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I'm working with a laser engraver/cutter who I have been able to export vector graphics as DXF files, which they have been able to open up and cut as supplied, multiple times before.
This time, I sent them a DXF file, saved exactly as before, however they opend it up and some of the curves have become jagged and extra lines and anchor points, and so confuses the CAD software (I don't know what software they use).
Included is the PDF file with the original vector artwork (page 2 is the one in question), and a screen shot of the resulting DXF (Community won't accept uploading the DXF file itself); note the "Q" and "POT" lettering where the problem persists.
Long story short, is that we've done nothing different in our process; no settings were changed etc. and we're now having to do more work to correct it - Any ideas?
Thanks!
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Hello @MartinBarnesCreative were you able to find the solution to this problem? I have the exact same problem. jagged lines for text that has been outlined.
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Hi there,
Sorry about the trouble. Could you please share a few more details like:
We are here to help. Just need more information.
Thanks & Regards,
Anshul Saini
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that worked for me. thanks!
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Exporting DXF files can be really tricky. Different industry-specific applications that create jobs for laser cutters, routing tables, etc can be finnicky at importing DXF files. The DXF files need to be created with the right kinds of settings. Some applications like EnRoute have preference settings such as "Merge Contours" that can help. Another possible solution: using other export file formats such as EPS.
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When using EPS, make sure to export EPS 3.
The other EPS settings export EPS with an embedded AI file and that can cause the CAD devcies to not recognize the file properly.
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EPS import compatibility will vary from one application to the next. Generally speaking, saving down to early versions like v3.0 or v8.0 will work better. The farther back in time an art file is saved down also means breaking newer features and effects in Illustrator. Most live Illustrator-based effects need to be flattened/expanded. It's also best to convert any live text objects to outlines. When exporting art for routing table use I tend to give all objects flat uniform fills with no outlines strokes, that way the application is only importing the raw shape (and not multiple copies of it or the sliced into a bunch of pieces due to a gradient fill being misinterpreted). I also never include an attached TIFF header image with an exported EPS file.