I think we could be close to creating non-textured con docs like that now of a current Datacad 3D model when setup correctly in Datacad if a new 3D Polyline clipcubes could could be enhanced a bit better.
To do a fully textured/material-ed model that is viewable for "views" like what is shown above really needs to get into a whole different subject about what does Datacad LLC see for the future of Datacad? Do they want to shoot for the moon and get Datacad Back to the Future? Build a true 3D cad/modeling system that still does all of the con docs goodness we all love with a modern 3D display
AND Drawing Board engine which is what it would take to pull off something like what is shown above and get relative in the 3D model space. Or stay as primarily a construction docs software that dabbles in 3D where getting output like what is shown above is not currently feasible without doing more work than can be done elsewhere like SU Layout or others.
The big issue is the road to get there in Datacad 3D modeling is nowhere near as user friendly as something like Sketchup or some of the other new startups. 3D viewing and working with models in Datacad is slow and cumbersome. (God bless Mark Bell's little 3D heart
) There is no realtime orbital viewing of Datacad models in Datacad it self or even a simple way to refresh a 3D view without loading and unloading O2C to see an update which is getting way long in the tooth and sun shader which is something else entirely. I think if Datacad truly wants to move beyond construction doc output into a legit modern 3D program again it's going to take some major reworking and is that something Datacad LLC can or wants to do a this point (again) ? I love what Dave and co have put together for con docs which is currently what I do day in and day out right now, but as I am currently looking at what I will be doing for my bread and butter in the 3D future, it is looking more and more like Datacad is not going to be a part of it as it is now and that makes me sad because it's been home for 22 years.