To effectively utilize the Extend command in Draftsight, it’s essential to grasp the steps involved in selecting the appropriate boundaries and determining the objects to be extended. Below is a comprehensive guide to using this command proficiently.
Understanding the Extend Command
The Extend command in Draftsight is a useful tool designed to lengthen lines, polylines, and arcs so they reach the edges of other defined objects. It ensures precision in your drawings by aligning objects to specific boundaries.
Step-by-Step Guide on Using the Extend Command
Step 1: Activate the Extend Tool
- Start by navigating to the Modify tab on the ribbon.
- Click on Extend or type Extend into the command line to activate the command.
Step 2: Define Boundary Edges
- Select the objects that will act as boundary edges for your extension. These could be lines, arcs, or polylines that are relevant to the drawing you are working on.
- After selecting, press Enter to finalize your selection of boundary edges.
Step 3: Select Objects to Extend
- Click on the objects you want to extend toward the chosen boundary edges. You can extend multiple objects in a single operation.
- After selecting all desired objects, press Enter again to complete this selection.
Step 4: Utilize Shift-Select for Trimming (if needed)
- If you decide that you want to trim objects instead of extending them, hold down the Shift key while selecting the objects. This action will trim the selected elements to the nearest defined boundary instead of extending them.
Step 5: Optional Selection Modes
- Take advantage of additional selection options. You may use tools like Fence for selecting multiple objects across a defined path or Crossing to select objects within a specific area.
- Alternatively, the Project and Edge options can help in extending objects to specific orientations or edges without needing to select each object manually.
Tips for Effective Usage
- Ensure that your boundary objects are clearly defined and accurately positioned as these will directly affect how the extension occurs.
- Familiarize yourself with the graphics area—zooming in can provide better control over your selections and ensure you’re picking the right edges.
- Remember that the Extend command can only lengthen objects to meet existing boundaries and will not create new shapes.
FAQ
What types of objects can I extend using the Extend command?
You can extend various objects including lines, polylines, arcs, and curves. The key is to ensure there are boundary objects present to define where the selected objects should extend to.
Can I extend multiple objects at once?
Yes, the Extend command allows you to select multiple objects to extend in a single operation. Simply click on each object you wish to extend before pressing Enter.
What happens if I selected the wrong boundary?
If you accidentally select the wrong boundary or extension, you can simply undo the action by typing Undo in the command line or pressing the Ctrl + Z shortcut. You can then rerun the Extend command with the correct selections.
