AutoCAD and 3D Studio Max - Getting Them to Talk
Many 3D Studio MAX users are also AutoCAD users or they work with individuals who create 2D and 3D drawings in AutoCAD.
Alas, the process of transferring models between 3D Studio MAX and AutoCAD is not always as seamless as you would like to expect.
In this appendix, you will learn the options available for importing AutoCAD drawing files into 3D Studio MAX and how those options can affect the way you work.
*Learn what type of objects 3D Studio MAX translates AutoCAD entities into, and learn tips for making the process more flexible.
*Other import/export file types and their uses for those users with older versions of AutoCAD or users with other CAD or modeling software.
A common question that long-time AutoCAD users often ask is, "Why does not 3D Studio MAX do this or that the same way AutoCAD does?" This is usually followed by the statement, "I have invested a lot of time learning AutoCAD and I do not want to have to learn new software.
" Well, 3D Studio MAX is new software! Historically, both programs developed from totally different sources that had little to do with each other.
AutoCAD is an engineering tool, by engineers for engineers, intended to create working, dimensioned drawings and models to be used in manufacturing objects.
3D Studio MAX is a presentation tool, by artists for artists, intended to create realistic renderings and animations to tell a story or present an idea.
In the past few years, Autodesk has put a lot of effort into making the two programs pass data in a predictable and efficient manner.
Tools have been included in MAX -such as Snaps, the Sun Locator, and parametric doors and windows-that have come from discussions with architects and engineers.
You can expect the trend to continue in future revisions.
In the meantime, analyze your office work methods and use the talent you have available to make the process as smooth as possible.
There are no hard-and-fast rules.
Start the process with simple files and work your way into more complex projects, remembering that AutoCAD is a drafting/engineering tool and MAX is a presentation tool.
Alas, the process of transferring models between 3D Studio MAX and AutoCAD is not always as seamless as you would like to expect.
In this appendix, you will learn the options available for importing AutoCAD drawing files into 3D Studio MAX and how those options can affect the way you work.
*Learn what type of objects 3D Studio MAX translates AutoCAD entities into, and learn tips for making the process more flexible.
*Other import/export file types and their uses for those users with older versions of AutoCAD or users with other CAD or modeling software.
A common question that long-time AutoCAD users often ask is, "Why does not 3D Studio MAX do this or that the same way AutoCAD does?" This is usually followed by the statement, "I have invested a lot of time learning AutoCAD and I do not want to have to learn new software.
" Well, 3D Studio MAX is new software! Historically, both programs developed from totally different sources that had little to do with each other.
AutoCAD is an engineering tool, by engineers for engineers, intended to create working, dimensioned drawings and models to be used in manufacturing objects.
3D Studio MAX is a presentation tool, by artists for artists, intended to create realistic renderings and animations to tell a story or present an idea.
In the past few years, Autodesk has put a lot of effort into making the two programs pass data in a predictable and efficient manner.
Tools have been included in MAX -such as Snaps, the Sun Locator, and parametric doors and windows-that have come from discussions with architects and engineers.
You can expect the trend to continue in future revisions.
In the meantime, analyze your office work methods and use the talent you have available to make the process as smooth as possible.
There are no hard-and-fast rules.
Start the process with simple files and work your way into more complex projects, remembering that AutoCAD is a drafting/engineering tool and MAX is a presentation tool.
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