You can change the height of an extrusion in AutoCAD primarily by using grips, the Properties palette, or during the initial extrusion command. A common interactive method involves dragging the cursor to adjust the dimension directly on the screen.
Changing the height of an existing 3D extrusion in AutoCAD is a frequent task in 3D modeling. AutoCAD provides intuitive tools to modify extruded objects quickly.
Adjusting Height Using Grips
After selecting an extruded object, you will see grips appear. These grips allow for direct manipulation of the object's dimensions, including its height.
- Select the Extruded Object: Click on the 3D solid object.
- Identify Grips: Grips (small squares or triangles) will appear on the object. Look for the grip that controls the height, usually located on the top or bottom face, or sometimes an arrow pointing in the extrusion direction.
- Drag the Grip: Click on the height grip. You can also drag the cursor to adjust and preview the height of the extrusion. As you drag, dynamic input might display the current height, allowing you to type in a precise value or visually set the height. The dynamic input origin should be placed on the extruded shape, on the projection of the point to the shape.
- Specify New Height: Either drag to the desired height or type the exact value into the dynamic input field and press Enter.
Modifying Height via the Properties Palette
For precise control, the Properties palette is an excellent tool to modify various aspects of an object, including the height of an extrusion.
- Select the Extruded Object: Click on the 3D solid object.
- Open Properties Palette: Press Ctrl+1 or type PROPERTIES and press Enter.
- Locate Height Property: In the Properties palette window, find the section related to the 3D Solid or Extrusion. Look for a property labeled "Height" or similar.
- Enter New Value: Click on the current value next to the "Height" property and type in the new desired height. Press Enter.
Summary of Methods
| Method | Description | Precision | Interactive? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dragging Grips | Select object, click height grip, drag cursor. | Medium/High | Yes |
| Properties Palette | Select object, open properties, type height value. | High | No (Direct Input) |
| During EXTRUDE | Specify height value or drag cursor while commanding. | High | Yes/No |
Practical Tips
- When dragging grips, use Ortho mode (F8) or Polar Tracking (F10) to constrain movement along specific axes, ensuring the height change is vertical.
- Dynamic Input (F12) is helpful when dragging grips, as it displays the current dimension and allows direct input of the new value.
- Ensure you have the correct object selected before attempting to change its properties or grips.
- For complex shapes extruded with taper or twist, changing the height via grips might have additional visual feedback or options presented via the command line or dynamic input.
By utilizing these methods, you can easily and effectively change the height of your extruded 3D objects in AutoCAD.
