CAD tip # 11337:

Question

CAD

% platform category

Convert 3D PDF files back to CAD models.

The publishing file format 3D PDF is not intended for backward conversions and importing to CAD applications. But if such PDF file contains U3D data (PRC B-rep), in some cases it can be convertible back to a 3D CAD model. For such conversion, you can use Adobe Acrobat 3D/Extended or e.g. the plugin SimLab 3D PDF importer for Autodesk 3ds Max.

The plug-in 3D PDF Importer [url verified 2/2017] by a Jordan company SimLab Soft is compatible with Autodesk 3ds Max versions 2010 to 2017+. It simply adds the menu item SimLab > PDF Importer to the Max UI:

By importing a 3D PDF file you can get e.g. such model (mesh data):

using the file Scheda Catalogo (3D PDF, 11.7MB)- the resulting DWG from 3ds Max: see Block library

The resulting 3D model represented in 3ds Max can be then saved (exported) to one of the 3ds Max supported CAD file formats (DWG, DXF, OBJ, IGES, SAT, VRML, etc.).

NOTE: the plugin supports only some types of PDF files, e.g. those from 3D PDF Maker, so first try its functionality on your specific files - use the trial license of the plugin.

MaxPDF

*CAD

1.3.2017 72413× FAQ

Comments Tell a friend

applies to: 3ds Max · PDF ·

See also:
Tip 14075:	Overview of CAD formats supported in Inventor 2025 (import/export/AnyCAD).
Tip 13800:	Visually compare 3D geometry in CAD and BIM files.
Tip 12600:	Parametric 3D curves in Fusion 360.
Tip 11113:	3D PDF published from Inventor 2017 come out empty.
Tip 9972:	Create free 3D PDF output files from any CAD software.

Selected tip: Import error: No point file format match found

Back All CAD Tips

How to list Revit room areas by the DIN 277-1 standard? « | » How to publish a project from Revit to BIM 360 Glue?

Have we helped you? If you want to support the CAD Forum web service, consider buying one of our CAD applications, or our custom software development offerings, or donating via PayPal (see above). You may also add a link to your web - like this "fan" link:

Text:

FAQ

Featuring:
Generate hatch patterns automatically from your DWG drawings with
HGEN 2006 More info

Please use these tips at your own risk.
ARKANCE is not responsible for possible problems that may occur as a result of using any of these tips.

CADforum

Tips, tricks, utilities, help, how-tos and FAQ for AutoCAD, LT, Inventor, Revit, Map, Civil 3D, Fusion, Forma, 3ds Max and other Autodesk software (community support by ARKANCE). See About CADforum.

ARKANCE CZ (CAD Studio) - Autodesk Platinum Partner & Training Center & Consulting Services Partner

CONTACT:
webmaster.cz@arkance.world | tel. +420 910 970 111