Expert: Bill DeShawn - 1/16/2008

Question
Hi,
I have an AEC 3d dwg file that I want to flatten, so it ends up like a 2d drawing. I have tried explode command, but it doesn't work/give the result I want. I'm using autocad 2008.
Is there any smart ways to do this?

Answer
Hans:
Sorry to disappoint you.  If the drawing was made in either ADT or AutoCAD Architecture, or REVIT, in order to make it 2D, you practically need to redraw it.  You don't have to, but you probably should just to make editable with your tools.  But if you insist on trying, you can download the appropriate Object Enabler from Autodesk that will enable you to see and do some minor, very limited manipulations of the objects.  Pretty much, all you will be able to do is explode, copy and erase.  It sounds like you might have tried this already.  I suggest that you get hard copies (prints) and get started with some "power drafting" and get that job redrawn in 2-D.  Screwing around with the AEC drawing will not speed up your drafting time unless you get AutoCAD Architecture.
Sorry I don't have better news
Bill DeShawn
http://my.sterling.net/~bdeshawn