Autocad 3d sweep

by Design Workshop Sydney

Mar9

Sweeping objects in Autocad 3d modeling is a fairly simple process, and one of the many functions we explore in detail in our Autocad 3d courses.  autocad-3d-sweep
In this example we have created a drive belt using the Sweep function, and created the pulley wheels using the Revolve function.
To create a 3d solid by sweeping, you select a 2d closed shape (profile) and send it along a path. The path can be open, like a line or helix, or closed like a circle or closed polyline. This is also useful for creating objects like tubes or threads on a mechanical fastener.
To draw the Sweep path for the drive belt path, go to the Top View and change the Visual Style to 2D Wireframe. Then using the Polyline tool draw a horizontal line from the 0,0 point 220mm in length. Then @173<136 and close. These are the positions of the three wheel axes. Note: It’s best to use the Polyline tool rather than the Line tool since the 3d object will have less faces and therefore will render faster and use less memory. We know the wheel radius is 53mm, therefore Offset the triangle by 53. And Fillet the corners by 53mm.
To draw the Belt profile go to the Right View. Near the belt path draw a horizontal line with the Polyline tool 8mm in length. Then @9.06<96, then draw the top horizontal line 6mm in length. Click on the first point and type C > Enter to close the polyline (this last step is important or the corner will not fillet. And fillet the corners by 0.5mm.
The final step is to select the Sweep tool from the Ribbon tab, then click on the path, then the profile – the 3d belt is created instantly. We will create the pulley wheels in another blog post.
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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