Direct distance input is a quick way to draw a 3D sketch. In the video above we are using this to input our pipe run before building a more elaborate model. Then we can insert the fittings at the endpoints and intersections and lastly joint them with straight pipe.
The tool I used in this video is called Mech-Q Piping. I’m using a CAD standalone called AViCAD which contains this piping tool. It’s an affordable package costing a 1/4 of what you would normally spend on CAD plus it has engineering tools included.
AutoCAD’s LINE command
How import is the LINE command?
The LINE command in AutoCAD is perhaps the most basic and widely used command in the software. It allows users to draw straight lines in their drawings with ease. In this article, we will discuss the various aspects of the LINE command and how it can be utilized effectively.
The fastest way to draw a line using the LINE command is by simply typing “L” on the keyboard and pressing Enter, Alternatively, you can find the LINE command in the Ribbon under the Home tab. Once you have accessed the command, you can start drawing lines by specifying the starting and ending points.
The versatility of the LINE command extends beyond just drawing simple lines. It can also be used to create construction lines like we are doing in our demo. This kind of input is particularly useful when routing pipes. These lines act as a guide and provide a way to locate and snap in our fittings. Keep in mind, the LINE command is not limited to 2D drawings can be used in 3D as well.
What’s Direct Distance Entry and how to use it with the LINE command
One way to improve speed and the accuracy of your drawings is by using whats called direct distance entry (also known as direct distance input). With this kind of input, you can specify the length of a line directly without having to define starting and ending points. This can be done by typing the desired length in your tooltip box (so long as Dynamic Mode is active).
Example of DYNMODE set to 3
By setting the Dynamic Mode or DYNMODE variable to 3, you can enter in distances directly at the cursor. You’ll also be able measure a line and polylines just by hovering over then. This eliminates the need to use the MEASURE and DISTANCE command over and over.
Also note: After drawing a line, you can also press Enter to continue drawing the next line from where you left off. This saves time finding the last point and improves your workflow. Additionally, if you have a series of lines that need to be closed, you can simply type “C” after drawing the last line to close them into a polyline.
Using Ortho Mode for Direct Distance Entry
When using AutoCAD for Direct Distance Entry, it is important to activate the Ortho mode. Ortho mode restricts cursor movement to horizontal or vertical directions, forcing a straight line. Without Ortho mode being active, you will end up with very inaccurate and misaligned objects everywhere in your drawing.
Orthomode also locks the Z direction when working in 3D space. This is super important as many times a line will appear straight in 3D but in reality it is skewed when viewing it from other isometric orientation. Again, with Ortho active you are drawing lines in a straight up and down direction.
Ortho Status Shown In Middle
A quick way ti enable Ortho mode in AutoCAD is by using the keyboard shortcut F8. Pressing F8 toggles Ortho mode on or off, allowing users to easily switch lock and unlock their cursor movement. Over time using the F8 key will become second nature to you.
In addition to the keyboard shortcut, you can also find the Ortho mode icon in the lower status bar of the AutoCAD interface. The Ortho mode icon is represented by a right angle icon, which indicates whether Ortho mode is currently active or not. Clicking on the icon, is another way you can enable or disable Ortho mode using a single click.
It should be noted that while ortho mode is beneficial for drawing straight lines aligned with the X and Y axes, polar mode (F10 key) may offer greater flexibility and precision when it comes to drawing lines at various angles, including those commonly used like 30 and 45 degrees.
