exporting .dxf to model space without losing scale

[codral]

Hey guys, i'm trying to move a .DXF file into model space and the only way i can seem to find to do this is by using the "export model to layout" command, which converts it to a .DWG and loses the scale.

 

For example in the .DXF atm i meaure out a 37.1 meter span as 37.1, however when i export it to a .DWG this span length changes to 0.4120.

 

I've had a google around and have tried the CHSPACE command but this doesn't seem to work. MY file has a whole bunch of points, lines, circles etc and most aren't connected up

 

I want it in model space so i can 3d model with it

 

Cheers

[ReMark]

You don't move a DXF file into model space you open a new drawing and use the DXFIN command.

[codral]

"You don't move a DXF file into model space you open a new drawing and use the DXFIN command."

 

hey mate, i tried this, but it still loses scale, because you still have to export it and exporting to model space is where i'm losing my scale

i've also managed to get it saved as a .dwg and then export that but yeh it loses scale as soon as i do it.

 

Is there a way to just move the file from layout - model, as is, without losing scale and creating a new file?

 

Cheers

[eldon]

Perhaps you have drawn it first in Paper Space? If so what was the scaling?

 

Perhaps the best thing to do is to draw it from the start in Model Space and full size

[ReMark]

Can't you use the Export Layout to Model command?

[chelsea1307]

the only way i can seem to find to do this is by using the "export model to layout" command, which converts it to a .DWG and loses the scale.

Can't you use the Export Layout to Model command?

looks like he tried that.

 

i know this isnt a great solution but if you know what line is supposed to be 37.1 why dont you just scale after you bring it in to model?

[eldon]

I am intrigued to know how one can have a DXF file in AutoCAD. I suspect that the OP is not managing to give the whole picture in words that we can understand. Is there any chance of posting the drawing?

[skipsophrenic]

Ok, this may sound odd, but cant you open the dxf, and do a SAVEAS and save the *.dxf as a *.dwg??

[eldon]

As I understand it, as soon as you open a DXF, it becomes a DWG

[codral]

yeh sorry i'll clarify some things.

 

The program we use for surveying takes points and plots them in our software, then our software outputs to .dxf and then you open these .dxf's with autocad.

 

The model and paper space modes both have drawings in them and both are pretty well spot on (theres about a 20mm difference, not big enough to worry about)

 

The export layout to model command is the command that is losing the scale, i've noticed now that it was this and not saving it as a .DWG (saving as a .DWG still keeps scale) I have saved it to a .DWG now with the scale but am still unable to move it to model space.. to model stuff on it

 

I'm also unsure of the scale that our software puts the maps in so cannot re-scale it to that scale.. I've tried increments of 1-10 scaling and all that does is move the decimal place the actual measurements remain 4-5 out.

 

Also, exporting to model creates a new .DWG and neither the model space or layout stays in scale.. 1 span for example goes from 26.6 meters to 0.3077

Cheers guys

[eldon]

When in Paper space, try making a block of the linework, then type oops to get the linework back. Change to model space and insert the block anywhere. The dimensions should be preserved.

[codral]

hey mate, any chance you could elaborate on this a little? i've tried doing as you said but am not having much luck, it's likely i'm missing a part of the process that most people would know/understand

[eldon]

I doubt that my way of working with an ancient version of AutoCAD would make sense for you with the latest version. Maybe some kind person would know the up-to date method.

[codral]

hey i think i've figured it out, turns out or poles program can export to .dwg! i just didn't have the right version of the software, so it should be all good now

 

Cheers for the help!