THE CONCEPT AND 3D MODELING OF THE CAR BODY IN CATIA V5

Abstract

Catia V5 is a reference program in the field of computer-aided design which offers an integrated solution, in addition to common solid-state modelling features characteristic to all representative applications. Furthermore, it puts at disposal stylistic modules available to specialists, allowing the development of computer usage even in pre-construction stages. This paper presents the main design steps and the 3D representation of a car body using the design leading software, Catia V5. Two subassemblies are considered, front part and passenger compartment. General considerations of surface generation in automotive car body design are highlighted. Sketching modules were used in order to create the conceptual sketch, in which the required geometries for the solids were drawn, the Part Design module, in which the solid parts of the car body were made, the Assembly Design module, the module in which the car body components were imported and assembled, the Sketch Tracer module, a module in which real-world scale shots are imported to create a custom concept, and the Freestyle module, in which the 3D lines of the car body were drawn, after which the areas for surface generation were filled.