... which is exactly why it should be user configurable! ... like other CAD programs.Also does you monitor represent a sheet of paper on the desk, or looking out of the window? No right or wrong answer, but highlights that direction assignment is largely arbitrary.
Just because you want it doesn't mean everyone wants it.Thanks for the reply. It's hard to believe they are up to V27 and haven't figured this out yet. I'm not a "rocket scientist" but I don't believe allowing for Z being up/down is rocket science.
There is no downside to having that ability. Folks that are happy with the orientation that way it is can leave it that way. Those that see the need and wish to have a different orientation can make use of the ability.Just because you want it doesn't mean everyone wants it.
There is a lot of features in Alibre that not everyone wants, most are non design centric, but we have them. Every job I do for 3 of the UK's leading automotive and construction companies, I have to use Z up and they 100% expect every model to be in that orientation, because that's what their processes and procedure dictate. It makes using Alibre very, very difficult when you have to map the orientations on the cube, views and planes in your head. I've had to re-make numerous models because I've started on the wrong plane! If there was a function to re-orient the base feature to a different plane, then that would be a step in the right direction.Just because you want it doesn't mean everyone wants it.
Indeed. While I am new to Alibre I am not to new to 3D modeling applications. I find it interesting that Alibre has made it to V27 without having added this feature.I have to say this request makes sense and would be very desirable. Depending on what field you're designing for, the Z axis should have a specific orientation.
You can most certainly do that. But for a program as expensive as Alibre Design Expert and to be at V27 without allowing for specifying what axis is up is just plain wrong.So, here's what I do. I design as if Z is up. So for example the base of the part I always draw in the XY plane. If you then rotate your part to be upright according to that interpretation of Up and hit save, the floor reflections and all of the lighting will update to reflect that. The only thing that will not be upright according to that definition of Up is going to be the file thumbnail...
Good enough for me.
P.S. Same update behaviour will occur before saving if you orient the part according to what you think is upright, go to the view tab and turn off and back on the reflections, lighting, ambient occlusion, etc.