AutoCAD: Developing A Prefab Unit

Learn how to use AutoCAD to create a simple, prefabricated construction unit which can then be used as a template in other construction projects.

Introduction

• Prefabricated units in construction
• What you should know before watching this course
• Using the exercise files
• The new AutoCAD 2020 interface

1. Setting Up the Plan View

• Setting up a local grid
• Adding a setting out point (SOP)
• Working to CAD standards
• Setting up prefab unit template drawing (DWT)

2. Developing the 2D Plan View

• Adding walls and structural openings
• Adding service connections
• Adding windows and doors in 2D only
• Using 2D blocks for indicative layout

3. Preparing for 3D

• Setting out and checking local grid and setting out point (SOP)
• Moving from 2D to 3D in AutoCAD
• Utilizing model space viewports
• Developing finished floor level (FFL)
• Calculating finished ceiling level (FCL)
• Checking upper and lower opening levels
• Extruding structural openings

4. Developing the 3D Unit

• Converting polylines to regions to create wall objects
• Extruding the unit walls and partitions to the FCL
• Subtracting the structural openings
• Adding the ceiling
• Adding the floor
• Adding the door and window

5. Developing Services in the Prefabricated Unit

• Defining elevation values for services
• Adding 3D features for services

6. Communicating Design Intent

• Setting up your title block
• Setting up suitable named views
• Adding named views as viewports in the Layout tabs

7. Annotating Your Unit Design

• Setting text styles
• Setting an annotative dimension style
• Adding text labels
• Adding dimensions—make sure to scale vports
• Making sure that annotation only shows in the appropriate viewports

8. Placing Your Prefabricated Unit into a Model

• Setting up a model in 3D
• Using the clipboard to copy and paste
• Setting the prefabricated unit as a DWG to be used as a block
• Checking that the unit is inserted accurately

Conclusion

• Next steps