Introduction to AutoCAD 2020
The latest version of AutoCAD, AutoCAD 2020, brings a host of advancements designed to streamline the design process and elevate user experience. Among these new features is the Quick Measure tool, which significantly enhances how measurements are handled within 2D drawings. This guide breaks down the benefits and functionality of this tool, along with other new features introduced in AutoCAD 2020.
Quick Measure Tool Explained
Overview of Quick Measure
The Quick Measure tool revolutionizes the way users measure elements in their drawings. By leveraging the Quick option in the MEASUREGEOM command, users can effortlessly obtain measurements simply by moving their cursor across the workspace. This feature helps to save time and improve accuracy during the design process.
How to Use Quick Measure
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Activate the Quick Measure Tool: Begin by entering the MEASUREGEOM command in the command line. Select the Quick option to enable measurement by cursor movement.
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Hover Over the Elements: Move your mouse pointer over various objects and lines within your drawing. The tool will dynamically present important information such as distances, angles, and dimensions without the need for any additional clicks.
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Identify Accurate Measurements: As you hover, small indicators (orange squares) appear at corners, showing you when lines are at right angles, enhancing your ability to gauge relationships between elements quickly.
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Measure Parallel Objects: The Quick Measure tool will only display distances between parallel lines or objects, ensuring that measurements are precise.
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Zoom for Clarity: For more complex drawings, zooming into specific areas can help reduce clutter on the screen, improving performance and enabling clearer measurement displays.
Visual Demonstration of Quick Measure
Seeing the Quick Measure tool in action can provide a clearer understanding of its capabilities. A tutorial or demonstration video reveals how the tool operates in real-time, making it easier to appreciate its effectiveness in a practical setting. Watching these demonstrations can significantly enhance users’ ability to master this new feature.
Additional New Features in AutoCAD 2020
Beyond the Quick Measure tool, AutoCAD 2020 boasts several other enhancements aimed at increasing workflow efficiency. Upcoming articles in this series will delve into additional features, including the new Blocks palette, which simplifies the management of reusable design elements. For more comprehensive information, users are encouraged to visit the AutoCAD Features and AutoCAD LT Features web pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What specific improvements does the Quick Measure tool offer compared to previous AutoCAD versions?
The Quick Measure tool in AutoCAD 2020 allows for real-time measurement display simply by hovering the mouse, contrasting with earlier versions where dimensions had to be manually drawn or measured, making the process more efficient.
2. Can the Quick Measure tool be used with 3D models?
The Quick Measure feature is primarily designed for 2D drawings. While it may provide some measurements in 3D contexts, its functionality is most effective in parallel and two-dimensional situations.
3. Are there other tools similar to Quick Measure in AutoCAD 2020?
Yes, AutoCAD 2020 includes various new productivity tools, such as enhanced dimensioning options and a revamped Blocks palette, all of which aim to improve the overall design experience and streamline workflows.