AutoCAD 3D

Introduction:

AutoCAD is a computer-aided design (CAD) software developed by Autodesk that allows

users to create precise 2D and 3D drawings. While AutoCAD is widely used for 2D drafting, its
3D modeling capabilities enable users to design complex structures, visualize projects, and create
detailed models. AutoCAD 3D provides tools for creating solid, surface, and mesh models, making
it useful in fields like architecture, interior design, mechanical engineering, and product design. It
also allows users to apply materials, lighting, and rendering to produce realistic visualizations of
designs.

Aim:

To develop the skills required for creating, modifying, and visualizing three-dimensional (3D)
models using AutoCAD, enabling students to design and represent objects and structures
efficiently.

Objectives:

• To understand the AutoCAD 3D interface and workspace.

• To learn different 3D modeling techniques, including Wireframe, Surface, and Solid
modeling.
• To apply 3D coordinate systems and navigation tools for accurate modeling.
• To use commands like Extrude, Revolve, Loft, and Sweep to create 3D objects.
• To apply materials, lighting, and rendering for realistic visualization.
• To convert 3D models into 2D drawings for documentation.
• To develop problem-solving skills through real-world 3D projects.
• To explore the applications of AutoCAD 3D in architecture, engineering, and
manufacturing.
 Features of AutoCAD 3D:

➢ 3D Modeling Tools – Provides tools for solid, surface, and mesh modeling.
➢ 3D Navigation & View Controls – Includes 3D orbit, walk-through, and view
manipulation.
➢ Material & Texture Mapping – Enables the application of materials for realistic
visualization.
➢ Lighting & Rendering – Helps in creating photo-realistic images of 3D models.
➢ Sectioning & Slicing Tools – Allows users to cut sections for better visualization.
➢ 3D Printing Support – Exports STL files for 3D printing applications.
➢ Parametric Constraints – Ensures geometric accuracy and control over design
modifications.
➢ Integration with Other Software – Supports file formats like .dwg, .dxf, .stl, .step, and .iges
for use in other CAD and visualization software.

Applications of AutoCAD 3D:

▪ Architecture & Interior Design – Used for 3D building models, furniture, and space
planning.
▪ Engineering & Manufacturing – Helps in machine parts modeling, product design, and
industrial components.
▪ Civil Engineering – Useful for terrain modeling, site plans, and infrastructure design.
▪ Animation & Game Design – Used for creating 3D environments and objects.
▪ Automobile & Aerospace Industry – Helps in designing vehicle components and
simulations.
▪ Jewelry & Fashion Design – Used for designing 3D models of accessories and apparel.
▪ Medical Applications – Helps in creating 3D anatomical models for analysis.
▪ 3D Printing – Converts 3D designs into physical prototypes.
 Unit I

Exercise 1: Draw Different Types of Lines

Objective:
To practice drawing and understanding various types of lines in AutoCAD, a widely used CAD
software, for representing edges, boundaries, and guidelines in technical drawings.

Procedure (Detailed Explanation):

1. Launch AutoCAD:
o Open AutoCAD software and create a new drawing file.
o Set up the drawing units by typing UNITS in the command bar and configuring
the desired units.
2. Drawing Lines in AutoCAD:
Follow these steps to draw different types of lines:
o Horizontal Line:
▪ Type LINE in the command bar and press Enter.
▪ Click anywhere in the drawing area to specify the first point.
▪ Move the cursor horizontally and type the desired length (e.g., 100 units).
▪ Press Enter to complete the line.
o Vertical Line:
▪ Repeat the same steps as for the horizontal line, but move the cursor
vertically to specify the line direction.
▪ Type the length of the line and press Enter.
o Diagonal Line:
▪ Use the LINE command and specify the start point.
▪ Move the cursor diagonally and type the desired length and angle using
polar coordinates (e.g., @100<45).
▪ Press Enter to complete the line.
 o Dotted Line:
▪ Type PLINE in the command bar and press Enter to create a polyline.
▪ Draw the line as usual, then modify its appearance:
▪ Select the line, go to the Properties Palette (type
PROPERTIES), and change the Linetype to Hidden or Dashed.
▪ If the desired linetype is not available, type LINETYPE, load the
dotted linetype, and apply it.
3. Labeling Lines in AutoCAD:
o Use the TEXT or MTEXT command to add labels near each line.
o Example: “Horizontal Line,” “Vertical Line,” “Diagonal Line,” or “Dotted Line.”
4. Save the Drawing:
o Save the drawing by typing SAVE and choosing an appropriate file name and
location.

Results

Exercise 2: Dimensioning Style

Objective:
To apply various dimensioning styles and customize them in AutoCAD for creating precise and
professional technical drawings. This exercise ensures an understanding of different dimension
types and how to configure their properties to meet drafting standards.

Procedure

1. Create a Simple 2D Object:

o Open AutoCAD and create a new drawing.
o Use the RECTANGLE command to draw a rectangle or the CIRCLE command
to create a circle.
▪ For a rectangle: Type RECTANGLE, press Enter, click to specify the first
corner, then type the dimensions (e.g., 100,50) and press Enter.
▪ For a circle: Type CIRCLE, press Enter, click to specify the center, then
type the radius (e.g., 50) and press Enter.

2. Add Dimensions to the Object:

o Linear Dimensions:
▪ Type DIMLINEAR in the command bar and press Enter.
▪ Select the horizontal edge of the rectangle, click to place the dimension line,
and press Enter.
▪ Repeat for the vertical edge.
▪ Purpose: Linear dimensions are used to measure the length of horizontal
and vertical edges.
o Angular Dimensions:
▪ Type DIMANGULAR in the command bar and press Enter.
▪ Select two lines that form an angle (e.g., corners of a rectangle).
▪ Click to place the angular dimension text.
▪ Purpose: Angular dimensions are used to measure angles between two
intersecting lines or edges.
o Radius and Diameter Dimensions:
▪ For a circle or arc, type DIMRADIUS or DIMDIAMETER in the
command bar and press Enter.
▪ Select the circle or arc, and click to place the dimension line.
 ▪ Purpose: Radius and diameter dimensions are essential for defining the size
of circular objects.

3. Customize Dimension Settings:

o Adjust Lines and Arrow Tab:
▪ Open the Dimension Style Manager by typing DIMSTYLE and pressing
Enter.
▪ Select the current dimension style (e.g., Standard) and click Modify.
▪ Go to the Lines and Arrow Tab to adjust:
▪ Arrowhead Type and Size: Change the arrow style (e.g., closed
filled) and size to make it more visible.
▪ Extension Lines: Adjust the gap between the object and extension
lines.
o Modify Fit Tab:
▪ In the Dimension Style Manager, navigate to the Fit Tab.
▪ Adjust the text placement to ensure that dimensions fit properly in tight
spaces.
▪ Example: Place the text inside or outside the dimension line
depending on the drawing requirement.
o Set Primary Units:
▪ In the Dimension Style Manager, go to the Primary Units Tab.
▪ Choose the desired unit type: Metric (millimeters) or Imperial (inches).
▪ Set precision (e.g., 0.00 or 0.000) based on the drawing requirement.
o Add Tolerances Using Alternate Units:
▪ In the Alternate Units Tab, enable alternate units to display dimensions in
two units simultaneously (e.g., mm and inches).
▪ Define tolerances for manufacturing accuracy by setting upper and lower
limits.

4. Save and Annotate:

o Save the drawing by typing SAVE in the command bar and providing an
appropriate file name.
 o Add labels or annotations to explain the dimensions applied, if required.

Results
Exercise 3: Hatching

Objective:
To use various hatching patterns in AutoCAD to differentiate materials and regions in 2D technical
drawings. This exercise enhances the ability to represent diverse materials and emphasize specific
areas within a drawing.

Procedure:

1. Draw a Closed 2D Shape:

o Open AutoCAD and create a new drawing.
o Use the following commands to draw closed shapes:
▪ RECTANGLE: Type RECTANGLE in the command bar, press Enter,
and specify two opposite corners of the rectangle.
▪ CIRCLE: Type CIRCLE, press Enter, specify the center point, and type
the radius.
▪ POLYGON: Type POLYGON, press Enter, specify the number of sides,
and draw the shape.
o Ensure that all shapes are closed, as hatching requires closed boundaries.

2. Apply Hatch Patterns:

o Type HATCH in the command bar and press Enter.
o The Hatch Creation tab will open.
o In the Properties Panel, select a hatch pattern from the available options (e.g.,
solid, diagonal lines, crosshatch). Examples:
▪ SOLID: Fills the shape with a solid color or pattern.
▪ ANSI31: Diagonal lines commonly used to represent materials like
concrete.
▪ ANSI37: Crosshatch pattern often used for metals.
o Click inside the closed shape to apply the hatch pattern.

3. Adjust Hatch Scale and Angle:

o After applying the hatch pattern, adjust its properties as needed:
 ▪ Scale: In the Hatch Creation tab, find the Scale option to resize the hatch
pattern. Increase or decrease the value to fit the pattern within the shape.
For instance, a larger scale is used for larger shapes, while a smaller scale
is suitable for detailed drawings.
▪ Angle: Use the Angle option to rotate the hatch pattern. For example, a
diagonal hatch can be adjusted to align with a specific design feature.
o Preview the changes before finalizing.

4. Finalization and Save:

o Ensure that the hatch patterns are applied accurately and enhance the readability of
the drawing.
o Save the drawing by typing SAVE and providing a suitable file name.

Results
Exercise 4: Blocking

Objective:
To learn the process of creating, saving, inserting, and editing reusable drawing elements in
AutoCAD using blocks. This exercise helps in improving efficiency and consistency in managing
repetitive elements in technical drawings.

Procedure (Detailed Explanation):

1. Draw a Simple Object:

o Open AutoCAD and create a new drawing.
o Use basic drawing tools to create a simple object, such as a table or chair:
▪ Table: Use the RECTANGLE command to draw the tabletop and LINE
or RECTANGLE commands to create the legs.
▪ Chair: Draw the seat using RECTANGLE and add back support and legs
using LINE or POLYLINE commands.

2. Convert the Object into a Block:

o Type BLOCK in the command bar and press Enter to open the Block Definition
dialog box.
o Block Creation Steps:
▪ Name: Assign a unique name to the block (e.g., "Table_Block" or
"Chair_Block").
▪ Base Point: Click the Pick Point button and specify a base point for the
block. This point will be used as the insertion point when placing the block
in other drawings.
▪ Select Objects: Click the Select Objects button, select the parts of the
object you created, and press Enter.
▪ Options: Ensure the Retain or Convert to Block option is selected to keep
the original object.
▪ Click OK to create the block.
Results
Exercise 5: Draw a Floor Plan Using Layers, Hatching, and Gradient

Objective:
The objective of this exercise is to develop a floor plan using advanced tools such as layers,
hatching, and gradients. This task allows you to create detailed and professional 2D floor plans
with proper organization and visual differentiation.

Procedure:

1. Setting Up Layers:
o Begin by setting up layers for different elements of the floor plan. Use layers for
walls, doors, windows, furniture, and any other components that need to be
represented.
o Each layer should have a unique color for easy identification. For example:
▪ Walls: Use a dark color like black or dark gray.
▪ Doors and windows: Choose a different color like blue or green.
▪ Furniture: Select colors that stand out, such as light brown for tables, dark
gray for couches, etc.
2. Drawing the Floor Plan:
o Start by drawing the basic shape of the room. You can choose a simple space like
a living room or bedroom.
o Draw the walls of the room, ensuring they are represented accurately in your chosen
layer.
o Add doors and windows, placing them according to the layout requirements. Ensure
that they are drawn on the designated layers for easy distinction.
3. Applying Hatching:
o Use hatching to differentiate between materials used in the floor plan. For example:
▪ Apply a hatching pattern to represent the walls (e.g., diagonal lines or a
brick pattern) to visually distinguish them from other elements.
▪ For flooring, you could use a tile pattern or a different hatching style.
o Ensure that each material or element is clearly identifiable by its unique hatching
style.
 4. Using Gradient Fills:
o Utilize gradient fills to highlight specific areas or regions within the floor plan. For
instance:
▪ You could apply a gradient fill to emphasize areas like a living room or a
specific section of the room, such as the dining area.
▪ Gradients can also help differentiate between different zones within a room
or between different functional areas.
5. Adding Dimensions and Labels:
o Include dimensions for all walls, doors, and windows to ensure the floor plan is to
scale.
o Add labels to identify rooms and specific features. This could include labeling the
living room, bedroom, kitchen, etc., as well as any other key features (e.g., electrical
outlets, seating arrangements).
o Be sure to use legible text and dimension lines to ensure clarity and readability.

Results
 UNIT II

Exercise 1: Creating 3D Solids Using Standard Primitives

Objective:
The objective of this exercise is to familiarize students with creating 3D solids using standard
primitives such as Box, Wedge, Cylinder, Sphere, Cone, Torus, and Pyramid. These basic shapes
are fundamental building blocks that can be combined and modified to create more complex 3D
models used in design and architecture.

Procedure:

1. Creating the Box:

o Select the Box tool from the 3D primitives menu.
o Click and drag to specify the base dimensions (length and width), then enter the
height for the solid box.
 o The box will appear as a rectangular solid, which can be manipulated further for
various designs.
2. Creating the Wedge:
o Select the Wedge tool from the 3D primitives menu.
o Click to define the base corner of the wedge and drag the shape to adjust its size.
o Use the side handles to manipulate the angle and the dimensions of the wedge,
creating a tapered solid shape.
3. Creating the Cylinder:
o Select the Cylinder tool.
o Click to define the center of the base, then drag out to specify the radius.
o Use the cursor to set the height, creating a solid with a circular base and uniform
height.
4. Creating the Sphere:
o Select the Sphere tool from the 3D primitives menu.
o Click to define the center of the sphere and drag to adjust its radius.
o The sphere will appear as a perfectly round solid in 3D space, which can be
further used for various design purposes.
5. Creating the Cone:
o Choose the Cone tool from the 3D primitives list.
o Click to set the base of the cone and drag to define the radius.
o Drag upwards to set the height and create a tapered cone shape with a circular
base.
6. Creating the Torus:
o Select the Torus tool from the primitives menu.
o Click to set the center of the ring, then drag out to define the outer radius.
o Adjust the thickness of the torus by specifying the inner radius, creating a ring-
shaped 3D object.
7. Creating the Pyramid:
o Choose the Pyramid tool from the primitives list.
o Click to define the base of the pyramid, and drag to adjust the width and length of
the base.
 o Specify the height, and the pyramid will form with a square base and triangular
sides meeting at the apex.

RESULTS:
Exercise 2: Designing a Chair Using Basic Solid Primitives:

Objective:
The objective of this exercise is to design a 3D chair using basic solid primitives like Box,
Cylinder, and Wedge. This task will help you understand how to combine and manipulate simple
shapes to create a functional 3D model of a chair.

Procedure:

1. Creating the Seat and Backrest:

o Begin by using the Box tool to create the seat of the chair. Define the length and
width for the seat and adjust the height to represent the thickness of the seat.
o Create the backrest using another Box. The backrest should have the same length
and width as the seat, but a taller height for sufficient support. Position the
backrest behind the seat, ensuring it is centered and stands upright.
2. Creating the Legs:
o Use the Cylinder tool to create the four legs of the chair. Set the radius and height
of the cylinders to form the legs. Position the legs at each of the four corners of
the seat to ensure balance and alignment.
o Adjust the position of the legs as needed to make sure the chair is stable and the
legs are at an appropriate height.
3. Creating the Armrests:
o Use the Cylinder tool again to create the armrests. Position the armrests on both
sides of the seat at the desired height and angle for comfort.
o Alternatively, you can use the Box or Wedge tool to create the armrests if you
prefer a more rectangular or tapered design. Place the armrests on the sides of the
seat, ensuring they are aligned with the backrest.

Results:
Exercise 3: Designing a Bed Using Basic Solid Primitives:
Objective:
The objective of this exercise is to design a 3D model of a bed using basic solid primitives such
as Box and Cylinder. Students will learn how to combine and manipulate simple shapes to create
a functional 3D representation of a bed.

Procedure:

1. Creating the Mattress and Frame:

o Start by using the Box tool to create the mattress. Define the length, width, and
height to form a rectangular shape that represents the mattress. The height should
be relatively thin compared to the length and width.
o Use another Box to form the frame of the bed. The frame should be larger than
the mattress, with a height that gives the bed structure and support. Position the
frame slightly below the mattress to ensure they align properly.

2. Creating the Bed Posts and Legs:

o For the bed posts, use the Cylinder tool to create vertical supports at each corner
of the bed. Adjust the radius for the thickness and the height for the length of the
posts. Position them at the four corners of the frame.
o Alternatively, you can use Boxes for the bed posts if you prefer a more
rectangular design. Make sure they align with the frame and mattress to create a
sturdy base.

3. Adding the Headboard and Footboard:

o Use the Box tool again to create the headboard and footboard. The headboard
should be taller than the mattress and positioned at the top end of the bed. The
footboard can be shorter and placed at the bottom of the bed frame.
o Adjust the dimensions of the headboard and footboard to ensure they fit
proportionally with the overall bed design. Position them at the correct location to
create a balanced look.
Results:

Exercise 4: Designing a Sofa Using Basic Solid Primitives:

Objective:
The objective of this exercise is to design a 3D sofa using basic solid primitives such as Box and
Cylinder. This task will help students understand how to create and combine simple 3D shapes to
form more complex objects like furniture.

Procedure:

1. Creating the Seat and Backrest:

 o Begin by using the Box tool to create the seat of the sofa. Define the length,
width, and height of the box to represent the base of the sofa.
o Use another Box to form the backrest of the sofa. Adjust the height of the backrest
to be taller than the seat, ensuring it provides proper support. Position the backrest
vertically at one end of the seat.
2. Creating the Armrests:
o For the armrests, use Cylinder tools to create cylindrical shapes that represent the
arms of the sofa. Adjust the radius and height to suit the proportions of the sofa.
o Alternatively, you can use Box tools for a more rectangular armrest design.
Position the armrests at both sides of the seat, ensuring they align properly with
the backrest and seat.
3. Combining the Solids:
o After creating the seat, backrest, and armrests, combine these solids into a single
3D model. Position the seat at the base, the backrest at the top, and the armrests at
the sides of the seat.
o Ensure all the parts are aligned correctly to create a functional and balanced sofa
design.

Results:
Exercise 5: Designing a Table Using Basic Solid Primitives:

Objective:
The objective of this exercise is to design a 3D table using basic solid primitives such as Box and
Cylinder. Students will learn how to create and combine basic shapes to form a functional and
realistic representation of a table with additional features like shelves or drawers.

Procedure:

1. Creating the Tabletop:

o Start by using the Box tool to create the tabletop. Define the length, width, and
height of the box to represent the flat surface of the table. The height should be
thin compared to the length and width to simulate a table’s flat top.
o Position the tabletop at an appropriate height to ensure it looks proportionate to
the legs and overall table design.
2. Creating the Legs:
o Use the Cylinder tool to create the legs of the table. Adjust the radius for the
thickness of the legs and the height for the length. Position four legs at the corners
of the tabletop to ensure the table stands upright.
o Alternatively, you can use Box tools to create more rectangular legs, depending
on your desired style. Ensure they are placed symmetrically beneath the tabletop.
3. Creating Supporting Elements (Shelves or Drawers):
o To add extra features, such as a shelf or drawers, use Boxes or other 3D
primitives. Position a box beneath the tabletop to represent a shelf. Adjust its
length and width to fit within the table’s frame.
 o If you want to create a drawer, use smaller Boxes and position them under the
tabletop or within the shelf. Modify the dimensions of the boxes to resemble the
shape and size of a drawer.

Results:

Unit3:
Exercise 1: Boolean Operations (Union, Subtract, Intersect)

Objective:
To learn how to modify and combine 3D objects using Boolean operations.

Instructions:

1. Union:
o Open a new AutoCAD file.
o Draw a sphere using the SPHERE command.
o Draw a cube using the BOX command.
o Select both objects, and type BOUN (for Boolean Union) in the command bar.
o Press Enter to combine the objects into one.

Results

1. Subtract:
o Draw a cylinder using the CYLINDER command.
o Draw a box using the BOX command.
o Select the box and type SUBTRACT in the command bar.
o Select the cylinder to subtract from the box.
o Press Enter to remove the cylinder from the box.

Results
 1. Intersect:
o Draw a cone using the CONE command.
o Draw a cube using the BOX command.
o Select both objects and type INTERSECT in the command bar.
o Press Enter to create a new object from the overlapping part of the two objects.

Results

Exercise 2: 3D Operations (Loft, Revolve, Sweep)

Objective:
To create 3D objects using basic 3D operations.

Instructions:

1. Loft:
o Draw two different shapes, such as a circle and a square, using the CIRCLE and
RECTANGLE commands.
o Type LOFT in the command bar.
o Select the two shapes.
 o Press Enter to create a smooth transition between the two shapes, forming a 3D
object.

Results

1. Revolve:
o Draw a profile of a shape (e.g., half of a cup).
o Type REVOLVE in the command bar.
o Select the profile and specify the axis of rotation to create a 3D object.

Results

1. Sweep:
o Draw a profile (e.g., a circle) and a path (e.g., a line).
o Type SWEEP in the command bar.
o Select the profile and then select the path.
 o Press Enter to create a 3D object along the path.

Results

Exercise 3: Creating Door and Window Openings in a Wall

Objective:
To create realistic door and window openings in a wall.

Instructions:

1. Start by drawing a wall using the EXTRUDE command or the BOX command.
2. Draw a rectangle where the door or window opening should be.
3. Use the SUBTRACT command to cut out the door/window from the wall:
o Select the wall first.
o Select the rectangle (which will be subtracted).
o Press Enter to create the opening.

Key Commands:

• EXTRUDE
• SUBTRACT

Results
Exercise 4: Create a Study Table Using Boolean and 3D Operations

Objective:
To design a study table using 3D operations and Boolean functions.

Instructions:

1. Create the tabletop using the EXTRUDE or BOX command.

2. Create the legs using the EXTRUDE command or the CYLINDER command.
3. Use the UNION command to combine the tabletop and legs.
4. Add a drawer:
o Draw the shape of the drawer (a box).
o Use the SUBTRACT command to create the drawer space in the tabletop.
5. Refine the table by adding details such as knobs or shelves.

Key Commands:

• EXTRUDE
• UNION
• SUBTRACT

Results
 Unit 4

Exercise 1: Create a Living Room

Objective: The objective of this exercise is to design a 3D model of a living room, incorporating
essential furniture and spatial arrangements. Students will learn to use basic solid primitives to
construct a realistic living room layout.

Procedure:

1. Creating the Room Structure:

o Use the Box tool to create the walls, floor, and ceiling of the living room. Adjust
the dimensions to form a rectangular or square-shaped room.
o Add openings for doors and windows by subtracting smaller boxes from the
walls.
2. Designing the Seating Area:
o Follow the steps outlined in Exercise 3 to create a 3D model of a sofa set using
basic solid primitives such as Box and Cylinder.
o Position the sofa appropriately within the room layout, ensuring it fits well with
the available space.
 3. Adding Essential Furniture:
o Use the Box tool to create a coffee table, TV unit, and bookshelves.
o Adjust their dimensions to suit the scale of the room and ensure proper placement.
4. Enhancing the Living Room with Additional Elements:
o Add a window and door using simple rectangular cutouts.
o Use thin Box primitives to create wall-mounted shelves or decorative elements.
o Incorporate lighting elements like a ceiling light, floor lamp, or table lamp.
5. Finalizing the Design:
o Check the alignment and proportions of all elements within the living room.
o Make necessary adjustments to improve the aesthetic appeal and functionality of
the space.

Results:
Exercise 1: Add Colour and Texture to the Developed Bedroom and Living Room Using
AutoCAD 3D

Objective: The objective of this exercise is to enhance the 3D models of the bedroom and living
room by applying appropriate colors and textures. Students will learn to use AutoCAD 3D's
material and rendering tools to create realistic surfaces for walls, furniture, and decorative
elements.

Procedure:

1. Applying Materials to the Room Structure:

o Use the Materials Editor in AutoCAD 3D to apply textures to the walls, floor, and
ceiling.
o Select appropriate materials such as paint, wood, or wallpaper to enhance the
visual appeal.
2. Adding Textures to the Furniture:
o Assign wood or metal textures to furniture like the bed, wardrobe, sofa, and
coffee table.
o Use fabric textures for upholstery on sofas, cushions, and bedsheets.
3. Enhancing Windows and Doors:
o Apply glass textures to windows for a realistic appearance.
o Use wood or metal materials for doors and window frames.
 4. Lighting and Shadows:
o Add artificial lighting sources such as ceiling lights, table lamps, or floor lamps.
o Adjust shadow settings to create a realistic lighting effect.
5. Finalizing the Design:
o Check the overall aesthetic appeal of the room with colors and textures applied.
o Make necessary adjustments to improve the realism and visual impact.

Results: