How to Create OLE Object in AutoCAD?

Understanding OLE Objects in AutoCAD

OLE (Object Linking and Embedding) objects allow users to incorporate elements from other applications directly into their AutoCAD drawings. This feature enhances document integration by embedding various types of files, such as spreadsheets or images.

Steps to Insert an OLE Object in AutoCAD

1. Open the Insert Object Dialog

   • Launch AutoCAD and navigate to the top menu.
   • Click on the "Insert" tab and select "Object." This will bring up the Insert Object dialog box.

2. Choose the Creation Method

   • Within the dialog, opt for "Create New." This allows you to create a new OLE object rather than linking to an existing one.

3. Select Object Type

   • Under the "Object Type" section, choose the specific type of object you want to embed, such as Microsoft Excel Worksheet, Word Document, or any other supported format.

4. Linking Option

   • If you desire to establish a connection to the source object (so changes made to it will be reflected in AutoCAD), check the "Link" box. Otherwise, leave it unchecked for a static copy.
5. Confirm Creation
   • After setting your options, click "OK" to finalize and insert the OLE object into your AutoCAD drawing.

Converting an Image to OLE in AutoCAD

1. Edit the Image

   • Use an image editor like Microsoft Paint or Adobe Photoshop to open your intended image.

2. Select and Copy

   • Select all (CTRL+A) and copy the image (CTRL+C).

3. Paste into AutoCAD

   • Open AutoCAD, navigate to the Edit menu, and select "Paste Special."
4. Finalize the Paste
   • In the Paste Special dialog, choose the appropriate paste option and confirm.

Editing OLE Objects in AutoCAD

1. Activate OLE Properties

   • Enter OLEFRAME in the AutoCAD command prompt and press Enter.

2. Adjust OLE Settings

   • Set the value to 1 or 2 to enable editing features.
3. Manipulate the OLE Object
   • Now, you can perform actions like Erase or Move on the OLE object as needed.

Resizing OLE Objects

1. Access Properties

   • Right-click on the OLE object and select "Properties."
2. Modify Dimensions
   • In the Properties palette, input new values for Width or Height, or adjust the Scale Width or Scale Height percentages.

Cropping an Embedded Image in AutoCAD

1. Unlock the Drawing

   • Right-click on the AutoCAD drawing and navigate to CAD Drawing Object, then open Properties.

2. Select Crop Tool

   • Right-click the drawing again and click on "Crop Tool."
3. Adjust the Crop
   • Drag the handles to define the cropping area, and switch back to the Pointer tool when finished.

Clipping OLE Objects

To clip an OLE object, simply double-click on it within AutoCAD, or if it’s a linked file, go through the DWFATTACH function to clip as required.

Deleting an OLE Object

1. Enable Editing Mode

   • Type OLEFRAME in the command line and hit Enter, entering 1 or 2 to turn on editing.
2. Execute Delete
   • After enabling editing, use the standard erase function to remove the OLE object from your drawing.

Printing OLE Objects

1. Select the OLE Object

   • Click on your desired OLE object within AutoCAD.

2. Access Properties Window

   • Locate the large Properties palette and scroll to the Misc section at the bottom.
3. Set Print Quality
   • Choose “High Quality Graphics” to ensure your OLE object prints clearly in final outputs, especially when exporting to PDF.

FAQ

1. Can I edit an OLE object directly within AutoCAD?
Yes, by double-clicking on the OLE object or selecting it and using the appropriate options in the context menu, you can modify it.

2. What file types can be embedded using OLE in AutoCAD?
Common file types include Microsoft Office documents (Word, Excel), images, and other supported files from third-party applications.

3. How do I troubleshoot printing issues with OLE objects?
Ensure you have selected “High Quality Graphics” in the properties of the OLE object and check that your printer supports high resolution for complex graphics.