AutoCAD

How to Move Object in Viewport AutoCAD?

Understanding Viewports in AutoCAD

Viewports are essential tools in AutoCAD, allowing users to focus on specific areas of a drawing by displaying different views of model space within paper space. Each viewport can be scaled and positioned to present the model as needed for drafting. This guide will detail how to effectively move objects within a viewport in AutoCAD.

Steps to Move Objects in a Viewport

  1. Activate the Viewport:

    • Double-click inside the viewport you wish to work with. This action allows you to interact with the drawing at the model level, where you can manipulate objects as needed.
  2. Access the Move Command:

    • Navigate to the Home tab and locate the Modify panel. Click on the Move option, or simply type “MOVE” into the command line and hit Enter.
  3. Select the Objects:

    • A prompt will appear requesting your selection. Click on one or more objects that you intend to move within the viewport. Once selected, press Enter to finalize the selection.
  4. Establish a Base Point:

    • You will be prompted to specify a base point. This corresponds to the point from which the object will be moved. Click on the desired base point within the viewport.
  5. Determine the New Position:

    • After setting the base point, specify the target position where you want to place the object. Click to indicate this new location. The object will shift according to the vector created from the base point to the new point.
  6. Finish the Move:
    • After selecting the new location, the selected objects will appropriately relocate within the viewport.

Additional Tips for Working with Viewports

  • Editing the Viewport Size: To resize a viewport, click on its border to select it. Drag the blue squares (handles) to adjust the viewport dimensions as necessary.

  • Locking Viewports: To prevent unintentional changes, consider locking the viewport by right-clicking on its edge and selecting "Display Locked" to keep the view intact.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I move multiple objects at once in a viewport?

    • Yes, you can select multiple objects before executing the move command. Ensure to click and drag to encompass all desired items before confirming your selection.
  2. What should I do if my viewport is not displaying objects correctly?

    • Ensure that the viewport’s scale is set correctly. Double-click the viewport border and adjust the scale settings in the properties panel as needed.
  3. Is it possible to copy objects within a viewport?
    • Absolutely. Use the Copy command instead of Move to duplicate selected objects. This will allow you to place new copies of the objects within the viewport without removing the originals.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.