AutoCAD

How to Use Revision Cloud in AutoCAD?

Understanding Revision Clouds in AutoCAD

Revision clouds play a vital role in marking alterations and focal points within a drawing. They allow users to highlight sections that require attention for review, adjustments, or annotations.

Steps to Create a Revision Cloud in AutoCAD

1. Access the Revision Cloud Tool

  • Navigate to the Home tab on the toolbar.
  • Locate the Draw panel.
  • Click on the Revision Cloud dropdown menu to display your options.

2. Select an Existing Object

  • In the drawing workspace, perform a right-click to bring up the context menu.
  • Choose Object from the options presented.

3. Choose Your Shape

  • Identify and select one of the drawable objects (circle, ellipse, polyline, or spline) you wish to transform into a revision cloud.
  • This selection serves as the basis for your revision cloud.

4. Confirm Arc Direction

  • Press Enter to maintain the current arc direction.
  • Should you wish to change the direction, you can modify it before confirming.

5. Finalize the Revision Cloud

  • Press Enter again to complete the command. The selected shape will now be converted into a revision cloud.

Customizing the Arc Length of a Revision Cloud

Adjusting the arc length of your revision cloud enhances its visual clarity. Follow these steps for customization:

1. Access the Arc Length Settings

  • Navigate back to the Home tab.
  • Click on the Draw panel and open the Revision Cloud dropdown.

2. Set New Arc Lengths

  • Right-click within the drawing area and select Arc Length.
  • Define a new minimum arc length, followed by a maximum arc length as per your requirements.

3. Continue or Exit the Command

  • Press Enter to execute the changes, or Esc to cancel the adjustment.

Purpose and Benefits of Revision Clouds

Revision clouds are invaluable for reviewing drafts. They underscore areas in a drawing that demand revisions, making it easier for architects, engineers, and designers to discuss changes efficiently. The clouds help communicate specific modifications to colleagues or clients.

Making a Revision Triangle in AutoCAD

Revision triangles offer another way to annotate changes. Here’s how to incorporate them into your project:

1. Activate the Annotation Toolbar

  • Open a drawing that already contains a revision table.
  • Click on the Revision Symbol button found on the Annotation toolbar, or navigate via Insert > Annotations > Revision Symbol.

2. Add the Symbol

  • Right-click on the desired revision row in the revision table.
  • Select Revisions > Add Symbol from the context menu.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of objects can be used to create a revision cloud?

You can use circles, ellipses, polylines, or splines to create a revision cloud in AutoCAD. This flexibility allows you to choose based on your design needs.

Can I adjust the arc length after creating a revision cloud?

Yes, the arc length can be modified anytime after creating the revision cloud. Simply access the settings, input your preferred arc lengths, and apply the changes.

How does a revision cloud differ from a regular polyline?

A revision cloud is a specialized type of polyline that consists of sequential arcs, specifically designed to highlight areas needing review. In contrast, regular polylines can have straight segments and a range of shapes, lacking the specific function of marking revisions.

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.