How do you offset in Autodesk?

To offset in Autodesk products (primarily AutoCAD), you use the OFFSET command to create concentric circles, parallel lines, and parallel curves. Here’s a breakdown of how to do it:

Steps to Offset Objects in AutoCAD

1. Activate the OFFSET Command:

   • Type OFFSET in the command line and press Enter.
   • Alternatively, you can find the Offset tool in the Modify panel on the Home tab of the ribbon.

2. Specify the Offset Distance:

   • The command line will prompt you to "Specify offset distance or [Through/Erase/Layer] ".
   • Enter the desired distance for the offset and press Enter. This determines how far the new object will be from the original.
   • If you want the offset object to pass through a specific point, you can choose the "Through" option.

3. Select the Object to Offset:

   • Click on the object you want to offset (e.g., a line, circle, polyline, etc.).

4. Specify the Side to Offset:

   • Move the cursor to the side where you want the offset object to be created. The software will show a preview of the offset.
   • Click to confirm the side. The offset object will be created.

5. Repeat or Exit:

   • You can continue to select and offset other objects using the same offset distance.
   • To exit the OFFSET command, press Enter or Esc.

Offset Options Explained

• Distance: Specifies the exact distance between the original object and the offset object.
• Through: Creates the offset object so that it passes through a specific point you select. Instead of a specific distance, you choose a point.
• Erase: Allows you to erase the original object after the offset is created. This is useful if you only need the offset copy and not the original.
• Layer: Determines the layer on which the offset object will be created. You can choose to place it on the current layer or the source object's layer.

Example

Let's say you have a line and you want to create a parallel line 5 units away.

1. Type OFFSET and press Enter.
2. Enter 5 (the offset distance) and press Enter.
3. Click on the original line.
4. Move your cursor to the side you want the new line to be and click. A new line will be created 5 units away from the original.

Tips

• The OFFSET command is versatile and can be used with various object types like lines, polylines, circles, arcs, and splines.
• Pay attention to the command line prompts, as they guide you through the process.
• Use the "Through" option when you need the offset object to be precisely positioned relative to another point.

The OFFSET command provides a quick and efficient way to create parallel geometry, aiding in design and drafting tasks.