2012

Specify the Pivot Point
The pivot point is the base point used when rotating the model with the Orbit
tool. You can specify the pivot point in the following ways:
■ Default pivot point. When you first open a model, the target point of
the current view is used as the pivot point for orbiting the model.
■ Select objects. You can select objects before the Orbit tool is used to
calculate the pivot point. The pivot point is calculated based on the center
of the extents of the selected objects.
■ Center tool. You can specify a point on the model to use as the pivot
point for orbiting with the
Center tool (page 113).
■ CTRL+Click and drag. Press and hold down the CTRL key before clicking
the Orbit wedge or while the Orbit tool is active; then drag to the point
on the model you want to use as the pivot point. This option is only
available when using the big and mini Full Navigation wheels or the mini
View Object wheel.
NOTE While the Orbit tool is active, you can press and hold the CTRL key at
anytime to move the pivot point used by the Orbit tool.This pivot point is used
for subsequent navigation until it is moved.
Maintain Up Direction
You can control how the model orbits around the pivot point by choosing to
maintain the up direction of the model. When the up direction is maintained,
orbiting is constrained along the XY axis and in the Z direction. If you drag
horizontally, the camera moves parallel to the XY plane. If you drag vertically,
the camera moves along the Z axis.
If the up direction is not maintained, you can roll the model using the roll
ring which is centered around the pivot point. Use the properties dialog box
for the SteeringWheels to control whether the up direction is maintained or
not for the Orbit tool.
118 | Chapter 5 Explore Your Model