Changing dynamic text in AutoCAD can be a useful skill to have, as it allows you to update text automatically based on certain variables or parameters. Whether you want to change the dimensions of an object or update the title block of a drawing, dynamic text can save you time and effort. In this tutorial, we will explore how to change dynamic text in AutoCAD using various methods.
Method 1: Using Fields
One way to change dynamic text in AutoCAD is by using fields. Fields are special objects that display data that can change dynamically. Follow these steps to use fields for dynamic text:
Step 1: Select the text object you want to make dynamic. Step 2: Right-click on the selected text and choose “Insert Field” from the context menu. Step 3: In the “Field” dialog box, select the desired field category from the list. For example, if you want to display the current date, choose “Date & Time” category.
Step 4: Choose the specific field name from the available options. For example, if you chose “Date & Time,” you can select “Date” or “Time.” Step 5: Customize the format of your dynamic text by adjusting settings such as date format or time format. Step 6: Click on “OK” to insert the field into your selected text object.
Using fields provides flexibility as they automatically update whenever changes are made to their source data.
Method 2: Using Attributes
Another method for changing dynamic text in AutoCAD is by using attributes. Attributes are customizable properties that can be attached to blocks or objects within your drawing. To change dynamic text using attributes, follow these steps:
Step 1: Create a block containing attribute definitions with placeholders for dynamic text. Step 2: Insert the block into your drawing by using the “Insert” command.
Step 3: Double-click on the inserted block to activate the attribute editor. Step 4: Fill in the desired text for each attribute instance, which will serve as dynamic text placeholders. Step 5: Close the attribute editor to save your changes.
When you modify the attributes’ values, all instances of the block within your drawing will update accordingly. This method is especially useful when you need to change multiple instances of a specific text simultaneously.
Method 3: Using Dynamic Input
Dynamic Input is a feature in AutoCAD that allows you to input commands and specify properties dynamically through a tooltip-like interface. To change dynamic text using Dynamic Input, follow these steps:
Step 1: Activate Dynamic Input by clicking on its icon in the status bar or by pressing the F12 key. Step 2: Select the desired text object and click on it again to activate its grips.
Step 3: Hover over one of the grips until a dynamic input tooltip appears. Step 4: Use the tooltip to specify new values or properties for your selected text object. Step 5: Press Enter or click outside of the tooltip to apply your changes.
Dynamic Input provides real-time feedback and allows you to change various properties of dynamic text quickly.
- Tips and Tricks
- You can create custom fields by using AutoLISP or Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) programming languages.
- If you want to update all fields in your drawing at once, use the “REGEN” command.
In Conclusion
Changing dynamic text in AutoCAD can be done using fields, attributes, or the Dynamic Input feature. Each method offers its own advantages, so choose the one that fits your specific needs.
Fields provide flexibility and automatic updates, attributes allow for easy modification of multiple instances, and Dynamic Input provides real-time feedback. By mastering these techniques, you can efficiently change dynamic text in AutoCAD and streamline your drawing workflow.