In AutoCAD 2007 we added the ability to navigate in a 3D AutoCAD model almost like you can in a video game using the keyboard or mouse to walk or fly.

Walk is a method to navigate in the X-Y plane while Fly allows you unrestricted movement X-Y& Z directions.

The commands are accessible in three locations or four if you use toolbars.
The Ribbon > Tool > Animations,

The SteeringWheel

Or by the command line 3DWALK or 3DFLY and WALKFLYSETTINGS

Walk and Fly Navigation modes for the keyboard and mouse.

• Up arrow or W key     =  Move forward
• Down arrow or S key  = Move backward
• Left arrow or A key     = Move left
• Right arrow or D key   = Move right
• Drag mouse               = look around and turn

F key  = Toggle fly mode

• Tab key  = Show the navigation key mappings

Open a 3D Model and then use the command 3DWALK. In the Position Indicator palette set the Z elevation to what you want the eye level to be as you walk in the X-Y. You can also navigate using the Position Locator palette. Hit the F key to toggle the Fly mode. You can even record the walking and flying around.

Give these a try as they are not only fun but handy to look around or record animations and fly-by or fly-through sequences. There are many settings to control speed, elevation, target, visual style, and more. I will post a recorded animation from inside AutoCAD using 3D Walk and Fly later. I just scratched the surface with more left for later.

I also use the SHIFT+Mouse middle wheel to navigate around in 3D for a quick orbit.

Shaan