Convert Cinema 4D splines to AutoCad arcs and lines

[Anonymous]

Hello, All.  AutoCad newbie here.

I've been using Cinema 4D for 3D modeling and animation for years.  My new job requires that I convert my 3D models to AutoCad for waterjet cutting purposes.  The water jet cutter reads AutoCad files that use arcs and lines.  My models are being turned into large scale sculptures.  The last sculpture was successful, but took a lot of time to convert the models from Cinema 4D splines to AutoCad arcs and lines.  Im not proficient enough to create freely in AutoCad...C4D is just too easy to give up.  Can anyone give me insight into a workflow that will work from one piece of software to the other?  I'm currently learning AutoCad but I'm just not good enough to do what I can do in C4D.  My models are complex enough to be a pain.  I found this thread https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/autocad-forum/how-to-convert-spline-to-arc/m-p/7569472#M908562 but wondered if there was a more in-depth solution

Thx! 

[Alfred.NESWADBA]

Hi,

>> Can anyone give me insight into a workflow that will

>> work from one piece of software to the other?

Can you please upload one of your files in a format that AutoCAD can open (DWG, DXF, FBX)?

It's not possible to describe one workflow as long as we don't know what type of geometry you are referring to.

- alfred -

[Anonymous]

 I just did, thx.  

C4D has an export type dropdown 

Polyline

Solid 

3D face

I used Polyline but there were still issues

Let me know if the file uploaded properly.  I can't seem to locate where it might be on the site.  I uploaded a .DXF file called c4d-test.dxf

I'll get the hang of this soon 🙂

Thx!

[Alfred.NESWADBA]

Hi,

>> Let me know if the file uploaded properly

No file arrived here, please do not answer with your mail system. Start your Internet Browser, and use the link to this thread here and use button "reply" ... in that new form you'll find a attach files field (ZIP all you have and attach the ZIP file then).

- alfred -

[Anonymous]

Here's the ZIP file

[pendean]

Polymesh Faces make up your 3D cube (not a cube, a multi-sided object): they EXPLODE to 3DFaces.

May I ask, why do you need 2D spline outlines for a 3D multi-faced object?

[Anonymous]

thx, for the reply.  the sculpture i'm creating will be cut in pieces and assembled onto a framed structure.  I'm completely new to CAD, mind you.  I was told by the waterjet cutters that my model needed to be flattened and converted to arcs and lines.  does that make sense?  Im considering using CAD for for future projects, but, im really limited simply bc my skills are very basic.  I simply can't do in CAD what i can do in C4D.   i was wondering if there was a way to continue to work in C4D and migrate to CAD as my workflow while i'm developing my CAD skills.  My immediate issue is how to convert the C4D model to a CAD drawing the machines will be able to read.  Splines to arcs and lines...why can't we all just get along 🙂 

thx

[Alfred.NESWADBA]

Hi,

>> for waterjet cutting purposes

If I would slice this part horizontally, it would fall apart thousands of peaces.

Can you describe how this peace should be created with a waterjet (a 2d tool)?

Or are you producing each side of that figure and then mount it together with welding or something like that?

- alfred -

[schulz8NPAP]

Some times ago I had the problem to make the basic-parts for a 3d-helmet (see attachement).

Parts should be made from wood and every part was different from the others (different lenghts and angles).

Really a little bit confusing - especially as you have to consider the "instructions for montage" (Mark up every part and print a list for the points to connect).

In case of questions you can contact me via www.black-cad.de

Regards

Jochen

[Anonymous]

Correct.  Each side will be flattened and cut and piece will be mounted on a structured frame.  I think the answer to my question is to simply use C4D as my tool of choice for creative purposes then, try to recreate my designs in AutoCad.  Once my CAD skills equal C4D, I'm gtg.  If anyone has any other suggestions, workflow ideas or any other advice please let me know!

Thx!