Understanding UCS in AutoCAD 2018
The User Coordinate System (UCS) in AutoCAD serves as a movable coordinate reference for creating and manipulating drawings. By default, it is aligned with the World Coordinate System (WCS). However, UCS can be adjusted to better suit the specific requirements of your project, particularly in 3D modeling environments.
Steps to Save a Named UCS in AutoCAD 2018
For users looking to save a custom UCS in AutoCAD, follow these detailed steps:
- Locate the UCS Icon: Find the UCS icon in your drawing area. This icon typically appears at the origin point of your current drawing.
- Right-Click the UCS Icon: Perform a right-click on the UCS icon to display a context menu.
- Select Save Named UCS: In the context menu, click on the option labeled “Named UCS Save.” This option allows you to create a saved version of your current UCS settings.
- Name Your UCS: A prompt will appear asking you to enter a name for this UCS. Ensure the name is descriptive, as you can use up to 255 characters, which may include letters, digits, as well as special characters like underscores (_), hyphens (-), and dollar signs ($).
- Finalize the Process: After entering your desired name, press Enter. Your UCS will now be saved and can be easily recalled whenever needed. This allows you to maintain consistency in your workflow.
Accessing and Recalling Your Saved UCS
To utilize the UCS you’ve saved, follow these steps:
- Access UCS Settings: Go to the Home tab on the Ribbon, and look for the Coordinates panel. Click on the UCS dropdown menu.
- Select Named UCS: Choose the “Named UCS” option from the drop-down menu. A dialog box will appear listing all the saved UCS configurations.
- Choose Your UCS: Click on the desired UCS to select it. This action will immediately adjust the working coordinate system according to your specifications.
- Confirm Changes: You can confirm the switch by observing the UCS icon change to match the selected coordinates, ensuring you are now aligned with the intended design orientation.
Changing the Default UCS Settings
To revert back to the default settings, which is the World Coordinate System, follow these guidelines:
- Access the UCS Command: Type “UCS” into the command line and hit Enter.
- Select World: From the options provided, select “World” to revert back to the original coordinates.
- Verify Orientation: After executing this command, it’s advisable to use the PLAN command followed by the input “World” to confirm that your view is aligned with the WCS.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I delete a saved UCS in AutoCAD?
Yes, you can delete a saved UCS by accessing the UCS settings, selecting the UCS you wish to remove, and using the ‘Delete’ option in the dialog box.
2. How many named UCS configurations can I save?
You can save up to 255 characters for each named UCS configuration, and you can create multiple UCS settings, limited primarily by your drawing’s complexity and your organization needs.
3. Will my saved UCS settings remain after closing AutoCAD?
Yes, your saved UCS configurations are stored in the AutoCAD setting files, and they will remain available across sessions unless specifically deleted or modified.
