Convert PAT to SHC

Understanding PAT and SHC file formats

PAT files are pattern files commonly used in CAD (Computer-Aided Design) applications like AutoCAD. They define hatch patterns for filling areas with repetitive designs. SHC files, on the other hand, are compiled shape files used by AutoCAD to store custom shapes for use in drawings. While both are related to graphical elements in CAD, they serve different purposes: PAT for patterns and SHC for shapes.

Why convert PAT to SHC?

Converting a PAT file to a SHC file may be necessary if you want to use a custom hatch pattern as a shape within AutoCAD. This allows for more flexibility in how graphical elements are reused and manipulated within your CAD projects.

How to convert PAT to SHC

There is no direct, automated converter for PAT to SHC, as these formats are fundamentally different. However, you can manually convert a PAT pattern into a shape by following these steps:

1. Open your PAT file in a text editor to view the pattern definition.
2. In AutoCAD, use the Draw tools to manually recreate the pattern as a drawing.
3. Once the pattern is drawn, use the Make Shape command (MKSHAPE) to create a shape definition file (SHP).
4. Compile the SHP file into an SHC file using the COMPILE command in AutoCAD.

This process requires some manual work, as there is no one-click solution for this conversion.

Best software for PAT to SHC conversion

The best software for this process is AutoCAD itself, as it provides all the necessary tools:

• AutoCAD: Use for drawing, shape creation, and compiling shapes.
• Notepad or any text editor: For viewing and copying PAT file definitions.

Steps in AutoCAD:

1. Draw the pattern manually.
2. Go to Express Tools → Tools → Make Shape.
3. Save as SHP, then use COMPILE to generate the SHC file.

Summary

While there is no direct PAT to SHC converter, you can manually recreate patterns as shapes in AutoCAD and compile them into SHC files. This process ensures your custom patterns can be used as reusable shapes in your CAD projects.