Autocad 3D array - Graphic Design Courses

Polysolids are similar to 2D Polylines in that they are made up of a combination of straight and curved segments. Any variety of objects can be created when combined with tools like the 3D Array tool. We show you how in our Autocad 3D training courses.
The Polysolid command allows you to create a variety of shapes, like straight hollow tubes or U-channels. To create the roller conveyor here we first create one roller as follows: select the Cylinder tool > Radius 245, Height 4760. The end axle pieces are cylinders of radius 2. 70, Height 120. Then array this object 10 times using the Rectangular array tool, or on the Mac: Modify > 3D Operations > 3D Array tool > R (for Rectangular) > 1 (Row) > 10 (Columns) > 1 (Level) > Distance: 550. Note that the distance is the large radius plus the space between the Rollers.
To create the frame go to the Top View and select the Polyline tool. Make sure Ortho is on (F8), and create a U-shaped polyline of dimensions 5500 x 4980, as above.
Next select the Polysolid tool > specify Height of 400 and Width of 20. Then type O for Object and select the U-shape path. Use the Move tool to align the Frame with the rollers. Then type GROUP into the Command line to group the objects; you could later use the Explode tool to undo the grouping.
This method could also be used to create Skirting Board in an architectural model. Note that if your Grid and X-Y plane become rotated at any point, just type UCS into the Command line and choose W to return to the World Coordinate System.
The 3d interface in Autocad is user-friendly and easy to learn, and we take time to teach a broad range of applications in our classes including modeling, materials, lighting and animation. See many examples of our clients’ work on our Facebook page. For more information there are lots of resources on the web, but try the Autodesk site to begin with: www.autodesk.com. Support options and user forums are also available from the home page.
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