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📤 Exports

AutoCAD (CAD) Export / Integration

The AutoCAD Export feature allows you to seamlessly transfer your designs from h2x into AutoCAD.

It prevents the need to draw it again and ensures no details get missed between the design and calculation stage and drafting.

Note the export only works for AutoCAD 2024 and earlier versions.

How to Install and Use the AutoCAD Export Add-In

Step 1: Download and Install the Software

Step-by-step

  1. Download: Click on this link to download the installer to your computer - https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1nqSxH7Em6HlUMLe8rJ34iowM92V0CCzU

  2. Install: Run the installer and follow the instructions.

Ensure the installation complies with your organization's IT security protocols.

Step 2: Prepare Your Design

Step-by-step

  1. Complete Your Design: Finalize your system layout in h2x, ensuring all components and connections are in place.

  2. Update Results: Click the Results button in h2x. This ensures all calculations, such as pipe and duct sizing, are up-to-date and ready for export.

Step 3: Customize Your Export Settings

Step-by-step

  1. View Filters: Adjust result and visibility filters in h2x to control what is included in the export (e.g., pipe sizes, system details).

  2. Zoom in on Key Areas: Focus on specific parts of your design, especially areas with small pipe or duct connections, to ensure all details are captured.

Step 4: Export Your Design

Step-by-step

  1. Initiate Export: Once satisfied with your settings, click the Export button in h2x to begin the export process.

  2. Save the File: Choose a convenient location on your computer to save the exported file.

Step 5: Import the File into AutoCAD

Step-by-step

  1. Open AutoCAD: Launch AutoCAD on your computer.

  2. Import File: Type H2Ximport in the AutoCAD command line and press Enter.

  3. File Selection: Choose the exported JSON file from h2x.

If you don’t have an AutoCAD drawing template or block library, h2x will automatically generate standard layers and blocks. Simply leave the layer mappings blank and click OK to proceed.

[Optional] Step 6: Using Custom Drawing Standards

If your organization uses custom AutoCAD templates or block libraries, follow these steps for advanced customization:

Step-by-step

  1. Map Drawing Templates:

    Open the settings dialog in the add-in.

    Add your desired DWT file and ensure it is stored in AutoCAD’s standard drawing template location.

    Select the project JSON file to import and map h2x layers to your template layers.

  2. Map Custom Blocks:

    In the same settings dialog, link your block library to the blocks generated in h2x.

    This ensures alignment between h2x components and your custom standards.

Step 7: Finalize and Review

Step-by-step

  1. Verify Layout: Open the imported file in AutoCAD and compare it to the layout in h2x.

  2. Check Components: Pay particular attention to equipment, valves, connections.

  3. Confirm Accuracy: Ensure all layers, connections, and system details are correctly represented.