How To Convert Object To Viewport In AutoCAD?

Understanding Viewports in AutoCAD

Viewport functionality in AutoCAD allows users to create specific views of model space to enhance layout design. A layout viewport acts like a window, providing a focused view of the drawing area, which can be manipulated to showcase different sections of the model at varied scales.

Step-by-Step Guide to Convert an Object into a Viewport in AutoCAD

Creating a Non-Rectangular Viewport

1. Start by constructing the geometric object in paper space that you wish to convert into a viewport, making sure it is fully defined and closed to form a complete shape.
2. Once your object is ready, enter the command MVIEW or -VPORTS in the command line.
3. When prompted, select the option labeled ‘Object’ from the available choices.
4. Click on the object you created. AutoCAD will convert the selected geometric shape into a viewport, and you can adjust the view according to your needs.

Using Polylines for Irregular Viewports

1. Draw the desired irregular shape using the Polyline tool. Ensure that the polyline is closed; an open path won’t be recognized as a valid boundary.
2. Activate the MVIEW command in the command line.
3. Choose ‘Object’ when prompted and select the completed polyline. This transforms your irregular shape into a layout viewport.

Manipulating the Viewport Shape

1. Click on the layout tab where your viewport is located to ensure you are working in the right space.
2. Select the viewport you want to modify by clicking on its border.
3. Use the grips that appear on the corners and sides of the viewport to adjust its dimensions. Click and drag these grips to resize the viewport as needed.

Clipping the Viewport to Create Irregular Shapes

1. Select the layout viewport that you wish to clip by clicking its border.
2. Navigate to the Layout tab and find the ‘Clip’ tool in the Layout Viewports panel.
3. Follow the prompts to select the viewport.
4. Specify the clipping object type. For irregular shapes, choose ‘Polygonal’ and draw around the area you want to keep visible.
5. Complete the shape by enclosing it, then hit enter to finalize the clipping.

Converting Viewports to Polylines

1. If interested in converting a standard viewport into a polyline viewport, begin by ensuring the viewport is selected.
2. Rotate the viewport by one degree using the rotation command, then immediately rotate it back by one degree.
3. This process will convert your viewport into a polyline viewport, allowing for further customization.

Creating Viewports in Different Contexts

Making a Viewport in Model Space

1. Access the desired layout tab.
2. Set your current layer to one dedicated to layout viewports to keep your drawing organized.
3. Click on the Layout Viewports panel and select ‘Insert View.’
4. Choose the appropriate scale from the provided list and place the viewport as required on your layout.

Unlocking a Viewport

1. To unlock any locked viewport, type MV into the command line and press enter.
2. Then type LOCK and select ‘OFF’ for the desired viewport to make it editable.

Adjusting Viewport Settings

1. Click to select the viewport you wish to modify.
2. Right-click and choose ‘Properties’ to open the properties palette.
3. Adjust the settings such as display lock status or modify the standard scale to change the view.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I select multiple viewports at once in AutoCAD?

To select multiple viewports, hold down the Shift key while clicking on each viewport you wish to include in your selection or click and drag to draw a selection box around the desired viewports.

Can I have different scales in different viewports?

Yes, each viewport can have its own scale. This allows you to present different sections of your model with varying levels of detail.

What are the implications of a locked viewport?

When a viewport is locked, you cannot accidentally alter its view or settings. This is useful to avoid unintentional changes in finalized layouts. To make adjustments, you must unlock it first.