How to Use Revcloud in AutoCAD?

Understanding Revcloud in AutoCAD

Revcloud, short for revision cloud, is a useful feature in AutoCAD that allows users to highlight areas of a drawing that require attention, typically for revisions or comments. These cloud-shaped annotations consist of continuous arc segments and can effectively draw focus to specific parts of the design. Learning how to use Revcloud can enhance your workflow, especially when dealing with complex projects that involve multiple iterations.

Creating a Revision Cloud

To initiate a revision cloud, follow these steps:

1. Navigate to the Home tab on the ribbon.
2. Locate the Draw panel, then click on the Revision Cloud drop-down menu.
3. Select the option labeled Object from the context menu that appears in the drawing area.
4. Choose an existing object such as a circle, ellipse, polyline, or spline that you wish to convert into a revision cloud.
5. Press Enter to maintain the current arc direction, and subsequently, press Enter again to complete the action.

Drawing Rectangular Revision Clouds

For users looking to create a rectangular revision cloud, the process is straightforward:

1. Type REVCLOUD into the command line and hit Enter.
2. When prompted, choose the rectangular option from the command line choices.
3. Click two points on your drawing to set the corners of your desired rectangle.
4. Your rectangular revision cloud will appear in the drawing area automatically.

Adjusting the Scale of a Revision Cloud

If you need to change the size of an existing revision cloud, follow these steps:

1. Go back to the Home tab and access the Draw panel again to find the Revision Cloud options.
2. Right-click in the drawing area and select Arc Length.
3. Specify a new value for the minimum arc length, followed by the maximum arc length as needed.
4. Press Enter to apply these changes or Esc to cancel the command.

Inverting a Revision Cloud

If you need to change the orientation of an existing revision cloud, follow these steps:

1. Activate the REVCLOUD command.
2. Right-click to access the options, then left-click on the revision cloud you wish to invert.
3. If the arc length does not meet your requirements, repeat the selection.
4. Type yes when prompted to confirm the inversion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of using a revision cloud in AutoCAD?

Revision clouds are primarily used to highlight and identify areas that need revisions or further attention within a drawing, making collaboration and feedback more efficient.

Can I change the style of my revision clouds?

Yes, you can customize the appearance of revision clouds, including arc lengths and line types, through the properties settings, allowing for personalized designs that fit project standards.

Are there different shapes available for revision clouds?

While the standard revision cloud shape is cloud-like with arcs, users can create rectangular clouds or convert existing shapes, offering flexibility in how they highlight areas on the drawing.