I need to transform a 2D drawing of a substation from the plan view and elevation view into a 3D model. I was wondering if there was any other way than buying the inventor software and Substation extension software to create this model. I know I can extrude a few sub-parts but am having difficulty transforming 2D blocks from AutoCAD into 3D.  

What type of substation, aerial or floor. I ask because I made some drawings that can helpe you.

You can't extrude a block without exploding it first.There is no "automagical" way to create a 3D model from 2D linework in AutoCAD.

Hello, Dylanc, Jmontesmemx and John.Dylanc, do you want to work only with Inventor with 2D coming from AutoCAD or working with AutoCAD in transforming 2D into 3D ?If it's the second choise it's OK and I can help.

I am primarily trying to use AutoCAD to transform the drawings from 2D into 3D

Aerial 

Hello Dylanc, if you want to use AutoCAD 2D to generate 3D solids it's OK.If it's a first time with 3D you will have to know all about UCS settings and viewpoints.To generate 3D solids you have to create closed assembly of lines, arcs, ellispses and others modified to REGION and :EXTRUDE with a certain height or along a path, REVOLVE along an axis by 360£ or less, SWEEP between 2 different shapes.Eventually see my file : 3D SOLIDS 01.dwg here in the site in the CAD/BIM Blocks library.Ask for more or post a file here or in the CAD/BIM Blocks library.PS what do you mean with : aerial ?With aerials I think Jeret PETERSON.



philippe JOSEPH2018-07-31 08:42:49

Solids can be created using the Loft, PressPull and Extrude commands and do not necessarily require the user to create a region first.  When using the Loft or Extrude commands one must use a closed polyline profile.

I am looking to transform this for example into 3D. I am unsure on where to begin to do so

Start with the steel structure (i.e. - baseplates, columns, beams).  Next up would be any equipment (i.e. - conductors, insulators, isolators, oil circuit breakers, bus bars, lightning arresters, etc.).  Do you have all the necessary dimensions available?  Wires can be created by sweeping a circle along the path a spline.
John Connor2018-07-31 19:54:32

Hello Dylanc and John. you need the side view to begin the work.

And a top view too?John Connor2018-08-01 13:25:14