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Import OSM Vector Data

Purpose and Utility

This tool enables users to directly import vector data from OpenStreetMap (OSM) into their CAD environment. By doing so, they can bring real-world features like roads, buildings, water bodies, and more into CAD. As a result, users can jumpstart urban planning, site analysis, infrastructure layouts, and base mapping tasks without relying on external GIS platforms.

Furthermore, the imported features are organized on separate layers, which makes them easier to edit, style, and annotate. Whether you’re preparing maps, planning zones, or conducting spatial evaluations, this tool offers a fast, editable vector foundation sourced from live geographic data.

Technical Description

  • Coordinate System Required:
    Assign a valid projected coordinate system before launching the tool. Since OSM data is location-aware, the system ensures accurate placement in your drawing.
  • Area of Import:
    Users can:
    • Draw a Window to define the extent
    • Or select a closed polygon already drawn in the file
      The tool fetches vector data only within this specified boundary.
  • Feature Categories (Checkboxes):
    You can choose which types of features to import. Options include:
    • Buildings
    • Roads
    • Water Features
    • Points of Interest
    • Leisure
    • Landuse
    • Natural
    • Education
    • Healthcare
    • Shops
  • The tool places each selected category on a separate layer, and you can rename the layers directly from the dialog box before importing.
  • Label Control:
    • All feature labels (e.g., road names, building names) are placed on a dedicated label layer.
    • You can rename the label layer and set the text height for better visibility.
  • Layer Naming:
    • Default names for each feature category can be changed to match your internal CAD standards or project requirements.
    • This offers full control over layer management, especially for complex projects.

Workflow

  1. Assign a coordinate system to the drawing
  2. Launch the tool from Online Maps → Import OSM Vector Data, or type OSM_SP
  3. Specify the area:
    • Either draw a window or select a closed polygon
  4. Choose feature categories you want to import using checkboxes
  5. Rename layers (optional) to match your drawing preferences
  6. Set label layer name and adjust label text height as needed
  7. Click OK to begin the import
  8. The selected features will now be added to your drawing, each on its own layer

Tips & Notes

  • Importing fewer categories (e.g., only Roads and Buildings) makes the process faster and keeps your drawing clean
  • Use Layer Manager to turn visibility on/off and style different features post-import
  • Label layer can be edited independently to apply text styles or hide annotations during plotting
  • Combine this tool with Download Web Map Tiles or Cartographic Grid to produce well-contextualized base maps