How to Flatten CAD Plan?

Understanding Flattening in AutoCAD

Flattening a CAD drawing is a crucial step when you want to convert 3D representations into 2D plans. This transformation allows for easier sharing and printing, as well as better compatibility with other applications. In AutoCAD, various methods are available to achieve this depending on the specific requirements of your project.

Using the FLATTEN Command in AutoCAD

To utilize the FLATTEN command effectively, follow these steps:

1. Select Your Objects: Open your drawing and select the 3D objects that you wish to flatten. A quick selection can be made using the mouse or by typing a selection command.

2. Access the Command:

   • Navigate to the "Modify" tab on the ribbon.
   • Locate the "Flatten" option within the Modify panel. Alternatively, you can type FLATTEN directly into the command line and hit Enter.

3. Execute the Command: Confirm your selection by clicking Enter again. AutoCAD will process the selected objects and generate a 2D representation of them on the current viewing plane.

4. Checking Properties: After flattening, check the properties of the newly created 2D objects. They should maintain their original layer, linetype, color, and object type wherever possible.

Flattening in AutoCAD LT

If you’re using AutoCAD LT, you can achieve flattening manually. Here’s how:

1. Open the Properties Palette: Right-click on the selected objects and choose “Properties” to bring up the properties palette.

2. Adjust Z-Values: Locate the properties for Start Z, End Z, and Center Z. Change each of these values to a whole number that is not zero.

3. Reset to Zero: Select the same properties again and set all of them to zero. This process effectively flattens your objects in the 2D plane.

Flattening Points in Civil 3D

For users working in Civil 3D, flattening points involves adjusting the point display settings:

1. Access the 3D Geometry Tab: Open your drawing and navigate to the 3D Geometry tab.

2. Change Point Display Mode: Look for the option labeled ‘Flatten Points to Elevation’.

3. Select Desired Elevation: Choose the elevation you wish to apply to your points, ensuring a consistent plane across your design.

Flattening in SketchUp

If you’re looking to flatten a CAD file in SketchUp, follow these steps:

1. Switch to Top View: Change the view to a top-down perspective for the best results.

2. Set to Parallel Projection: Ensure that the view is set to Parallel Projection mode.

3. Export to 2D DWG: Export the view as a 2D DWG file at full scale.

4. Re-import the DWG: After exporting, re-import the DWG file back into SketchUp. This process will flatten the drawings.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the benefits of flattening a CAD drawing?
Flattening a CAD drawing simplifies the data, making it easier to work with and share. It also reduces file size and improves compatibility with other software.

2. Can all objects be flattened in AutoCAD?
Most objects can be flattened, but some complex shapes or annotations may not retain their properties or may require special handling.

3. Does flattening affect the quality of the drawing?
No, flattening does not typically affect the visual quality of the drawing, but it’s essential to check after the process as some properties may be altered.