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Preliminary design
2D drafts or sketches that you have entered in the Draft module form a very good basis for three-dimensional solid modeling. As the 2D elements are still missing the third dimension, you have to convert them to 3D elements first so that they can be edited in the 3D Modeling module.
To do this, use the 
Convert Elements tool, 2D to 3D Lines option.
Designing in 3D
When designing new solids, it is best to begin on or near to the origin.
For designing in 3D, it is best if you use defined points such as the start and end points of a line, the corner or edge of a cube, or you use the tools on the Point Assistant in order to design new points based on existing ones. Also, with a suitable solid, you can enter the relevant delta X, Y and Z values starting from the global point (origin).
Snapping to existing points is easier when the workspace is divided into the standard 3-viewport arrangement: this way, you can always see the solid in plan, perspective and elevation. The 3D crosshairs that adapt intelligently to the view and the different colors used for the positive X, Y and Z-axes help you navigate in 3D space.
Preview functions provide additional support as you work in three-dimensional space: As soon as the crosshairs snap or align to a defined point, a preview of the 3D element is displayed.
Don't forget: all roads lead to Rome! There are usually several ways of obtaining the same solid. Experiment with the tools until you find what works best for you!
Modifying elements
Determining exact values and angles when resizing and rotating 3D solids can sometimes be a difficult operation; moreover, the elements frequently need to be joined with others. Special 3D tools are provided for resizing and rotating operations; they work on the basis of fixed points, direction points and reference lines – i.e. it is not necessary to enter exact values.
From standard solids to complex solids
Allplan has its own set of tools for designing standard solids like spheres, pyramids, cones, and cubes.
More complex solids can easily be assembled using these basic elements by joining the standard solids or by subtracting them from each other. This approach is also known as the "Boolean operations" approach.
For example, you can create a pipe by subtracting two concentric cylinders (one with the outer diameter of the pipe and one with the inner diameter) from each other.
Union
(A) 2 solids
(B) 1 solid
Ruled solids
Rules solids are best employed as a means of modeling solids delimited by two similar surfaces (with the same number of surfaces!). The surfaces do not have to be parallel and can have "holes".
Ruled solid with opening:
(A) Surface 1
(B) Surface 2
Solids of revolution
Donut-shaped solids are best created as a solid of revolution: A planar outline of any shape is revolved about an axis.
(A) Plan: outline and axis
(B) Elevation
(C) Parallel projection
Polyline sweep solids
Polyline sweep solids provide a wide range of options for modeling solids: An outline is swept along a path to form the new solid.
The path should be continuous and may not include any break or branches. You can also use a 3D surface for the path. The path can be open or closed and does not have to be planar.
(A) Path
(B) Outline
(C) Torsion is not corrected
(D) Torsion is corrected
Tessellated solids based on contours
Tessellated solids are very flexible when it is a question of modeling solids between open or closed contours. The number of points or corners on the boundary lines may differ; the function can insert new points to smooth the sides of the solids.
Extruding 3D surfaces and surfaces of solids
The 
Extrude tool provides additional support as you work in three dimensions: modeling solids can be precise or intuitive. You can turn any existing 3D surfaces into solids or draw any outlines on surfaces of solids and then model these outlines freely in three dimensions: the result is always a 3D solid.
Compatibility with other modules
You can convert three-dimensional data created in other modules of the Architecture family or in the Digital Terrain Model module to 3D elements and solids at any time.
Animation
With the help of the presentation modules and of the Animation module in particular, you can give your 3D solids and ‑surfaces a realistic look:
Every solid can be assigned material textures and surface properties; animated movies of urban planning models or high-resolution rendered images of modeled details including reflection, luster and shadows are possible at any time.
Data from the modules in the Architecture family
Prior to using the Animation module to visualize a large building that you have created with the architecture modules, you can convert a copy of the building model to 3D in order to save data. The architectural elements will lose some of their "intelligent" properties in the process, but the volume of data will be smaller.
Compatibility with modules in the Architecture family
Compatibility with the modules in the Architecture family is ensured at all times:
Compatibility with modules in the Engineering family
With the 3D Modeling module you can create a 3D general arrangement drawing that does not have any architectural components like columns, beams and walls. A 3D general arrangement drawing facilitates the process of applying reinforcement in "Reinforce with Model" mode.
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