Flattening a 3d model

[Cyclopean]

Is there any way I can get the flat dimensions of a 3d model? Which Autodesk software might be best suited for things like this? We're attempting to use 3d representations of objects to determine insulation coverage.

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Cy

[CADTutor]

Cy

You could always measure the 3D model using the DIST command. AutoCAD gives the distance between any two pick points, even in 3D.

[Mr T]

Yes :lol:

:arrow: You can use the commands SOLDRAW, SOLVIEW etc to create 2D orthographic, sectional and auxillary views of a 3D model. :lol:

:arrow: Hit F1 and search within the index of AutoCAD help for a couple of good tutorials or mail me for a copy of a tutorial I have made for my kids at my school.

Nick
:P

[Lodberg]

To create a 2D drawing from a 3D model:

Configure a DXB plotter using the Add-A-Plotter wizard.
Open the drawing.
Set the viewpoint of the 3D model as you want it.
In the Architectural Desk Top 3.3 this method is explained:
Start the PLOT command.
Select the DXB plotter from the list of available printers on the Plot Device tab of the Plotter configuration name dialog box.
Choose OK to create the DXB format plot file.
Start a new drawing.
Start the DXBIN command at the command line.
When prompted, browse to the file you just created, and then choose OK.
When the drawing is open, save the drawing as a DWG format file.
You now have a new 2D representation of the model from the original drawing. All Z coordinate information is removed in the new drawing.

Note: The DXB plotter configuration converts all color data to black and white, and places all drawing geometry on layer 0.

[Orbit]

Here it is in words and pictures. :lol:

http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/item?siteID=123112&id=2694189&linkID=2475176

[fuccaro]

Great link, Fondly-Orbit
Things to tearn here, I am now printing out some pages. Here are usefull thinks for AutoCAD 2000 and 2002 users