How Do You Flatten Dimensions in AutoCAD?
In AutoCAD, dimensions are an essential part of creating accurate and detailed drawings. However, there may be instances when you need to flatten dimensions to simplify the drawing or remove any unnecessary information. Flattening dimensions can help improve the readability and clarity of your drawings, making them easier to understand for yourself and others.
Flattening Dimensions:
Flattening dimensions in AutoCAD can be achieved using a few simple steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to flatten dimensions:
Step 1: Select the Dimensions
The first step is to select the dimensions that you want to flatten. To do this, use the selection tool from the toolbar or type “SELECT” in the command line and press Enter. Click on each dimension one by one while holding down the Shift key to select multiple dimensions.
Step 2: Access the Properties Palette
After selecting the desired dimensions, access the Properties palette by typing “PROPERTIES” in the command line and pressing Enter. Alternatively, you can also find it in the Home tab on the ribbon under the Properties panel.
Step 3: Change Dimension Type
In the Properties palette, locate the Type property and click on its value. A drop-down menu will appear with various dimension types such as Linear, Aligned, Angular, etc. Select “None” from this menu to change all selected dimensions to a non-dimension entity type.
Step 4: Confirm Changes
Click outside of any selected objects or press Esc key on your keyboard to deselect all objects. Your dimensions will now be flattened, and you will no longer be able to modify them as dimensions.
Benefits of Flattening Dimensions:
Flattening dimensions in AutoCAD offers several benefits:
- Simplifies the Drawing: Flattening dimensions removes the complexity of dimension lines and text, simplifying the drawing and making it easier to interpret.
- Cleans Up Clutter: By flattening dimensions, you can remove unnecessary information from your drawing, reducing visual clutter and improving its overall appearance.
- Enhances Readability: Flat drawings are often easier to read and understand, especially when presenting the drawing to clients or colleagues who may not have extensive knowledge of AutoCAD.
Tips for Using Flattened Dimensions:
Here are a few additional tips for using flattened dimensions effectively:
- Create Separate Layers: Assigning flattened dimensions to a separate layer allows you to control their visibility independently from other objects in your drawing.
- Add Leader Lines or Text Notes: If necessary, use leader lines or text notes to provide additional context or explanations for the flattened dimensions.
- Maintain Original Dimensions: Before flattening any dimensions, make sure to create a backup or copy of the original drawing. This ensures that you can easily revert back if needed.
In conclusion, flattening dimensions in AutoCAD is a useful technique for simplifying drawings and improving their readability. By following the steps outlined above and considering these tips, you can effectively flatten dimensions while maintaining the integrity of your design.