Exporting a .DXF (CAD data file)

Building the layers of your file

There are three layers included in the DXF export: panels, facets, and obstructions. Each of the three layers are drawn using the Panels Tool (hotkey 'P'), Roof Tool (hotkey 'R'), and Obstruction Tool (hotkey 'O').  The panels tool is activated with the yellow "+ Panels" button located in the upper left of the map pane next, just to the right of the main control panel, and the Roof and Obstruction tools are activated through the advanced design menu in the upper right hand corner of the map pane. Hotkeys can be used to expedite activation of these tools regardless of where your cursor is pointing.

Panels Tool (hotkey 'P') 

Adding panels to your design is a basic operation, but it should be noted that the pitch and racks field will have an effect on the fit of panels within a facet.  In automated 3D mode, the panels will automatically snap to the roof pitch, however if you're creating a roof layout in 2D, you should take care to manually enter the roof pitch otherwise your panels may not scale correctly.

Learn more about creating a panel layout in 3D

Learn more about creating a panel layout in 2D

Roof Tool (hotkey 'R') 

The roof tool allows you to add 'nodes', connect nodes with 'edges', and close a series of edges to form a 'facet'.

Learn how to draw out the roof

Obstruction Tool (hotkey 'O') 

The obstruction tool can be used to mark out roof vents, chimneys, and other obstructions.

Learn how to create obstructions

Exporting a .DXF file

Once you have the layers drawn, you can export a .DXF file for your design.  Open the advanced menu in the upper right corner of the map pane, and click on 'Download DXF (CAD file)'.