How to Calculate the Area of Multiple Objects in AutoCAD?

Understanding Area Calculation in AutoCAD

Calculating the area of multiple objects in AutoCAD is essential for various design and engineering tasks. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, allowing you to efficiently sum the areas of closed shapes, such as polylines and hatch objects, within AutoCAD 2025.

Step-by-Step Process to Calculate Area of Multiple Objects

1. Using the AREA Command with the ADD Function

1. Open AutoCAD.
   Begin by launching AutoCAD 2025 and opening your drawing file.

2. Access the Command Line.
   Type AREA in the command line and hit Enter. This command will allow you to begin area calculations.

3. Select the ADD Option.
   When prompted, choose the ADD function, which is designed to sum multiple areas together.

4. Select Object Option.
   Next, type O for object. This allows you to select closed shapes automatically without needing to calculate each one manually.

5. Select Each Closed Area.
   Click on each closed shape in your drawing that you want to include in the area summation. AutoCAD will highlight each selected area.

6. View the Total Area.
   Once all areas are selected, the total area will be displayed in the command line for your reference.

2. Summing Areas of Multiple Hatches

1. Use the LIST Command.
   Type LIST in the command line. This command will help retrieve detailed information about selected objects.

2. Select Hatch Objects.
   Click on each hatch object you want to analyze.

3. Review Results.
   The command will display the area for each selected hatch object in the command line. For multiple hatches, the total area will also be summarized.

3. Utilizing the Properties Palette

1. Select Hatch Objects.
   If you prefer using grips, select the hatch objects directly in your drawing.

2. Open the Properties Palette.
   Right-click and select Properties or type PROPERTIES in the command line to open the Properties palette.

3. Check Geometry Information.
   In the Properties palette, locate the “Geometry” section. Here, you’ll find the area of individual hatches as well as the cumulative area after multiple selections.

Additional Methods for Irregular Shapes

Using MEASUREGEOM Command

1. Initiate MEASUREGEOM.
   Type MEASUREGEOM in the command line and hit Enter. This command offers various measurement options for calculating area.

2. Choose Area Option.
   From the options provided, select Area, which will allow you to measure the area of selected objects directly.

3. Select Shapes.
   Click on the irregular shapes or polylines you wish to measure, and AutoCAD will calculate the total area.

Creating Closed Polylines

1. Draw Closed Polylines.
   If irregular shapes exist, consider tracing them with a polyline. Use the PLINE command to create a closed loop.

2. Use the LIST Command.
   Once closed, utilize the LIST command on the polyline to display the area directly in the command line.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I calculate the area of complex shapes in AutoCAD?
To calculate complex shapes, break them down into simpler geometric forms (like rectangles and triangles). Measure the area of each part and sum them together.

What if I need the perimeter along with the area?
You can obtain both area and perimeter using the MEASUREGEOM command. It provides comprehensive information about the selected object, including perimeter values.

Is it possible to automate area calculations for large projects?
Yes, AutoCAD allows the use of scripts and third-party applications that can automate repetitive tasks, including area calculations for extensive drawings. Consider using LISP routines for more advanced automation options.