Exporting Drawings
==================

Section Pro can export drawings to three file formats: **DXF**, **SVG**, and **JSON**. All exports use the 2D edge data stored in the drawing mesh object.


Step 1: Select the Drawing
--------------------------

In the *Drawings* list, click the drawing you want to export to make it active.


Step 2: Open the Export Dialog
------------------------------

In the *Export* sub-panel (below the drawings list), click **Export Drawing**. A file browser opens.


Step 3: Configure the Export
-----------------------------

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   * - Setting
     - Description
   * - **File Type**
     - The output format: **DXF**, **SVG**, or **JSON**.
   * - **Unit**
     - The unit system used for coordinates in the exported file. Choose from Meters, Centimeters, Millimeters, Inches, or Feet.

Set the desired filename and path, then click **Export Drawing**.

.. note::

   If the filename does not end with the correct extension for the chosen format, the correct extension is appended automatically.


Format Notes
------------

**DXF** (default)
    Industry-standard 2D CAD format. Compatible with AutoCAD, FreeCAD, LibreCAD, and most other CAD applications. Edges from all layers (Section, Projection, Hidden) are exported.

**SVG**
    Scalable vector graphics. Suitable for web display, illustration software, and laser cutting. Edges are exported as ``<line>`` elements.

**JSON**
    Raw edge data as a JSON array. Useful for writing custom scripts or importing into applications that do not support DXF or SVG.


Tips
----

- Use the **Limit Distance** projection option when creating the drawing to reduce the number of edges and keep the exported file clean.
- To export only specific edge types (e.g., only the section outline without projection edges), select the edges by layer in Edit Mode first and delete the unwanted edges from a copy of the drawing object. Alternatively, create another separate drawing for the section with only the desired edge layers enabled.
- Make sure you **Refresh** the drawing before exporting if the scene geometry has changed since the drawing was created.