2D to 3D Tool for Inventor

A common question that I get from clients that are transitioning from AutoCAD to Inventor is, "Will I be able to use our 2D CAD part drawings within Inventor?" The answer is yes! This is possible with the 2D to 3D Tool. Not only is this possible, but it will also save you time in the long run by not having to create the part from scratch. First, you must download and install the 2D to 3D Tool from Autodesk Labs. With an empty part file (.ipt) or by having an active empty part in the assembly context, follow these simple steps:

1. On the Sketch tab under the Insert panel, click on ACAD

2. Choose .dwg file, click Open

3. In the Layers and Objects Import Options dialogue box, uncheck select all, choose the desired geometry, click Next

4. In the Import Destination Options dialogue box, ensure that the Constrain End Points box is checked, click Finish, and click Finish Sketch

5. Under the Model tab within the 2D to 3D panel, click on Base View

6. Select the face for your base view on the three dimensional cube shown in the graphics window

7. Select the sketch segments that define the base view and click Ok



8. Under the Model tab within the 2D to 3D panel, click on Projected View

9. Select the sketch segments that define the projected view and click Ok

10. Utilize the Create feature options under the Model tab to create the desired part

- Jason Miles