Autocad’s 3d array tool is a quick and easy method of creating multiple versions of an objects set at specified distances apart. AutoDesk has improved how we enter this data in the last couple of releases. We show you how in our Autocad 3d courses.
The Array tool in the 3d interface does not have a dialog box like in previous versions, but it’s simple and easy to use. In our example here, we have created a tiered stadium and one seat. We then use the Array tool to create multiples of the seat a certain distance apart on three levels: length, width and height.
Go to the Modify panel on the Home tab of the ribbon and choose 3d Array. Then select the object you want to array, in this example the seat. The choose Polar Array from the drop-down list.  First type in the number of items in the array, then an angle to fill, 360 degrees being the default of a full circle. Do you want to rotate the objects? Usually you do. You then specify the centre point of the array, that is the point around which your objects will rotate – this will be a point on your model with an x, y and z coordinate. You then need to specify an axis of rotation. Then you specify the number of rows – this will be concentric to the main array, with a certain distance. Then the levels are the iterations on the z-axis, again adding the space between levels.
The Rectangular array option is a bit different. For this you punch in a number for the rows, columns and levels, which correspond to the x, y and z axes. Then you enter the distance between rows. Here you need to add the width of the object and the gap between them. And repeat for columns and levels, and what you get is a 3d grid of objects. The result is impressive and easy to modify from the top ribbon.
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.
Other related Autocad 3d Blog Posts:

• Autocad 3d introduction
• Autocad 3d modeling
• Autocad 3d blocks
• Autocad 3d commands
• Autocad 3d basics