CAD tip # 2021:

Question

CAD
% platform category

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 24358×

Comments Tell a friend

Prices - CAD eShop:

AutoCAD

AutoCAD Architecture

AutoCAD Map 3D

applies to: AutoCAD 2002 · AutoCAD 2004 · AutoCAD 2006 · AutoCAD Architecture · AutoCAD Map 3D · MDT ·

See also:
Tip 5319:	How to set two attributes in a block always to the same value?
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?

Selected tip: Using an obsolete model of Genius, Wacom or Oce digitizer (tablet).

Back All CAD Tips

Is it possible to save Inventor 5.3 files to 5.0 format? « | » Dots are printed as thick squares.

Have we helped you? If you want to support the CAD Forum web service, consider buying one of our CAD applications, or our custom software development offerings, or donating via PayPal (see above). You may also add a link to your web - like this "fan" link:

CAD: OS: Categ:
Text:	FAQ glossary

Featuring:
Add .CIT raster format support to AutoCAD and Map and Civil 3D
CITin More info

Please use these tips at your own risk.
Arkance Systems is not responsible for possible problems that may occur as a result of using any of these tips.

	CAD Forum - tips, tricks, utilities, help, how-tos and FAQ for AutoCAD, LT, Inventor, Revit, Map, Civil 3D, Fusion 360, Forma, 3ds Max and other Autodesk software (support by Arkance Systems) - see About	Arkance Systems CZ s.r.o. (CAD Studio) - Autodesk Platinum Partner & Training Center & Consulting Services Partner	CONTACT: webmaster.cz@arkance-systems.com tel. +420 910 970 111
	Copyright © 2024 \| Advertise with us \| Online privacy

CZ \| EN \| DE
Login or
registration
	Visitors: 5551