Cad Features
Revolve
The Revolve function is a very simple tool to use. It allows me to make a sketch and extrude it around an axis for x degrees. this makes it easier and faster than making separate sketches and extrusions; or drilling a hole through an already extruded surface.
Circular Pattern Tool
The circular pattern tool makes it possible to make or add an additional feature in a circular path. It saves time in the fact that someone might have to cut out every single hole or drill every single hole. It also makes it easier because it separates each feature evenly throughout the surface.
Mirror Tool
The mirror tool basically says what it does. Using the mirror tool I can make a copy of a single feature or the entire design; equally or across a work plane. The mirror tool come especially handy when you are making a symmetrical part. Such as that shown in the picture bellow. It saves a lot of time on projects and the overall construction of the model.
Fillets & Chamfers
Using the Fillet tool I can smooth edges to the desired size/width of the Fillet. Using the Chamfer tool I am able to make a nice and flat edge. Most of the time I use Fillets and Chamfers to create a border effect. Fillets and chamfers can also be used on holes or square cuts.
Model
To make this trophy like model I used the "loft" function and "offset from plane". I first used the "offset from plane" to create the sketches used to create the sketch. Then I used the "loft" tool to extrude from one sketch to another. But, I did have to create two separate lofts to make it how it is; because the loft tool usually bends or curves the surface. Thus making it more smooth but less defined.