CAD tip # 2021:

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How to make an associative dimension of polyline length?

AutoCAD cannot dimension length of polyline, arc or spline by default. But you can use the LiveLabel utility (www.cadstudio.cz/livelabel) or DimCurve (see below), which can make an associative link between polyline length and its dimension.

As an example - draw an arbitrary spline, attach a standard horizontal dimension to its endpoints. The dimension displays only a direct distance of the endpoints, not its lenght. Using LiveLabel commands define a link style "Length-DimText" and link your curve with the dimension. Now the dimension already displays true length of the spline and if you edit it (e.g. using grip edit) the dimension is updated automatically.

LiveLabel Dim

In higher AutoCAD versions you can use the text fields with properties (length) of the selected drawing object.

You can also use a newer, more advance tool for curve dimensioning in AutoCAD - DimCurve.

ACAD2002ACAD2004ACAD2006ADTMapMDT

*CAD

6.3.2002 26573×

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this tip shared by ARKANCE experts applies to: AutoCAD 2002 · AutoCAD 2004 · AutoCAD 2006 · AutoCAD Architecture · AutoCAD Map 3D · MDT ·

See also:
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Tip 4395:	Quiet installation of Arkance Systems (XANADU, CAD Studio) applications.
Tip 3676:	Advanced formatting of AutoCAD 2005/2006/2007 fields.
Tip 3666:	Automatic level indicator for AutoCAD.
Tip 2688:	How to limit the number of decimal places in automatic Area label from LiveLabel?

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