convert 2D Autocad to STL for 3D printing

[Johnny Mike]

I know and use 2D Autocad almost daily and just started 3D printing parts for my Batavia build.

I want to be able to supply an STL file to my printer.

Is there a simple program to convert my 2D to 3D

[Nirvana]

The 2D needs to reworked for 3D and STL files.

[Dr PR]

JM,

 

2D files are usually just lines and maybe planes. These are zero thickness objects and cannot be converted to STL (or any other 3D file).

 

You will have to redraw the objects, creating 3D solids. If you do create 3D solids DWG files (with no 2D objects like lines and planes) they can be converted to STL or OBJ files that can be printed.

 

2D and 3D drawing have almost nothing in common. 2D drawings are made on a virtual flat surface, like sketching on paper. 3D modeling happens in a virtual 3D universe NOTHING like the 2D plane. You have to build 3D objects like you would create real things out of wood, metal or clay. It is an entirely different working environment!

[Johnny Mike]

Thanks

 

That's is what I thought.

I have used Autocad for many years and did not want to learn Solidworks or Inventor