AutoCAD: 3D Skills

Basic 3D Concepts

• Types of 3D models
• Basic viewing in 3D, rotating the view
• Change the display of your model by changing the visual style (i.e., wireframe, realistic, conceptual)
• Setting the viewport display

Creating Solid Primitives

• Extrude, revolve, sweep and loft a 2D shape to create a 3D model
• How to decide on the best method for creating your model
• Quickly create multi-sided models by pressing or pulling a bounded area, 2D curves and 3D curves

Creating Composite Solids

• Create accurate and detailed solid models by joining, subtracting and intersecting basic shapes

Working in 3D Space

• How to change the co-ordinate system
• Control the UCS icon display
• Use dynamic feedback
• Work with 3D object snaps

Adding Detail

• Round and bevel the edges of your model
• Slice material away from your model
• Split a model into two separate models

Converting Objects

• Convert 2D geometry to 3D surfaces and solids
• Thicken a surface to create a model

3D Editing Skills

• Use your model’s history to make editing easier
• Quickly modify 3D solids in diverse ways using 3D grips
• Understand the options and workflow for extruding a model face
• 2D commands that are very different in 3D: move, offset, delete, rotate, align, mirror, array
• How to shell a solid model

Working with Point Clouds

• Bring scanned 3D images into your model with AutoCAD’s point cloud tools, adjust point cloud density and colour intensity
• Use Autodesk Recap – the new tool for cleaning, organising and visualising your laser scan datasets and digital photographs

Getting 2D Information from your Model

• Create and manipulate section planes to view the information you want in 2D or 3D
• Generate 2D cross sections based on the planes you define

Checking Your Model

• Use Shape Manager to validate your model
• View the mass property data of your model
• Save time doing calculations by using your model information