AutoTURN Pro generates a parametric 3D analytical model for all vehicles based on the part configuration and vehicle dimensions. This analytical model is used for calculations and analysis functions. However, since a generic 3D solid based on overall dimensions may not provide an aesthetically pleasing representation of the vehicle, it is recommended that users create their own 3D drawings for custom vehicles. For presentation purposes, the realistic 3D vehicle replaces the analytical model at the end of 3D tools if the Realistic checkbox is selected in the Vehicles (3D Simulations) category of the Properties dialog box (see Properties -> Vehicles (3D Simulations) Category).

Note: Realistic 3D vehicle drawings are supplied for the vehicles in the TRANSOFT and TRANSOFTM vehicle libraries.

General Guidelines

• All drawings must be drawn in feet units regardless of the vehicle's creation units setting.
• Draw vehicle body to match the roofline's height and ground clearance values as measured from z=0.
• Orient drawings so that the vehicle points to the right and the front center of the vehicle part is at exactly coordinate 0,0.
• Do not draw wheels - they are drawn automatically by AutoTURN Pro.
• Any amount of detail can be included to represent the vehicle in 3D as long as it is drawn full scale.
• Each part of a multi-part custom vehicle must be drawn individually and each file name must include a "_3D" suffix. The first drawing's name is the same as the Name field of the custom vehicle (e.g. the name of the first drawing of a two part vehicle would be: Semi Trailer_3D.dwg). Each subsequent drawing must be named the same as the first drawing with the suffix comprised of @ followed by the trailer number and then _3D (e.g. the second drawing of the two part vehicle would be: Semi Trailer@1_3D.dwg).

Creating the Drawing - AutoCAD/BricsCAD/ZWCAD

1. Start a new drawing.
2. Draw the 3D vehicle to match the dimensions specified for the custom vehicle.
3. Create a folder in the Vehicles3D User folder to save the drawing to (for information on the location of the user data, see General Installation Notes: Default User Data Location). The folder name must be the same as the Library field of the custom vehicle.
4. Save the drawing to the folder created in step 3.

Creating the Drawing - MicroStation

1. Start a new drawing.
2. Draw the 3D vehicle to match the dimensions specified for the custom vehicle.
3. Create a new cell library named the same as the Name field of the custom vehicle.
4. Create a cell and add it to the new library. The cell can be given any name. There must be only the one cell in this library.
5. Create a folder in the Vehicles3D User folder to save the drawing to (for information on the location of the user data, see General Installation Notes: Default User Data Location). The folder name must be the same as the Library field of the custom vehicle.
6. Save the cell library to the folder created in step 5.