Alternatives for Ghost Trajectories in AutoCAD for Mac
AutoCAD for Mac is like decaf coffee: it has the same aroma but lacks that touch of energy you really need. Although it shares the same DNA as its Windows version, the experience on macOS can feel limited, especially when it comes to advanced features like path animation.
Why Doesn't Path Animation Appear on Mac?
The path animation function, accessible via the ANIPATH command in Windows, is conspicuously absent in AutoCAD for Mac. Autodesk, in its wisdom, decided to omit certain advanced features in macOS, which can be frustrating for designers looking to create animated views for presentations or preliminary renders.
What Alternatives Do I Have to Animate Paths on Mac?
Even though you don't have direct access to ANIPATH, there are several options to generate an animated walkthrough:
- Use AutoCAD Web if you have a subscription, as it sometimes offers features not available in the native Mac version.
- Export your model in FBX or STL format and animate it in 3D software like Blender, Cinema 4D, or Unreal Engine.
- Consider installing a Windows virtual machine on your Mac to access the full version of AutoCAD.
If your goal is a visual walkthrough, tools like Twinmotion or Lumion can be very helpful, although they require access to a PC.
A Practical Solution to Avoid Losing Patience
AutoCAD for Mac is more oriented towards 2D editing and basic modeling. If you need to make presentations or animated walkthroughs frequently, it's more practical to use fully developed 3D software for macOS, such as Cinema 4D or Blender. You can even take your models to After Effects to add additional effects.
If AutoCAD on Mac won't let you animate paths, you're not alone: camera animation also went on vacation... but only on macOS. It's probably at the beach with other useful commands like Publish to multi-page PDF and the Express Tools option. 🏖️