FILE TYPES EXPLAINED

PART FILES

These files are native to the program they were created in. These will be straight from Fusion 360. You will rarely need these files. They require Fusion 360 to open, and should only be manipulated by an engineer or CAD specialist.

PDF DRAWINGS

These files are in a pdf form, and they are they way other people tend to interact with your project. They can be printed, emailed, texted, and airdropped to any device, regardless of the operating system or environment, and they are the best way for manufacturers to have a second confirmation on how to create and assemble your parts.

RENDER FILES

These files typically come in a JPEG or PNG form, and are the same as every other picture file you have on your computer. Renders are meant to create a realistic-looking picture of your object in order to get an idea of what it will look like before it's built. If you're planning on making any marketing material with your project, it's a good idea to request extra renders of different angles and parts to be included in your project.

DXF FILES

These files are in a dxf form, and they are they way manufacturing machines and computers to interact with your project. They can only be opened by specific programs, and are in a 2-Dimensional form. These will be needed if you plan on printing, lasering, or water-jetting anything out in order to create your project.

STL FILES

These files are in a stl form, and they are they way 3D manufacturing machines and computer programs to interact with your project. Most operating systems have free programs to let you open and view these files, however they are difficult to change and adjust with accuracy. These files are in a 3-Dimensional form and they will be needed if you plan on 3D printing your parts, or if you would like a simplified 3D model to interact with on your computer.