3d export to DWG

[stacy1234]

I am trying to export a 3D Vectorworks drawing from Mac using 2009 Renderworks.

When I export only some of the layers show in 3D. What could be causing only partial 3D conversion? The engineer requires the project in BIM.

[Pat Stanford]

Each layer can be in a separate view. Make sure that all your views are set the same.

Either turn on Stack Layers or use the Align Layer Views option to set them all the same as the active layer.

[stacy1234]

I did try that and it is having the same issue.

[stacy1234]

As it turns out, there is nothing 3D in the exported file. The only information remaining is the elevation levels. Why is this happening? I'm exporting in top plan view. The file is 88MB so if I try to export in Isometric view the program crashes.

[Ray Libby]

To export 3D you must be in a 3D view. I'm not sure about the crashes, try setting the view to Top.

[Kevin McAllister]

I have been sharing Vectorworks 2009 3D files with an Autocad colleague a lot recently with very few problems.

What version of DWG are you exporting to? Ask your engineer what version of Autocad they are using and export the newest version possible.

Are you exporting Vectorworks layers or classes to Autocad layers? Often this is how objects get lost (something is turned off and not exported). Are you only losing 3D objects in the transfer, or are you losing 2D objects as well. My understanding is that Autocad sees everything as a 3D object (even though the 2D objects are flat on the ground plane) so it would be unusual to lose only the 3D objects alone.

Another thing to be aware of is mirrored 3D objects. I have had some trouble in that regard. Often they can disappear or unrotate.

Kevin

[stacy1234]

I am saving in 2007 or above.

Export as DXF layers (layers is checked)

Invisible layers are (not exported)

Export (Design Layers only)

2D Fills and Files (Export 2D fills, Export Hatch pattern Files, Export Images and image files)

3D (Export solids as ACIS solids, Triangulate to preserve fills)