AutoCAD

How To Find The Perimeter Of An Object In AutoCAD?

Understanding the Perimeter Calculation in AutoCAD

Finding the perimeter of an object in AutoCAD is essential for drafting and design projects. This guide will provide a step-by-step explanation of the methods to identify the perimeter efficiently using AutoCAD 2025.

Accessing the Measure Geometry Tool

  1. Open the Measure Tools: Navigate to the Home tab on the ribbon interface.
  2. Locate the Measure Panel: Click on the ‘Utilities’ panel located within the Home tab.
  3. Select the Area Option: From the drop-down menu, choose ‘Measure’ and select ‘Area.’

Defining the Perimeter of a Polygon

  1. Start the Command: Initiate the command by selecting the ‘Area’ option.
  2. Specify the First Corner Point: Click on your starting point in the drawing area. A rubberband line will appear, following the cursor.
  3. Define Additional Points: Continue to click additional points around the perimeter of the polygon until you have outlined your shape.
  4. Complete the Polygon: Press Enter once you’ve returned to the starting point or finished selecting your specific points. The area will be highlighted, and the perimeter information will display in the command prompt.

Finding the Perimeter of Closed Shapes

  1. Use the MEASUREGEOM Command: Type MEASUREGEOM into the command line and hit Enter.
  2. Select Perimeter: When prompted, choose the ‘Perimeter’ option.
  3. Select Your Object: Click on the closed object (like circles, ellipses, or polylines). The calculated perimeter will be shown in the command window.

Measures for Irregular Shapes

To determine the perimeter of an irregular shape or composite object, follow these steps:

  1. Create Boundaries: Utilize the BOUNDARY command to generate a closed loop around the irregular shape.
  2. Select Polyline Options: When asked, opt for the polyline through mouse clicks around the corners of the irregular shape.
  3. Check the Properties Palette: After defining your boundary, select the generated boundary object, then refer to the Properties palette for detailed measurements, including the perimeter.

Calculating Perimeter for Multiple Objects

  1. Initiate the Area Command: Again, access the ‘Measure’ function from the Home tab.
  2. Select ‘Add Area’: Choose the ‘Add Area’ option to include multiple objects.
  3. Select Individual Objects: Click on each object whose perimeter you wish to measure. The system will list out each selected area along with a total perimeter sum displayed at the end.

Frequently Asked Questions

What command should I use to measure the perimeter in AutoCAD?
To measure the perimeter in AutoCAD, use the MEASUREGEOM command and select the ‘Perimeter’ option.

Can I measure the perimeter of complex shapes?
Yes, you can measure the perimeter of complex or irregular shapes by creating boundaries or using the BOUNDARY command followed by the ‘Area’ tool.

How do I find the area and perimeter simultaneously?
By using the MEASUREGEOM command, you can access both area and perimeter measurements. Simply select the closed object to receive both measurements in the command prompt.

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.