How to convert an Illustrator file to a 3D model?

Question

I have been trying to convert an illustrator file to a 3D model for a few hours now, but I keep coming across the same errors.

I am using Maya, but I wouldn't mind using 3DS Max if it would fix my problem.

This is my path in Maya:

I have selected the main part of Australia and gone to Edit Curves -> Open/Close Curves to make sure all my curves are definitely closed. I then go to Surfaces -> Bevel Plus to turn it into a 3D object. Although, this is what happens:

Does anyone happen to know why it is not producing a perfect bevel of the path?

EDIT

Managed to extrude the path, although I am unable to close the faces now.

Answer 1

3DS Max Solution.

• Convert your shape to outline in Illustrator, check before exporting it if the number of points is too high go to Pathfinder Options > Remove Redundant Points, then export the shape as your desired format.

• Check if the scale of your scene is too small, 3DS Max does not work very well with minuscule objects, scale the scene up if you find it necessary.

• Check if all the vertices are at the same level (the vertices must be contained in a 2 dimensional plane) , you can fix this by applying Make Planar to the shape.

• Add a Weld modifier to the shape and make sure that all the vertices are connected.

• Go into Utilities (the hammer icon on your command panel) and run 'shape check' on the spline, if no problem are detected proceed to the next step.

• Add a STL Check Modifier, and check the shape for errors.

• Extrude the shape with Cap Start and Cap End checked and with Mesh as Output.

Everything is lost:

• In case you don't get the caps at ends try adding a Cap Holes Modifier, deselecting smooth new faces.

• Try adding a Surface Modifier.

• Check vertex by vertex that the shape is closed.