How To Create 3d Mirror In Autocad

How to Create a 3D Mirror in AutoCAD

Being an indispensable tool in interior designing, a 3D mirror can contribute to the enhancement of architectural models and interior design drawings. To create a 3D mirror in AutoCAD, follow this simple and detailed process:

1. Draw the Base Shape:
- Begin by sketching the desired shape of your mirror using the AutoCAD draw commands like LINE, CIRCLE, or RECTANG.

2. Extrude the Base Shape:
- Select the base shape and use the EXTRUDE command to extrude it along the Z-axis to give it a 3D appearance.

3. Apply the Glass Material:
- Open the Material Editor (MATED command) and create a new material. Click on the "Reflect/Refract" tab and check the "Reflection" checkbox. Adjust the "Reflection Glossiness" and "Reflection Strength" to simulate glass.

4. Assign the Material to the Mirror:
- Select the extruded mirror and assign the newly created glass material to it using the MATLIB command.

5. Create the Reflective Surface:
- To create the actual reflective surface, you need to add a "Raytrace Material" to the mirror. Select the mirror and click on the "Visual Styles" tab (VSTYLE command) in the Properties panel. Choose the "Realistic" visual style and click on the "Edit Material" button.

6. Configure the Raytrace Material:
- In the Material Editor, create a new raytrace material. In the "Surface Parameters" section, enable "Reflection" and set the "Reflection Fresnel" to "1.0" for perfect reflection.

7. Apply the Raytrace Material:
- Assign the newly created raytrace material to the mirror's surface by double-clicking on the "Surface" drop-down list and selecting the material.

8. Enable Raytracing:
- To enable raytracing, go to the "Rendering" tab in the Options dialog box (OPTIONS command). In the "Raytracing" section, check the "Enable raytracing" box.

9. Render the Mirror:
- Use the RENDER command to render the model. Choose a rendering engine that supports raytracing, such as "Raytrace" or "IRender".

Additional Tips:
- Add a frame around the mirror to enhance its appearance.
- Use a camera with a wide angle to capture the reflection in the mirror.
- Play with different lighting scenarios to achieve the desired reflective effect.