Rotate the model with the left mouse button, pan the view with the right mouse button and zoom with the mouse wheel. 3D-Tool also supports 3Dconnexion 3D mice and touch gestures. The view can also be rotated with the keyboard arrow keys.
Color styles of the 3D-Tool software interface
Adjust the software interface to your working environment using the "Program Style" setting. 3D-Tool offers five color styles. In the Free Viewer and in 3D-Tool EXE files, only the Windows style is available.
Activating OpenGL hardware acceleration
Optimize 3D performance by enabling hardware acceleration and OpenGL 3.3 support in the 3D-Tool Preferences.
Aligning the 3D model in the view
Use "Align View" to quickly rotate the view to the nearest matching standard view. Left, right, top, bottom, rear and front views can also be selected directly.
Saving 3D views of the model
Use "Custom Views" to save the display state, for example specific viewing directions, hidden parts, exploded views or cross-sections. This enables quick switching between views and is useful for printing and creating images.
Creating PDF bills of materials
Use "Report" to create custom reports with bills of materials, a model overview, dimensions and weights, and export the reports as PDF, RTF or HTML files.
Placing and aligning cross-sections
Use "Cross-Section" to reach internal parts. The section controls provide many functions for aligning the cross-section.
Measuring and mark up in the CAD Viewer
Use "Measure and Markup" not only to add 3D dimensions and 3D notes. You can also insert background text and images, such as a company logo.
Cavities, draft angles and undercuts
Use "Tooling" to display drafts and draft angles in color, check the model for undercuts and determine its projected area.
Comparing two 3D models
Compare two model revisions with "Model Compare". Differences are highlighted in color, so that changed, removed or added areas quickly become visible.
Volume, surface area and weight
Use "Model Info" to determine volume, surface area, dimensions, weight and center of mass for parts and assemblies. The 3D-Tool material database supports you in the process.
Wall thickness heatmap
Use "Wall Thickness" to analyze the wall thicknesses of a model and display the results as a heatmap. Calculation is performed using the single-ray or sphere method.
Integrated screenshot function
Use "Capture to Clipboard" to copy an image area to the clipboard. A simple click without a selection rectangle copies the complete image.
Speeding up the 3D display of large models
Advanced and Premium users can reduce import quality for smooth display of large models. 3D-Tool Premium also offers fast loading of graphical CAD data from native CAD models.
Measuring DWG, DXF and HPGL
In 2D mode, use the "Measure Markup" tool to insert dimensions, markings and images. Use the "Edit Drawing" tool to modify and delete drawing elements.
