How To Use 3d Mirror In Autocad

How to Use 3D Mirror in AutoCAD: A Comprehensive Guide

AutoCAD's 3D Mirror command allows users to create a symmetrical copy of selected objects across a specified plane, enabling efficient modeling and modification. Mastering this tool is essential for architects, engineers, and designers working with three-dimensional models.

Step 1: Select Objects

Begin by selecting the objects you wish to mirror. You can use the selection tool by clicking on individual objects or enclosing them within a selection window.

Step 2: Invoke the 3D Mirror Command

Navigate to the Modify > Geometry > 3D Mirror option from the AutoCAD menu or type "3DMIRROR" in the command line. The 3D Mirror dialog box will appear.

Step 3: Define Mirror Plane

In the Mirror Plane section, select one of the following options:

XY Plane: Mirrors objects on the XY plane.
YZ Plane: Mirrors objects on the YZ plane.
XZ Plane: Mirrors objects on the XZ plane.
3 Points: Defines a custom mirror plane.

Step 4: Specify Distance

Enter the distance between the original objects and their mirrored copies in the Distance field. A positive value creates a mirror outside the original objects, while a negative value creates a mirror inside them.

Step 5: Select Coplanar Objects

Select the Coplanar Objects option if you want to mirror only the objects lying on the same plane as the mirror plane. This ensures that the mirrored copies remain aligned with the original objects.

Step 6: Preview and Mirror

Click the Preview button to view a live preview of the mirrored objects. If satisfied with the result, click the OK button to execute the mirror operation.

Advanced Options

The 3D Mirror dialog box also provides advanced options:

Mirror Text: Flips the text on the mirrored objects.
Undo: Undoes the mirror operation.
Redo: Redoes the mirror operation.

Tips

Always select the correct mirror plane to avoid unexpected results.
The mirror operation can be repeated multiple times by re-invoking the 3D Mirror command and specifying different distance values.
The mirror plane can be rotated or translated using the Rotate or Translate commands, allowing for complex mirroring scenarios.

Conclusion

Mastering the 3D Mirror command in AutoCAD enables users to efficiently create symmetrical models and modify complex assemblies. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure accuracy, speed, and precision in your AutoCAD workflow.