Importing PDF data

You can use the Import PDF Data tool to import any 2D and 3D PDF files to the currently open Allplan document. Lines, text, bitmap areas, layers and 3D solids are imported.

You can use the imported PDF data as the basis for your work (e.g. site plans). You can also import details or parts of catalogs published in PDF format.

Note: PDF is the future-oriented format in the construction industry. This format, which is independent of provider and operating system, supports the flow of information between all those involved in a project in an optimum manner. The exchange of CAD data in PDF format is currently still subject to some restrictions as typical CAD elements like dimension lines are resolved in PDF files.

Note: As there are a lot of ways in which documents from numerous sources can be converted to PDF files, there is a wide range of different PDF files. Consequently, the original PDF file and the file imported to Allplan can look different.

To import a PDF file to an Allplan drawing file/document

1. Select the drawing file or document to which you want to import the PDF file.
2. When importing 2D data: set the appropriate Reference Scale. In the case of CAD drawings, it is best to set the scale with which the file was created.
3. Click Import PDF Data (How).
   

   Activate Import PDF Data in one of the following ways

   • Menu bar: File Import

   • Palette: Tools Create area in the following module(s):

   Interfaces

   Or:

   Drag the PDF file into the workspace.

4. Select the PDF file and set the parameters for the import.
5. Click OK.

   The program imports the PDF file. This can take some time with large files.

   If the program encounters problems while importing the data (e.g. if fonts are replaced), it will issue a report.

6. Close the editor window.

   When you import 2D data, the PDF file is placed so that its bottom left corner is at the origin. The coordinates of 3D data are retained.

   Note: The data imported are grouped in the same way as symbols; in other words, you can address these data by pressing the SHIFT key and clicking.

   Note: When you import documents consisting of several pages, the pages are placed beside each other.

7. If you want, you can now check the scale by measuring a distance whose length you know using the Measure Length tool.

   If the scale is not correct, do the following:

   • Resize the representation so that it is the correct size.

   Or:

   • Delete the representation and, if necessary, import the file again using a different Resizing factor.
     Note that this also has an effect on the images in the design folder of the project: they are created again based on the new resizing factor.

   Or:

   • Delete the representation and, if necessary, import the file again using a different Reference Scale.

     Tip: You can select the imported representation in its entirety - all you need to do is press the SHIFT key and click it.

8. Move the representation as you require.

For more information on importing PDF data, see

Importing bitmaps

Assigning fonts

Tips and restrictions