Auto Cad Notes
Auto Cad Notes
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1. Offset Command
The Offset command is used to create parallel copies of objects at a specified distance.
Example of Use:
- Offset a line by 5 units to create parallel lines for a road or wall plan.
- Offset a rectangle to create a buffer zone or margin.
Tips:
- You can use the Multiple option to create multiple offsets in one command. After entering the
offset distance, type M and press Enter to keep offsetting without restarting the command.
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2. Array Command
The Array command is used to create multiple copies of an object in a pattern, such as in rows,
columns, or a circular arrangement.
Types of Arrays:
1. Rectangular Array: Copies the object in rows and columns.
2. Polar Array: Copies the object around a central point in a circular pattern.
3. Path Array: Copies the object along a specified path.
2. Select Object:
- Select the object(s) you want to array and press Enter.
2. Select Object:
- Select the object(s) you want to array and press Enter.
6. Angle to Fill:
- Specify the total angle around the circle to fill with the array (e.g., 360 degrees for a complete
circle, or 180 for a semicircle).
Path Array:
- The Path Array allows you to copy objects along a predefined path, like a line, polyline, or curve.
The procedure is similar to the previous arrays, but you must select the path after selecting the
object.
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Examples of Usage:
- Offset: Used to create concentric circles, parallel lines, or wall thicknesses in architectural plans.
- Array:
- Rectangular: For repeating objects like chairs in an auditorium, tiles in a floor plan.
- Polar: For patterns like bolts arranged around a circular flange or lights around a fountain.
- Path: For placing objects like trees along a curved road or lights along a pathway.
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Shortcuts:
- Offset: `O + Enter`
- Array: `ARRAY + Enter`, or use `AR` for quicker access.
Drawing using coordinates in AutoCAD allows for precise placement of points and objects. There
are three main types of coordinate systems you can use: absolute coordinates, relative coordinates,
and polar coordinates. Here’s a breakdown of how to use each type.
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1. Absolute Coordinates
In absolute coordinates, you specify points based on their exact position in relation to the origin
point (0,0).
Example:
- To draw a line from (0,0) to (10,15):
1. Type `LINE` and press Enter.
2. Type `0,0` for the starting point and press Enter.
3. Type `10,15` for the next point and press Enter.
The line will be drawn from the origin (0,0) to the point (10,15).
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2. Relative Coordinates
Relative coordinates are based on the last point you placed, not the origin. You can use this to
specify points in relation to your last position, making drawing quicker when working with
consecutive points.
Example:
- To draw a line from the current point to a new point that is 10 units to the right and 5 units up:
1. Start the LINE command.
2. Pick a starting point (e.g., `5,5`).
3. Type `@10,5` and press Enter.
4. The second point will be placed 10 units to the right and 5 units up from the first point.
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3. Polar Coordinates
Polar coordinates are used when you want to specify a point by distance and angle relative to the
last point.
Syntax: `@distance<angle`
Example:
- To draw a line that is 10 units long at a 30° angle:
1. Start the LINE command.
2. Pick a starting point.
3. Type `@10<30` and press Enter.
The line will be drawn 10 units away from the starting point at a 30° angle.
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Tips:
- F12 (Dynamic Input): Enables dynamic coordinate input, allowing you to see coordinate values as
you move your mouse.
- Command Line History: Use the command line to review coordinates or errors if something is
placed incorrectly.
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By using these methods, your students can create very precise drawings by directly inputting
coordinates. This is particularly useful for engineering, architecture, and technical drawings!