Here is a interesting project in the works in the labs, Alias Sketch for AutoCAD 2010. This is an AutoCAD add-on application for sketching and experimenting with creative concepts in AutoCAD. You may be aware of the great Autodesk SketchBook Pro product for both Mac and PC as well as the new SketchBook Mobile for the iPhone. which I have and love.

Now there is some work on an add-on to AutoCAD to add some of the Sketch features currently named “Alias Sketch for AutoCAD 2010”.

Illustrate with Alias Sketch

Use intuitive pen-based painting and drawing tools such as pencils, markers, and brushes to create and adapt raster images in AutoCAD paper space.

The Alias Sketch Workspace

The Alias Sketch workspace is comprised of a single tabs on the AutoCAD ribbon. Marking menus, tool palettes, color editors, and browsers provide access to all the features you need to create illustrations in paper space.

Use intuitive pen-based painting and drawing tools such as pencils, markers, and brushes to create and adapt raster images in AutoCAD paper space.

Layer and transformation features extend your power to explore and fine-tune your ideas. Display 3D objects as layers in an Alias Sketch raster image to trace or to provide rich composition possibilities.

• Draw Freehand Illustrations
• Create Concept Variations
• Create Compositions with 3D Models
• Trace 3D Models
• Create Concept Walls
• Annotate

Just a glimpse of the possible future with AutoCAD. If you are into Industrial Design, then I would recommend the Autodesk University 2009 90 minute class ID218-1   Taking 2D Beyond Documentation
Description: Will explores creative methods that utilize Alias® Illustration functionality with AutoCAD® to extend documentation beyond technical drawings.
Speaker: Paul Lebovitz  Product Architect Autodesk

So if you use Photoshop® with AutoCAD®, this is the class for you!

Cheers,
Shaan

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