DWG files

To open an AutoCAD DWG file directly in Inventor:

• File Open Import CAD Formats.
• Get Started tab Launch panel Import CAD Formats
• Get Started tab Launch panel Open

Import or place associative DWG Underlay files into a part or assembly

To import a DWG into a part:

1. Manage tab Insert panel Import

   Optionally, 3D Model tab Create panel Import

2. In the applicable dialog box, set the Files of type to view the available files.
3. Select the file to import and click open.

To place a DWG in an assembly:

1. Assemble tab Component panel Place
2. In the Place Component dialog box, select your file and click Open.
3. Place the DWG in the graphics window of your design.

Use the Project DWG Geometry command to project DWG underlay geometry and then extrude the projected sketch.

After you project DWG block geometry you can extrude the DWG geometry and create 3D features as desired.

Tip: To quickly open your AutoCAD DWG file back in AutoCAD, right click on the DWG node in the model browser and select Open in AutoCAD from the context menu.

Import or place non-associative DWG files into a part or assembly

• In the Sketch environment, select the Sketch tab Insert panel Insert.