SolidWorks Tip: Import DXF/DWG Set Origin
I ran across this today when importing a DXF file from a vendor. I’m not quite sure how long it has been there, but this is the first time I have noticed it. 
When importing a DXF/DWG file you are presented in an import wizard with many options. The first screen is shown below.
In this case, I chose the “Import to a new part as: 2D sketch” option. Once you click next you come to a screen with an interesting new option.
In instances like the example shown above, the origin of the file is located far away from the geometry. There is now a “Define Sketch Origin” option that allows you to place the Sketch origin in a different location rather than the 2D file origin. You can use the view options to zoom in tight to the point on the model where you would like to place the sketch origin. This would be a REALLY cool option if it was able to employ ESNAPs, but for now it doesn’t. Still this can save a sometimes necessary step before importing the geometry. Below is an example of placing the Sketch Origin in a different location.
Once the file comes into SolidWorks, you can see that the sketch origin is placed correctly. (You still should do some fine tuning to make sure the geometry is perfectly centered about the origin.)
That’s all for now…stay tuned…more to come!
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