Working with SVG files in Shapr3D

What is an SVG file?

Overview

Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) is a vector-based file format commonly used for logos, illustrations, icons, and 2D designs.

Unlike raster images, which are made up of pixels, SVG files describe shapes using mathematical paths and coordinates. This allows vector graphics to be scaled without losing their geometric definition.

SVG files can contain different types of vector geometry, including lines, curves, circles, and closed shapes.

SVG geometry in CAD

Shapr3D supports importing SVG files as 2D sketches, allowing you to bring existing vector designs into your modeling workflow.

You can use imported SVG geometry to:

• Create 3D models: Use closed sketch profiles with tools such as Extrude to turn 2D shapes into 3D bodies.
• Reuse existing designs: Import vector shapes, logos, and illustrations without recreating their geometry from scratch.
• Create complex shapes: Use imported curves and profiles with modeling tools such as Revolve, Loft, and Sweep.

Import SVG files into Shapr3D

You can import SVG files using the same workflow as other supported 2D drawing formats, such as DXF and DWG.

Import an SVG file

SVG files can be imported using the file picker or by dragging and dropping them into Shapr3D.

During import:

• Supported vector shapes are converted into sketch geometry.
• SVG groups are organized into separate sketches.
• If the file doesn't specify physical dimensions, you'll be prompted to select a unit.
• If some elements aren't supported, Shapr3D displays a warning indicating that the affected layer wasn't fully imported.

Supported SVG geometry

Shapr3D converts supported SVG vector elements into editable sketch geometry.

Supported geometry includes:

• Lines and polylines
• Rectangles and polygons
• Circles and ellipses
• Arcs and curves
• Open and closed paths

Curved SVG paths, including Bézier curves, are converted into sketch curves that can be used in modeling operations.

SVG units and scaling

SVG files may define their dimensions using physical units, such as millimeters or inches, or use values that don't specify a physical size.

When importing an SVG file:

• Files with physical dimensions: Shapr3D uses the available dimension information to determine the scale of the imported geometry.
• Files without physical dimensions: Shapr3D prompts you to select a unit before importing.

Check the dimensions of your imported sketches, especially when working with files created in illustration or graphic design applications.

Prepare SVG files for CAD modeling

Before importing an SVG file, review its vector geometry to make sure it is suitable for your intended modeling operation.

Consider the following:

• Closed profiles: Make sure paths form closed boundaries when you intend to create solid bodies using Extrude.
• Overlapping geometry: Remove unnecessary duplicate or overlapping paths that could affect sketch profiles.
• Complex curves: Simplify unnecessary control points or small details to keep the imported sketches manageable.
• Dimensions: Verify the size of your design before importing it into a project that requires precise measurements.

Export SVG files from Shapr3D

You can export sketches from Shapr3D as SVG files for use in compatible CAD and vector graphics applications.

SVG export lets you transfer 2D sketch geometry to other applications without converting it into a raster image.

Export SVG sketches

To export sketches as an SVG file:

1. Open the Export menu.
2. Select SVG as the file format.
3. Configure the export settings.
4. Select Export to save the file.

SVG export settings

The following settings are available when exporting SVG files:

• Join Segments: Save sketch geometry as polylines.
• DPI: Set the dots per inch (DPI) value to account for differences in how other applications interpret SVG dimensions.
• Resolution: Set a value between 0 (lowest) and 100 (highest) to control the resolution of the exported geometry.
• Include Hidden Items: Choose whether to include hidden items in the export.

When transferring SVG files between applications, check the resulting dimensions and geometry to ensure they match your intended design.

Considerations when using SVG files

Import limitations

SVG files can contain visual elements and effects that don't translate directly into CAD sketch geometry.

Keep the following limitations in mind:

• Text: Text elements aren't imported as sketch geometry. Convert text to vector paths in your SVG editor before importing.
• Embedded images: Raster images embedded in SVG files aren't imported as sketches.
• Appearance: Colors, fills, stroke widths, and other visual styling aren't preserved as sketch properties.
• Visual effects: Clipping paths, masks, filters, and pattern fills aren't reproduced in the imported sketch geometry.
• Hidden elements: Geometry hidden in the original SVG may still appear in the imported sketches.

If an SVG contains unsupported elements, Shapr3D may import the supported geometry while displaying a warning for the affected layers.

Compatibility with other applications

SVG files can be created and edited in a variety of CAD and vector graphics applications. However, different applications may interpret SVG dimensions, paths, and other properties differently.

When transferring SVG files between applications, verify that the imported geometry retains the expected dimensions and shape.

For more information about compatible formats, visit Supported import and export file formats in Shapr3D.