Autodesk VIZ in Manufacturing Design: Autodesk VIZ/3ds max for Engineering and Technology

First Edition
John M. Duff

Bring the power of a software tool used primarily in entertainment, gaming, and visualization into the world of engineering!

Autodesk VIZ in Manufacturing Design stresses parallels between VIZ/MAX modeling techniques and modern manufacturing processes. Ideal for novices, this how-to and reference book is conveniently organized into three sections: modeling; basic lights and mapping; plus advanced lights, mapping and animation.

A logical "next step" for readers familiar with technical sketching principles and/or the use of AutoCAD drawing tools, each chapter focuses on a specific topic and highlights its importance in engineering technology. Lists of critical terms, brief explanations of basic concepts, plus general guidelines for producing quality results are also included to provide readers with "the big picture."

A number of step-by-step examples engineered to guide users to mastery of proven modeling, rendering, and animation techniques follow. Finally, each chapter concludes with an industrial example and additional problems to motivate readers as they learn to optimize 3ds max and solve real-world manufacturing design challenges.

An excellent primer and long-lasting reference, the depth and variety of topics allow the book to be used equally effectively as an introduction to technical modeling, a beginning course in technical animation, or a broad survey of technical visualization.

Benefits:

• manufacturing topics are presented in the same order in which they are introduced in engineering and technology curricula, making this book ideal for the novice
• geometric analysis is offered as a key technique for increasing the probability of successful modeling and animation, developing both problem-solving and computer-based skills
• modeling concepts are developed around sketches, engineering drawings and photographs, as well as direct construction in the tool itself
• step-by-step examples from the world of manufacturing lead readers through their first constructions, offering opportunities to work from engineering drawings and specifications
• key 3ds max™ and Autodesk® VIZ commands are identified at the start of each chapter to lead new users quickly to proficiency
• a CD-ROM in the back of the book contains problem files, additional exercises, materials for maps, plus a directory of useful Web links and other helpful resources
• a full-color insert motivates users by showing the results that are possible when 3D Studio modeling, rendering and animation tools are used to solve manufacturing design challenges

Contents:

Modeling with Primitives.
Modeling with Extrusions.
Modeling with Lathes.
Modeling with Lofts.
Modeling with Booleans.
Modeling an Assembly.
Modeling with NURBS.
Modeling with Modifiers.
Basic Materials.
Raster Material Maps.
Modeling with Displacement Maps.
Modeling with Bump Maps.
Putting Modeling and Mapping Together.
Camera and Light Basics.
Camera and Light Applications.
Animation Basics.
The Walk Through.
The Fly Over.
Still and Movie Output

416 pages - 7-3/8 x 9-1/4 in. - with CD-ROM

Paperback, 416 pages