How to make a 3D PDF out of SolidWorks

There is possibility of creating a PDF output where a user can do not only rotate, pan and zoom but there are many other functions one can see in the created PDF. In simple word you can get a 3D PDF out of SolidWorks. This option is available from SW2007 onwards.

1. Open any part or assembly file for which you want to create the 3D PDF.

2. Go to File > Save As

3. In type file type, select PDF

4. Select “ Save as 3D PDF”

5. Finally save your file.

Perfect you have a created a 3D PDF

1. Open the 3D PDF file.

2. RMB or right click anywhere in the graphics area to see what other functionality are there.

Great Start playing now. Do explore more functions. I have tested this PDF in Adobe reader version 7.0 and above. All the functions showed above are from Adobe Reader 9.0 and may not be working in lower versions but rotate, pan and zoom work fine.

Click here to download sample 3D PDF file.

15 thoughts on “How to make a 3D PDF out of SolidWorks

  1. Vitor

    Deepak Gupta

    i’m trying to create a 3D pdf from a Solidworks assembly using the save as function. The assembly contains a decal/label (a rectangular .png file) but when i save as 3D pdf file the decal dissapears.

    Can you help me?

    Reply
  2. aravind

    i converted 3D PDF model from SW2012 and when i view and zoom to some extend , the model gets collapsed and it seems like some area are missing , please anyone clear this

    Reply
  3. Mustafa Amiruddeen

    Hello, I was doing exactly as you said, however the 3d pdf doesnt show all the colours of my original assembly.

    Any advice on this?

    Other than that, thanks for your posts.

    Reply
  4. Craig

    Solid works 2007 went to create 3d pdf and the options is no longer available. Had it in the past but now it is gone any thoughts?

    Regards,
    Craig

    Reply

I'll be happy to know your views and opinions as this will help me to improve. You can share them as comments below.