Understanding the Stretch Command in AutoCAD
The Stretch command in AutoCAD serves the purpose of altering specific sections of objects within your drawing. This command is particularly effective when a part of an object is needed to be modified, while the remainder of the object stays unchanged. To execute the Stretch command successfully, understanding how to select objects is essential. A crossing selection box should be created during the selection process, ensuring that only the desired vertices or endpoints are affected by the operation.
Steps to Stretch Multiple Objects in AutoCAD
- Begin by selecting the objects you wish to stretch. You can hold down the left mouse button and drag it around the objects to create a selection box.
- If you want to specify particular endpoints, hold down the Shift key and click on the grips (the small squares at the corners of the selections) to highlight them.
- Once the desired grips are highlighted, release the Shift key and select one of the grips to act as your base point. This will be the reference point while you perform the stretch.
- Next, move your cursor to stretch or manipulate the selected grips. Click again to finalize the movement.
Accessing the Stretch Command in AutoCAD
To initiate the Stretch command, you first need to start by typing “STRETCH” into the command line or navigate to the appropriate tool within the Modify panel of the Home tab. Once activated, AutoCAD will prompt you to select the objects you wish to stretch. It’s critical to remember that only vertices or endpoints lying within your crossing window are impacted by this command; those outside remain static.
Limiting Factors: Which Objects Can’t Be Stretched?
Certain objects cannot be stretched using the Stretch command. When objects are fully enclosed within a selection box, they will be moved instead of stretched. This includes standard shapes such as circles, ellipses, and blocks. Understanding which objects will respond to the Stretch command is important for efficient manipulation of your drawings.
Stretching 3D Solids in AutoCAD
Stretching in a 3D environment offers additional flexibility. To stretch a 3D solid, begin by creating a crossing window that encompasses the objects you wish to modify. After selecting the desired items, right-click and specify a distance for the stretch action. You can also use your mouse to reference other objects or directly specify the distance on screen. This is particularly useful for precise modifications in a 3D view, where you can choose any perspective such as Top, Bottom, Left, Right, Front, or Back View.
Scaling and Its Relationship with Stretching
AutoCAD primarily works in a 1:1 scale within model space, meaning that the drawings are created in their actual size. However, when plotting, you may adjust the scale to fit your output needs. This scale command does not alter the size of objects, unlike the Stretch command which is used specifically for modifying the dimensions of selected portions of objects. Understanding the difference between the two functionalities is vital for effective drafting.
Stretching Polylines: A Specialized Approach
- Select the polyline you wish to stretch.
- Hover over the endpoint grip you want to extend or modify.
- Choose the option to either “Stretch” or “Stretch Vertex,” depending on the version of AutoCAD you are using.
- Specify a base point by clicking again on the grip where you initially hovered.
- Finally, manipulate the endpoint grip to achieve the desired length.
Offset Command: A Quick Overview
Another useful modification tool in AutoCAD is the Offset command. To execute it, navigate to the Home tab, click on the Modify panel, and select Offset. You will need to specify the distance for the offset and then choose the object you intend to offset. This allows for easy duplication of elements either inside or outside of the original object’s boundary, enhancing your design process.
FAQs
1. Can I stretch multiple objects simultaneously in AutoCAD?
Yes, multiple objects can be selected and stretched at once, provided they are properly selected with a crossing window.
2. What types of objects are ideal for stretching in AutoCAD?
Objects like lines, arcs, and polylines can be stretched effectively if their vertices are within the selection window.
3. Is there a way to undo a stretch operation in AutoCAD?
Yes, if you accidentally stretch an object too much or inappropriately, you can use the Undo command (Ctrl + Z) to revert the last action.
