Modeling in 3D

You’ll begin by building a 3D model of the cabin, using several techniques for creating 3D solids and surfaces. When you use solid-modeling tools, the objects you create are solid, like lumps of clay. They can be added together or subtracted from one another to form more-complex shapes. By contrast, 3D surfaces are composites of two-dimensional planes that stretch over a frame of lines the way a tent surface stretches over the frame inside.

As you construct these 3D objects, you’ll become more familiar with the user coordinate system (UCS), learn how it’s used with 3D, and begin using the basic methods of viewing a 3D model.

Setting Up the 3D Workspace and Environment

So far, you’ve been using the Drafting & Annotation workspace to create your drawings. Your first task in transitioning into 3D begins by switching to a new workspace for working in 3D and changing how AutoCAD displays the available tools.