AutoCAD

How To Delete Features In AutoCAD?

Deleting Features in AutoCAD: A Comprehensive Guide

Managing digital designs in AutoCAD requires efficient deletion techniques to ensure clarity and precision. Below are detailed step-by-step instructions on how to delete various features in AutoCAD.

Deleting a Feature Line

  1. Access the Modify Tab: Start by navigating to the Modify tab located on the ribbon.
  2. Edit Elevations Panel: Look for the ‘Edit Elevations’ panel and click on ‘Delete Elevation Point’.
  3. Select the Object: Choose the feature line or any object you wish to modify. Ensure it is highlighted to confirm selection.
  4. Choose Elevation Point: Click on the specific elevation point you want to delete. To remove all elevation points at once, type "All" before proceeding.

Erasing Specific Parts in AutoCAD

  1. Open the Home Tab: Click on the Home tab at the top of your interface to reveal additional options.
  2. Use the Erase Command: Navigate to the Modify panel and select the ‘Erase’ command.
  3. Select Objects: At the prompt, employ a selection method. You can enter ‘L’ to erase the last object drawn or ‘P’ to erase the previous selection.
  4. Finalize Command: Press Enter to complete the erasure process.

Removing a Tool Palette

  1. Select the View Tab: Click on the View tab to access viewport options.
  2. Open Named Viewports: In the Viewports panel, click on ‘Named’ to open the corresponding dialog box.
  3. Choose the Viewport: Find and select the viewport configuration you want to eliminate.
  4. Execute Deletion: Simply press the DELETE key on your keyboard to remove the selected viewport.

Deleting Materials in AutoCAD

  1. Access the Visualize Tab: Navigate to the Visualize tab on the ribbon.
  2. Open Materials Panel: Click on the expanded Materials panel and choose ‘Remove Materials’.
  3. Select an Object: Click on the object from which you want to remove the material. The material will be replaced with the default ByLayer attribute.

Deleting Multiple Lines in AutoCAD

  1. Go to the Home Tab: Click on the Home tab to access modification tools.
  2. Select Delete Duplicate Objects: Under the Modify panel, find and click on ‘Delete Duplicate Objects’.
  3. Select Objects: Use any selection method to pick the lines or objects you wish to erase.
  4. Confirm Deletion: Press Enter, and optionally, set a Tolerance value if necessary to refine your selection criteria.

Deleting Unnecessary Lines

  1. Open Command Line: Type LINESMOOTHING in the command line and set its value to Off (0).
  2. Adjust Graphics Configuration: You can also adjust settings by entering GRAPHICSCONFIG and unchecking the “Smooth line display” option.
  3. Disable Hardware Acceleration: Turning off hardware acceleration can further prevent unwanted visuals in your designs.

FAQ

1. What is the difference between the Erase and Trim commands in AutoCAD?
The Erase command removes selected objects entirely from the drawing, while the Trim command modifies the edges of objects, allowing you to cut or shorten them without permanently removing them.

2. How can I delete an object that is locked or embedded in a block?
To delete a locked or embedded object, you must first unlock it or edit the block. Use the ‘Unlock’ command, or create a temporary block reference that allows you to access and remove the desired object.

3. Will deleting features permanently remove them from my drawing?
Yes, unless you’ve implemented a backup or version control system, deletion in AutoCAD is a permanent action. Always ensure you have saved previous versions or copies before making irreversible changes.

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.