Drawing a Cloud in AutoCAD 2018
Creating a revision cloud in AutoCAD 2018 is a straightforward process. This function is essential for highlighting areas in your design that require attention. Follow the detailed steps below:
Step 1: Accessing the Revision Cloud Tool
Start by navigating to the Home tab on the interface. Locate the Draw panel and click on the Revision Cloud drop-down menu. This action will present you with options related to revision clouds.
Step 2: Object Selection
Next, position your cursor within the drawing area. Right-click to bring up a context menu, where you will need to select the ‘Object’ option. After selecting this, you will be prompted to choose a shape.
Step 3: Shape Selection
Choose a graphical shape from your drawing that you want to convert into a revision cloud. You can select from various options like a circle, ellipse, polyline, or spline.
Step 4: Direction Confirmation
Once you’ve chosen the desired shape, press Enter. This will keep the current arc directions intact for your revision cloud. If you’d like to change this direction, you can do so prior to pressing Enter.
Step 5: Finalizing the Cloud Creation
To finalize the creation of your revision cloud, press Enter again. This will complete the operation, and your revision cloud will be generated based on the selected geometry.
Understanding Revision Clouds in AutoCAD
Revision clouds in AutoCAD serve the purpose of drawing attention to specific areas in a design document. They consist of an open or closed polyline made up of arcs. These clouds can be used for marking revisions, making it easy for viewers to identify parts of the drawing that need alterations or annotations. It’s important to configure your arc lengths and style settings before drawing.
Modifying Revision Clouds
Adjusting the scale of your revision cloud is simple. Here’s how you do it:
Step 1: Open the Revision Cloud Menu
Go back to the Home tab, and select the Draw panel, followed by choosing the Revision Cloud drop-down menu again.
Step 2: Arc Length Adjustment
In the drawing area, right-click and opt for the ‘Arc length’ setting. This option allows you to configure the arc specifications for your revision cloud.
Step 3: Define New Arc Lengths
You will now need to specify the minimum arc length and maximum arc length based on your needs. These adjustments will allow for more customized clouds.
Step 4: Confirming Changes
Once you’ve set your desired arc lengths, press Enter to apply these changes or press Esc if you wish to abandon the current command.
General AutoCAD Drawing Tools
AutoCAD comes equipped with a broad range of tools that facilitate effective drawing and design. The following are some fundamental tools you will find in AutoCAD:
1. **Line** – For straight line creation.
2. **Circle** – For drawing circles of varying sizes.
3. **Rectangle** – For rectangle creation with defined dimensions.
4. **Polyline** – For drawing multiple lines and curves.
5. **Trim** – Used to shorten or eliminate parts of objects.
6. **Extend** – To lengthen objects to meet another.
7. **Copy** – For duplicating selected objects.
8. **Mirror** – To create a mirrored copy across a specified line.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use older versions of AutoCAD for creating revision clouds?
Yes, older versions such as AutoCAD 2025 and earlier versions support revision clouds, although the user interface may vary.
2. Is it possible to customize the appearance of a revision cloud in AutoCAD?
Absolutely. You can change the arc lengths and styles of the revision cloud, allowing for customization according to project needs.
3. How can I practice drawing in AutoCAD?
You can use tutorial videos and practice projects available online to gain familiarity with AutoCAD’s features and tools. Many resources are geared toward beginners to help you learn effectively.
