Michael’s Corner

Michael's Corner is a monthly publication written by Michael E. Beall, Autodesk Authorized Author and peripatetic AutoCAD trainer. Michael travels all over the USA, bringing his fantastic experience and great understanding of AutoCAD to his clients. Michael's Corner brings together many of the tips, tricks and methods developed during these training sessions for the benefit of all users.

Michael's Corner provides something for every AutoCAD user. Every month, a number of articles cover a wide range of topics, suitable for users at all levels, including "The Basics" for those just starting out. Essentially, the aim of Michael's Corner is to help all AutoCAD users work smarter and faster.

This month…

From the Vault

Originally published January 2009

EXPRESS: Breakline + Symbol

There's this wonderful little command in the Express collection called ‘Break-Line Symbol’ that works like a champ. The name is misleading since it creates the line and inserts the zigzag symbol.

Here's a breakdown of the command and options:

Block= BRKLINE.DWG, Size= 1/2″, Extension= 1/8″
Specify first point for breakline or [Block/Size/Extension]: Change S/E options here.
Specify second point for breakline:
Specify location for break symbol <Midpoint>:

Block= BRKLINE.DWG	This is fine; leave it.
Size= 1/2″	Size of the break symbol x the current Dimscale value.
Extension= 1/8″	Distance beyond the pick points x the current Dimscale value.

Instructions to Add the Breakline & Symbol

1. Set the desired Layer and Dimension Style, then launch the Break-line Symbol command from the ExpressDraw menu or from the ET: Standard toolbar.
2. At the first prompt, change the Size or Extension values as necessary, then pick the first and second points for the breakline. (Keep in mind the command will then extend the breakline beyond the pick points.)
3. When placing the break symbol, the command incorporates the Nearest object snap, so you can place the break anywhere. If you want the break to be exactly at the midpoint of the breakline, press [Enter] to accept the <Midpoint> default option.

My suspicion is that most folks never got past playing with this command since they didn't realize the Size and Extension were multiplied times the current Dimscale. The figures show the results of two different Dimscale values with the default Size and Extension settings.

It won't take you long to find what works for your drawings and you'll be on your way to consistent breaklines!

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