3D Modelling Special Interest Group – October 2015

 
Topics covered:

• creating construction details in 3-D
• hybrid symbols
• automatic working plane
• subdivision modelling

Creating Construction Details in 3D
We looked at creating construction details in 3D. To start with we looked at a image supplied by user and considered how we could improve the presentation of the construction details. Then we created our own construction detail using a similar detail. This uses simple 3D modelling methods such as extrude, section solid, automatic working planes, and instant push/pull. Using a combination of simple extrusions and planar objects that can improve the presentation of the timber structure.
The same technique can be used to create the building wrap, and the cavity battens. Using automatic working planes with the instant push/pull will really speed up the creation of your details in 3D.
Hybrid Symbols
Hybrid symbols are symbols that contain both 3D and 2D portions. A hybrid symbol will only display the 2D parts (screen plane objects) in Top/Plan view. In this case we had a symbol that would display all of the 3D components when in a 3D view, but would not display enough when the view was set to Top/Plan view. The problem was that there was no 2D information (screen plane objects) for the missing information. Vectorworks will not automatically create the 2D and 3D parts if you just create a symbol from 3D objects. The workaround would have been to use auto-hybrid, but this was not used. The solution is to draw the plan shape of the vanities that are required, and add this to the 2D part of the symbol. When this is done the symbol then presents the information required.
Automatic Working Planes
Automatic working planes really speed up the creation of 3D objects because Vectorworks looks for the planes on the objects and uses these to create a working plane. This is a much faster way of creating your objects and creating them in a screen plane and moving them. Throughout the session automatic working planes we used whenever extrusions were required.
Subdivision Modelling
Subdivision modelling is a new technique in Vectorworks 2016, but it does require thinking about your models in a different way. To create a subdivision model you always start with a base object which can be a ring, a cube, a sphere, a square, et cetera. Starting with the right shape is important. For example, if you want to create a tent shape do not start with a sphere, start with a square. Once the subdivision base object is created, double-clicking on it will select the edit subdivision tool. This tool can be used to add extra points to the shape, it can be used to move the points, or rotate them.
The basic strategy with subdivision modelling is to start with a basic shape and then edit it to suit your requirements. After creating the subdivision model it can then be converted to a generic solid which will then allow you to use your other 3D modelling tools on.
3D Modeling October 2015 (m4v file)
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3D Modeling October 2015 (mov file)

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