Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
AutoCAD suppor ts stereolithography through the Expor t and Stlout commands. T These commands
generate an STL file, which can be used with a
Stereolithograph Apparatus (SLA)
to generate a model.
You must first create a 3D solid model in AutoCAD. Then you can use the Export Data dialog box to
export your drawing in the STL format. Choose File
Export from the menu bar, and make sure
the File Format pop-up menu shows Lithography (*.stl) before you click the Save button.
The AutoCAD 3D solids are translated into a set of triangular-faceted meshes in the STL file. You
can use the Smoothness For 3D Printing/Rendering setting in the Document Settings tab of the
Application Preferences dialog box to control the fineness of these meshes. See Chapter 21 for more
information on this setting.
The Bottom Line
Understand solid modeling.
Solid modeling lets you build 3D models by creating and join-
ing 3D shapes called solids. There are several built-in solid shapes called primitives, and you
can create others using the Extrude tool.
Master It
Name some of the built-in solid primitives available in AutoCAD.
Create solid forms.
You can use Boolean operations to sculpt 3D solids into the shape you
want. Two solids can be joined to form a more complex one, or you can remove one solid
from another.
Master It
Name the three Boolean operations you can use on solids.
Create complex solids.
Besides the primitives, you can create your own shapes based on
2D polylines.
Master It
Name three tools that let you convert closed polylines and circles into
3D solids.
Edit solids.
Once you've created a solid, you can make changes to it using the solid-editing
tools offered on the Solids - Edit tool group or the Modify
Solid Editing submenu on the
menu bar.
Master It
Name at least four of the tools found on the Solids - Edit tool group.
Streamline the 2D drawing process.
You can create 3D orthogonal views of your 3D model
to create standard 2D mechanical drawings.
Master It
What is the name of the tool in the Tool Sets palette that lets you create a
2D drawing of a 3D model?
Visualize solids.
In addition to viewing your 3D model in a number of different orienta-
tions, you can view it as if it were transparent or cut in half.
Master It
What is the name of the command that lets you create a cut view of your
3D model?
