Tracking in AutoCAD is a powerful tool that allows you to precisely draw and edit objects by using reference points. It can greatly enhance your workflow and improve the accuracy of your designs. In this tutorial, we will explore the various features of tracking and learn how to use them effectively.
Enabling Tracking
To begin, you need to enable tracking in AutoCAD. You can do this by either clicking on the “Tracking” button located on the status bar or by pressing the F11 key on your keyboard. Once enabled, you will notice a small crosshair cursor with tracking lines.
Using Tracking Points
Tracking points are reference points that help you draw or edit objects precisely. They can be used in conjunction with drawing tools such as lines, circles, arcs, and more. To use tracking points, follow these steps:
Step 1: Select a Drawing Tool
Select the desired drawing tool from the AutoCAD ribbon or toolbar. For example, if you want to draw a line, click on the “Line” tool.
Step 2: Start Drawing
Click on a point in your drawing where you want to start. This will be your first reference point.
Step 3: Use Tracking Lines
Move your cursor in the desired direction, and you will see tracking lines extending from the reference point. These lines indicate possible paths for your object.
Step 4: Snap to Tracking Points
If you want to snap your object to a specific distance or angle from the reference point, move your cursor along one of the tracking lines until it aligns with a desired intersection or endpoint. As you move closer to these points, AutoCAD will automatically snap your object to them.
Step 5: Complete the Object
Once you have positioned your cursor at the desired location, click to complete the object. You can continue using tracking points to draw or edit additional objects as needed.
Using Polar Tracking
In addition to tracking points, AutoCAD also offers a feature called Polar Tracking. This feature allows you to draw or edit objects at specific angles relative to your reference point.
Step 1: Enable Polar Tracking
To enable Polar Tracking, click on the “Polar Tracking” button located on the status bar. Alternatively, you can press the F10 key on your keyboard.
Step 2: Set Angle Snap
You can set the angle snap increment for Polar Tracking by right-clicking on the Polar Tracking button and selecting “Settings.” Here, you can specify an angle value or choose from predefined increments.
Step 3: Start Drawing
Select a drawing tool and click on a reference point as before. This will be your starting point for drawing objects at specific angles.
Step 4: Use Polar Tracking Lines
Move your cursor in any direction, and you will see polar tracking lines extending from the reference point. These lines represent specified angles based on your angle snap settings.
Step 5: Snap to Polar Points
If you want to draw or edit an object at a specific angle, move your cursor along one of the polar tracking lines until it aligns with a desired angle. AutoCAD will automatically snap your object to that angle when you start drawing or editing.
Conclusion
Tracking in AutoCAD is a valuable tool that allows for precise drawing and editing. By using tracking points and polar tracking, you can significantly improve your workflow and accuracy. Experiment with these features in your designs, and you will quickly see the benefits they bring to your AutoCAD projects.