This guide explains how to correctly prepare and import AutoCAD drawings (DWG/DXF) into PROKON Padds for reinforcement detailing and for creating 2D drawings.

Prepare the DWG/DXF File (Very Important)

Before importing, clean the drawing in AutoCAD:

• Purge unused layers (PURGE)
• Remove unnecessary blocks, hatches, dimensions, text notes and tittle blocks
• Ensure drawing is in Model Space
• Confirm correct units (mm recommended)
• Move geometry close to origin (0,0)
• Save as:  DXF or DWG, Depending on the preferred format.

Clean files import faster and avoid scaling issues.

Import the DWG/DXF File

• Open PROKON Padds
• Launch PROKON Padds
• Go to:
  • File → Import → Read DWG/DXF/CEX

• Browse to your DWG or DXF file

• In the import dialog:
  • Select the file
  • Choose format:
    • CAD Drawing file ( *.dwg, *.dxf ) for DWG
    • DXF File (*.dxf) for DXF

• Click Open

Import Prompts Explained

Pen Width setting

• You will be asked:
  • if you want to change your pen width settings? (YSE/NO)

• YES → Apply DWG lineweight settings
• NO → Keep current Padds pen settings

Fit Drawing on Paper

If you select YES, you must confirm:

• Paper size
• Page orientation

Verify Scale After Import

After the drawing loads:

• Use the Distance Tool
• Measure a known dimension

If dimension is incorrect:

• Check original AutoCAD units
• Apply scale factor if needed

Common issue:

• AutoCAD drawing in meters
• Padds working in millimetres
• Requires scale factor of 1000

Layer Management

After import:

• Open Layer Manager
• Turn off unnecessary layers
• Freeze or lock architectural layers
• Keep structural outlines visible

Best practice:

• Use imported drawing as an underlay
• Create reinforcement on separate Padds layers
• Lock imported layers to avoid accidental editing

Exploding Blocks (If Required)

If the file imports as blocks:

• Use Explode to break blocks into editable lines
• Only explode if necessary

Save as Native Padds Drawing

• Once satisfied:
• Save as .pad file

This:

• Improves performance
• Reduces re-import issues
• Keeps project clean

Troubleshooting

• Drawing imports very small or very large
  • Unit mismatch – check mm vs m
• Drawing imports blank
  • Geometry may be far from origin
• Lines not visible
  • Check layers are turned on

Best Practice for Reinforcement Detailing

• Use imported DWG only as background reference
• Lock imported layers
• Do not draw reinforcement on imported layers
• Always verify dimensions before detailing