sketch for etch not showing on SM DXF file

SOLIDWORKS How To Questions
1

Hi all from Perth WA,
I often have the show laser etch lines and notes on DXF files to identify part# and location of fittings.
I do this using SM with a map file to distinguish red lines for etch from cutting lines.
With an unabsorbed sketch
etch.JPG
Which stopped working when we updated to 2024 sp3.1.
22.JPG
Today with our VAR
I updated to SP4
installed an older graphics driver
running RTX A4000, had driver version R550 and changed back to R535
and used a supplied template
in an attempt to pinpoint the problem
without success.

strangely if I create the DXF from a drawing file it shows the etch lines.
more strangely if I start in safe mode, bypass tools options, this works fine.
If I reset all options to factory settings it does not work???

Am wondering two things.

is there another way to have the etch lines show on a DXF without using sheetmetal.
I often convert to SM just to have the etch in DXF.

If not is there a better known workaround than using a drawing file to create the DXF.
Have not posted a file as this is ubiquitous.

Apologies for the length
and if this has been addressed before I did trawl through before posting.

Any help very much appreciated
Pretty sure my VAR will also be interested as he said if the final fix does not work he will kill himself :open_mouth:

I will miss him was a great guy.

Thanks and Best Regards
FTUMCH

2

I tried in 2024 sp5 and it seems to be working. I’m mapping
image.png
My mapping file settings:
image.png

3

Thanks for your prompt reply and action Jason.
I noticed a typo in my message, updated to SP5 as well.:roll_eyes:

I may need to play around with the mapping file as I have a feeling it is the culprit.

have tried to copy your map file.
et1.JPG
but did not fix it.

I know it must seem minor but is igniting my OCD as I used it every day
now have to use a workaround every day😣

Spose I should just get on with my work
and chalk it up as another frustration.

Best Regards

4

Strange…the mapping file shouldn’t effect whether the text exports…nor the graphics card or driver. Attach your file here and I’ll try it, maybe there is something weird with the file itself.

5

Hi Jason,
hope you had a top weekend as I did here in sunny Perth,

Please find the file attached, it did work for our VAR just will not on this system.


Thanks And Best Regards
Brett
Part1.SLDPRT (88.6 KB)

6

Open a new drawing, and make sure sketches are set to show. Delete sheet format or anything from the drawing, and save as drawing template (may be name as DXF). Make sure sheet/template scale is set to 1:1, and you can also have the bend lines set to show. Finally set this template as the default template and export the DXF from the drawing. This should fix the issue.

7

Thanks Gupta,
That is a great workaround that I like to use.

Just wondering if the etch worked with a RMB and save as DXF
or if you had to use the drawing file to get the sketch to show on the DXF file.

Might be a bit cheeky here not starting a new thread, but I know you are a man of many talents with the software.
When using the drawing file to make the DXF I add a linked note,
BUT have not been able to link the assembly QTY and add it unlinked which worries me,
SHEET.JPG
Do you have a way to link assembly BOM QTY to a note without adding a new CP?

I do not seem to be able to find a property or snytax that allows it to be linked directly to the BOM list

Best Regards