Import/Export

How do I export from Revit to AutoCAD for Mac 2D?

Exporting from Revit to AutoCAD for Mac 2D might seem challenging at first, especially if you’re new to these software programs. However, I’ve found that the process can be quite straightforward once you understand the steps involved. So let’s dive right in and see how you can take your Revit project and convert it into a format suitable for AutoCAD!

First and foremost, creating a 2D export from Revit involves a few key steps. I begin by opening my Revit project, ensuring that I view the specific floor plan or section I wish to export. Next, I navigate to the "File" menu located in the upper left corner of the screen. From the dropdown menu, I select "Export," and then I click on "CAD Formats." This gives me the option to export in a DWG format, which is fully compatible with AutoCAD. Selecting this option allows me to kickstart the export process. Once I click “OK,” I’m prompted to choose the export settings, such as the scale and layers.

To better manage what gets included in my export, I often find it helpful to set up export settings that suit my intended use in AutoCAD. The following list outlines important settings I customize during the export process:

  1. Layer Mapping: I choose how Revit layers correspond with AutoCAD layers.
  2. Line Weights: Adjusting line weights ensures my drawing maintains the visual hierarchy I need.
  3. Units: It’s crucial to ensure that both AutoCAD and Revit are set to the same units for accuracy.
  4. Detailing Options: I can specify how many levels of detail I want to see in my exported file.

After configuring these settings, I proceed with the export. Another tip is to validate the export. Once the export is complete, I open the DWG file in AutoCAD to ensure that everything looks right—checking dimensioning, layers, and scale. I can make any necessary adjustments either in Revit, re-exporting as needed, or directly within AutoCAD.

Now, you might wonder, how does the Revit export experience compare to other programs? Here’s a simple table summarizing the key comparisons:

FeatureRevitSketchUpArchicad
Layer ControlExtensive ControlBasic ControlExtensive Control
Detail LevelsVariable depending on settingsFixed settingsCustomizable
Export FormatsDWG, DXF, and morePrimarily DWGDWG, DXF, and more
User-FriendlinessModerate learning curveVery user-friendlyModerate learning curve

By considering these aspects, it’s evident that Revit offers a robust platform for exporting to AutoCAD but may require some initial setup and adjustment.

In conclusion, I find exporting from Revit to AutoCAD for Mac 2D is an achievable task when you follow the steps carefully. Properly managing your export settings is crucial for ensuring that your designs translate well into a format that AutoCAD can handle efficiently. I encourage you to experiment with the various settings and options available until you find what works best for your project. Before you know it, you’ll be exporting like a pro!

FAQs

  1. Can I export a 3D model from Revit to AutoCAD?

    • Yes, you can export 3D views from Revit to AutoCAD; however, the process is a bit different and may require additional settings.
  2. What is the best file format to use when exporting to AutoCAD?

    • The best format for exporting to AutoCAD is typically DWG, as it’s widely used and maintains compatibility with AutoCAD’s features.
  3. How do I ensure I don’t lose any details during the export?
    • To avoid losing details, make sure to check your export settings carefully, especially the detailing options and layer mapping. Consider conducting a test export first to verify everything appears as you want it.