How To Link Object In AutoCAD?

Linking Objects in AutoCAD: A Step-by-Step Guide

One essential functionality in AutoCAD is the ability to link objects such as areas, dimensions, and other geometrical entities for better visualization and data management. This guide provides a detailed process for linking an area in AutoCAD using the FIELD command.

Step 1: Create the Boundary Polyline

Begin by defining the boundary of the area you wish to link. Use the Polyline tool to draw the outline of the room or space, ensuring that the polyline is closed to represent a complete area.

1. Access the Polyline Tool:

   • Go to the Home tab and select the Polyline tool from the Drawing panel.
2. Draw the Polyline:
   • Click to specify points around the perimeter of the room, then return to the starting point to close the polyline.

Step 2: Use the FIELD Command

After creating the polyline, you can now use the FIELD command to link the area to your drawing.

1. Initiate the FIELD Command:

   • Type FIELD in the command line and press Enter.
2. Select Object:
   • In the dialog box that appears, choose Object from the available options.

Step 3: Select the Polyline Object

Next, you need to specify the polyline that you just created to extract its area.

1. Choose Your Polyline:
   • Click on the Select Object button. Select the polyline that outlines the area.

Step 4: Specify Area Properties

Once you’ve selected the polyline, you need to adjust the settings to ensure that the area value is formatted as you desire.

1. Select Area Property:

   • Make sure that the Area property is selected. If it doesn’t auto-select, manually choose it.

2. Set Precision:

   • Choose the level of precision for the area calculation, typically set to two decimal places for most architectural plans.
3. Additional Formatting Options:
   • Optionally, click on the Additional Format button to explore further formatting options, such as changing units or adding text strings.

Step 5: Finalizing the Link

With the polyline selected and properties set, you are ready to create the link.

1. Insert the Field:

   • Click OK in the dialog box to insert the linked field into your drawing.

2. Position the Field:

   • Click in your drawing space to place the linked area.
3. Updating the Field:
   • If any changes are made to the polyline (for example, resizing), the linked area will automatically update to reflect these changes. To ensure it updates correctly, you may need to refresh the field by selecting it and pressing F9.

FAQs

1. Can I link other properties besides area in AutoCAD?
Yes, the FIELD command allows you to link various properties, including length, volume, and other object data, depending on what you have created.

2. Will the linked area update if the polyline changes?
Yes, linked fields will automatically update when the underlying object is modified, provided the field is refreshed as needed.

3. Is this functionality available in older versions of AutoCAD?
The FIELD command has been a part of AutoCAD for several versions, including AutoCAD 2025 and recent versions. However, specific features may vary, so it’s recommended to check the version capabilities.