How to Use AutoCAD Design Suite 2019 for 3D Design and Visualization
AutoCAD Design Suite 2019 is a collection of software tools that help you create stunning 3D designs, visualize them in realistic scenarios, and communicate them effectively. Whether you are an architect, engineer, product designer, or media professional, AutoCAD Design Suite 2019 can help you take your projects to the next level.
In this article, we will show you how to use some of the key features of AutoCAD Design Suite 2019, such as:
- AutoCAD: The industry-standard software for 2D and 3D CAD. You can use it to create precise drawings, models, and documentation for any type of design.
- AutoCAD Raster Design: A tool that helps you edit, enhance, and convert raster images into vector data. You can use it to clean up scanned drawings, add text and annotations, or create hybrid drawings that combine raster and vector elements.
- Autodesk ReCap: A tool that helps you create 3D models from reality capture data, such as photos or scans. You can use it to import, process, and edit point clouds and meshes, or to create orthographic views and measurements.
- Autodesk 3ds Max: A tool that helps you create stunning 3D animations, renderings, and visual effects. You can use it to model complex shapes, apply realistic materials and lighting, or add dynamic simulations and effects.
- Autodesk Showcase: A tool that helps you present your 3D designs in interactive and immersive environments. You can use it to create realistic scenes, add animations and annotations, or share your presentations online or offline.
Let’s get started!
How to Create a 3D Model in AutoCAD
AutoCAD is the core software of AutoCAD Design Suite 2019. It allows you to create 2D drawings and 3D models with a variety of tools and commands. You can also access specialized toolsets for different industries, such as architecture, mechanical engineering, electrical design, and more.
To create a 3D model in AutoCAD, you need to follow these steps:
- Start a new drawing or open an existing one.
- Switch to a 3D modeling workspace by clicking on the gear icon at the bottom right corner of the screen and selecting “3D Modeling”.
- Create a solid or surface object by using one of the following methods:
- Use the solid or surface commands on the Home tab of the ribbon. For example, you can use the BOX command to create a rectangular solid, or the CONE command to create a conical surface.
- Use the extrude or revolve commands on the Solid or Surface tab of the ribbon. For example, you can use the EXTRUDE command to create a solid or surface by extending a 2D shape along a path, or the REVOLVE command to create a solid or surface by rotating a 2D shape around an axis.
- Use the sweep or loft commands on the Solid or Surface tab of the ribbon. For example, you can use the SWEEP command to create a solid or surface by moving a 2D shape along a curve, or the LOFT command to create a solid or surface by blending multiple 2D shapes.
- Modify your object by using one of the following methods:
- Use the modify commands on the Home tab of the ribbon. For example, you can use the MOVE command to move your object to a different location, or the ROTATE command to rotate your object around an axis.
- Use the solid editing commands on the Solid tab of the ribbon. For example, you can use the FILLET command to round off sharp edges of your solid object, or the SHELL command to hollow out your solid object.
- Use the surface editing commands on the Surface tab of the ribbon. For example, you can use the TRIM command to cut off parts of your surface object that intersect with another object, or the OFFSETSURFACE command to create a parallel surface at a specified distance from your surface object.