Q:

How do I create a 3D model based on 2D drawings?

I'm a programmer. I have a great draftsman, but I don't know how to take his drawings to 3D.
My gut feeling is to have him draw different view angles, then work based on those, adding each dimension to the model turn. But really I'm just guessing here.
How do I do this methodically and correctly?

A:

As Tim Holt said, you need a 3D modeler in order to translate the 2D designs into models. However, if you're willing to try your hand at modeling, the basic process generally goes like this:

Add the image you're working from to the 3D scene so that you can add vertices in front of it. Your modeling program may have a built in method for this, otherwise use a regular plane with the image as a texture.
Set your view so that you are viewing the image flat (camera's direction vector is perpendicular to the image)
If possible, follow step 1 and 2 for your alternative-angle images at an appropriate angle to the original and set up extra camera views so you can see both or all images  from the correct angle simultaneously.
Start adding vertices to your model that match up to the image outlines.
Use your supplementary images to make any additional vertices you need, and to position your vertices from step 4 in the third dimension.

There are tool-specific and more in-depth tutorials available on the web.

A:

The solution is not in coding, it's in talent.  Bring someone into your team who's a 3d modeller.  They will be able to take the 2d concept sketches and turn them into 3d models, just as you (as a programmer) can take someone's idea of an algorithm and turn it into code.

