Introduction to AutoCAD 3D Commands
AutoCAD is three-dimensional CAD software used commercially worldwide and was developed by Autodesk in 1982. It is also available as a mobile and web app, marketed as AutoCAD 360. AutoCAD offers an exclusive range of commands and functions for 3D and 2D modeling and drawing with a fantastic set of tools. 3D is all about the third Z coordinate. While working in 2D, the user only cares for the X and Y axis; most of the time, coordinates are not used. Whereas, while working with 3D, the user uses all the coordinates, making their work relatively easier.
Why do I need a 3D Technology?
Today, technology has made it possible to link our imagination a bit closer to reality, and it can be done through 3D modeling, printing, rendering, and more. A vast number of software is available in the market that offer users to bring their imagination into reality. Some of the software are freeware, while some are priced. With every update and continuous discovery, people are more attracted to the technology that allows them to make and create vivid designs. The need for 3D is a necessary part of the design world. Without it, the design almost looks like a sketch. Moreover, 3D is a boost for all interior designers and architects who can design life-like models of any building, office, or exterior with some interiors like furniture, walls, show pieces, and more.
3D modeling
The process of creating a mathematical representation of any surface of an object in three dimensions by using special softwares is called 3D modeling. A 3D model can even be represented as a two-dimensional image using 3D rendering. The user can also create 3D models physically using 3D printers. Many softwares are used to create 3D models like AutoCAD, MAX, MAYA, etc. These software applications require specialized 3D rendering PCs, such as those designed by Renderboxes.
3D models are in high demand by game developers as well. Some computer games use already rendered images of 3D models known as sprites. This helps the designer view the model in all directions, and they can ensure that the object created is like the original one. Presently, 3D models are also used by the movie industry; they use them as objects for animated and real-life pictures. The movie and gaming industry extensively utilizes 3D models, renders, and effects due to the high demand for VFX. The medical industry also uses 3D models of organs.
Some of the benefits of 3D modeling are: –
- Using 3D models, users can get a more evocative design, and they can even see the virtual images of their projects.
- An architectural 3D model is much more exciting and realistic than a 2D model.
- The experience that a 3D model gives is much more compelling and satisfying to the user than viewing a 2D drawing. The user can see the impact of all the minor and significant changes made in a 3D model. This also aids in the better finishing of the designs without wasting time and money.
- 3D models are a fantastic advantage to interior designers as they create and modify 3D interiors and exteriors per their needs and choices.
- In a 3D design, the user gets to know the physical dimensions of the objects and their distance from other objects in the total layout. This feature helps enormously to see and modify arrangements of objects based on their sizes.
- Some artists use a mixture of 3D modeling for best results by editing the 2D computer-rendered images from the 3D model.
Top AutoCAD 3D Commands
Let us look at the top commands, which are as follows:
Revolve
Location: Draw > Modeling > Revolve
This AutoCAD 3D command creates a 3D solid by revolving a 2D object around an axis.
Extrude
Location: Draw > Modeling > Extrude
This AutoCAD 3D Extrude command allows the user to create a 3D object by extruding a 2D face along a line or path. To illustrate, one can create a cylinder in AutoCAD by selecting a 2D circle and extruding it along a path.
Sweep
Location: Draw > Modeling > Sweep
This command helps the user to extrude the 2D objects without the 2D face being orthogonal to the beginning of the path.
Union
Location: Modify > Solids Editing > Union
This AutoCAD 3D command allows the user to combine two objects, converting them into one single object.
Subtract
Location: Modify > Solids Editing > Subtract
This command is opposite to the union command; this command works when there is a common area in both objects. Then, this command subtracts object A from object B.
Intersect
Location: Modify > Solid Editing > Intersect
This AutoCAD 3D command leaves the user with the common area for both objects.
3D Drawing Tools
Users primarily employ AutoCAD for generating 2D sketches. Although 3D objects can be created in AutoCAD, its interface is primarily based on a flat, sketch-based design. There is a wide range of pre-defined 3D objects in AutoCAD. These objects are cylinders, spheres and wedges, and many more. But then, users use 2D objects and modify them using the 3D commands accordingly. So, the users use AutoCAD 3D commands like Extrude, Sweep, Revolve, and Union.
Also, the user must know the importance of the Viewport feature if they are working on 3D Models. The viewport command allows users to split the drawing area into different windows to project multiple model views. These include the object’s top, front, and left/right views. This feature works great for the user and helps them observe the model differently.
Conclusion – AutoCAD 3D Commands
AutoCAD 3D Commands is a lengthy and challenging software for beginners. Yet, it is beneficial and has a lot of benefits. It is a powerful CAD software used for architectural design and mechanical engineering. It has one of the best toolboxes and functions to support 2D drawings. However, it is impressive with 3D design, with its 3D rendering feature that gives stunning and vivid outputs.
Recommended Articles
This has been a guide to AutoCAD 3D Commands. Here, we have discussed different AutoCAD 3D commands like Extrude, Sweep, Revolve, Union, Subtract, and Intersect. You may also look at the following article to learn more –
