AE doesn't do 3d. It will work it 3d space but the objects within the space are 2D. A lot of people will joke that AE is a 2.5d app. Pick a 3d app and knuckle down or hire somone to do it if your deadline is approaching.
Edit: As an alternative you can use Zaxworks within AE. Cue someone that actually uses Zaxworks to chime in.