How to Convert JPEG to CAD Software
CAD (computer-aided design) modeling has revolutionized the way things are designed and built. In addition to the greater speed with which things can be designed, it has also made it much easier for different architects or designers to work together on the same project. You might occasionally find a situation in which you want to convert a JPEG image with a design on it quickly into a CAD format like DWG. Instead of using a complex and expensive program like AutoCAD, it is possible to make the conversion using Google freeware modeling program SketchUp.
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Instructions
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Download and install the freeware version of Google SketchUp to your computer system (see link in References).
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Load the image you want to convert onto your computer. If it is in a printed format and not yet a JPEG, scan the print into your computer and a high resolution (600). Save it as a JPEG file.
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Open Google SketchUp. Select and delete the default 2D figure you see standing in the scene. Select "Camera" in the menu. Click "Standard Views" and select "Top." This will change the view so that you are looking straight down at the ground plane.
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Go to the menu and select "File." From the options, choose "Import." In the dialog that opens, browse to the JPEG you saved and open it. The image will appear in the view as a floating preview that you can then apply to the ground plane using the mouse. You place it so it is centered over the central axis, or you can snap one edge to the central axis. You can also adjust the size of this projected image.
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Select the "Freehand" tool from the toolbar and use it to trace first the outline of the image. Use it to add the interior lines. Save your work. Then select "File" in the menu and choose "Export" and then "2D Graphic." In the dialogue box that opens, name the file whatever you like. Then change the "File Type" to "AutoCAD DWG." Click "Export."
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