Measuring

Hello Everyone,

I'm trying to practice my 3D modeling and was wondering how do I go about measuring the dimensions of a physical object I'm trying to model. I already have a caliper, but I have no idea how to measure angles and radii.

Thanks

I think we need a bit more information on what it is you're actually modeling and the level of precision you'll require. Different jobs need different tools.

Well, lets say I have a gate valve, or a flange with a rounded corner that I want to recreate, how do I measure those corners, or the amount of the fillet? I'm using AutoCAD 2008 btw....

For fillet, you can use arc gauge; for angle, steel protractor.

Wow, Great, Thanks, these are what I was looking for but didn't know what they were called...

Talk with your quality control manager also. Chances are (s)he's had to measure similar things to what your looking for.

A simple tape measure can do. Don't go into getting things very precise for practice. Pick something easy to draw up, look online for pictures and try to 3d model them by just looking at the pictures even.

Talk with your quality control manager also. Chances are (s)he's had to measure similar things to what your looking for.

Doubt the valve was custom. Many valve *.dwg drawings are available for downloading; i.e.: plug, ball, butterfly, gate, check, three way, you name it.

Downloads are in 2D and 3D, take both or take your pick.

What kind of valve and size are you lookin' for?

the valve I posted is just an example. I am not working with AutoCAD as of the moment, all I want is to be able to practice drawing stuff and build my portfolio, so I can gain experience that most companies seem to look for....