DXF 3DFaces2SuComponents

honoluludesktop

I use a program that rewrites the closed polylines in a dxf file as 3dFaces so that ShetchUp can import them as surfaces. The program is written to preserves the layer of each surface.

Can anyone tell me how to annotate the dxf file so that SketchUp will see each layer as a component?

TaffGoch

honoluludesktop,

When I have such questions, I study the problem in reverse.

Create a file in SketchUp, with your components defined as you describe (including layers) and export it to a DXF file. Open the DXF file in an ASCII editor, and study the contents (keep the SketchUp model/components simple, or the DXF file gets too big/complicated.)

I just tried the above method with 4 rectangles, each defined as a separate component, in separate layers. I then imported the DXF file I exported, and SketchUp re-created everything just as originally drawn. The components and layers were retained as originally defined. So the DXF file has been demonstrated as viable.

I haven't studied the ASCII contents of this DXF file, but now that I know it's viable, study should reveal how the layer/component definitions are implemented.

I'm presume I understand your query correctly. If not, my apologies.

If you need an online DXF-standards description/definition (Appendix A is particularly useful):
AutoCAD 2000 DXF Reference

Taff

Layer_component_test.zip

honoluludesktop

Taff,

Thanks, I was in the process of taking a educated swing at it; just hoping that someone knew off hand. Currently, the dxf file I import is a simple entity file of 3dfaces(no blocks, etc.) and it imports into Su as a component with the file name. I am guessing that blocks may be treated as components, and was setting up a test to see if I was right. The fact is that my knowledge of dxf is very weak and while my original translator works, it was designed more by brute force them finesse.

I looked at your file and I see lots of stuff in it that I do not use (or know how to use), but will take your approach if mine fails.

Uploading stuff below:

Temp11[1].jpg