Solid modeling in Autocad’s 3d interface is a simple matter – we show you how in our Autocad 3d courses.
3d solids were given a complete overhaul in Autocad 2007, making it a very flexible method of creating 3d models. We can create either primitive objects like the ones featured here in the screenshot, or create complex solids by adding and subtracting and intersecting, then modify them by adding features like holes, dimples, fillets, chamfers and bevels.
Prior to the 2007 release it was difficult to modify existing solids, but we now have an array of functions which enable us to create any shape imaginable.
The starting point of many models are the eight different 3d solid primitives available in the program – see screenshot above. Primitives are basic geometric shapes and fall into two categories: those with straight edges and those with curves. An exception to this is the Polysolid, a 3d version of the polyline which can have both straight and curved segments.
Complex solids are created in two ways. You can either combine or subtract primitives from each other, known as the Boolean operations of addition, subtraction and intersection. Or create 3d solids from closed 2d objects (profiles) through operations like lofting, sweeping or extruding. We explore all of these methods in our Autocad courses.
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