Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
A 3D modeling space appears (see Figure 21-2) where, instead of looking straight
down at the drawing area, you look at it at an angle from above.
4. To switch from 3D to the 2D world, simply reverse the steps just given.
Figure 21-2:
Ascending the Z-axis.
Untying the Ribbon and opening some palettes
Most of AutoCAD's 3D modeling tools can be accessed from the Ribbon and 3D-related
palettes. The following list introduces you to the Ribbon tabs and palettes available in
the 3D Modeling workspace (note that not all items in this list are visible in Figure 21-2):
Home tab:
Contains a subset of the most frequently used 3D tools for creating and
editing solids, surfaces, and meshes as well as user coordinate system command
options, view tools, 2D drawing and editing commands, and layer and group tools.
Solid tab:
Contains tools for creating and modifying 3D solids. I show you some of
the finer points of solid modeling in Chapter 22.
Surface tab:
Contains tools used to create, edit, and analyze NURBS surfaces.
Mesh tab:
Contains tools used to create and modify meshes, convert them to
solids, and generate live sections.
Render tab:
Contains tools to add lighting and materials to a 3D model, and gener-
ate rendered output. Chapter 23 presents the basics of rendering in AutoCAD 2012.
