AutoCAD: Importing a 2D Project into 3ds Max

Learn how to refine a 2D computer-aided design (CAD) drawing, import it into Autodesk 3ds Max, and create a 3D scene with a floor and walls.

Introduction

• AutoCAD 2D projects and 3ds Max
• What you should know before watching this course
• Using the exercise files
• The new AutoCAD 2020 interface

1. Cleaning Up Your CAD Drawing

• Explaining the existing CAD drawing and its layers
• Explaining the standards used in the CAD drawing
• Why only the major CAD components are needed
• Turning off the layers that are not needed

2. Setting Up New CAD Layers

• Setting up the new 3D CAD layers
• A new layer for 3D external walls
• A new layer for 3D internal walls
• A new layer for the 3D floor

3. Creating New Polyline Boundaries

• Using the Boundary command (BPOLY) to create 3D boundaries
• Creating a new 3D boundary for the external walls
• Creating a new 3D boundary for the internal walls
• Creating a new 3D boundary for the floor
• Freezing all other nonessential layers

4. Saving Out as a New CAD Drawing

• Making sure you save out as the appropriate DWG file type
• Save the file out as a new 3D DWG file with a new filename

5. Setting Units for 3ds Max

• Explaining the units of the new 3D CAD drawing
• Setting your display units in 3ds Max

6. Importing into 3ds Max

• Importing and linking a CAD drawing
• Locating your 3D CAD drawing
• Checking the file units import setting
• Deriving your AutoCAD primitives from the DWG file
• Choosing your CAD drawing layers
• Sanity checking and saving your 3ds Max scene
• Saving as a 3ds Max scene

7. Extruding Wall Boundaries in 3ds Max

• Extruding your external wall boundaries
• Using Slice Plane to add door and window heights
• Using the Bridge tool for top sections of door and window openings
• Using Slice Plane to add window sill height
• Using the Bridge tool for wall sections below windows
• Extruding your internal wall boundaries
• Saving out as a 3ds Max scene

8. Extruding the Floor in the 3ds Max Scene

• Extruding your floor boundary
• Checking the floor does not clash with the walls and openings
• Saving out as a 3ds Max scene

Conclusion

• Next steps