Autocad to Max importer, block problem

[molson]

Does anyone know how to import a dwg into max and keep the blocks intact? When I import a dwg it can will create groups that represent the block but the insertion point (pivot point) is in the center of the object. the rotation of that object is always zero as well. Is there any importer out there that will treat blocks correctly?

 

Thanks,

 

Mark

[ZepSOFD]

Mark,

When you import the .dwg have you tried unchecking "Convert Blocks to Group" and "Group Common Objects" in the import dialog box?

 

tom

[molson]

ZepSOFD,

Thanks for the reply!

 

Yes I did try that. I think I tried every combination availible. I beleive that getting the block insertion points correct using MAX's dwg importer is imposssible. Oh well. If anyone knows of a better importer please let me know.

 

 

Mark

[MegaPixel]

I use Cad geometry all of the time in MAX. It's the only way I can generate complex shapes with precision control. Anyhow, the location of the origin in your CAD file should be the same as it's location in MAX. Also, I use the "Block by Layer" option when importing. I set my autocad dwg. up so that everything I want on a seperate block, is on its own layer. I hope that helps you some.

[molson]

Thanks for the reply MegaPixel.

You are talking about the "derive Object by layer" option in the dwg importer. That works fine. If you have blocks in your Autocad drawing and import them into Max using the "Convert blocks to groups" option the blocks do indeed get converted to groups but the insertion point,(pivot point in Max) is in the center of the object NOT the intended point.

 

However if you select the group and go to the Hierarchy panel and select "affect pivot only" then push the button "Reset Pivot" it returns to the correct insertion point. so everthing works now.

 

Mark