3Ds Max / AutoCad

[Anonymous]

Hello, I've been very interested in Autocad 3Ds Max (who isn't). I mainly want it for rendering architectural models. I'm curious to know if you actually model within 3ds max or if you must import the model via autocad/revit?

I currently use AutoCad for modeling and i personally enjoy the commands and modeling format, but there is only so far the rendering quality and graphics can go in that program, also autocad becomes very slow when the model becomes very detailed. Is it easy to import an extensive model into 3ds max from autocad or would i simply be able to model and render in 3ds max just as easy? Any input is appreciated. Attached are some renderings I've made in Autocad, just to show you what im working with! also is there any sort of graphics cards, or extra processing that i need for 3ds max? thanks!

[dgorsman]

AutoCAD and Revit are important when creating technical designs which have to be constructed, including dimensions,  bills of materials, clash checking, and so on.  It's very easy to move those models through to 3DSMAX.  A lot of fine detail can be skipped in the technical models and implemented using textures, materials, and other methods.  To use a quote "If you're not cheating, you're doing it wrong."

3DSMAX has slightly different hardware requirements than AutoCAD or Revit.  While the latter are best with faster clock speeds, multiple CPU cores is important for rendering in 3DSMAX.  GPU is more important in day to day work as well, as well as GPU-assisted rendering with Arnold.

[Anonymous]

Great to know, thanks!

[leeminardi · Accepted solution]

Is it easy to import an extensive model into 3ds max from autocad or would i simply be able to model and render in 3ds max just as easy?

Yes, it is easy to transfer geometry from AutoCAD to 3ds Max. However, with some experience you will learn what format to use for the geometry and when you should create native geometry directly in Max. For example, something like a railing, pipe, or steel truss element might be better  transferred from AutoCAD to Max as just the centerline of the item and then assigned a renderable thickness in Max or used in a sweep operation. Terrain may be better transferred as contour lines and then converted to a terrain object in Max.   I prefer to import just the outline of revolved shapes from AutoCAD and then use Max’s lathe feature.  Solid and surface objects can be transferred but you may need to do some editing in Max to enable the intelligent assignment of materials.   Max includes some basic architectural elements for doors, stairs, windows and walls that if meet your needs are best created in Max.  The lighting and material features of Max are far superior to AutoCAD.  The camera match feature enables the effective superimposition of your CAD model into a photo of the building site.   You can create complete architectural models in Max but the process for creating geometry in Max is much different and can be very frustrating for AutoCAD users.  Simple tasks like trimming lines or adding a fillet are painfully awkward. It takes a while for AutoCAD users to get a feel for the Max user interface.  I would start by importing the more complex elements of your AutoCAD model and building basic elements in Max.  Use you existing hardware and upgrade if you feel you need better performance. The controls for material mapping in AutoCAD are very primitive and frustrating to control whereas Max’s features in this area are overwhelming (but you can start with the basics). The examples you show are modest in their computing needs although glass and trees can significantly add to rendering computer times.

The images you’ve created in AutoCAD are very good considering the rendering limitations of AutoCAD.  I’m sure you will find the capabilities of Max impressive.

Lee

[Anonymous]

Awesome! That is encouraging!