You can use the Convert drawing functionality to convert the .dxf file from HelioScope into PVcase entities, without having to recreate your project from scratch.
Before using Convert drawing, you must always convert the .dxf file into a .dwg file.
After the conversion, you can continue to use other features in Roof Mount for detailed design.
You are able to convert:
- Roofs
- Roof objects
- Modules
If the objects in your files are not compatible with the current capability, stay tuned for future updates.
Step 1: Resave HelioScope’s .dxf file as .dwg
We currently support conversion of HelioScope files in .dwg format. All files must be converted from the downloadable .dxf file from HelioScope. Follow the steps below to ensure smooth conversion.
1. Download your HeliosScope project in .dxf.
2. Open the .dxf file in AutoCAD and resave as a .dwg.
3. Close the .dxf file and open the newly saved .dwg file (learn why with AutoCAD's FAQ).
4. Continue to use PVcase Roof Mount on the newly opened .dwg file.
Step 2: Convert objects to PVcase Roof Mount
1. From the ribbon menu, go to Convert Drawing.
2. Select HelioScope as the drawing type.
3. Begin with roof conversion, as having a roof area is crucial for converting objects and modules:
- You can limit selection to a specific layer by checking the Limit to layer checkbox and selecting a layer.
- Click Pick to convert.
4. Select one or multiple roofs for conversion and press Enter.
5. Convert Roof objects:
a. Select Shading object.
b. You can limit the selection to a specific layer by checking the Limit to layer checkbox and selecting a layer.
c. Click Pick to convert. Select one or multiple roof objects for conversion and press Enter.
d. Select one or multiple roof objects for conversion and press Enter.
6. Convert Modules:
a. Select a module preset with parameters identical to your original drawing's module parameters. If you don't have a preset, click Create preset.
b. Select layout type according to the roof.
c. Select module orientation:
-
- Use As drawn to auto-detect the orientation from the drawing.
- Use Portrait or Landscape to set a specific orientation for modules.
d. Select how you want the module angle to be calculated:
- Select as drawn (Helioscope) to auto-detect module angle from .dwg.
- Custom — allows you to enter tilt angle and override auto-detected (as drawn) values.
e. You can limit selection to a specific layer by checking the Limit to layer checkbox and selecting a layer.
f. Click Pick to convert.
g. Select one or multiple modules for conversion and press Enter.
Step 3: Verify your drawing information after conversion
After you convert your drawing to PVcase Roof Mount, verify that all drawing information is converted correctly. Details such as layout, module tilt angle and other parameters can impact your detailed design when they aren't imported correctly.
If something looks off with your converted drawing, like the module's orientation or angle, try these steps:
- Press Ctrl + Z to undo your last action.
- Adjust the settings and try converting again.
If the problem persists, please send us your file and describe the issue you've encountered at help@pvcase.com or at our live support chat.
FAQs
Can I use only parts of the solution, for example, only convert modules or only convert shading objects, and then continue to use other features of PVcase Roof Mount?
Yes, you can use only parts of the feature without converting roofs, shading objects, and modules. If your roof is built, you can convert just the modules. Please note that modules will only be successfully converted if there are existing roofs underneath.
Can I edit the roof after I’ve used Convert to PVcase Roof Mount?
At the moment, it is best not to modify the roof after it has been converted to a PVcase Roof Mount with this feature.