How Do I Open a 3D AutoCAD File in Inventor?

To open a 3D AutoCAD file, particularly one originating from applications like AutoCAD Plant 3D, in Inventor, you typically need to first prepare the file in AutoCAD and then import it into Inventor using specific options.

Here is the exact process based on the provided steps:

Steps to Open a Prepared AutoCAD DWG in Inventor

The method involves exporting the drawing from AutoCAD and then importing the resulting file into Autodesk Inventor.

1. Prepare the Drawing in AutoCAD Plant 3D:
   • Open the specific drawing using the Project Manager within AutoCAD Plant 3D. This ensures the drawing is loaded correctly within its project context.
2. Export to Standard AutoCAD Format:
   • Execute the command EXPORTTOAUTOCAD in the AutoCAD command line. This command saves a copy of the current drawing to a standard AutoCAD format, which is often necessary when bringing drawings from specialized AutoCAD verticals (like Plant 3D, Civil 3D, or Architecture) into other software like Inventor.
3. Open the Exported File in Inventor:
   • In Autodesk Inventor, go to the menu and select "File - Open".
4. Browse for the File:
   • Navigate to and browse for the new DWG file that was created by the EXPORTTOAUTOCAD command in the previous step.
5. Select Import Options:
   • Before clicking "Open", click the "Options" button in the file browser dialogue box.
   • In the options dialogue that appears, make sure to select "Import". This option is crucial as it tells Inventor to convert the DWG geometry into native Inventor features, allowing for better manipulation and integration into your Inventor projects.

By following these steps, you can successfully bring your 3D AutoCAD drawings, specifically those requiring conversion from specialized formats like Plant 3D, into Autodesk Inventor for further work.