CustomTools is a favorite among SOLIDWORKS users for automating and streamlining the creation and management of documentation. One of its key features is batch export of drawings, which brings a whole range of benefits and saves a great deal of time – especially for companies and individuals handling a large number of projects. In this article we look at the advantages of exporting SOLIDWORKS drawings to PDF in bulk with CustomTools, and why the tool deserves a place in your everyday workflow.
The video below shows just how simple the whole process is.
Save time and cut routine work in SOLIDWORKS
For design engineers, working with drawings is often time-consuming. Exporting each drawing by hand to different formats (PDF, DWG, DXF, etc.) can take hours, especially on larger projects with dozens or hundreds of drawings. CustomTools automates this process, so designers can focus on more important tasks.
The batch export function in CustomTools lets you define specific settings and then export all drawings at once with a single click. That means not only faster documentation, but also an end to repetitive work that can quickly become exhausting.
Easy customization in line with company standards
Another major advantage of CustomTools is the ability to tailor exported output exactly to the needs of a company or project. For example, you can set up templates for different export types (with one set of parameters for PDF export and another for DWG or DXF). CustomTools lets you configure export settings at project or job level, which makes it much easier to align output with company standards and reduces the risk of faulty exports that can occur with manual setup.
Fewer errors, more consistency
One drawback of manual export is the risk of human error – forgetting to export a particular file, choosing the wrong format, or leaving out the title block or other identifying elements. CustomTools helps eliminate these problems with predefined templates and automated processes. A further major benefit is that CustomTools can generate metadata for exported drawings and so keep the documentation structure uniform. The result is greater consistency across projects, which is crucial when working with larger teams or with suppliers.
Batch rename and organize your drawings
CustomTools does more than batch export drawings: it can also rename files according to predefined rules. This is particularly useful when a company uses its own numbering system for parts and drawings. Batch renaming based on predefined rules saves time and prevents the confusion caused by chaotic or inconsistent file names.
File organization and structure are fundamental to efficient documentation, and this is where CustomTools offers a clear advantage. It can, for example, automatically sort files into folders based on parameters such as project number, client name or creation date. This makes documentation clearer and easier to manage, which is especially valuable for long-term projects and archiving.
Support for multiple formats and flexibility
CustomTools offers a wide choice of export formats, making it a highly flexible tool. Output can be tailored to the requirements of individual customers or projects. Supported formats include PDF, DWG, DXF, TIFF, JPEG and more, so drawings can be prepared for different purposes – from print-ready formats to formats suitable for presentations or technical consultations. This flexibility also means a company can work efficiently with all kinds of clients and suppliers who may prefer a specific documentation format.
Easy to use, with a user-friendly interface
CustomTools has a clear, intuitive user interface that is easy to use even without advanced technical knowledge. Export is set up in a few simple steps, so there is no need for complex manuals or extra training. Because users can easily define their own templates and settings, CustomTools is an accessible tool that speeds up the work of experienced professionals and new designers and engineers alike.
Streamlined workflow and better teamwork
In larger teams, where everyone works on a different part of the project, documentation needs to be well organized and accessible to all team members. CustomTools makes it easy to share drawings within the team and ensures everyone has the current version of the documentation. Batch export also means all team members can work with up-to-date data without having to check individual files by hand. This leads to better coordination and more efficient collaboration – essential on complex projects, where documentation errors can cause serious problems.
Integrating SOLIDWORKS with other tools and software
Automating batch export with CustomTools delivers high-quality, consistent output that makes your documentation more professional and improves how clients perceive you. Clients appreciate not only fast and accurate delivery of drawings, but also a polished appearance and correctly set formats that make the documentation easier to interpret. By ensuring documentation meets quality standards and is always delivered in the right form, CustomTools becomes an important tool for increasing client satisfaction and helping companies build long-term relationships with their partners.
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