3D Properties

VectorWorks Machine Design includes a utility to calculate the center of mass, radii of gyration, mass properties based on density or specific gravity, surface area, and volume of a 3D object, such as a sweep, extrude, or solid.

To display the 3D properties of an applicable object:

1.	Select the 3D object.

2.	Select Machine Design > 3D Properties.

The 3D Properties dialog box displays the object surface area, volume, radii of gyration, and center of mass.

 

Parameter	Description
Units	Select the unit for displaying values
Places locus at centroid	Select to place a locus point at the 3D center of the object
Place properties on drawing	Select to place a grouped text block containing the 3D property values on the drawing at the next mouse click
Write properties to a file	Select to create a text file containing the 3D property values

3.	Click Calculate Mass Properties.

The Mass Properties dialog box displays the weight, mass, and mass moments of inertia of the object.

4.	Specify the system of units to use when calculating the mass properties.

The mass properties calculations display.

 

Parameter	Description
Input
System of Units	Select the units to use for the calculation
Property to Use	Select whether to display properties based on the density or specific gravity
Value	Enter the material density or gravity value

5.	Click OK to return to the 3D properties dialog box.