Expert: Bob - 10/30/2008

Question
Hi, I can say I am quite proficient in 2D Autocad but is relentlessly trying to learn how to draw my house designs in 3d.  I'll bring up the walls and i'll just get stuck in the windows and roof. I just can't understand UCS. Is there a simpler way to understand how it works.
I've been using AutoCAD for 12 over years. Thanks.

Answer
Hi--
Nicely, your question makes very little sense without your telling me which software you are using. I am going to reply on the assumption that you are trying to create the house in 3D, not simply make isometric line drawings.

Prior to AutoCAD 2007, attempting anything like making a 3D model of a house was for the foolhardly with lots of extra time.  The 3D part of the program did not change for many years. Because you are talking about moving the UCS, I know you are on <2007, or trying to use 2007, 8, or 9 the old way.

You would need a few chapters of a book on advanced 3D AutoCAD (which - again, nicely) you should have bought and read before starting this. I cant go backward, figure out the old way again, and be of help in 15 minutes. I moved on long ago, sorry.

AutoCAD 2007 forward have much improved 3D, but it is not meant for creating models of houses (making the house in 3D is creating a model, not "drawing", because you are not using lines)

I started using the 3D architectural software about 7 years ago -- now called AutoCAD Architecture. Revit is also excellent, as are some competitors. If you want to go 3D, you need the proper tool, unless you are a hobbyist who likes to tinker and has time.

So, if its old software and old 3D, find a book on that release --- if you just want isometric drawings, a chapter of a book on AutoCAD for Architecture written for the release you have.

Good luck.

BOB