A polyline is a geometric object in AutoCAD that consists of multiple connected line segments. It is a versatile tool that allows you to create complex shapes and paths with ease. In this article, we will explore what polylines are, how to create them, and the various options available for editing and manipulating them.
Creating Polylines
To create a polyline in AutoCAD, you can use the PLINE command or select the Polyline tool from the Draw toolbar. Once activated, you can start drawing by specifying the starting point and subsequent vertices. Each vertex represents a corner or endpoint of a line segment.
When creating polylines, you have the option to specify whether the segments should be straight or curved. By default, segments are straight lines, but you can enable curve creation by using the Curve option while drawing or by modifying existing polyline segments later on.
Editing Polylines
Once a polyline is created, you can easily modify its shape and properties using various editing tools in AutoCAD.
Add or Remove Vertices
If you need to add or remove vertices from an existing polyline, you can use the PEDIT command or select the Edit Vertex tool from the Modify toolbar. This allows you to insert new vertices at specific locations or delete unnecessary ones.
Joining Polylines
AutoCAD provides an option to join multiple polylines into a single entity using the JOIN command. This is particularly useful when working with complex drawings that consist of several independent polylines that need to be combined into one object for easier manipulation.
Converting Lines to Polylines
If you have existing lines that need to be converted into polylines, use the PEDIT command and select the lines you wish to convert. AutoCAD will automatically convert them into a single polyline, simplifying your drawing and making it easier to work with.
Properties of Polylines
Polylines have various properties that can be modified to suit your needs.
Width and Elevation
You can specify the width and elevation of a polyline, which determines its appearance in 2D and 3D views. The width property allows you to control the thickness of the polyline, while the elevation property sets its height above or below the current plane.
Linetype and Linetype Scale
The linetype property defines the pattern of dashes, dots, or other symbols used to represent the polyline. You can choose from a range of pre-defined linetypes or create custom ones. The linetype scale determines the size of these patterns relative to the drawing scale.
Conclusion
Polylines are an essential tool in AutoCAD for creating complex shapes and paths. They offer flexibility in design and ease of modification. By understanding how to create and edit polylines, as well as their properties, you can enhance your drafting capabilities and create more intricate drawings.