Automating tasks in AutoCAD can save you time and effort. By using automation techniques, you can streamline repetitive processes, increase productivity, and improve accuracy in your designs. In this tutorial, we will explore various methods to automate tasks in AutoCAD.
1. LISP Programming
LISP (List Processing) is a programming language widely used for automating tasks in AutoCAD. It provides a powerful set of functions and commands that can be used to create custom tools and automate repetitive actions.
To start with LISP programming in AutoCAD, create a new LISP file with a .lsp extension. Open the Visual LISP Editor by typing ‘vlide’ in the command line.
Example:
(defun c:rectangle ()
(command "rectangle")
)
In this example, we define a new command ‘rectangle’ that calls the built-in AutoCAD command “rectangle”. To use this custom command, load the LISP file using the ‘load’ function or via the AutoCAD Startup Suite.
2. Scripting
Scripting is another way to automate tasks in AutoCAD. It involves creating a text file containing a sequence of commands and then running it within AutoCAD using the SCRIPT command.
To create an AutoCAD script:
- Create a new text file using any text editor.
- Enter one command per line, starting each line with ‘-‘ (hyphen).
- Save the file with a .scr extension.
To run the script:
- Type SCRIPT in the command line and press Enter.
- Select the script file and click Open.
3. AutoLISP
AutoLISP is a dialect of LISP specific to AutoCAD. It provides additional functions and features tailored for automating AutoCAD tasks.
To create an AutoLISP program:
- Create a new text file with a .
- Open the file in a text editor and write your AutoLISP code.
- Load the program using the ‘load’ function or via the Startup Suite.
Example:
(defun c:line ()
(command "line" (getpoint "Start point: ") (getpoint "End point: "))
)
This example defines a custom command ‘line’ that prompts for start and end points and draws a line accordingly using the built-in ‘line’ command.
4. Action Recorder
The Action Recorder in AutoCAD allows you to record a series of commands as an action macro, which can be played back later to automate repetitive tasks.
To use the Action Recorder:
- Type ACTRECORD in the command line and press Enter to start recording.
- Perform the desired actions in AutoCAD, such as drawing lines, creating blocks, or modifying objects.
- Type ACTSTOP in the command line to stop recording.
To play back an action macro:
- Type PLAYBACK in the command line and press Enter.
- Select the action macro file (.actm) you want to play back and click Open.
These are just a few methods for automating tasks in AutoCAD. By harnessing the power of LISP programming, scripting, AutoLISP, and the Action Recorder, you can significantly streamline your workflow and boost productivity in AutoCAD.
Conclusion
Automation is a game-changer in AutoCAD. Whether you choose to use LISP programming, scripting, AutoLISP, or the Action Recorder, incorporating automation techniques into your workflow can save you time and effort while maintaining accuracy and consistency in your designs.