AutoCAD

How To Access Vehicle Tracking In AutoCAD?

Understanding Vehicle Tracking in AutoCAD

Vehicle tracking functionality in AutoCAD plays a crucial role in various design projects, enabling users to simulate and analyze vehicle movements accurately. This tool facilitates the process of assessing the feasibility of designs, particularly for roadways, parking lots, and other vehicular access areas.

Loading the Vehicle Tracking Tool in AutoCAD

To access Vehicle Tracking features in AutoCAD 2025, follow these steps:

  1. Open AutoCAD 2025: Launch the application on your computer.
  2. Access the Command Line: Locate the command line at the bottom of the AutoCAD interface.
  3. Enter the Command: Type VEHICLETRACKING into the command line and press Enter. This command is designed to load the Vehicle Tracking menus and functionalities.
  4. Check Ribbon Display: If the ribbon does not automatically appear, type SHOWVEHICLETRACKINGRIBBON into the command line to enable it and ensure all necessary toolbars are visible.

Adjusting Vehicle Tracker Colors

To customize the display settings of your car tracker in AutoCAD, use the following method:

  1. Navigate to Vehicle Tracking Tab: Click on the Vehicle Tracking tab within the ribbon.
  2. Select Review: From the dropdown options, choose ‘Review’ to access tracking properties.
  3. Choose Vehicle Tracking Properties: Find and click on ‘Vehicle Tracking Properties’ to open the associated menu.
  4. Access Reports: Select ‘Reports’ and then proceed to ‘Available Reports’.
  5. Modify Body Outline: Locate and highlight ‘Body and Chassis Envelopes’, then choose ‘Select Body Outline (plan)’.
  6. Edit Properties: Click on ‘Edit’ and navigate to the Discrete tab.
  7. Change Colors: Select ‘Attributes’ and find the options for Forward and Reverse colors. Modify the ‘Color’ value to your desired choice.

Exploring Swept Path Analysis

Swept Path Analysis is a vital feature within AutoCAD for assessing vehicle movement during turns. Here’s how you can utilize it:

  1. Initiate a New Drawing: Start by creating a new drawing or opening an existing project within AutoCAD.
  2. Access the Swept Path Tool: Locate the Swept Path Analysis tool on the Vehicle Tracking tab.
  3. Define Vehicle Parameters: Select the type of vehicle for which you want to analyze the path. This involves setting dimensions and other specifications.
  4. Lay Out the Path: Click on the drawing area to define the starting point and route the vehicle will travel.
  5. Analyze Movement: Use the analysis features provided in the tool to evaluate the vehicle’s clearance and spatial requirements at various turning points.

Turning AutoTURN On

If you need to integrate AutoTURN with your AutoCAD setup, follow these steps:

  1. Launch AutoCAD: Ensure AutoCAD 2025 is running.
  2. Access AutoTURN: Navigate to the CDOT Menu and select ‘Tools’, then click on ‘AutoTURN’ to launch the application.
  3. Adjust Settings: Prior to plotting paths, configure necessary settings to suit your design requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Vehicle Tracking and AutoTURN?
Vehicle Tracking provides broader features for simulating vehicle movements and access analysis, while AutoTURN is specifically designed for vehicle path analysis during maneuvers.

Can I integrate Vehicle Tracking with other Autodesk software?
Yes, Vehicle Tracking can be used in conjunction with other Autodesk software like Civil 3D, enhancing the functionalities available for infrastructure design projects.

How can I check if the Vehicle Tracking tool is installed?
You can verify installation by looking for the Vehicle Tracking tab in the AutoCAD ribbon. If it’s absent, you may need to download or enable it through the AutoCAD setup options.

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.