3D MODELLING OF A RESIDENTIAL

BUILDING USING AUTOCAD 2024

B. Tech Mini Project 2 Report

Submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of

BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY IN CIVIL ENGINEERING

by

ABRAR M P (211CV101)
ANIL GEDILA (211CV207)
SURAJ KUMAR SHARMA (211CV251)
PRANAV C PAWAR (211CV239)

Under the guidance of

Dr. VARGHESE GEORGE

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY KARNATAKA
SURATHKAL, MANGALORE – 575025

MARCH, 2024

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 NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY KARNATAKA, SURATHKAL

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

D E C LA R AT I O N

We hereby declare that the Report of the B.Tech Major Project Report entitled “3D
Modelling of a Residential Building using Autocad 2024” which is being submitted to the
National Institute of Technology Karnataka Surathkal, for the award of the degree of
Bachelor of Technology in Civil Engineering in the Department of Civil Engineering, is a
bonafide report of the work carried out by us. The material contained in this Report has not
been submitted to any University or Institution for the award of any degree.

211CV101 ABRAR M P --------------------------------------------

211CV207 ANIL GEDILA ---------------------------------------------
211CV251 SURAJ KUMAR SHARMA ---------------------------------------------
211CV239 PRANAV C PAWAR -------------------------------------------

(Register Number, Name and Signature of Students)

Department of Civil Engineering

Place: NITK SURATHKAL

Date:

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 DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY KARNATAKA, SURATHKAL
SRINIVASNAGAR - 575 025 (D.K), KARNATAKA, INDIA

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that the B.Tech Major Project Report entitled “3D Modelling of a
Residential Building using Autocad 2024” submitted by ABRAR M P(Register No.
211CV101), ANIL GEDILA(Register No. 211CV207), SURAJ KUMAR SHARMA
(Register No. 211CV251) and PRANAV C PAWAR (Register No. 211CV239) as the record
of the work carried out by them, is accepted as the U.G Major Project Work Report
submission in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Bachelor
of Technology in Civil Engineering in the Department of Civil Engineering, National
Institute of Technology Karnataka, Surathkal.

___________________

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Dr.Varghese George
Project Supervisor & Professor,
Department of Civil Engineering,
National Institute of Technology Karnataka,
Surathkal

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We would like to express our sincere thanks and gratitude to our esteemed guide Dr.
Varghese George, Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering, for his expert guidance,
valuable suggestions, reference materials provided and continuous encouragement throughout
the course of our ongoing thesis work.
We also take this opportunity to express our gratefulness and gratitude to Dr Sitaram
Nayak, Professor and Faculty Advisor, Department of Civil Engineering as well as Dr Katta
Venkataramana, Professor and Head of, the Department of Civil Engineering, for their moral
support.
We also express our sincere thanks to all the teaching and non-teaching staff of the
Department of Civil Engineering, NITK Surathkal, who tried to get the best out of us. It is
because of their great efforts that we are here on the verge of becoming a graduate, ready to
take on challenges that come in the design room or on the construction site under any
demanding toll-taking circumstances.
We also would like to acknowledge the guidance and help from the staff of
COSTFORD and Master Planner and thank them for the same.
We thank our classmates for their continuous encouragement and moral support during
the course of my project work.
Once again, we thank one and all who have helped us directly or indirectly in the
partial completion of our dissertation work.

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 ABRAR MP
ANIL GEDILA
SURAJ KUMAR SHARMA
PRANAV C PAWAR

ABSTRACT

This mini project focuses on the design and modelling of a home using AutoCAD 3D
software. The objective of this project is to showcase the process of creating a detailed and
comprehensive 3D model of a residential building, demonstrating an understanding of
architectural design principles and technical proficiency in using AutoCAD.

The project began with the initial concept development phase, where ideas and requirements
for the home were outlined. This was followed by the creation of floor plans, elevation
drawings, and eventually, the generation of a fully detailed 3D model. The design
incorporates various elements such as layout organisation, structural elements, and interior
spaces to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing home.

Throughout the project, a meticulous approach was taken to ensure accuracy and precision in
the design process. Attention to detail was given to aspects such as room dimensions, door
and window placements, material selections, and overall spatial arrangements. The use of
AutoCAD 3D allowed for the creation of a realistic and visually engaging representation of
the home, aiding in the visualisation of the final built structure.

Additionally, the report will discuss the challenges encountered during the project, including

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technical issues with the software, design iterations, and solutions implemented to overcome
these challenges. Furthermore, the report will highlight the key features of the design,
showcasing unique aspects of the home that set it apart architecturally.

Overall, this mini project serves as a practical exercise in applying design principles and
technical skills to create a detailed 3D model of a home using AutoCAD. The report aims to
provide insights into the design process, from conception to completion, and to showcase the
creativity and proficiency of the designers in achieving a functional and visually appealing
architectural solution.

Page
CONTENTS
no.
Declaration ii
Certificate iii
Acknowledgement iv
Abstract v
Contents vi

Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 What is AutoCAD, the Origin and its Evolution 7
1.2 Scope and Objective of this study 9
1.3 Advantages and its Impact 11

LITERATURE 3D MODELLING OF A RESIDENTIAL

Chapter 2
BUILDING USING AUTOCAD
2.1 Calibration and Basic adjustments 13
2.2 Ground Plan (2D) 13
2.3 Conversion from 2D to 3D 14
2.4 Adding Curtain walls and Doors 15

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2.4.1 Subtracting the added blocks 15
2.4.2 Removing the ground plan 16
2.5 Adding Floor 17
2.6 Adding Roof 18
2.7 Making an opening for stairway and a room above the roof 18
2.8 Adding necessary objects 20
2.9 Bringing back the hidden objects and Finishing 21

Chapter 3 CONCLUSION
3.1 Introduction 24
3.2 Conclusions 24
3.3 Major Contributions of Study 25
3.4 Future Scope of Study 26

REFERENCES 27

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 WHAT IS AUTO-CAD, THE ORIGIN AND ITS EVOLUTION

AutoCAD, first released in 1982 by Autodesk, revolutionised the field of computer-

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aided design (CAD) by providing powerful tools for designing and drafting in 2D. Over the
years, AutoCAD has evolved into a comprehensive software suite that includes specialised
versions for 3D modelling and design. AutoCAD 3D, with its advanced capabilities, has
become an essential tool for design professionals across various industries.

AutoCAD is a popular computer-aided design (CAD) software application used for creating
2D and 3D designs and technical drawings. It was developed and marketed by Autodesk,
Inc., an American software company. AutoCAD was the first to make it one of the earliest
CAD programs available for personal computers.

The origin of AutoCAD can be traced back to the early 1980s when Autodesk was founded
by John Walker, who worked on developing the initial versions of the software. The name
AutoCAD stands for "Automatic Computer Aided Design."

Over the years, AutoCAD has evolved significantly with the introduction of new features and
enhancements to improve its functionality and usability. Some key milestones in the
evolution of AutoCAD include the transition to a full 3D modelling environment, the
introduction of parametric modelling tools, better integration with other Autodesk software
products, and the development of cloud-based collaboration and mobile versions of the
software.

Today, AutoCAD is widely used by architects, engineers, designers, and drafters in various
industries for designing buildings, products, machinery, and more. It remains one of the most
popular and powerful CAD software applications available on the market.

The evolution of AutoCAD 3D has been marked by continuous innovation and the inclusion
of advanced features to meet the growing demands of industries for complex 3D modelling
and design tasks. As technology has advanced, so has AutoCAD 3D, incorporating cutting-
edge tools such as parametric modelling, surface modelling, and solid modelling to facilitate
more accurate and detailed designs. These features have not only improved the efficiency and

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precision of design work but also expanded the range of possibilities for creative expression
in the digital realm.

In the realm of industry and residential planning, AutoCAD 3D has had a profound impact on
the way architects, engineers, and designers conceptualise, develop, and present their
projects. Its usefulness lies in its ability to create realistic 3D visualisations of structures,
products, and spaces, allowing stakeholders to visualise and understand the design in a way
that 2D drawings cannot achieve. This capability is invaluable in industries such as
architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing, and interior design, where precise
visualisation and communication of design intent are critical.

In the architectural field, AutoCAD 3D enables architects to create detailed 3D models of

buildings, allowing them to explore different design options, analyse spatial relationships,
and simulate lighting and material effects. By visualising their designs in 3D, architects can
better communicate their ideas to clients, consultants, and contractors, leading to more
informed decision-making and improved project outcomes. Additionally, AutoCAD 3D's
ability to generate accurate 3D models helps architects identify and resolve design conflicts
early in the process, reducing errors and minimising costly rework during construction.

For engineers, AutoCAD 3D provides powerful tools for creating complex mechanical and
structural models with precision and efficiency. Engineers can use the software to design
intricate machine components, analyse stress and strain on structures, and simulate the
performance of mechanical systems. The ability to visualise and test their designs in a virtual
environment helps engineers identify potential issues and optimise their designs before
moving to physical prototyping, saving time and resources in the product development cycle.

In the construction industry, AutoCAD 3D plays a crucial role in planning and coordinating
the construction of buildings and infrastructure projects. Contractors can use the software to
create detailed 3D models of construction sites, enabling them to visualise the project in its
entirety, plan the sequence of construction activities, and identify potential clashes with
existing structures or utilities. By conducting clash detection and coordination in a virtual

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environment, contractors can avoid costly delays and disruptions during construction,
improving project efficiency and reducing risks.

In the manufacturing sector, AutoCAD 3D is used to design and optimise the production of a
wide range of products, from consumer goods to industrial machinery. Manufacturers can
create detailed 3D models of their products, test the functionality and performance of
prototypes, and generate manufacturing specifications directly from the digital model. This
digital-to-physical workflow streamlines the manufacturing process, reduces time-to-market,
and improves product quality by ensuring design accuracy and manufacturability.

Interior designers also benefit from AutoCAD 3D's capabilities to create realistic
visualisations of interior spaces, furniture layouts, and material finishes. By generating 3D
models of interiors, designers can present their concepts in a more compelling and immersive
way to clients, helping them better understand and appreciate the proposed design. AutoCAD
3D's integration with other design software and visualisation tools allows interior designers to
explore different design options, experiment with lighting and textures, and create
photorealistic renderings that showcase the final look and feel of the space.

1.2 SCOPE AND OBJECTIVE OF THIS STUDY

Certainly! Here is a detailed scope and objective of the study for your mini project on
creating a home model in AutoCAD 3D:

Scope of the Study:

The scope of this study encompasses the design and creation of a detailed 3D model of a
home using AutoCAD software. The project aims to explore and demonstrate the application
of AutoCAD in architectural design and drafting, specifically in developing a comprehensive
understanding of the various tools and features available for creating realistic and visually
appealing structural models. The scope also includes considering the standards and practices
followed in the architectural industry to ensure that the model is accurate and meets

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professional expectations.

Furthermore, the study will involve researching architectural principles and design guidelines
to ensure that the home model is not only aesthetically pleasing but also structurally sound
and functional. This will require analysing spatial requirements, material selection, and other
factors that contribute to the overall design of a residential building. Additionally, the scope
includes incorporating elements of interior design to enhance the visual representation of the
home model and provide a holistic view of the space.

The objective of the Study:

1. To develop a comprehensive understanding of AutoCAD software and its applications in
architectural design and modelling.
2. To create a detailed and accurate 3D model of a home that incorporates architectural
principles and design considerations.
3. To showcase proficiency in utilising various tools and features in AutoCAD for creating
complex structural elements, textures, and lighting effects.
4. To demonstrate the ability to interpret architectural drawings and translate them into a
digital 3D model with precision and attention to detail.
5. To explore different design options and incorporate feedback to improve the overall quality
and aesthetics of the home model.
6. To adhere to industry standards and best practices in architectural design to ensure the
model meets professional expectations.
7. To integrate elements of interior design into the home model to enhance its visual appeal
and provide a realistic representation of the living space.
8. To present the final 3D model in a visually engaging and informative manner, including
rendering techniques and annotations to highlight key design features.
9. To document the process of creating the home model in AutoCAD, detailing the steps
taken, challenges faced, and lessons learned throughout the project.
10. To provide recommendations for future projects or improvements in utilising AutoCAD
for architectural design based on the findings and insights gained from this study.

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1.3 ADVANTAGES AND ITS IMPACT

1. Precision and Accuracy: AutoCAD allows for precise and accurate drafting and design.
Its tools enable users to create detailed drawings with exact measurements, ensuring
high-quality output.

2. Efficiency and Productivity: Compared to traditional drafting methods, AutoCAD

significantly increases efficiency and productivity. Tasks that would take days or
weeks manually can be completed in hours with AutoCAD.

3. Time-Saving: AutoCAD's features like templates, blocks, and automated commands

save a considerable amount of time for designers and engineers. It streamlines
repetitive tasks and reduces the time required for revisions and modifications.

4. Ease of Editing: AutoCAD facilitates easy editing and modification of designs. Users
can quickly make changes to drawings without having to
redraw entire sections, improving workflow efficiency.

5. Visualisation: AutoCAD enables the creation of 2D and 3D models, allowing designers

to visualise their ideas more effectively. This aids in communication with clients,
stakeholders, and team members, leading to better understanding and decision-
making.

6. Collaboration: AutoCAD supports collaboration among team members, regardless of

their geographic location. Design files can be easily shared and accessed, promoting
teamwork and reducing communication barriers.

7. Integration with Other Software: AutoCAD integrates seamlessly with other software
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 applications, such as engineering analysis tools and CAM (computer-aided
manufacturing) software. This interoperability enhances the overall design and
production process.

8. Standardisation: AutoCAD facilitates the establishment and enforcement of drafting

standards within organisations. This ensures consistency in design documentation and
helps maintain quality across projects.

9. Cost-Effectiveness: Despite its initial investment, AutoCAD proves to be cost-effective

in the long run due to increased productivity, reduced errors, and streamlined
processes.

10. Global Impact: AutoCAD has had a profound impact on numerous industries,
including architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing, and multimedia. It
has contributed to the advancement of technology and has become an essential tool
for professionals worldwide.

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 CHAPTER 2

PROCEDURE ADOPTED IN 3D MODELLING OF A RESIDENTIAL

BUILDING IN AUTO-CAD 2024

2.1 CALIBRATION AND BASIC ADJUSTMENTS

Change the length unit to Architectural if it is not selected as default, and Adjust the precision
to 0’-01/16”. Change the Angle units to Decimal if it is not selected as default, and adjust the
precision to 3 decimal places. Let our lighting be American and Insertion Scale units to
Inches. We will be using inches throughout this project.

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2.2 GROUND PLAN (2D)

Start with a simple rectangle and make an offset of 9” for outside walls. Use the
Explode command for the outer part of the rectangle to ungroup the polyline of the rectangle
so that we can make offsets for inner walls and rooms, Use 5” offset for inner walls. Make
offsets according to the plan requirement, trim the unwanted lines and we will get the ground
plan as it is in the picture.

2.3 CONVERSION FROM 2D TO 3D

The ground plan we just made is turned into 3D using the PressPull command. We
will press pull our ground plan 10’ above it. Changing the view to shades of grey inorder to
rid of those lines and make it look like a 3D figure.

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2.4 ADDING CURTAIN WALL AND DOOR

Till now we have press pulled the ground plan into walls. Now again turn the view
back to wireframe. To create the openings for curtain walls and doors, we will add two
rectangles of dimensions 14’3”,9’6” and 3’,7’. Now extrude those rectangles 10” into the
plane. Since the walls are 9” and 5” thick, these 10” thick curtain walls and doors tend to
come out a little outside the pre-existing walls. This will help us subtract these curtain walls
and doors from the whole structure. Now Select one of the corners of these blocks and move
them to the desired corner. Copy a door and paste these doors wherever you need them.

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 2.4.1 SUBTRACTING THE ADDED BLOCKS

We have our doors and curtain walls placed. Now change the view back to
shades of grey. Now select the whole structure and use the subtract command, Press Enter.
Now select the doors and curtain wall to remove them from the structure. This will create
openings as we intended.

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 2.4.2 REMOVING THE GROUND PLAN

Since the blocks are removed from the structure, the Ground plan is visible in
the subtracted part. So to remove that move the 3D structure aside and delete the ground plan.

2.5 ADDING FLOOR

Now we surface tools to create a floor. Use the Planar surface command, select a
bottom corner of the structure and drag it to the diagonal corner. This creates a surface

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underneath the structure. Now we have to extrude it, to make it floor. Select the plane
surface, use the extrude command and drag it 10” downwards. Our floor is created.

2.6 ADDING ROOF.

As we did in the previous one, we will extrude the roof but while adding the roof we
don’t use a planar surface. For this, firstly we will make a rectangle on the upper side of the
structure by selecting one corner and dragging it to the opposite diagonal corner. Then we
offset it 1’ outwards. This will create an extra portion of the roof hanging outwards like
shade. Now we extrude it 6” above.

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2.7 MAKING AN OPENING FOR STAIRWAY AND A ROOM ABOVE THE ROOF

We made openings for curtain walls and the doors, made a rectangle of the desired
dimension, extruded it placed it on the roof. Use the subtract command to delete that portion
from the roof.

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 Now the opening is made, make a rectangle of the desired dimension on the surface of
the roof. Make an offset of 9” outwards, and push it 10’ above the roof. As we added the roof
to the ground floor, follow the same procedure and add the roof to the 1st floor.

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2.8 ADDING NECESSARY OBJECTS

Our Modeling is almost done. Now hide the 1st floor and the roof by using the isolate
option. Now import the following objects from your computer Doors, Curtain walls, Bed,
Sofa, TV, Refrigerator, and Stairs.

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 After insertion of these objects, use the corner to select and move these objects to the
desired position in your structure. Make sure that these objects are just above the floor
surface to minimize overlapping. Change the view to shades of grey.

2.9 BRINGING BACK THE HIDDEN OBJECTS AND FINISHINg

Parts that we hide earlier are brought back using option end object isolation.

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 CHAPTER 3

CONCLUSION

3.1 INTRODUCTION

In the dynamic realm of modern engineering and design, AutoCAD stands as a linchpin,
fundamentally reshaping the way projects are conceived, developed, and brought to fruition.
From the grandest architectural marvels to the minutest mechanical components, AutoCAD
serves as the bedrock upon which innovation flourishes and imagination takes flight. This
project embarks on a comprehensive exploration of AutoCAD, delving into its myriad
functionalities, applications, and significance within the ever-evolving landscape of design
and engineering.

AutoCAD, developed by Autodesk, represents more than just a software application; it

epitomizes a paradigm shift in design methodology, empowering practitioners to transcend
traditional constraints and explore the boundless possibilities of digital drafting. With its rich
suite of tools and unparalleled precision, AutoCAD has become synonymous with efficiency,
accuracy, and creativity, serving as the ultimate enabler for architects, engineers, and
designers alike.

As we embark on this journey of discovery, it becomes increasingly apparent that AutoCAD's

impact extends far beyond the confines of the drafting table. Its influence permeates every
facet of the design process, from conceptualization to realization, revolutionizing workflows,
enhancing collaboration, and driving innovation at every turn. Through meticulous research
and hands-on experimentation, we endeavour to unravel the intricate tapestry of AutoCAD's
capabilities and illuminate the path towards a future where design knows no bounds.

3.2 CONCLUSIONS

The journey through this AutoCAD project has been insightful, revealing a multitude of
facets that underline its importance and utility. Firstly, it has become evident that AutoCAD
serves as a cornerstone in the design process, enabling engineers and architects to create

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intricate schematics with precision and efficiency. Its extensive toolset empowers users to
tackle complex design challenges with ease, fostering innovation and creativity.

Furthermore, the project highlighted the versatility of AutoCAD across various industries,
from architecture to mechanical engineering. Its adaptability to different disciplines
underscores its universal appeal and indispensability in modern design practices.
Additionally, the collaborative features of AutoCAD have been instrumental in streamlining
teamwork and enhancing productivity, facilitating seamless communication among team
members and stakeholders.

Moreover, the project has shed light on the evolving landscape of AutoCAD, with constant
updates and advancements enriching its functionalities. From 3D modelling to parametric
design, AutoCAD continues to push boundaries, setting new standards for design software.
The integration of automation and artificial intelligence further augments its capabilities,
promising a future where design processes are more efficient and intuitive.

In conclusion, this project underscores the pivotal role of AutoCAD in shaping the future of
design and engineering. Its significance extends beyond mere drafting software, serving as a
catalyst for innovation and progress in various industries. As we bid farewell to this project,
we are reminded of AutoCAD's enduring legacy and its ongoing journey towards excellence.

3.3 MAJOR CONTRIBUTIONS OF STUDY

The major contributions of this study lie in its comprehensive exploration of AutoCAD's
features and functionalities, as well as its implications for the field of engineering and design.
Through rigorous research and practical experimentation, we have elucidated the following
key insights:

• Detailed analysis of AutoCAD's toolset: We have provided an in-depth examination of

AutoCAD's diverse array of tools, including but not limited to drawing, editing, and
annotation functionalities. This analysis offers valuable insights into the capabilities
of AutoCAD, empowering users to leverage its full potential in their projects.

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 • Application across industries: By delving into case studies and real-world examples,
we have demonstrated AutoCAD's versatility across various industries, from
architecture and construction to manufacturing and product design. This exploration
underscores the universal applicability of AutoCAD and its profound impact on
different sectors.
• Future trends and advancements: Our study has also explored the future trajectory of
AutoCAD, predicting trends such as increased automation, integration of AI-driven
features, and enhanced collaboration capabilities. By anticipating these developments,
we aim to equip practitioners with the knowledge needed to stay ahead in a rapidly
evolving landscape.

Overall, the major contribution of this study lies in its holistic approach to understanding
AutoCAD, encompassing technical insights, practical applications, and future trends. By
shedding light on these aspects, we hope to inspire further exploration and innovation in the
field of design and engineering.

3.4 FUTURE SCOPE OF STUDY

While this project has provided valuable insights into AutoCAD, there are several avenues
for future research:

• Advanced Features: Further exploration of features like parametric design and

advanced rendering techniques could enhance design capabilities.
• Emerging Technologies Integration: Investigating integration with VR/AR could
revolutionize the design experience and collaboration.
• Sustainability Optimization: Researching tools and workflows to support
sustainable design practices within AutoCAD could be pivotal for addressing
environmental concerns.
• User Experience Enhancement: Continual refinement of AutoCAD's interface and
usability ensures accessibility and efficiency for users across disciplines.

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Exploring these areas will contribute to AutoCAD's ongoing evolution, fostering innovation
and pushing the boundaries of design possibilities.

REFERENCES :

Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@sourcecad

Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcH1MIEuSvoEO

Objects: https://mail.sourcecad.com/3d-house-a...

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