Today we will conclude the Interface and Drafting Settings part so that we can proceed to Drawing Preparation from tomorrow. Today it is comparatively easy as we are going to deal with just TWO last tabs of last toolbar – LWT and MODEL.
LWT is the abbreviation for Line Weight what AutoCAD refers to as a single word Lineweight. Basically lineweight is meant for Plotting. This setting instructs AutoCAD about the width or thickness or boldness with which the vector should be drawn. Although by default lineweight is zero it doesn’t mean that the object drawn would be invisible. In the real world context what it means id the minimum pen width available. For e.g. if you have minimum pen width of 0.1 it is treated as zero and if you have 0.05 pen width available that would be zero. The normal standard pen widths used are 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5 and 0.7.
Setting different Lineweights for different objects makes it easy to differentiate between them in terms of type, character, property or level, when plotted provided that proper plot settings are used. We will learn each and every minor detail about it in due course. For now all we should understand is – LWT turns the display of Lineweights ON and OFF. When the Lineweights are turned on, while using the viewing commands like ZOOM, objects regenerate continuously and may give a distorted or mangled display that can cause problems while working. This is the reason why Lineweights are by default turned OFF. And it is even recommended not to keep them on unless for a quick preview and analysis.
MODEL tab has a different purpose than one in the Space Tabs section. We have already learnt about the Model and Layout Tabs which are meant for switching between the spaces. When you switch to Layout Tab from Model Space the scenario immediately changes to 2D drafting from 3D modeling and the ‘Z’ axis disappears. Now imaging a situation where you need to work in the Model Space for some reason without leaving the Layout Tab. What I mean is you want to do some editing in your Layout Drawing with some Model Space facilities. This can be done by using this last MODEL tab on the Drafting Settings Toolbar. You can easily switch between Paper Space and Model Space within the Layout with this button.
I know it is little difficult to understand theoretically. Why don’t you try it ‘Hands On’ as they say? This will serve two purposes –
1. You will make yourself familiar with the ‘AutoCAD Environment’ as I like to call it and
2. You will be in a better position to ‘Switch’ when we will need in real time…!
You can take a break, do some breathing exercise or meditation of any sort that you are habitual to and sit back and relax for a while. With this we have finished the FIRST section of AutoCAD interface and settings, for now. Once you master it you’ll find yourself working more efficiently and productively as we progress.
Next is Preparation for our First Drawing Assignment before we draw the first line of our Assignment3. Tomorrow we will see what appetizers we should order before the Main Course…
Stay Tuned…!
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