using letters for cutting in sheet metal 2

[stanny123]

Im just wondering is it possible to type words then be able to offset them them so they cam be use for lazer cutting.
When i type a word in either mtext or dtext im unable to do anything with them be agreat help if this is possible.

 

[CarlB]

Try the "Explode Text" under the"Express" menu.

 

[stanny123]

Cheers for the reply i know were the normal explode wot is the express menu cannot seem to find it be great full if you got explain were to find it.

 

[btrueblood]

Do you want the holes in the O's and P's to fall out with the letter outline?

If not, then you need to show stencil type lettering. Either sketch the geometry you want, or download a stencil font, and proceed to explode it as CarlB suggests.

 

[CarlB]

If Express Tools is loaded but no menu, try the commands EXPRESSTOOLS and EXPRESSMENU.

If that doesn't install the menu, you'll need to install Express Tools, it comes with the AutoCAD installation discs.

 

[chicopee]

What do you mean by "offset them"? Do you mean copying the words, or editing the words, or use the words in an entirely different drawing? Offset in ACAD is a specific command but I get the impression that you are not interested in that command.

 

[stanny123]

Too be able to edit them so i can make them as thick or wide its for cutting letters in sheet metal.

 

[MikeHalloran]

The first question, that you haven't yet answered, is "How old is your AutoCAD?".

Express Tools didn't always come with it. I remember having to zoom in on a line of text, construct polylines over it on a different layer, and offset the polylines to make closed shapes that I could fill in order to make a nice label. What a pain in the ass.

If your AutoCAD is new enough, install the Express Tools, explode the text, and then you can screw around with the lines and arcs comprising the text to your heart's content.





Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

 

[stanny123]

Im using 2011LT does it work on this one or just on the full program.

 

[CarlB]

Sorry, no Express Tools in LT version.

The commands WMFOUT and WMFIN may do the trick..

http://forums.augi.com/showthread.php?t=52982