Understanding the FILTER Command in AutoCAD 2018
The FILTER command is a powerful tool in AutoCAD that allows users to select objects based on specific criteria, streamlining the workflow, especially in complex drawings. This guide provides a detailed step-by-step approach to utilizing the FILTER command effectively in AutoCAD 2018.
Accessing the FILTER Command
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Initiating the Command: Start by typing FILTER in the command line and hit Enter. This action opens the Object Selection Filters dialog box.
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Filter Selection: In the dialog box, you will see options to choose different categories of objects. You need to select the type of object you want to filter from the Select Filter dropdown menu. For instance, if you’re looking for layers, you can choose “Layer” from the list.
- Highlighting the Select Button: After selecting the desired filter, the Select button adjacent to the dropdown will become active. Click on this button to proceed.
Applying Filters to Select Objects
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Add Filters: Once the Object Selection Filters dialog is open, click on Add to List to include your chosen filter, such as “Dimension” or any specific layers you want to work with.
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Using Boolean Operators: If you wish to combine filters, scroll down to include Boolean operators. This feature allows you to refine your selection further by combining multiple conditions.
- Selecting the Objects: After adding all relevant filters, click on Apply. You can now use window selection to select all dimensions or objects that fall within the specified parameters of your filters.
Viewing Selected Objects
Once the filters are applied, the selected objects will be highlighted in the drawing space. You can now perform further actions—like modifying, moving, or deleting the selected objects—based on your project requirements.
Customizing Filters in AutoCAD 2018
To optimize your use of the FILTER command:
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Customize Commands: Navigate to the Customize tab. From there, locate the Command List pane and select the command you want to modify or customize.
- Adjust Properties: Use the Properties pane to change any aspects of the selected command, such as shortcuts or properties pertinent to the filtered selection.
FAQs
What types of objects can be filtered in AutoCAD?
You can filter a wide range of objects in AutoCAD, including lines, circles, dimensions, layers, and text. The FILTER command allows you to specify exactly which types of objects to include in your selection.
Can filters be saved for future use?
Yes, filters can be saved in AutoCAD for future sessions. Once you have created a specific filter, you can save it as a named filter within the Object Selection Filters dialog, allowing you to easily access it later.
How can I clear a filter once applied?
To clear a filter, simply open the Object Selection Filters dialog again, and you can remove selected filters from your list or close the dialog without applying anything to revert back to the original state.
