3D Drawing with AutoCAD - Section 8

35.1.1 The “Orbit” context menu

The Orbit command shares with other 3D navigation commands, discussed in this chapter, a context menu from which you can access them. Since the Orbit command is the first one we are studying, it gives us a good opportunity to review its various elements.

As you can see, in this menu there are tools that we have studied before, such as Zoom and Frame, Zoom Window, Extension and Preview, as well as Predefined Views and Saved Views. There are others, however, that we will study in different sections later because of their relationship with other subjects and some more that should be reviewed immediately.

35.1.2 Adjust Distance and Swing

Set Distance and Pivot are two related commands. We are supposed to have a focus on the object which, as we said metaphorically, is inside a crystal sphere while using orbit 3D. Pivoting means moving the point of view across the surface of the sphere. In other words, the object functions as a pivot for the movement of our point of view. Adjusting distance simply zooms out or zooms in on that viewpoint similar to real-time Zoom. In both cases, the cursor takes on a characteristic shape.

35.1.3 Perspective and Parallel Projection

For their part, the projection buttons regenerate the model to the current view, but changing the criteria of the drawing, which can be done in Perspective or Parallel. If we use Perspective, the model will look more realistic. The predefined view is Parallel and it is with which the models are made. As we will see later, the Paseo and Vuelo navigation modes only allow projections in perspective. If you want to use Walk or Flight, as we will see later in this chapter and forget, do not worry, a dialog box will let you know.