Using multiple lines in AutoCAD allows you to draw parallel lines as a single object, simplifying the creation of walls, paths, or other double-line features.
Understanding Multilines (MLINE)
In AutoCAD, the Multiline command, or MLINE, is used to create multiple parallel lines simultaneously. This is different from drawing individual lines next to each other or using the Offset command. Multilines are treated as a single entity, making editing and manipulation easier.
Starting the MLINE Command
You can access the MLINE command in a few ways:
- Typing the command: Type
MLINEin the command line and press Enter. - Using the shortcut: As mentioned in the reference, the shortcut key sequence is M+L+Enter. This is a quick way to initiate the command directly from your keyboard.
Once the command is active, you'll see options in the command line or dynamic input prompt.
Justification Options
One of the key settings when drawing a multiline is its justification. This determines where the multiline is drawn relative to the points you pick. According to the reference, within the Justification option, you have three primary choices:
- Top: The multiline is drawn such that the top edge aligns with the points you pick.
- Zero: The multiline is centered on the points you pick.
- Bottom: The multiline is drawn such that the bottom edge aligns with the points you pick.
Here's a simple breakdown of the justification options:
| Justification | Description |
|---|---|
| Top | Top line aligns with picked points |
| Zero | Multiline is centered on picked points |
| Bottom | Bottom line aligns with picked points |
Choosing the correct justification before you start drawing is crucial for accurate placement. As noted in the reference, you might "pick the top and draw one thing," which means setting the justification to Top and then defining the multiline's path by clicking points.
Drawing Your Multiline
Once you've started the MLINE command and set your desired options (like Justification and Scale, which controls the distance between the parallel lines), you draw it similarly to drawing a regular line or polyline:
- Specify the first point: Click in the drawing area to indicate the start of your multiline.
- Specify the next point: Click to define the next vertex of the multiline segment.
- Continue specifying points: Keep clicking to add segments to your multiline.
- Finish: Press Enter to end the command, or type
C(Close) and press Enter to create a closed loop.
Remember, the entire path you define, whether a single segment ("draw one thing") or multiple, forms a single multiline object based on the justification and scale you've set.
Using the MLINE command effectively allows you to create consistent parallel line elements quickly within your AutoCAD drawings.
