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Step Up the Power of Parametrics
29 Jun, 2010 By: Lynn AllenCircles and Lines Tutorial: What's better than a geometric constraint in AutoCAD? Multiple constraints applied instantly! That's the magic of AutoConstrain.
My last column covered the basics of geometric constraints — aka, parametrics — a feature added in AutoCAD 2010 and available in AutoCAD 2011 as well. In this column, I'll dive even further into the magic of constraints and introduce you to another fabulous new feature, AutoConstrain, which offers much more than meets the eye. You're going to love how easy it makes your life.
Last time I showed how you can add geometric constraints one at a time as you create objects or modify existing geometry. These constraints preserve the integrity of the geometry in case you need to edit it later. But what if you already have a drawing that is geometrically correct and you'd like to apply geometric constraints throughout the drawing to keep it that way, in case you need to edit the geometry down the road? Adding multiple constraints one by one can be very time-consuming, not to mention incredibly tedious. That's where AutoConstrain comes into play.
Let's say I have a simple floor plan where I want to add parallel and perpendicular constraints, but I am much too lazy to add them individually. No problem: I just select the AutoConstrain tool from the Parametrics tab of the ribbon and window the floor plan. Voila! AutoCAD adds as many constraints as necessary to capture the existing geometry.
How does the tool determine which constraints to add? The AutoConstrain tab in the Constraint Settings dialog box controls which constraints can be assigned. Move constraints up and down the list to raise or lower their relative priorities.
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AutoCAD Tips!
Autodesk Technical Evangelist Lynn Allen guides you through a different AutoCAD feature in every edition of her popular "Circles and Lines" tutorial series. For even more AutoCAD how-to, check out Lynn's quick tips in the Cadalyst Video Gallery. Subscribe to Cadalyst's Tips & Tricks Tuesdays free e-newsletter and we'll notify you every time a new video tip is available. All exclusively from Cadalyst! |
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