Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
The LINE and PLINE commands work well for drawing a series of end-to-end
single lines, but what if you want to draw a series of double lines to represent, for
example, the edges of a wall or roadway? Here are some options:
Figure 8-5:
A plethora of polylines.
Use the AutoCAD MLINE command to draw
multilines
— series of two or more par-
allel straight lines. The AutoCAD multiline feature was full of limitations when it
debuted way back in 1994 (in the notorious Release 13), and despite some minor
tweaks in AutoCAD 2006, it hasn't improved significantly since then. Look up the
MLINE and MLSTYLE commands in AutoCAD's online help system if you'd like to
tangle with this feature, but be prepared to spend time experimenting and strug-
gling.
In AutoCAD LT only, use the DLINE (DL), or Double Line, command to
draw pairs of parallel line and/or arc segments. AutoCAD LT doesn't include the
MLINE command, which, given MLINE's problems, is more of a blessing than a lim-
itation. AutoCAD, on the other hand, doesn't include the DLINE command. (Score
one for the little brother!)
Use the PLINE command to draw a single set of connected line and/or arc seg-
ments, and then use the OFFSET command to create one or more sets of parallel
segments. Chapter 11 covers the OFFSET command.
Squaring off with rectangles
