Two step-by-step methods for moving from 2D AutoCAD drawings to Rhino:

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IMPORT/EXTRUDE METHOD:

This method begins with a set of pre-drawn AutoCAD plans, although the plans could also be drawn directly in Rhino using 2D drawing commands.

1.  Import the AutoCAD drawings to Rhino. [Type IMPORT.]

2.  Create a new layer for the plan drawings. Group the imported drawings into this new layer. [Type LAYER; create a new layer; select objects; type CHANGELAYER.]

3.  Create another new layer for new walls.

4.  Make sure OSNAP is turned on (toolbar at the bottom of the screen). Check END to lock to endpoints.

5.  Invoke the POLYLINE command to trace the wall surfaces from the AutoCAD drawings. (Alternatively, create the wall surfaces as polylines in AutoCAD prior to import.)

6.  Invoke the EXTRUDECRV (“Extrude Curve”) command to extrude the walls to their proper height.

7.  Invoke the CAP command to close the top and bottom of the extruded walls.

8.  Use the BOOLEANDIFFERENCE command to “subtract” openings from the walls.

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IMPORT/CONSTRUCT METHOD:

This method begins with a set of pre-drawn AutoCAD plans, although the plans could also be drawn directly in Rhino using 2D drawing commands.

1.  Import the AutoCAD drawings to Rhino. [Type IMPORT.]

2.  Create a new layer for the plan drawings. Group the imported drawings into this new layer. [Type LAYER; create a new layer; select objects; type CHANGELAYER.]

3.  Create another new layer for new walls.

4.  Make sure OSNAP is turned on (toolbar at the bottom of the screen). Check END to lock to endpoints.

5.  Use the BOX command to construct boxes of correct height and size on the AutoCAD drawings.

6.  Use the BOOLEANUNION command to join separate walls together.

7.  Use the BOOLEANDIFFERENCE command to “subtract” openings from the walls.