Creating 3D Wireframe Models
A wireframe model is an edge or skeletal representation of a real-world 3D
object using lines and curves, and its benefits include
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Viewing the model from any vantage point
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Generating standard orthographic and auxiliary views automatically
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Generating exploded and perspective views easily
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Analyzing spatial relationships, including the shortest distance between
corners and edges, and checking for interferences
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Reducing the number of prototypes required
Tips for Working with Wireframe Models
Creating 3D wireframe models can be more difficult and time-consuming than creating
their 2D views. Here are some tips that will help you work more
effectively:
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Plan and organize your model so that you can turn off layers to reduce the
visual complexity of the model. Color can help you differentiate between
objects in various views.
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Create construction geometry to define the basic envelope of the model.
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Use multiple views, especially isometric views, to make visualizing the model
and selecting objects easier.
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Become adept at manipulating the UCS in 3D. The XY plane of the current
UCS operates as a construction plane to orient planar objects such as circles
and arcs. The UCS also determines the plane of operation for trimming and
extending, offsetting, and rotating objects.
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Use object snaps and grid snap carefully to ensure the precision of your
model.
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Use coordinate filters to drop perpendiculars and easily locate points in 3D
based on the location of points on other objects.
Methods for Creating Wireframe Models
With AutoCAD LT you can create wireframe models by positioning any 2D planar
object anywhere in 3D space, using several methods:
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Creating the object by entering 3D coordinates. You enter coordinates that
define the X, Y, and Z location of the object.
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Setting the default construction plane (XY plane of the UCS) on which
you draw the object by digitizing with grid snap turned on. Setting a non-zero
elevation with the ELEVATION system variable can facilitate changing the
default Z value when digitizing locations.
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Moving or copying the object to its proper 3D location after you create it.
Wireframe modeling is a skill that requires practice and experience. The best
approach to learning how to create wireframe models is to begin with simple
models before attempting models that are more complex.