Designs created using 2D drawings offer projected views of CAD models, and include top, front, side and isometric views. They provide information on cross-sections, dimensions and so on, and are useful in the manufacture of a part of the product. However, as 3D CAD allows all the individual parts to be assembled together, it provides a good understanding of a complex graphic design. With 3D, you can visualize and understand what the finished product will look like. Suppose you are designing a car and you use 2D drafting to create the design. The 2D view may not give you a vivid and accurate picture of the interior settings. You can’t confirm if there is enough space within the car and if it is comfortable. In contrast, a 3D model, allows you to visualize the interior and improve on your design. In addition to its use in design and architectural applications, technological advances have made 3D more accessible for a wide range of applications.
Normally, Computer Aided Design (CAD) software is used for converting 2D drafting into 3D models. The process is quite simple and output if automatically generated. Accuracy is crucial when it comes to 2D to 3D conversion. However, there are many challenges involved.
A 2D drawing is the incomplete representation of a product. While you convert the 2D drawing into 3D model with CAD software, only the relevant data is taken and the other portions are extruded. The actual view of the product is generated from that data. There are basically four steps in 2D to 3D CAD conversion.
Four Steps in 2D to 3D CAD Conversion
- creating basic geometry or top view
- identifying projected geometry or side and top view
- aligning all the geometric views
- extrusion
The conversion should be a smooth transition that retains only the desired geometry, axis lines, dimension styles and layers. The orientation and alignment issues will affect the extrusion. Accurate conversion processes can make the extrusion easier.
You can use CAD tools from different vendors to achieve the conversion. But, if there are many graphics involved, it can cause interoperability issues. You will often find difficulties in transferring data between CAD tools and delay in finishing the design work. The services of a CAD expert are therefore very useful when it comes to generating a 3D model from 2D drafting.
Approach a Professional CAD Conversion Company
Approach a professional CAD conversion company with vast experienced in CAD conversion services. With a team of highly skilled CAD experts, they can offer batch conversion (conversion of multiple files at a time) and advanced conversion solutions. Document conversion companies also support AutoCAD software which can generate high resolution output.
