How to Use Divide Command in AutoCAD 2017?

Overview of the Divide Command in AutoCAD

The Divide command in AutoCAD is a powerful tool used for creating evenly spaced points along the length or perimeter of an object. This functionality is particularly useful for breaking down designs into specific sections or markers without altering the original geometry.

Accessing the Divide Command

1. Using the Ribbon:

   • Navigate to the Drafting tab.
   • Click on the Draw panel.
   • Select the Point drop-down menu.
   • Choose Divide from the options presented.
2. Using the Command Line:
   • Type DIVIDE into the command line and press Enter.

Step-by-Step Usage of the Divide Command

1. Select the Object:

   • After initiating the Divide command, click on the object (line, arc, or polyline) that you want to divide.

2. Specify Number of Segments:

   • Enter the desired number of equal segments into the command line. This number dictates how many points will be placed along the selected object.
3. Review the Points:
   • AutoCAD will automatically place point objects at equal intervals along the selected object.

Displaying Divided Points

To make sure the points are visible, adjust the point style:

1. Type PTYPE or DDPTYPE into the command line.
2. Press Enter to open the Point Style dialog box.
3. Choose a more visible point style (e.g., larger sizes) and click OK to apply changes.

Dividing Multiple Objects

If you want to divide multiple lines or arcs at once, follow these steps:

1. Use the DIVIDE command as previously described.
2. Select multiple objects consecutively when prompted.
3. Enter the number of segments for each selected object.

Precise Division of Arc Length

To divide the length of an arc:

1. Use the DIVIDE command.
2. Select the arc you wish to divide.
3. Specify the number of divisions.
4. Check for evenly spaced points placed on the arc.

Dividing a Polygon into Equal Parts

To split a polygon into equal segments:

1. Select the Line tool and draw a reference line across the polygon.
2. Use the Split feature (or type SPLIT on the command line).
3. Choose “Into equal parts”, entering the number of divisions you want.
4. Click OK and then use the endpoints of the split line to cut the polygon.

Working with Divided Points

After dividing objects, you may need to edit or adjust these points:

• Use the Move or Erase commands to arrange or remove divided points as needed.
• Employ selection filters to specifically target divided points for bulk editing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of objects can I divide using the Divide command?
You can divide lines, arcs, polylines, and other linear geometries with the Divide command in AutoCAD.

Can I adjust the spacing of divided points after placing them?
No, the spacing is determined at the time of the division. To adjust the spacing, you must delete the current points and re-apply the Divide command with a different number of segments.

How does dividing an object affect its geometry?
Dividing an object does not modify the original geometry; it simply places points along it, serving as references or markers without altering the object itself.