Import vector-based PDF files

Since the introduction in Pythagoras 2023, you can import PDF-files with CAD geometry directly. The process of importing PDF files works much like opening a regular drawing file.

Important: Only vector-based PDFs are supported. Image-only (raster) PDFs cannot be imported as geometry.

STEPS

1. Go to File > Import > PDF...

2. The Import PDF dialog

A dialog box appears where you can select a specific page. 

CAD objects in the file are automatically recognized. 

Choose to embed the geometry in the existing page, or adjust the page settings such as units and scale.

RESULT

If the PDF contains CAD data with a layered structure, Pythagoras will automatically detect and preserve these layers.

VIDEO

Raster-based PDFs (for example, scanned drawings or image exports) contain no vector data. These cannot be imported as editable geometry in Pythagoras.

If you need to use a raster PDF, convert it first in external software:

• Use a PDF-to-DXF/DWG converter if vectorization is possible.

• Or export the image to a raster format (e.g., JPG, PNG) and insert it into Pythagoras as an image.