Chap 12xvxvx

Chapter
12
Command Reference
The File menu
The File commands are used to manipulate files. New drawings and bending schedules can be created and existing ones opened, saved, printed and closed. Commands are available to convert foreign drawings to use with other CAD systems. Drawing information can also be displayed and drawings packed to remove deleted entities. The File commands are: Drawing file management functions New drawing File open Save Save as Save all File close Foreign file conversion functions Read DXF Write DXF
Insert raster image Save raster image Import DWG Export DWG Printing and plotting functions Print Print to GIF file Print to EMF file General utilities Pack drawing Drawing information Save in text format Options Exit
New drawing
Menu Command Description Short form Parameters
: : : : :
File New drawing Create a new drawing file FN None
Notes : The command is used to create a new drawing. The drawing file is named the first time it is saved. The window title reflects the file name "NONAME" until such time.
File open
: : : : :
File Open Open a drawing file FO File name
Notes : The Open File window is displayed, allowing a drawing file to be selected. The working folder is listed by default but any folder can be selected. The selected folder can also be set as the working folder by selecting Set as W Folder. The bending schedule (empty or otherwise) associated with a drawing is loaded with it. Foreign drawings from other CAD systems can also be opened. PADDS recognizes files with the extensions DXF and DWG as drawing exchange files from other CAD systems and automatically converts them. Refer to Chapter 2 of the User's manual for detail on the PADDS drawing file structure and selecting a drawing file to open. Related commands : File close, Read DXF, Import DWG
Save
: : : : :
File Save Save the active drawing FS None
Notes : The command is used to save the drawing in the active window. Use Save all to save all open drawings and Save as to save the active drawing under a new file name. When a new drawing is saved for the first time, the Save as command is also called. Bending schedule pages are always associated with parent drawings and are automatically saved with the relevant drawing. Related commands : Save as, Save all
Save as
: : : : :
File Save as Save the active drawing under a new file name FA File name
Notes : The command is used to save the drawing in the active window under a new file name. The Save In window is displayed and is used the same as the Open file window. The Save as type is by default taken to be PADDS, but to save as DXF or DWG, simply type in the file name with the required extension. Bending schedules are always associated with parent drawings and are automatically saved with the relevant drawing. Related commands : Save, Save all
Save all
: : : : :
File Save all Save all open drawings FL None
Notes : The command is used to save all open drawings. When a new drawing is saved for the first time,
the Save as command is also called. Bending schedules are always associated with parent drawings and are automatically saved with the relevant drawing. Related commands : Save, Save as
File close
: : : : :
File Close Close the active drawing and its schedule FC None/dialogue
Notes : The command is used to close the active drawing. All windows containing views of the active drawing or associated bending schedule are closed. If changes were made to the drawing or bending schedule since last saving them, or the drawing is a new drawing that has not been saved before, a warning to save the drawing is displayed. Select Yes to save it, select No to close it without saving, or cancel the command. Related commands : File open
Read DXF
: : : : :
File Read DXF Open and convert a DXF drawing FR Filename
Notes : The command is used to open a DXF drawing and display it in a new window. The Open File window is displayed, allowing a drawing file to be selected. DXF files are drawing translation files supported by most CAD systems, eg AutoCAD . Foreign drawings from other CAD systems can also be imported using the File open command. PADDS recognizes files with the extension DXF as drawing exchange files from another CAD system and automatically converts them. Refer to Chapter 2 of the User's manual for detail on selecting a drawing file to open. Related commands : File open, Import DWG, Insert Raster Image
Write DXF
: : : : :
File Write DXF Save and close a DXF drawing FW Filename
Notes : The command is used to convert the active drawing to DXF format and save it under a new name. The Save File window is displayed, allowing a drawing file name to be selected or entered. DXF files are drawing translation files supported by most CAD systems, eg AutoCAD . Since bending schedules are not supported in DXF files, only the drawing part of a PADDS file is converted.
Foreign drawings from other CAD systems can also be exported by using the File save as and Export DWG commands. Refer to Chapter 2 of the User's manual for detail on saving and closing a drawing file. Related commands : Save, Save as, Export DWG, Save Raster Image
Insert raster image
: : : : :
File Insert raster image Open a picture (GIF, EMF, BMP or JPG format) FM File name
Notes : The command is used to insert a picture, saved in GIF, EMF, BMP or JPG format., into an open drawing. An Open window is displayed, allowing a picture file to be selected.
Files from the working folder are shown by default, but files from other directories can also be selected. Refer to Chapter 2 of the User's manual for detail on inserting and saving a picture file.
Related commands : File open, Read DXF, Import DWG
Save raster image
: : : : :
File Save raster image Save a picture as a GIF, EMF, BMP or JPG file FV File name
Notes : The command is used to save a picture file inserted into a drawing. A prompt appears, requesting the image to be saved to be selected. Once the image to be saved has been selected, a Save as window is displayed. If the image open is a GIF file, for example, it must be saved as a GIF file. Refer to Chapter 2 of the User's manual for detail on selecting a picture file to insert or save. Related commands : Save as, Save raster image, Write DXF, Export DWG
Import DWG
Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : File Import DWG Open a drawing in DWG format None Filename
Notes : The command is used to open a drawing in DWG format. A DWG window is opened. Select the Load drawing button. The Open window is displayed, allowing a DWG file name to be selected. The drawing is then loaded into the DWG window. To import the drawing into PADDS, select the Import drawing button. Foreign drawings from other CAD systems can also be imported using the File open command. PADDS recognizes files with the extension DWG as drawing files from AutoCAD and automatically converts them. Refer to Chapter 2 of the User's manual for detail on the PADDS drawing file structure and specifying a file to open. Related commands : Open, Read DXF
Export DWG
Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : File Export DWG Save and close a drawing in DWG format None File name
Notes : The command is used to convert the active drawing to DWG format and save it under a new name. The Save as dialogue box is displayed, allowing a DWG file name to be selected or entered. DWG files are drawing translation files supported by AutoCAD. Since bending schedules are not supported in DWG files, only the drawing part of a PADDS file is converted.
DWG drawings can also be exported using the Save as command. PADDS recognizes files with the extension DWG as drawing files from AutoCAD and automatically converts them. Refer to Chapter 2 of the User's manual for detail on the PADDS drawing file structure and specifying a file name to save. Related commands : Save as, Export DXF
Print
: : : : :
File Print Print active drawing FP None
Notes : The command is used to print the active drawing. The Print preview window is displayed, allowing various print settings to be selected. These print settings should be compatible with your printer or plotter capabilities.
Paper size, print offsets, paper orientation and a scale factor can be selected. The paper width and height are automatically chosen to correspond with the selected paper size. The print setup can be saved to be recalled again later using the Save setup button. To recall a saved setup, select the file name from the pull down menu. Refer to Chapter 2 of the User's manual for detail on printing a drawing and bending schedule. Related commands : Window Print, Title Block and Print button on bending schedule
Print to GIF file
: : : : :
File Print to GIF file Print the active drawing to a GIF file FG File name
Notes : The command is used to print the active drawing to a GIF file. Only the drawing part of a PADDS file is converted.
A Save as window is displayed, allowing a file name to be selected or entered. The Save as type is automatically set to GIF files. Related commands : Save as, Save raster image, Write DXF, Export DWG
Pack drawing
: : : : :
File Pack Pack the active drawing FK None
Notes : The command is used to pack a drawing by permanently removing all deleted entities. Note that entities deleted prior to packing a drawing can not be undeleted. If deleted information needs to be recalled, open the backup file created when last saving the drawing or one of the timed backup files. Related commands : Set backup interval
Drawing information
: : : : :
File Drawing info Display information on the active drawing FI None
Notes : The command is used to display information on the active drawing and its usage of the system resources. Related commands : About PADDS
Save in text format

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : File Save in text format Save a drawing as a text file FT File name
Notes : The command is used to save a drawing as an ASCII data file displaying the details of all entities. This text file can then be used in scripting applications, if required. Related commands : Macro edit script
Options
Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : File Options Allow selection of options FO None
Notes : The command is used to select certain options that affect file management functions and commands. If Timed backup interval is set to zero, timed backups are not performed. Related commands : None
Exit
: : : : :
File Exit Exit PADDS FX None
Notes : The command is used to exit PADDS. All information regarding open files and bending schedule pages, the window layout and function key and button bar setup is saved in a configuration file called LASTPADD. The next time PADDS is used, the configuration file is read and the last session restored. If changes were made to any drawings or bending schedules since last saving them, a warning to save the drawing is displayed. Select to save it, close it without saving or cancel the command. Related commands :
File close.
The Edit menu

The Edit commands are used to change or erase drawn entities. Lines can be trimmed or clipped and you can manipulate the way the active drawing is displayed. You may choose to zoom into part of a drawing to enlarge a detail, zoom out to display larger areas of the drawing or to scroll to adjacent parts of the drawing. The Edit commands are categorized as follows: Entity editing commands Edit entity info Stretch Extend line/ arc Clip line/ arc Trim line Move line endpoint Copy line endpoint Break polyline Make polyline Join lines Fillet Fillet radius Chamfer Chamfer depth Resize bitmap V paste special Erase commands Erase line Erase circle Erase arc Erase text Erase hatch Erase construction lines Erase rebar Erase dot Erase polyline Erase bitmap Erase entity Undo
Redo
Edit entity info
: : : : :
Edit Entity info Edit an entity's information EI Entity
Notes : The command is used to display and edit all information contained in an entity. The text editor can be used to edit the entity information items. The range of items vary depending on the type of entity selected: All entities : Layer number, between 1 and 200 Pen number, between 1 and 8 One or more coordinates Attribute name or number Line and hatch entities : Line style, between 1 and 9 or 10 for construction lines Line begin and end coordinates Text entities : Font number, between 1 and 5 Justification, L, C or R combined with T, M or B Width factor Height Line spacing factor Angle, between 0 and 360 Slant, between 0 and 30 Text string Rebar entities Mark Type, eg Y, R, T etc Diameter Shape code A through E dimensions
Angle, between 0 and 360 Y-sign, -1, 0 or 1 Curtailed end, Y or N Type, 1 for dot and 2 for ring (dots and rings only) Coordinates of handle 1 All information items may be edited and additional items added, eg additional points to a polyline or a rebar shape code changed and the relevant dimensions added. Click on OK to accept or Cancel to discard all changes made. Refer to Chapter 3 of the Users Manual for further information regarding editing the various types of entities. Related commands : Line paramaters, Get line parameters, Set line parameters, Text paramaters, Get text parameters, Set text parameters, Edit text, Detail edit text, Block change
Stretch
: : : : :
Edit Stretch Stretch a group of coordinates ES Coord1 . . coord3 [coord4 . . coordN] coordN+1 [coordN+2]
Notes : The command is used to move a group of coordinates and to stretch all entities fixed to them. Indicate a polygon around the group of coordinates to be moved, pressing Escape to end the polygon. Specify the distance and orientation to move by entering an offset or indicating two relative points. Cursor snapping is temporarily disabled during the marking of the polygon and enabled again for indicating the relative points to move. The various types of entities respond differently to the command: Lines : All line endpoints included in the polygon are moved. Circles and arcs : If included in the polygon, centre points are moved without changing radii. Rebars : If the polygon encloses a rebar's first handle, the rebar will be moved without its dimensions being changed. If, however, a significant part of the rebar excluding the first handle falls within the polygon, the rebar is stretched. A command window then appears providing the option of updating the bending schedule if required. Text : Text justification points (eg the left bottom corner if LB justified) are moved without changing any other parameters. A line entity can also be stretched by moving one of its endpoints with the Move line endpoint command. Related commands : Extend line/ arc, Clip line/ arc, Move line endpoint, Move text, Block move
Extend line / arc
: : : : :
Edit Extend line or arc Lengthen or shorten a line or arc EX Entity coord/ distance
Notes : The command is used to lengthen or shorten a single line, a segment of polyline or an arc. The endpoint nearest to the point indicated on the entity, and any line segments projecting from that endpoint are moved to the indicated new endpoint. Instead of specifying a coordinate for the new endpoint, the distance to extend can be entered. A positive or negative value respectively indicates a lengthening or shortening of the entity. Related commands : Stretch, Move line endpoint, Clip line/ arc, Join lines
Clip line / arc
: : : : :
Edit Clip line or arc Cut a segment from a line or arc EC Entity coord1 coord2
Notes : The command is used the clip a segment from a line or arc entity. Any point may be indicated on the entity to be clipped. If the indicated clipping points are not located on the entity, the cursor snaps to the nearest point on the line or arc. Related commands : Extend line/ arc, Break polyline
Trim line
Menu Command Description
: : :
Edit Trim line Trim a line at the intersection with another line
Short form Parameters
: :
ET Entity coord
Notes : The command is used to trim single lines or a segment of polyline. First, a trim line is selected. Any line(s) crossing this line can then be selected and will be trimmed to the trim line on the side that it was selected on. The trim command is recurring, so press Escape once all the desired lines have been trimmed. Related commands : Stretch, Clip line/ arc, Join lines
Move line endpoint
: : : : :
Edit Move line endpoint Move one endpoint of a line EM Entity coord
Notes : The command is used to move one endpoint of a single line or a segment of polyline. The line endpoint nearest to the point indicated on the line is moved to the indicated new position, in the process stretching any line segments projecting from that endpoint. All entities located at a point can be stretched simultaneously using the Stretch command. Lines and arcs can also be lengthened and shortened using the Extend command. Related commands : Stretch, Extend line/ arc, Copy line endpoint
Copy line endpoint
: : : : :
Edit Copy line endpoint Copy a line by indicating a new endpoint EO Entity coord
Notes : The command is used to create a copy of a line or line segment with one or two mutual endpoints. The line endpoint nearest to the point indicated on the line is copied to the indicated new position, in the process copying any line segments projecting from that endpoint. Related commands : Move line endpoint
Break polyline
: : : : :
Edit Break polyline Break polyline into line segments EB Entity
Notes : The command is used to break a polyline into individual line segments. Each new line segment has the same line parameters as the original polyline.
Related commands : Clip line/ arc
Make polyline
: : : : :
Edit Make polyline Make a polyline from line segments EP Entity
Notes : The command is used to create a polyline from individual line segments. The new polyline has the same line parameters as the original line segments. However, for the Make polyline command to be successful, the individual line segments must have the same line parameters, and the line end points must join one another. Related commands : Join lines, Break polyline
Join lines
: : : : :
Edit Join lines Join two lines EJ Entity1 entity2
Notes : The command is used to extend and join two line entities. If a polyline is selected, the indicated line segment is extended. The resulting two lines remain two separate drawing entities, each with its original line parameters. Related commands : Extend line/ arc, Fillet, Chamfer
Fillet
: : : : :
Edit Fillet Join two lines with a fillet arc EF Entity1 entity2 [entity3 . . . entityN]
Notes : The command is used to join one or more pairs of line entities with a fillet arc. If the indicated lines intersect, the longer segment of each line is retained. Polylines are broken into individual line segments, by that facilitating inner line segments to be filleted as well. Double-clicking at a line intersection selects the two lines intersecting. If the line attributes of the two line entities differ, the parameters of the second line indicated are used for the fillet arc. Related commands : Join, Chamfer, Fillet radius
Fillet radius
: : : : :
Edit Fillet radius Edit the fillet radius ER real; entity1 entity2 [entity3 . . . entityN]
Notes : The command is used to edit the fillet radius and optionally join one or more pairs of line entities with a fillet arc. It is similar to the Fillet command. Related commands : Fillet, Chamfer depth
Chamfer
: : : : :
Edit Chamfer Join two lines with a chamfer line EA Entity1 entity2 [entity3 . . . entityN]
Notes : The command is used to join one or more pairs of line entities with a chamfer line. If the indicated lines intersect, the longer segment of each line is retained. Polylines are broken into individual line segments, by that facilitating inner line segments to be chamfered as well. Double-clicking at a line intersection selects the two lines intersecting.
If the line attributes of the two line entities differ, the parameters of the second line indicated are used for the chamfer line. Related commands : Join, Fillet, Chamfer depth
Chamfer depth
: : : : :
Edit Chamfer depth Edit the chamfer depth ED Real [entity1 entity2 [entity3 . . . entityN]]
Notes : The command is used to edit the chamfer depth and optionally join one or more pairs of line entities with a chamfer line. It is similar to the Chamfer command. Related commands : Chamfer, Fillet radius
Resize bitmap
: : : : :
Edit Resize bitmap Resize a bitmap or picture file EZ Entity, Coord1
Notes : The command is used to resize a bitmap or picture file already inserted into the drawing. Related commands : File Insert raster image
V paste special
: : : : :
Edit V paste special Paste text and metafiles from external sources in drawing EV Entity
Notes : The command is used to paste either text copied from another application or the contents of a metafile into a drawing. Text pasted into a drawing using the Text option under this command, will have the same text parameters as those currently selected in Set text parameters. However, text can also be inserted by choosing the Metafile option, but this text will have the same text parameters as are set in the application from which the text is copied. The pasted metafile cannot be edited in PADDS, but any pasted text can be edited using the Edit Info, Text Edit and Text Detailed edit commands. Related commands : File Insert raster image, Multiline text, Edit Info, Text Edit, Text Detailed Edit
Erase line
: : : : :
Edit (Erase) Line Erase a line entity E1 Entity1 [entity2 . . . entityN]
Notes : The command is used to erase one or more line entities, including construction lines. No other types of entities can be erased with this command.
When erasing polylines, each individual line segment is erased separately. Use the Erase polyline command to erase the polyline as an entire entity. Related commands : Erase entity, Erase polyline, Block delete
Erase circle
: : : : :
Edit (Erase) Circle Erase a circle entity E2 Entity1 [entity2 . . . entityN]
Notes : The command is used to erase one or more circle entities, excluding ellipses. No other types of entities can be erased with this command. Related commands : Erase arc, Erase entity, Block delete
Erase arc
: : : : :
Edit (Erase) Arc Erase an arc entity E3 Entity1 [entity2 . . . entityN]
Notes : The command is used to erase one or more arc entities, including circular arcs, elliptical arcs and ellipses. No other types of entities can be erased with this command. Related commands :
Erase circle, Erase entity, Block delete
Erase text
: : : : :
Edit (Erase) Text Erase a text entity E4 Entity1 [entity2 . . . entityN]
Notes : The command is used to erase one or more text entities, including single line, multi-line and dimension text. No other types of entities can be erased with this command. Related commands : Erase entity, Block delete
Erase hatch
: : : : :
Edit (Erase) Hatch Erase a hatch entity E5 Entity1 [entity2 . . . entityN]
Notes : The command is used to erase one or more hatch entities. No other types of entities can be erased with this command. If hatch has been vectorized, then it is no longer a hatch entity but is a line entity. Only commands valid for erasing lines will thus erase vectorized hatching. Related commands : Erase line, Erase entity, Block delete
Erase construction lines
: : : : :
Edit (Erase) All construction lines Erase all construction lines entity E6 None
Notes : The command is used to erase all the construction line entities in the drawing. No other types of entities can be erased with this command. Individual construction lines can also be erased using the Erase line command. Related commands : Erase line, Erase entity, Block delete
Erase rebar
: : : : :
Edit (Erase) Rebar Erase a bar entity E7 Entity1 [entity2 . . . entityN]
Notes : The command is used to erase one or more rebar entities, including dots and rings. No other types of entities can be erased with this command. Dots and rings can also be erased using the Erase dot command. Related commands : Erase dot, Erase entity, Block delete
Erase dot
: : : : :
Edit (Erase) Dot Erase a dot or ring E8 Entity1 [entity2 . . . entityN]
Notes : The command is used to erase one or more rebar dots or rings. No other types of entities can be erased with this command. Normal rebar entities are erased using the Erase rebar command, and circles with the Erase circle command. Related commands : Erase rebar, Erase entity, Block delete
Erase polyline
: : : : :
Edit (Erase) Polyline Erase a polyline entity E9 Entity1 [entity2 . . . entityN]
Notes : The command is used to erase one or more polyline entities. No other types of entities can be erased with this command. To erase segments of a polyline only, use the Erase line command. Related commands : Erase entity, Erase line, Block delete
Erase bitmap
: : : : :
Edit (Erase) Bitmap Erase a bitmap E0 Entity1 [entity2 . . . entityN]
Notes : The command is used to erase one or more bitmaps. No other types of entities can be erased with this command. Related commands : Block delete
Erase entity
: : : : :
Edit (Erase) Entity Erase an entity EE Entity1 [entity2 . . . entityN]
Notes : The command is used to erase one or more drawing entities. All types of entities can be erased with this command. Related commands : Erase line, Erase circle, Erase arc, Erase text, Erase hatch, Erase rebar, Erase dot, Erase polyline, Block delete
Undo
: : : : :
Edit (Erase) Undo Undo the last action EU Confirm
Notes : The command is used to undo one or more of the last actions performed. The last actions performed are undone one at a time in the reverse order they were executed. The number of actions remembered can be set under the File Options command. The number of undo steps for all practical purposes is unlimited. Related commands : Redo, File Options
Redo
: : : : :
Edit (Erase) Redo Undo the last action EY Confirm
Notes : The command is used to redo one or more of the last actions undone. The last actions undone can be redone one at a time in reverse order. The number of redo steps allowed will be equal to the number of undo steps set under the File Options command. The number of undo steps for all practical purposes is unlimited. Related commands :
Undo, File Options
The Set menu

The Set commands are used to set up a drawing with its layers, scale, paper size, line parameters and measuring units. The selection of various snap modes increases the accuracy with which the cursor snaps to elements in the drawing and can be changed at any stage. The default snap mode can be overridden by a snap once function for one action only. The Set commands are categorized as follows: General Set commands Units Line parameters Magnetic cursor Ortho mode Ortho angle Paper size Layer commands Set layer Set scale Transpose scale Edit layer table Grid on or off One layer on or off All layers off All layers on Merge move entity Merge copy entity Snap menu Snap modes Intersection Endpoint Both Freehand Snap once functions Line Horizontal Vertical Midpoint
Tangent
Set units
: : : : :
Set Units Set the units of measurement SU Dialogue/ integer
Notes : The command is used to change the unit of measurement. Available options are millimetres, centimetres, metres and kilometres. All subsequent coordinates and distances specified and dimensions and measurements taken will be according to the current unit. The system records all coordinates in millimetres internally, allowing the unit of measurement to be adjusted at any stage without affecting drawn entities. Note that text height and reinforcement dimensions are always specified in millimetres. Refer to Chapter 3 of the User's guide for detail on the coordinate system and units of measurement. Related commands : Set scale
Line parameters
: : : : :
Set Line parameters Set the system line pen and style SP Window
Notes : The command is used to set the system line parameters, i.e. pen number and colour, and line type, to the specified values. Subsequent lines, circles, ellipses, arcs and hatches are drawn using the system line parameters. Line parameters comprise the following: Line pen : The eight available pen numbers referred originally to the physical pens in a pen plotter. For printers, the line thickness associated with each pen number are used instead. If a drawing is scaled when printed, its pen widths are scaled accordingly. Line type : The nine selectable line types produce different line styles. Two colour speed options are available. The Classic button reinstates all PADDS defaults, whereas the Windows button selects a standard set of line parameters that print well in Windows applications. Refer to Chapter 3 of the User's guide for detail on line and text parameters. Related commands : Get line parameters, Set line parameters, Dimension parameters
Magnetic cursor
: : : : :
Set Magnetic cursor Toggles the magnetic cursor on and off SM None
Notes : The command is used to toggle the magnetic cursor on and off. The M button on the status bar at the bottom of the screen serves the same purpose. Enabling the magnetic cursor allows the cursor to jump to an entity (an intersection etc depending on the snap mode selected) while moving the cursor in the proximity. Without magnetic mode enabled, the cursor will only snap to the entity on clicking the mouse. The snap aperture (area about an entity wherein the cursor will snap to the entity) can be set using the File Options command. Related commands : M button on status bar, Set snap mode, File Options Snap aperture
Ortho mode
: : : : :
Set Ortho mode Enables or disables orthogonal mode SO None
Notes : The command is used to enable or disable ortho mode. The O button on the status bar at the bottom of the screen serves the same purpose. Ortho mode can be enabled or disabled at any time. When ortho mode is enabled, points can be selectively set at right angles from each other. Some commands, eg the rebar drawing commands, temporarily disable ortho mode during execution. By default the ortho angle is set at 0 with resulting orthogonal axes at 0 and 90. The ortho angle can be changed using the Ortho angle command. Refer to Chapter 3 of the User's guide for detail on using ortho mode.
Related commands : O button on status bar, Ortho angle, Construction mode
Ortho angle
: : : : :
Set Ortho angle Set the angle of the orthogonal axes SA Angle/ entity
Notes : The command is used to set the orientation of the orthogonal axes used when in ortho mode. Setting the ortho angle automatically enables ortho mode. By default the ortho angle is set at 0 with resulting orthogonal axes at 0 and 90. Changing the ortho angle, sets a new ortho axis along the new ortho angle, and a second ortho axis at 90 from it. Refer to Chapter 3 of the User's guide for detail on using ortho mode and ortho angle. Related commands : Ortho mode
Set paper size
: : : : :
Set Paper size Set the paper size for a drawing SZ Window
Notes : The command is used to set the drawing paper size. Select an ISO size and orientation (landscape or portrait) or enter a custom size. The paper orientation is adjusted automatically for custom paper sizes. The A4 schedule and A5 schedule paper sizes are customized A4 and A5 sheets. They are derived by taking the normal A4 and A5 sheets then reduced their sizes to accommodate the bending schedule frames. Use the file drawing info function to view the current paper size. Related commands : File drawing info
Set layer
: : : : :
Set (Layer) Layer Set the current/ active layer SL Integer/ entity [confirm]
Notes : The command is used to set the current layer to the specified layer number. A layer can also be selected by clicking an entity in that layer. The system scale is automatically adjusted to that of the current layer. It is often useful to turn all layers turned off and keep only the current layer displayed. If another layer is selected under such circumstances, the system will anticipate that the new layer should also be the sole displayed layer and will automatically confirm whether the previous layer must be turned off. Refer to Chapter 4 of the User's guide for detail on layers and scale. Related commands : Set scale
Set scale
: : : : :
Set (Layer) Scale Set the drawing scale SS Real
Notes : The command is used to set the current layer's scale. All entities in the current layer will be rescaled on the screen and displayed to the new layer scale. The Edit layer table command can be used to edit the current layer and other layer's scales and other properties. The Transpose scale command can be used to change a layer's scale without rescaling the layer's entities on the screen. Refer to Chapter 4 of the User's guide for detail on layers and scale. Related commands : Set layer, Edit layer table, Transpose scale
Transpose scale
: : : : :
Set (Layer) Transpose scale Transpose current layer scale ST Coord1, coord2, real, layers
Notes : The command is used to change the specified layers' scales without rescaling them on the screen. All entities belonging to the relevant layers are thus effectively resized. Indicate two points to have the distance between them measured. The displayed distance, based on the current layer scale, can then be changed to the correct value. The ratio of the entered distance to the measured distance is subsequently used to adjust all coordinates on the specified layers and the specified layer scales. All the specified layers' scales will then be updated without rescaling their entities on the screen. Entities can also be resized using a combination of the Set scale and Block scale commands. This one-step method to resize entities is very useful for setting up layer scales after reading a foreign drawing from another CAD system. Refer to Chapter 4 of the User's guide for detail on layers and scale. Related commands : Set scale, Block scale
Edit layer table
: : : : :
Set (Layer) Edit layer table Edit layer information SE Window
Notes : The command is used to edit layer information. The text editing commands can be accessed by right-clicking the mouse on the active window (Edit layer table). The following layer information can be edited: Layer name : Any descriptive name, maximum ten characters. The number and name of the current layer is displayed on the status line. Scale : Real number specifying the layer scale, eg 2.5 for 1:2.5. Origin : X- and Y-coordinates of the layer origin, specified in millimetres from the lower left corner of the paper. Layer on : Y to display a layer and N to turn it off. A layer that is turned of is displayed in dark grey in the background. The current layer cannot be turned off. The Change all layers button allows quick and easy editing of the scale and origin of all layers. This command can only be used when the scale and origin are the same for all layers. Refer to Chapter 4 of the Users guide for detail on layers and scale and Chapter 8 for detail on setting up drawings. Related commands : Set scale, One layer on/off, All layers off, All layers on
Grid on or off
: : : : :
Set (Layer) Grid on/off Enable or disable the current layers grid display SG None
Notes : The command is used to enable or disable the display of the current layer's grid. A suitable grid spacing is intelligently selected. The grid display is further disabled intelligently if the current zoom setting causes the grid spacing to be less than five screen pixels. Therefore, zooming out far enough, will stop the display of the current layer's grid. Related commands : None
One layer on or off
: : : : :
Set (Layer) One layer on/off Turn a layer on or off S1 Integer/ entity
Notes : The command is used to turn a layer other than the current layer on or off. A layer can be specified by entering its number or by indicating an entity in that layer. It is often useful to improve clarity by turning selected layers off. Layers that are turned off are displayed in dark grey in the background. Such layers cannot be snapped to and are not printed or plotted. Unneeded layers can also be selected and deleted as blocks using the Block define layer and Block delete commands.
Related commands : All layers off, All layers on, Edit layer table, Block define layer
All layers off
: : : : :
Set (Layer) All layers off Turn all layers off S2 None
Notes : The command is used to turn all layers off. The current layer cannot be turned off and will continue to be displayed. It is often useful to improve clarity by turning selected layers off. Layers that are turned off are displayed in dark grey in the background. Such layers cannot be snapped to and are not printed or plotted. Unneeded layers can also be selected and deleted as blocks using the Block define layer and Block delete commands. Related commands : One layer on/off, All layers on, Edit layer table, Block define layer
All layers on
Menu Command Description Short form Parameters Notes :
: : : : :
Set (Layer) All layers on Turn all layers on S3 None
The command is used to turn all layers on. It is often useful to improve clarity by turning selected layers off. Layers that are turned off are displayed in dark grey in the background. Such layers cannot be snapped to and are not printed or plotted, and should therefore be turned on at an opportune time. Related commands : One layer on/off, All layers off, Edit layer table, Block define layer
Merge move entity
: : : : :
Set (Layer) Merge move entity Move an entity to the current layer SV Entity1 [entity2entityN]
Notes : The command is used to merge one or more entities to the current layer by moving them from other layers. The display of the merged entities remains unchanged during the merging process. Merging an entity from a layer with a different scale or origin will therefore result in it being rescaled to the new scale. Entities merged to another layer using the Block change command are merely moved to the new layer. Such entities will be rescaled according to the new layer scale and may therefore be displayed bigger or smaller. Related commands : Merge copy entity, Block change
Merge copy entity
Menu Command
: :
Set (Layer) Merge copy entity
Description Short form Parameters
: : :
Copy an entity to the current layer SC Entity1 [entity2entityN]
Notes : The command is used to copy one or more entities to the current layer by copying them from other layers. The display of the copied entities remains unchanged during the copying process. Copying an entity from a layer with a different scale or origin will therefore result in it being rescaled to the new scale. Related commands : Merge move entity, Block change
Set snap mode

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Set Snap mode Select and set the snap mode SN None
Notes : The command is used to set the snap mode and select a snap once function. A menu is displayed (see above), where the options above the line are snap modes and those below the line are snap once functions. A snap mode is a snap function that, once selected, stays active until replaced by another snap mode. A snap mode can also be overridden temporarily by selecting a snap once function.
The available snap modes are : Intersection : A point is set at the nearest intersection with the indicated entity. Intersections with the entity falling outside the snap zone are not considered. Intersections between all types of entities, including arcs, rebars and construction lines, are considered Endpoint : Snap to the nearest endpoint of the indicated line segment, arc or segment of rebar. If no endpoint is found in the snap zone, freehand snap mode is used. Endpoint snap mode can also be used to snap to the four corner points of the imaginary parallelogram enclosing a text entity. Both : Snap to the nearest intersection with or endpoint of the indicated entity. If no intersection or endpoint is found in the snap zone, freehand snap mode is used. Freehand : Do not snap to any position, i.e. use the current pointer position. Note: If no valid position can be found to snap to, a beep will be sound and the point is set freehand The snap once functions available are : Line : If no previous point has been set, or if a previous point has been set and the included angle between the imaginary line joining the previous point and the mouse pointer, and the indicated entity at the position nearest to the mouse pointer, is less than 45 then snap to the nearest point on the indicated entity. However, if a previous point has been set and the angle included between the imaginary line joining the previous point and the mouse pointer, and the indicated entity at the position nearest to the mouse pointer, is greater than 45 then snap to a point perpendicular to the indicated drawing entity. Note: The perpendicular snapping to lines with the Line snap function should not be confused with the Perpendicular line command. Horizontal : Snap horizontally from the previous point set, or the mouse pointer in its absence, to the nearest drawing entity. If no entity is found in the snap zone, freehand snap mode is used. Vertical : Snap vertically from the previous point set, or the mouse pointer in its absence, to the nearest drawing entity. If no entity is found in the snap zone, freehand snap mode is used. Midpoint : Snap to the midpoint or centre point of the nearest line, circle or circular arc. If no entity is found in the snap zone, freehand snap mode is used. Tangent : Snap tangentially to the nearest circle or circular arc if a previous point has been set. If no entity is found in the snap zone, freehand snap mode is used. The snap zone or aperture within which snapping occurs, can be set in pixels using the File Options command. The larger the aperture, the less accurate snapping becomes in areas with many entities. Refer to Chapter 3 of the Users guide for more detail on snapping, snap modes and snap once functions.
Related commands : File Options Snap aperture
The Line menu

The Line commands are used to draw lines and construction lines. Polylines and single lines, parallel lines and perpendicular lines can be drawn. A line's parameters can be read by the system and assigned to other lines. Construction lines can be drawn by enabling construction mode or using the crosshairs or orthogonal construction line drawing commands. The Line commands are grouped as follows: Normal line drawing commands: Line Auto line Box Parallel polyline Parallel one line Perpendicular line Tangent two circles Sketch Revision Cloud Get line parameters Set line parameters Construction line drawing commands: Construction crosshair Horizontal construction line Vertical construction line Divide angle Construction mode Hide construction lines Spline drawing commands: Tangent spline Forced spline Vectorize spline Move control point Parabola
Line
: : : : :
Line Line Draw a line between two or more points LL Coord1 coord2 [coord3 . . . coordN]
Notes : The command is used to draw straight lines between two or more points. The drawn polyline will be regarded as a one entity, regardless of the number of points joined. The current line parameters are used. Related commands : Auto line, Box, Break polyline
Auto line
: : : : :
Line Auto Draw a line between two points LA Coord1 coord2 [coord3 . . . coordN]
Notes : The command is used to draw straight lines between pairs of points. Each line drawn will be regarded as a separate entity. Related commands : Line, Box, Parallel single line
Box
: : :
Line Box Draw a box between two points
: :
LB Coord1 coord2
Notes : The command is used to draw a rectangular box with the specified points as corners. If ortho mode has been selected, the box will be orientated according to the current ortho angle. The box will be regarded as a single entity. Related commands : Line, Auto line, Break polyline, Ortho mode, Ortho angle
Parallel polyline
: : : : :
Line Parallel polyline Draw a parallel polyline LP Entity Coord1/dist1 [coord2/dist2 . . . coordN/distN]
Notes : The command is used to draw parallel polylines. The offset distance from each polyline or the points to pass through are specified. The parallel polylines will have the current system line parameters and will be drawn on the current layer irrespective the original line's layer. If construction mode is enabled, parallel construction lines are drawn. Related commands : Parallel single line, Perpendicular line, Construction mode
Parallel single line
: : : : :
Line Parallel single line Draw a parallel single line LO Entity coord1/dist1 [coord2/dist2 . . . coordN/distN]
Notes : The command is used to draw parallel line segments. The offset distance from each line or the points to pass through are specified. The parallel lines will have the current system line parameters and will be drawn on the current layer irrespective the original line's layer. If construction mode is enabled, parallel construction lines are drawn. If a polyline is indicated, only lines parallel to the indicated segment will be drawn. Related commands : Parallel polyline, Perpendicular line, Construction mode
Perpendicular line
: : : : :
Line Perpendicular line Draw a perpendicular line between two points LR Coord1 coord2 entity
Notes : The command is used to draw a line perpendicular to the indicated line, through a point up to a position perpendicular to a second point. Related commands : Parallel polyline, Parallel single line
Tangent two circles
Menu Command Description Short form Parameter
: : : : :
Line Tangent two circles Draw a line tangent to two circles LT Entity1,Entity2
Notes : The command is used to draw a line tangential to two circles or arcs. Depending on the position where the two source circles/arcs are indicated, different results can be obtained. All possible tangential lines to the two circles/arcs are determined and the line with the best correspondence to the positions on the source circles/arcs is then drawn. If construction mode is enabled, a tangential construction line is drawn. Related commands : Parallel polyline, Parallel one line, Perpendicular line, Construction mode
Sketch
: : : : :
Line Sketch Sketch a line or shape freehand LK None
Notes : The command is used to sketch a line or shape of any form freehand. The current system line
parameters are used, even in construction mode. Select the Sketch command and then hold the left mouse button down while sketching. Releasing the mouse button ends the Sketch command. To delete an entire sketch line, use the Erase polyline or Block delete commands. Use the Erase line command if you wish to delete segments of the sketched line only. Note that curved lines consist of many short line segments which can be tedious to delete individually. Related commands : Line
Revision Cloud
Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Line Revision Cloud Draw a revision cloud with label LV Coord1 coord2 text
Notes : The command is used to draw a revision cloud around selected items that have been edited on a drawing. The revision cloud can also be labelled. The size of the arcs from which the cloud is a function of the text size, and can thus be altered by changing the size of the text under Set/ Text parameters. Related commands : Sketch, Text parameters, Line parameters
Get line parameters
: : : : :
Line Get parameters Read the line parameters of a drawing entity LG Entity
Notes : The command is used to assign the line parameters, i.e. pen and line type and attribute, of the indicated drawing entity to the current system line parameters. Related commands : Line parameters, Set line parameters
Set line parameters
: : : : :
Line Set parameters Assign the current line parameters to a drawing entity LS Entity
Notes : The command is used to assign the current system line parameters, i.e. pen and line type and attribute, to the indicated drawing entity. Related commands : Line parameters, Get line parameters
Construction crosshair
: : : : :
Line (Construction) Construction crosshair Draw a construction crosshair L+ Coord1 [coord2 . . . coordN]
Notes : The command is used to draw a crosshair, consisting of a vertical and horizontal construction line, at the indicated point. If ortho mode has been selected, the construction crosshair will be orientated according to the current ortho angle.
Related commands : Horizontal construction line, Vertical construction line, Construction mode, Ortho mode, Ortho angle
Horizontal construction line
: : : : :
Line (Construction) Horizontal line Draw a horizontal construction line LX Coord1 [coord2 . . . coordN]
Notes : The command is used to draw a horizontal construction line through the indicated point. If ortho mode has been selected, the construction line will be orientated according to the current ortho angle. Related commands : Construction crosshair, Vertical construction line, Ortho mode, Ortho angle
Vertical construction line
: : : : :
Line (Construction) Vertical line Draw a vertical construction line LY Coord1 [coord2 . . . coordN]
Notes : The command is used to draw a vertical construction line through the indicated point. If ortho mode has been selected, the construction line will be orientated according to the current ortho angle. Related commands : Construction crosshair, Horizontal construction line, Ortho mode, Ortho angle
Divide angle
: : : : :
Line (Construction) Divide angle Draw one or more construction lines intersecting an angle LD Real [entity1 , entity2]
Notes : The command is used to draw one or more construction lines dividing the angle defined by two lines. The lines should be selected in an anti-clockwise direction. One less construction line will be drawn than the number of equal angle segments that is specified Related commands : Construction crosshair, Horizontal construction line, Vertical construction line
Construction mode
Menu Command Description Short form
: : : :
Line (Construction) Construction mode Select/unselect construction mode LC
Parameters
None
Notes : The command is used to enable or disable construction mode. When the construction mode is selected, all lines drawn using the line drawing commands will be construction lines. In the default setup of PADDS the O button on the status line at the bottom of the screen can be used to toggle construction mode. Construction mode can be enable or disabled at any stage during the execution of a command. Related commands : Hide construction lines
Hide construction lines
: : : : :
Line (Construction) Hide construction lines Hide or display all construction lines LH None
Notes : The command is used to hide or display all displayed construction lines. Hidden construction lines can not be snapped to. Related commands : Construction mode
Tangent spline
: : : :
Line (Splines) Tangent spline Draw a spline tangential to a number of control points L1
Parameters
Coord1, Coord2 [Coord3.CoordN ]
Notes : The command is used to draw a spline tangential to a number of control points. The spline will start and end at the midpoints of the first and last connecting chords and touch all intermediate chords. The current line parameters are used. Points can be preset using the mouse or keyboard. A spline is regarded as a special polyline entity and can be converted to a normal polyline using the Vectorize spline command. A spline's control point can be moved using the Move control points command. The Edit entity info command can also be used to edit a spline. When changing a spline to a normal polyline, the resulting polyline will not have the same shape as the original spline but rather be a polyline connecting the original spline's control points. Related commands : Edit entity info, Forced spline, Vectorize spline, Move control points
Forced spline
: : : :
Line (Splines) Forced spline Draw a spline through a number of control points L2
Parameters
Coord1, Coord2 [Coord3.CoordN ]
Notes : The command is used to draw a spline through a number of control points. The current line parameters are used. Points can be preset using the mouse or keyboard. A spline is regarded as a special polyline entity and can be converted to a normal polyline using the Vectorize spline command. A spline's control point can be moved using the Move control points command. The Edit entity info command can also be used to edit a spline. When changing a spline to a normal polyline, the resulting polyline will not have the same shape as the original spline but rather be a polyline connecting the original spline's control points. Related commands : Edit entity info, Tangent spline, Vectorize spline, Move control points
Vectorize spline
: : :
Line (Splines) Vectorize spline Convert a spline to a polyline
: :
L3 Entity
Notes : The command is used to convert a spline to a normal polyline with the same shape. The converted polyline can be further broken into single line segments using the Break polyline or Block Break polylines command. The Edit entity info command can be used to change a spline to a normal polyline. The resulting polyline will not have the same shape as the original spline but rather be a polyline connecting the original spline's control points. Related commands : Edit entity info, Break polyline, Block break polylines, Vectorize hatch
Move control point
: : : : :
Line (Splines) Move control point Move a splines control point L4 Entity, Coord1, Coord2
Notes : The command is used to move one the control points of the indicated spline. Specify the distance and orientation to move by entering an offset or indicating two relative points. The Edit entity info command can also be used to change a spline's control point coordinates. The Stretch function can also be applied to a spline. Related commands : Edit entity info, Stretch
Parabola
Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Line (Splines) Parabola Draw a parabola through three points L5 Coord1, Coord2, Coord3
Notes : The command is used to draw a parabola through three points, namely the parabola start point, a point on the parabola and the end point. A parabola is treated as a polyline and the polyline commands are valid for a parabola. Related commands : Edit entity info, Break polyline, Make polyline, Parallel polyline
The Circle menu

The commands on the Circle menu are used to draw circle, ellipses and circular and elliptical arcs. The Circle commands are grouped as follows: Circle drawing commands: Circle Circle two points Circle three points Circular arc drawing commands: Arc angle Arc radius Arc continue
Arc two elements Arc three elements Ellipse and elliptical arc drawing commands: Ellipse Elliptical arc Oblique circle
Circle
Menu Command Description Short formt Parameters
: : : : :
Circle Centre and radius Draw a circle CC Coord1 real/coord2
Notes : The command is used to draw a circle with the indicated centre point and radius. The current line parameters are used.
Related commands : Circle two points, Circle three points, Ellipse
Circle two points
: : : : :
Circle Two points Draw a circle through two points C2 Coord1 coord2
Notes : The command is used to draw a circle through two points. Related commands : Circle, Circle three points, Ellipse
Circle three points
: : : : :
Circle Three points Draw a circle through three points C3 Coord1 coord2 coord3
Notes : The command is used to draw a circle through three points. Related commands : Circle, Circle three points, Ellipse
Arc angle
: : : : :
Circle (Arc) Start point, centre point and angle Draw a circular arc C4 Coord1 coord2 angle/coord3
Notes : The command is used to draw a circular arc from a point, clockwise about the specified centre point up to the specified angle or point specified defining the angle. The angle is defined by a line from the centre point. The current line parameters are used. Related commands : Arc continue, Arc radius, Elliptical arc
Arc radius
: : : : :
Circle (Arc) Start point, endpoint and radius Draw a circular arc through two points C5 Coord1 coord2 real/coord3
Notes : The command is used to draw a circular arc between two points, clockwise and with the specified radius or through a third point. Related commands : Arc continue, Arc angle, Elliptical arc
Arc continue
: : : : :
Circle (Arc) Continue endpoint Extends an entity with a circular arc C6 Coord1 coord2
Notes : The command is used to draw a circular arc from an end point of an entity, at the same angle of the entity at that point, to another point. Related commands : Arc angle, Arc radius, Elliptical arc
Arc two elements
: : : : :
Circle (Arc) Two elements and radius or centre point Draw an arc tangential to two lines, arcs or circles C7 Entity1, Entity2, Real/Coord1
Notes : The command is used to draw a circular arc at the specified radius tangential to two entities. The tangential entities may be lines, arcs or circles and the centre point of the arc may be indicated or the radius entered. For circles and arcs, more than one tangential arc may be possible, in which case the tangential arc nearest to the indicated points will then be selected. The current line parameters are used. If construction mode is enabled, a construction arc will be drawn. Related commands : Arc angle, Arc radius, Elliptical arc, Arc continue, Arc three elements
Arc three elements
: : : : :
Circle (Arc) Three elements Draw an arc tangential to three lines, circles or arcs C8 Entity1 entity2 entity3
Notes : The command is used to draw a circular arc tangential to three entities. The tangential entities may be lines, arcs or circles. For circles and arcs, more than one tangential arc may be possible, in which case the arc nearest to the indicated points will then be selected. The current line parameters are used. If construction mode is enabled, a construction arc will be drawn. Related commands : Arc angle, Arc radius, Elliptical arc, Arc continue, Arc two elements
Ellipse
: : : : :
Circle (Ellipse) Ellipse Draw an ellipse CE Coord1 coord2 coord3
Notes : The command is used to draw an ellipse through two specified points on a main axis and a point on the second main axis, perpindicular to a third specified point. The current line parameters are used. Related commands : Circle, Cicle two points, Circle three points, Elliptical arc
Elliptical arc
: : : : :
Circle (Ellipse) Elliptical arc Draw an elliptical arc CA Coord1 coord2 coord3
Notes : The command is used to draw an elliptical arc between two specified points, clockwise about the specified centre point. The current line parameters are used. Related commands : Arc angle, Arc radius, Arc continue, Ellipse
Oblique circle
: : : : :
Circle (Ellipse) Oblique circle Draw an oblique circle CO Coord1 coord2 coord3
Notes : The command is used to draw an ellipse, representing an oblique circle, with the indicated centre point and two axis intersecting points. The current line parameters are used. If construction mode is enabled, a construction ellipse will be drawn. Related commands : Circle, Ellipse
The Text menu

The function of the commands on the Text menu is to allow the editing of text and text parameters for both individual text entities and for system text parameters. The commands on the Text menu are: Text Multi-line text Edit text Detail text edit Move text Copy text Text caption Text box Text to file
Text angle Text parameters Get text parameters Set text parameters Convert to uppercase Convert to lowercase
Text
: : : : :
Text Text Write single line text TT Coord, text
Notes : The command is used to write single line text at the specified point. Text parameters, direction and justification are determined by the current system text parameter settings.
A single line is normally edited using the Edit text command but can be converted to multi-line text using the Detail text edit command. Related commands : Multi-line text, Caption, Edit text
Multi-line text
: : : : :
Text Multi-line text Write more than one line of text TU Text, coord
Notes : The command is used to write multi-line text at the specified point. The text editor is used to input multi-line text in a separate window, thereby facilitating advanced editing functions. The text parameters are briefly as follows: Justification, i.e. either top, middle or bottom combined with either left, centre or right. The justification can be typed is an abbreviation, eg "LB" for left bottom, or by clicking the position in the picture. Text pen number : The eight available pen numbers refer to the line thickness associated with each pen number. If a drawing is scaled when printed, its pen widths are scaled accordingly. Text font Text height in millimetres. Text width as a factor of text height. Line spacing as a factor of text height. Text angle in degrees. For further details on text parameters, refer to Chapter 3 of the Users guide. Text can be also read from a text file or saved as a text file using the Read from file and Save to file buttons. Font types can be added or removed using the Add font and Delete font buttons. Related commands : Text, Caption, Detail text edit
Edit text
: : : : :
Text Edit text Edit a single line text TE Entity, text
Notes : The command is used to edit single line text, including caption and dimension text. A text entity is selected by indicating a point inside the imaginary rectangle enclosing it. If multi-line text is selected, the Detail text edit command is executed instead. The current text parameters are used. Related commands : Detail text edit
Detail text edit
: : : : :
Text Detail text edit Edit a multi-line text and its parameters TD Entity, text
Notes : The command is used to edit multi-line text and its text parameters. Single line text can also be converted to multi-line text using this command. The multi-line text window appears, allowing editing of all parameters. Refer to Multi-line Text in the Command Reference and Chapter 3 in the Users guide for further information. Related commands : Edit text, Get text parameters, Set text parameters
Move text
: : : : :
Text Move text Move a text entity TM Entity, coord1
Notes : The command is used to move single line or multi-line text entities, including caption and dimension text. A text entity is selected by indicating a point inside the imaginary rectangle enclosing that line of text. Related commands : Copy text, Block move
Copy text
: : : : :
Text Copy text Copy a text entity TC Entity, coord1
Notes : The command is used to copy single line or multi-line text entities, including caption and dimension text. A text entity is selected by indicating a point inside the imaginary rectangle enclosing that line of text. Related commands : Move text, Block copy
Caption
: : : : :
Text Caption Create a text caption TN Coord1 coord2 coord3 text
Notes : The command is used to write a single line text caption at the specified point and draw the caption lines and arrow at the points specified. The text parameters, direction, justification and line parameters are determined by the current system settings. The caption line is drawn using the current system dimension line parameters. Related commands : Text, Multi-line text
Box
: : : : :
Text Box Draw a box around a text entity TB Entity
Notes : The command is used to draw a box around a text entity. The current system line parameters are used. If construction mode is enabled, construction lines will be drawn. An island can also be created for a text entity in a hatched area using the Hatch text island command. Related commands : Hatch text island
Text to file
: : : : :
Text Text to file Read text entities and save them TF Filename, entity1 [entity2...entityN]
Notes : The command is used to read one or more text entities and write them to the specified file. This is an easy way of extracting text from a drawing for editing it in a word processing package. The Save as window appears, requiring a file name and position in which to save the file. The Detail text edit command can also be used to edit a text entity and save it in a text file. Survey coordinates can also be indicated and saved to a file with the Survey coordinates to file command on the Point menu.
Related commands : Detail text edit, Survey coordinates to file
Text angle
: : : : :
Text Angle Set the text angle TA Real / entity
Notes : The command is used to set the system text angle. Enter the new angle between 0 and 360, or indicate a line entity at the desired angle. The text angle can also be set with the Text parameters and Detail text edit commands. To keep text from being rotated, the Get text parameters and Set text parameters commands do not take the text angle parameter into account. Related commands : Text parameters, Detail text edit, Get text parameters, Set text parameters
Text parameters
: : : : :
Text Parameters Set the system text parameters TP None
Notes : The command is used to set the system text parameters. The text parameters are briefly as follows: Justification, i.e. either top, middle or bottom combined with either left, centre or right. The justification can be typed is an abbreviation, eg "LB" for left bottom, or by clicking the position in the picture. Text pen number : The eight available pen numbers refer to the line thickness associated with each pen number. If a drawing is scaled when printed, its pen widths are scaled accordingly. Text font Text height in millimetres. Text width as a factor of text height. Line spacing as a factor of text height. Text angle in degrees. For further details on text parameters, refer to Chapter 3 of the Users guide. Related commands : Text angle, Detail text edit, Get text parameters, Set text parameters
Get text parameters
: : : : :
Text Get text parameters Read the text parameters of a drawing entity TG Entity
Notes : The command is used to assign the text parameters, i.e. pen, font, justification, height, width factor and line spacing, of the indicated text entity to the current system text parameters. The current system text angle parameter is not affected by this command and must be edited using the Text angle command. Related commands : Text angle, Text parameters, Set text parameters
Set text parameters
: : : : :
Text Set text parameters Set the text parameters of a drawing entity TS Entity
Notes : The command is used to assign the current system text parameters, i.e. pen, font, justification, height, width factor and line spacing, to the indicated drawing entity. To keep text from being rotated, the current text angles are not affected by this command and must be edited using the Detail text edit or Edit entity info commands. Related commands : Text parameters, Get text parameters, Detail text edit
Convert to uppercase
: : : : :
Text Convert to uppercase Convert a text entity to uppercase characters TO Entity1 [entity2...entityN]
Notes : The command is used to convert a text entity to uppercase characters. Related commands : Detail text edit, Convert to lowercase
Convert to lowercase
: : : : :
Text Convert to lowercase Convert a text entity to lowercase characters TL Entity1 [entity2...entityN]
Notes : The command is used to convert a text entity to lowercase characters. Related commands : Detail text edit, Convert to uppercase
The Point menu

The commands on the Points menu are used to set and clear points and also to setup the survey coordinate system. The Points commands are categorized as follows:
Normal point commands Clear all points Clear first point Clear last point Set point Set points on line Space (set N) points on line Set point halfway Move point Show last position Tick marks Survey coordinates commands Orientate two points Orientate point and angle Set survey point Set distance and bearing Get survey coordinate Get distance and bearing Survey coordinates to file Contours to DTM file
Clear all points
: : : : :
Point Clear Clear all points PC None
Notes : The command is used to clear all set points. It is sometimes more convenient to preset points before executing a command. If, however, points are accidentally set, they should be cleared before continuing. Related commands : Clear first point, Clear last point
Clear first point
: : : : :
Point Clear first Clear the first point set PF None
Notes : The command is used to clear the first point set. It is sometimes more convenient to preset points before executing a command. If, however, points are accidentally set, they should be cleared before continuing. Related commands : Clear points, Clear last point
Clear last point
: : : : :
Point Clear last Clear the last point set PL None
Notes : The command is used to clear the last point set. It is sometimes more convenient to preset points before executing a command. If, however, points are accidentally set, they should be cleared before continuing. Related commands : Clear points, Clear first point, Display last position
Set point
: : : : :
Point Set Set a point PS Coord1 [coord2 . . . coordN]
Notes : The command is used to set a point at the indicated position. This is the menu equivalent of setting a point by clicking the mouse in the drawing area. Related commands : Move point
Set points on line
: : : : :
Point Set points on line Set some points at specified distances on a line P0 Entity dist1 [dist2 . . . distN]
Notes : The command is used to set one or more points on a line. The first point is set the specified distance from the nearest line end point in the direction of the other line end point. Subsequent points are the specified distances from the previous points along the angle of the line. Related commands : Space points on line, Tick marks
Space points on line
: : : : :
Point Set N points on line Set some equally spaced points on a line PN Entity integer
Notes : The command is used to set a one or more equally spaces points on a line. Related commands : Set points on line, Set point halfway, Tick marks
Set point halfway
: : : : :
Point Set point halfway in between Set a point halfway between the other points PS Coord1 coord2
Notes : The command is used to set a point exactly halfway between two other points. Related commands : Space points on line
Move point
: : : : :
Point Move Move the last point PM Coord
Notes : The command is used to move the last point the distance of the relative coordinate specified. The entered coordinate is treated as a relative coordinate, even if it is not preceded with the usual '+' character. It is sometimes more convenient to preset points before executing a command. If, however, a point
is set incorrectly, or a point is set at an easy-to-snap-to position, this command can be used to move it a certain distance away. Related commands : Set point
Show last position
: : : : :
Point Show last position Highlight the position of the last point PH None
Notes : The command is used to highlight the last point set, even if it has been cleared in the meantime. Related commands : Set point
Tick marks
: : : : :
Point Tick marks Set chained points on a line, circle or arc PT Real entity
Notes : The command is used to set a series of equally spaced chained points along the length of a continuous series of lines and arcs or on a circle. Points are set at the chainage positions and also at all intersections. Related commands : Set points on line, Space points on line, Set point halfway
Orientate two points
: : : : :
Point Orientate two points Orientate the survey coordinate system by indicating two known points P1 Coord1 coord2 coordS1 coordS2
Notes : The command is used to orientate the survey coordinate system by indicating two known points and entering their survey coordinates. Related commands : Orientate point and angle
Orientate point and angle
: : : : :
Point Orientate point and angle Orientate the survey coordinate system by indicating a known point and the angle for south P2 Coord1 coordS1 angle
Notes : The command is used to orientate the survey coordinate system by indicating a known point and entering the corresponding survey coordinate and the angle for south. Related commands : Orientate two points
Set survey point
: : : : :
Point Set survey point Set a survey coordinate by typing a coordinate P3 Coord1
Notes : The command is used to set a survey coordinate by entering it. Related commands : Set distance and bearing
Set distance and bearing
: : : : :
Point Set distance and bearing Set a survey coordinate by entering a distance and bearing P4 Dist angle
Notes : The command is used to set a survey coordinate by entering the distance and bearing from the last point set. Related commands : Set survey point
Get survey coordinate
: : : : :
Point Get survey point Read a survey point P5 Coord1 [coord2 . . . coordN]
Notes : The command is used to read the indicated survey coordinates. Related commands : Get distance and bearing, Survey coordinates to file
Get distance and bearing
: : : : :
Point Orientate two points Calculate the distance and bearing between two survey coordinates P6 Coord1 coord2
Notes : The command is used to calculate the distance and bearing between two survey coordinates. Related commands : Get survey coordinate, Coordinates to file
Survey coordinates to file
: : : : :
Point Coordinates to file Read survey coordinates and save them to disk P7 Coord1 [coord2 . . .coordN]
Notes : The command is used to read one or more survey coordinates and write them to disk. The coordinate table is stored in a file named COORD.TXT. Contours can also be traced and saved as 3D coordinates in a DTM file using the Contours to DTM file command. Related commands : Get survey coordinate, Get distance and bearing, Contours to DTM file, Text to file
Contours to DTM file
: : : : :
Point Contours to DTM file Save coordinates on contours to a 3D DTM file P8 Dialogue/file name real enitity1 real1 [entity2 real2 . . . entityN realN]
Notes : The command is used to trace a contour plan and create a 3D coordinate file for use with a DTM
system. Coordinates are read at the specified interval and the list saved to the specified text file. A height is entered before selecting each contour line. Survey coordinates will be written to the DTM file if a survey coordinate system has been set up. A no survey coordinate system has been set up, normal drawing coordinates will be used. Related commands : Survey coordinates to file
The Hatch menu

The function of the commands on the Hatch menu is to allow the hatching of certain areas and the editing of hatch parameters. Hatch definition points and origins can also be edited. The commands on the Hatch menu are: Polygon hatch Outline hatch Area hatch Move point Delete point Insert point Text island Vectorize hatch Edit hatch pattern Parameters Change origin Get hatch parameters Set hatch parameters Hide hatching
Polygon hatch
Menu
Hatch
Command Description Short form Parameters
: : : :
Polygon hatch Hatch an area by indicating a polygon HH Coord1 coord2 coord3 [coord4..coordN] coordN+1
Notes : The command is used to hatch an area by indicating three or more points of a polygon. An additional point is required to define the hatch origin. Clicking on another hatch reads that hatch's origin. The hatch is drawn using the current system hatch parameters. A hatch area can be changed using the Move hatch point, Delete hatch point and Insert hatch point commands. A different hatch pattern can be assigned to a hatch with the Set hatch parameters function. Edit entity info can also be used to edit hatch patterns and points. An area can also be hatched using the Outline hatch and Area hatch commands. A hole can be inserted in a hatch by hatching an area inside it using the same hatch parameters. Alternatively additional hatch points can be inserted using the Insert hatch point command. Another hatch can be overlaid by indicating an area starting outside the hatch in question. Related commands : Area hatch, Outline hatch
Outline hatch
: : : : :
Hatch Outline hatch Hatch an area by tracing an outline HO Entity coord1
Notes : The command is used to hatch an area by tracing its outline. Indicate a point near the outline, slightly to the side to be hatched. Starting it the indicated position, the line and arc end points are then traced. A second point is required to define the hatch origin. Clicking on another hatch reads that hatch's origin. The hatch is drawn using the current system hatch parameters. A hatch area can be changed using the Move hatch point, Delete hatch point and Insert hatch point commands. A different hatch pattern can be assigned to a hatch with the Set hatch parameters function. Edit entity info can also be used to edit hatch patterns and points. An area can also be hatched using the Polygon hatch and Area hatch commands. A hole can be inserted in a hatch by hatching an area inside it using the same hatch parameters. Alternatively additional hatch points can be inserted using the Insert hatch point command. Another hatch can be overlaid by indicating an area starting outside the hatch in question. Related commands : Area hatch, Polygon hatch
Area hatch
: : : : :
Hatch Area hatch Hatch an area by detecting it HA Entity coord1
Notes : The command is used to hatch an area by auto-detecting it. Indicate a point near the perimeter, slightly to the side to be hatched. Starting at the indicated position, the line, circle and arc intersections are then traced. A second point is required to define the hatch origin. Clicking on another hatch reads that hatch's origin. The hatch is drawn using the current system hatch parameters. A hatch area can be changed using the Move hatch point, Delete hatch point and Insert hatch point commands. A different hatch pattern can be assigned to a hatch with the Set hatch parameters function. Edit entity info can also be used to edit hatch patterns and points. An area can also be hatched using the Polygon hatch and Area hatch commands. A hole can be inserted in a hatch by hatching an area inside it using the same hatch parameters. Alternatively additional hatch points can be inserted using the Insert hatch point command. Another hatch can be overlaid by indicating an area starting outside the hatch in question. Related commands : Outline hatch, Polygon hatch
Move point
: : : : :
Hatch Move point Move a point on a hatch perimeter HM Entity coord1 coord2
Notes : The command is used to move a point on a hatch perimeter. Indicate the relevant hatch perimeter to highlight its perimeter points. Then click the point to move and indicate its new position. The point's new coordinate can also be typed as an absolute or relative coordinate. A point on a hatch perimeter can also be edited using the Edit entity info command. Hatch perimeter points can also be deleted and inserted using the Delete hatch point and Insert hatch point commands. Related commands : Edit entity info, Delete hatch point, Insert hatch point
Delete point
Menu
Hatch
: : : :
Delete point Delete a point on a hatch perimeter HD Entity coord
Notes : The command is used to delete a point on a hatch perimeter. Indicate the relevant hatch perimeter to highlight its perimeter points. Then click the point to delete. Hatch perimeter points can also be moved and inserted using the Move hatch point and Insert hatch point commands. Related commands : Move hatch point, Insert hatch point
Insert point
: : : : :
Hatch Insert point Insert a point on a hatch perimeter HI Entity coord
Notes : The command is used to insert a point on a hatch perimeter. Indicate the relevant hatch perimeter on the side of the perimeter where the new point is to be inserted. Then click the point indicate the new point's position. The point's new coordinate can also be typed as an absolute coordinate. Hatch perimeter points can also be moved and deleted using the Move hatch point and Delete hatch point commands. Related commands : Move hatch point, Delete hatch point
Text island
: : : : :
Hatch Text island Draw an island around a text entity HT Entity
Notes : The command is used to remove a rectangular hatch area around the indicated text entity. No lines are drawn on the island perimeter. A hole can be inserted in a hatch by hatching an area inside it using the same hatch parameters. The Text box command can also be used to draw a box around a text entity. If a hatch area contains text islands, the area of the text islands will be subtracted when calculating the hatch area using the Dimension measure hatch area command. Related commands : Text box
Vectorize hatch
: : : : :
Hatch Vectorize hatch Convert a hatch to a polyline HV Entity
Notes : The command is used to convert a hatch to a polyline with exactly the same appearance. If holes must be created in the resulting polyline, the Block define cut and Block delete commands
can be used. A polyline can also be converted to single line segments with the Break polyline command. Groups of polylines can be broken by defining them in a block and then applying the Break polylines command on the block menu. Related commands : Break polyline, Break polylines, Vectorize spline
Edit hatch pattern
: : : : :
Hatch Edit hatch pattern Edit the current system hatch pattern HE Entity
Notes : The command is used to edit the current system hatch pattern. Changes made to the pattern can be viewed in the pattern preview window. A hatch pattern is defined by a number of lines with the following parameters: Angle : The angle is the line, measured anti-clockwise with 0 pointing to the right.
Origin : The origin in millimetre in the global axes system. The global origin corresponds to the bottom left corner of the pattern preview window. Delta : Enter the repeating spacing of the line in millimeter. Delta comprise two values: Spacing in the direction of the line. Spacing perpendicular to the line. This value may not be zero since it will imply no transverse distribution of the line. Dashes : Alternating lengths of solid line segments and blanks, eg 2.0,-4.0,2.0,-8.0 for 2mm dashes with gaps alternating at 4mm and 8mm. A blank is defined by a leading minus sign. Up to three pairs of solids and dashes can be specified. If this field is left blank, a solid line is used. The pattern preview window is updated every time the ENTER key is pressed. The hatch pattern is displayed using the current system line parameters, i.e. pen and line type. The following is required: Pattern name : Enter a compulsory pattern name comprising up to 15 characters. Any characters except commas may be used. Description : This is optional. Scale factor : For enlarging or reducing the hatch pattern. A value greater than one will enlarge the pattern. The default scale factor is unity. Angle : Angle to rotate the hatch pattern with. The default value is zero. Scaling system : Select between drawing and paper scale. With drawing scale the hatch pattern will be scaled with the layer scale, eg brickwork drawn to 1:50 scale. Paper scale allows hatch patterns to be drawn full-size, eg a soil profile drawn full-size on 1:100 layer. Select a pattern file : Two pattern files are distributed with PADDS, namely PADDS.PAT (general patterns) and GEOTECH.PAT (geotechnical patterns for soil profiling). Add pattern to file : Save the edited pattern to the current pattern file. If a pattern by the same name already exists in the pattern file, a prompt to overwrite will be displayed. A drawn hatch pattern also can be modified using the Edit entity info command. Related commands : Edit entity info, Hatch parameters
Parameters
Menu Command
: :
Hatch Parameters
: : :
Set the system hatch parameters HP None
Notes : The command is used to set the system hatch parameters. The following parameters can be edited: Select a pattern file : Two pattern files are distributed with PADDS, namely PADDS.PAT (general patterns) and GEOTECH.PAT (geotechnical patterns for soil profiling). Scale factor : For enlarging or reducing the hatch pattern. A value greater than one will enlarge the pattern. The default scale factor is unity. Angle : Angle to rotate the hatch pattern with. The default value is zero. Scaling system : Select between drawing and paper scale. With drawing scale the hatch pattern will be scaled with the layer scale, eg brickwork drawn to 1:50 scale. Paper scale allows hatch patterns to be drawn full-size, eg a soil profile drawn full-size on 1:100 layer. Select a hatch pattern by clicking it. The scroll arrows can be clicked to move up or down to other pages of the same hatch pattern file. The current hatch pattern can be modified and saved back to the hatch pattern file with the Edit hatch pattern command.
Related commands : Edit hatch pattern, Get hatch parameters, Set hatch parameters
Change origin
: : : : :
Hatch Change origin Change the origin of a drawn hatch entity HC Entity point/entity
Notes : The command is used to assign a new origin to a drawn hatch entity, eg. to make it match with an adjacent hatch entity. When indicating the new origin, one can indicate another drawn hatch entity to force the origin to be the same as that hatch entity's origin. Related commands : Hatch parameters, Set hatch parameters, Get hatch parameters
Get hatch parameters
: : : : :
Hatch Get hatch parameters Read the hatch parameters of a drawn hatch entity HG Entity
Notes : The command is used to assign the hatch parameters, i.e. pattern name, scale factor, angle, scaling system, pen number and line type, of the indicated hatch entity to the current system hatch parameters.
The pen number and line type can also be read from a line, circle or arc using the Get line parameters command. Related commands : Hatch parameters, Set hatch parameters, Get line parameters
Set hatch parameters
: : : : :
Hatch Set hatch parameters Set the hatch parameters of a drawn hatch entity HS Entity
Notes : The command is used to assign the current system hatch parameters, i.e. pattern name, scale factor, angle, scaling system, pen number and line type, to the indicated hatch entities. The hatch parameters can also be modified using the Edit entity info command. Related commands : Hatch parameters, Get hatch parameters, Edit entity info
Hide hatching
: : : : :
Hatch Hide hatching Disables or enables the display of all hatch patterns H1 None
Notes : The command is used to hide or display all hatch patterns. Similar to layers that are turned off, hidden hatching cannot be snapped to and is not printed or plotted.
Related commands : Hide construction lines, One layer on/off, All layers on, All layers off
The Rebar menu

The Rebar commands are used to draw, label and / or schedule reinforcement bars. The required concrete cover, scheduling code and rebar drawing parameters to be used can be set. Quick zone commands allow various rebar configurations to be drawn, labelled and scheduled all in a single command. Rebars that have already been drawn can be labelled and scheduled by indicating the rebars. The Rebar commands are grouped as follows: General rebar commands: Bar Bar ABCDE Dot Ring Extend bar Concrete cover Rebar pen Indicate beam Curtail bar end Rotate bar Bar line mode Tendon or cable Scheduling code Add shape code 99 Quick zone commands: Multiple bars Alternate bars reversed Staggered bars Stepped bars Fan zone Circular grid No bar zone Indicate drawn bars: Text on bar Indicate one bar
Indicate two bars Indicate zone with one bar Indicate zone with two bars Multiple zones with one bar Multiple zones with two bars Parallel zones with one bar Parallel zones with two bars
Bar
: : : : :
Rebar Bar Draw a rebar RB Shape coord1 coord2 [coord3 . . . coordN] confirm
Notes : The command is used to draw a rebar entity, optionally shrinking it with the concrete cover values. The number of bar handles required to define a rebar depends on its shape code. Each rebar entity possesses a complete set of attributes defining its actual shape and appearance on screen. All new
rebars are drawn as solid lines in the current rebar pen. A rebar's line style and other parameters can be changed with the Edit entity info command. Although the points for the rebar handles are set in the normal fashion, the process can sometimes be simplified by enabling ortho mode. If enabled, ortho mode is intelligently overruled to aid the definition of certain rebars. On confirmation, the rebar's dimensions can be reduced with the concrete cover. A drawn rebar's dimensions can be changed using the Extend bar or Stretch commands. With the Edit entity info command, one can modify all the parameters of a rebar. Once a scheduled rebar's dimensions have changed, its record in the bending schedule will be updated automatically. Drawn rebar entities can be distributed over one or more zones using the rebar indicating commands. Refer to Chapter 7 of the User's manual for a detailed discussion on rebar entities, their handles and default orientations. Related commands : Bar ABCDE, Dot, Ring, Edit entity info
Bar ABCDE
: : : : :
Rebar Bar ABCDE Draw a rebar to dimension RE Shape coord1 coord2/angle coord3 confirm integer1 [integer2..integerN]
Notes : The command is used to draw a rebar entity of the specified dimensions, optionally shrinking it with the concrete cover values. The first handle indicated is used to define the rebar's position. The rebar's orientation is defined by entering an angle or setting a second point. The definition of the rebar's orientation is completed by setting a last point to indicate which side of the first two points it is located. The final step comprises editing the rebar's bending dimensions. The dimensions to be edited depend on the shape code specified. Each rebar entity possesses a complete set of attributes defining its actual shape and appearance on screen. All new rebars are drawn as solid lines in the current rebar pen. A rebar's line style and other parameters can be changed with the Edit entity info command. A drawn rebar's dimensions can be changed using the Extend bar or Stretch commands. With the Edit entity info command, one can modify all the parameters of a rebar. Once a scheduled rebar's dimensions have changed, its record in the bending schedule will be updated automatically. Drawn rebar entities can be distributed over one or more zones using the rebar indicating commands. Refer to Chapter 7 of the User's manual for a detailed discussion on rebar entities, their handles and default orientations. Related commands : Bar, Dot, Ring, Edit entity info
Dot
: : : : :
Rebar Dot Draw a rebar dot RD Coord1 coord2 [coord3 coordN] integer
Notes : The command is used to draw one or more dots. After indicating the position of the second dot, a specified number of additional dots can be generated at the same bar spacing and inclination. Dots do not have the same complete set of attributes that normal rebars have and can not be used to generate bending schedules. Use the Edit entity info command to change a drawn dot's dimensions. Refer to Chapter 7 of the User's manual for a detailed description of dots. Related commands : Bar, Bar ABCDE, Ring, Edit entity info
Ring
: : : : :
Rebar Ring Draw a rebar ring RR Coord1 coord2 [coord3 coordN] [integer]
Notes : The command is used to draw one or more rings (hollow dots). After indicating the position of the second ring, a specified number of additional rings can be generated at the same bar spacing and inclination. Rings do not have the same complete set of attributes that normal rebars have and can not be used to generate bending schedules. Use the Edit entity info command to change a drawn ring's dimensions. Refer to Chapter 7 of the User's manual for a detailed description of rings. Related commands : Bar, Bar ABCDE, Dot, Edit entity info
Extend bar
: : : : :
Rebar Extend bar Lengthen or shorten a rebar dimension RX Coord1 coord2/real
Notes : The command is used to lengthen or shorten the indicated dimension of a rebar. Indicate the dimension to be extended and indicate its new position. Alternatively enter the value of the extension, a positive value indicating a lengthening and a negative value a shortening. A rebar can also be extended with the Edit stretch command or edited with the Edit entity info command. Related commands : Edit entity info, Edit stretch
Concrete cover
: : : : :
Rebar Cover Edit the concrete cover parameters RC Integer1 integer2 integer3
Notes : The command is used to specify the default concrete cover values. The top, bottom and side cover are entered sequentially, separated by commas or spaces. The three values relate to the corresponding edges of rebars in their default orientation. Refer to Chapter 7 of the User's manual for detail on rebar shape codes and default orientations. The concrete cover is optionally applied to all new rebar entities when using any of the rebar drawing commands. When given the choice to reduce a rebar's dimensions with the concrete cover, the default cover values can be edited first before applying them. Related commands : Rebar pen
Rebar pen (parameters)
: : : :
Rebar Pen Select the rebar parameters RP
Parameters
Integer
Notes : The command is used to set the system rebar pen to the indicated or specified value. All new rebars are drawn as solid lines in the colour of the system rebar pen. The actual plotted pen width corresponding to each pen colour is set using the Set line parameters command. Valid line pen colours are 1 through 8. A rebar's parameters, including pen and line type, can be modified using the Edit entity info command. A rebar drawn with a solid line can, for example, be changed to a hidden line. Rebar description lines and text are drawn according the current system dimension line and text parameters. Related commands : Edit entity info, Set line parameters, Bar line mode, Dimension parameters
Indicate beam
: : : : :
Rebar Indicate beam Draw a beam designation RI Coord1, coord2, text
Notes : The command is used to draw a beam description. A box is drawn, enclosing the entered beam description, with arrows to the indicated points. Two lines of text can be entered, separated with a comma, eg "BEAM 1,See BS 9001-01". The box with its arrows and the descriptive text are drawn according to the current system line parameters and dimension text parameters respectively. Related commands : Text caption
Curtail bar end
: : : : :
Rebar Curtail bar end Enable/disable curtailed display of bar ends RU Entity1 [entity2entityN]
Notes : The command is used to enable or disable the curtailed display of a rebar's ends. The end nearest to the indicated position on the rebar is curtailed or, if that end is already curtailed, it is expanded. A rebar's curtailment can also be adjusted with the Edit entity info command. The curtailment parameter is set using a two digit binary code: Zero defines a normal expanded end and one enables a curtailed end. The first digit refers to the end nearest to the rebar's first handle, eg. 10 to enable curtailment at the first end only. The second or only digit refers to the end nearest to the rebar's second handle, eg. 01 or 1 to enable curtailment at the second end only. Both ends can also be curtailed simultaneously, eg. 11. Related commands : Edit entity info, Rotate bar Y sign
Rotate bar Y sign
: : : : :
Rebar Rotate bar Y sign Rotate bar in elevation or plan RY Entity
Notes : The command is used to rotate a rebar in elevation or plan. When applied repeatedly to a rebar, its Y-sign will be changed from +1 to 0 to -1 and back to +1. A Y-sign can also be adjusted with the Edit entity info command. The Y-sign is set using a single digit code: Normal elevation : +1 Plan view : 0 Mirrored elevation : -1 Related commands : Edit entity info, Curtail bar end
Bar line mode
: : : : :
Rebar Bar line mode Set the rebar line display mode RL Character
Notes : The command is used to set the way rebars are displayed as solid lines or as outlines. The following options are available:
Single : Draw all rebars on the active drawing as single lines. Double : Draw all rebars on the active drawing as outlines. Auto : Allows PADDS to decide which rebars should be displayed as solid lines and which ones should be displayed as outlines. If the scaled diameter of a rebar exceeds three times the pen thickness, the rebar is shown as outline. Tip : One would normally prefer to draw rebars as solid lines. For large scale details, however, one may prefer to show detailed rebar layouts using outlines. Mixing solid and outlined rebars on the same drawing can then be achieved by using the auto bar line mode. If a rebar is shown as a solid line and you would prefer outlines, simply reduce its pen thickness. This will cause the scaled thickness to exceed three times the line thickness and thus force outline mode. Related commands : Edit entity info, Rebar parameters (pen), Curtail bar end
Tendon or cable
: : : : :
Rebar Tendon/cable Draw a prestressed tendon or cable RN Coord1 coord2 text confirm
Notes :
The command is used to draw the layout of a group of prestressed tendons or cables. A tendon layout is defined from the dead anchor to live anchor: The first point set defines the position of the dead anchor. Set as one or more additional points to define the tendon layout. Escape to stop setting points. The last point set is used as the live anchor position. Enter the description of the tendon: Number of tendons in the bundle. Bundle number, eg. B7. Tendon profile number, eg. P5. Confirm whether the dead anchor should be moved in with the value of the side cover. Press E to edit the cover values. The number of tendons in the bundle information is represented using the symbols shown below:
A bundle is identified using the following information: The entered bundle number The entered tendon profile number Tip : Tendon profile schedules can be generated using Captain. Related commands : Indicate beam, Rebar parameters (pen)
Scheduling code
: : : : :
Rebar Scheduling code Set the scheduling code to be used RH None
Notes : The command is used to select the scheduling code to be used in detailing rebars. The user has a choice between SABS 082 and BS 4466/89. Note that bending schedules generated from PROKON design programs will be drawn and scheduled according to the detailing codes selected in Related commands : None
Multiple bars
: : : : :
Rebar (Quick zones) Multiple bars Draw a rebar distribution RM Coord1...coord5 shape text confirm
Notes : The command is used to draw a rebar entity and uniformly distribute it in a zone. The rebar and distribution zone can optionally be shrunk with the concrete cover values. Rebar information is generated in the active bending schedule. The zone perimeter is defined by three points, the rebar position by the fourth point and the text position by the fifth point. If the text position is indicated inside the zone, the descriptive line will not extend beyond the zone borders and the descriptive text will be located at the indicated point. If enabled, ortho mode is overruled when setting the third, fourth and fifth points. Depending on the entered description, eg T1 for top layer 1, the rebar is drawn in its default top or bottom layer orientation. More than one layer, eg T1 & B1, can also be specified, in which case the rebar will be drawn according to the first layer and double the number of bars will be scheduled. All new rebars are drawn as solid lines in the current rebar pen. Description lines and text are drawn according the current system dimension line and text parameters. The rebar dimensions are measured from the drawing and added to the list of attributes. The number of bars is calculated using the zone length and specified bar spacing and an appropriate insertion is automatically made in the active bending schedule. On confirmation, the parent rebar and its zone are reduced by the concrete cover. If the rebar's diameter or dimensions are later modified with the Edit entity info, Stretch, or Extend
bar command, the bending schedule will be updated automatically. Related commands : Alternate bars reversed, Staggered bars, Stepped bars, Fan zone, Circular grid
Alternate bars reversed
: : : : :
Rebar (Quick zones) Alternate bars reversed Draw an alternate bar reversed distribution RA Coord1...coord6 shape text confirm
Notes : The command is used to draw a rebar entity and distribute it in a zone. The rebar and distribution zone can optionally be shrunk with the concrete cover values. Rebar information is generated in the active bending schedule. Each alternate rebar is reversed. The zone perimeter is defined by four points, the rebar position by the fifth point and the text position by the sixth point. If the text position is indicated inside the zone, the descriptive line will not extend beyond the zone
borders and the descriptive text will be located at the indicated point. If enabled, ortho mode is overruled when setting the third to sixth points. Depending on the entered description, eg T1 for top layer 1, the rebar is drawn in its default top or bottom layer orientation. More than one layer, eg T1 & B1, can also be specified, in which case the rebar will be drawn according to the first layer and double the number of bars will be scheduled. Description lines and text are drawn according the current system dimension line and text parameters. The rebar dimensions are measured from the drawing and added to the list of attributes. The number of bars is calculated using the zone length and specified bar spacing and an appropriate insertion is automatically made in the active bending schedule. On confirmation, the parent rebar and its zone are reduced by the concrete cover. If the rebar's diameter or dimensions is later modified with the Edit entity info, Stretch, or Extend bar command, the bending schedule will be updated automatically. Related commands : Multiple bars, Staggered bars, Stepped bars, Fan zone, Circular grid
Staggered bars
: : : : :
Rebar (Quick zones) Staggered bars Draw a staggered bar distribution RT Coord1...coord6 shape text confirm
Notes : The command is used to draw a rebar entity and distribute it in a zone. The rebar and distribution zone can optionally be shrunk with the concrete cover values. Rebar information is generated in the active bending schedule. Each alternate rebar is staggered. The zone perimeter is defined by four points, the rebar position by the fifth point and the text position by the sixth point. If the text position is indicated inside the zone, the descriptive line will not extend beyond the zone borders and the descriptive text will be located at the indicated point. If enabled, ortho mode is overruled when setting the third to sixth points. Depending on the entered description, eg T1 for top layer 1, the rebar is drawn in its default top or bottom layer orientation. More than one layer, eg T1 & B1, can also be specified, in which case the rebar will be drawn according to the first layer and double the number of bars will be scheduled. Description lines and text are drawn according the current system dimension line and text parameters. The rebar dimensions are measured from the drawing and added to the list of attributes. The number of bars is calculated using the zone length and specified bar spacing and an appropriate insertion is automatically made in the active bending schedule. On confirmation, the parent rebar and its zone are reduced by the concrete cover. If the rebar's diameter or dimensions is later modified with the Edit entity info, Stretch, or Extend
bar command, the bending schedule will be updated automatically. Related commands : Multiple bars, Alternate bars reversed, Stepped bars, Fan zone, Circular grid
Stepped bars
: : : : :
Rebar (Quick zones) Stepped bars Draw a stepped bar distribution RS Coord1...coord6 shape text confirm
Notes : The command is used to draw a rebar entity and distribute it in a zone. The rebar and distribution zone can optionally be shrunk with the concrete cover values. Rebar information is generated in the active bending schedule. The dimensions of each individual rebar are calculated to fit the parallelogram shaped zone. The zone perimeter is defined by four points, the rebar position by the fifth point and the text position by the sixth point. If the text position is indicated inside the zone, the descriptive line will not extend beyond the zone borders and the descriptive text will be located at the indicated point.
If enabled, ortho mode is overruled when setting the third to sixth points. Depending on the entered description, eg T1 for top layer 1, the rebar is drawn in its default top or bottom layer orientation. More than one layer, eg T1 & B1, can also be specified, in which case the rebar will be drawn according to the first layer and double the number of bars will be scheduled. Description lines and text are drawn according the current system dimension line and text parameters. The rebar dimensions are measured from the drawing and added to the list of attributes. The number of bars is calculated using the zone length and specified bar spacing and an appropriate insertion is automatically made in the active bending schedule. On confirmation, the parent rebar and its zone are reduced by the concrete cover. If the rebar's diameter or dimensions is later modified with the Edit entity info, Stretch, or Extend bar command, the bending schedule will be updated automatically. Related commands : Multiple bars, Alternate bars reversed, Staggered bars, Fan zone, Circular grid
Fan zone
: : : : :
Rebar (Quick zones) Fan zone Draw a fanned rebar distribution RF Coord1...coord7 shape text confirm
Notes : The command is used to draw a rebar entity and distribute it radially in a fan zone. The rebar and distribution zone can optionally be shrunk with the concrete cover values. Rebar information is generated in the active bending schedule. The dimensions of the parent rebar are calculated to fit the radially shaped zone. The rebar position is defined by the first two points, the radius of the distribution by the third and fourth and the zone borders by the fifth and sixth points. The position by the text is defined with the last point. Depending on the entered description, eg T1 for top layer 1, the rebar is drawn in its default top or bottom layer orientation. More than one layer, eg T1 & B1, can also be specified, in which case the rebar will be drawn according to the first layer and double the number of bars will be scheduled. Description lines and text are drawn according the current system dimension line and text parameters. The rebar dimensions are measured from the drawing and added to the list of attributes. The number of bars is calculated using the zone length and specified bar spacing and an appropriate insertion is automatically made in the active bending schedule. On confirmation, the parent rebar and its zone are reduced by the concrete cover. If the rebar's diameter or dimensions is later modified with the Edit entity info, Stretch, or Extend bar command, the bending schedule will be updated automatically. Related commands : Multiple bars, Alternate bars reversed, Staggered bars, Stepped bars, Circular grid
Circular grid
: : : : :
Rebar (Quick zones) Circular grid Draw a circular rebar distribution RG Entity coord1 coord2 shape integer text confirm
Notes : The command is used to draw a rebar entity and distribute it in a circular grid. The rebar and distribution zone can optionally be shrunk with the concrete cover values. Rebar information is generated in the active bending schedule. The dimensions of the parent rebar are calculated to fit the circular shaped zone. The centre line of the zone is defined by indicating a point on the perimeter at the position of the shortest bar. The zone length is then taken as twice the radius of the indicated circle/arc, extending from the position of the shortest bar through the circle/arc centre point. The second point is used to position the rebar and the third point to position the text.
The shape code is entered next. Supported shape codes are 10, 32, 33, 34, 35 and the rebars lengths are stepped by varying their A dimensions. The step size entered will be the lower limit for the variation in the length of the bars. If the specified step size is greater than the actual variation in the zone width, bars will by grouped together as necessary. Depending on the entered description, eg T1 for top layer 1, the rebar is drawn in its default top or bottom layer orientation. More than one layer, eg T1 & B1, can also be specified, in which case the rebar will be drawn according to the first layer and double the number of bars will be scheduled. Description lines and text are drawn according the current system dimension line and text parameters. The rebar dimensions are measured from the drawing and added to the list of attributes. The number of bars is calculated using the zone length and specified bar spacing and an appropriate insertion is automatically made in the active bending schedule. On confirmation, the parent rebar and its zone are reduced by the concrete cover. If the rebar's diameter or dimensions is later modified with the Edit entity info, Stretch, or Extend bar command, the bending schedule will be updated automatically. Related commands : Multiple bars, Alternate bars reversed, Staggered bars, Stepped bars, Fan zone
Zone (no bars
: : : : :
Rebar (Quick zones) Zone (no bars) Describe a rebar distribution zone RZ Coord1 coord2 coord3 text
Notes : The command is used to describe a zone of drawn bars. The zone is defined by two points on the description line and the text by a third position. The distribution zone can optionally be shrunk with the concrete cover value. Description lines and text are drawn according the current system line parameters and dimension text parameters respectively. No insertions are made in the active bending schedule. This command is typically used when a rebar has already been scheduled in another view and needs to be described for a second time without rescheduling it. Related commands : Zone (one bar), Zone (two bars)
Text on bar
: : : : :
Rebar (Indicate drawn bars) Text on bar Describe a rebar by drawing text on it RO Entity coord
Notes : The command is used to describe a drawn rebar by drawing descriptive text on it. The rebar's attributes are used to construct the default descriptive text. The description can then be edited to include a number of bars. The rebar is then automatically recorded in the active bending schedule. The description line and text are drawn according the current system dimension line and text parameters. If the rebar's diameter or dimensions is later modified with the Edit entity info, Edit stretch, or Extend bar command, the bending schedule will be updated automatically. Related commands : One bar
One bar
: : : : :
Rebar (Indicate drawn bars) One bar Describe a single rebar R1 Entity coord text
Notes : The command is used to describe a single drawn rebar and generate information in the active bending schedule. A description line is drawn perpendicular from the indicated point on the rebar entity and extended horizontally or vertically to the indicated descriptive text position. The rebar's attributes are used to construct the default descriptive text for the single bar. The text can then be edited to include a number of bars, spacing and more than one layer. If more than one layer is specified, eg. "T1 & B1", "NF + FF" or "EF", double the number of bars will be scheduled. The rebar layer, eg. "B1" or "T1", may be omitted from the description. The rebar will then still be scheduled. Description lines and text are drawn according the current system dimension line and text parameters. An appropriate insertion is automatically made in the active bending schedule. The description line and text are drawn according the current system dimension line and text parameters. If the number of bars is set to zero, eg. "R10-A-200", the bar is not scheduled. This allows for the description of rebars on the drawing without scheduling. If the rebar's diameter or dimensions is later modified with the Edit entity info, Edit stretch, or Extend bar command, the bending schedule will be updated automatically. Related commands : Text on bar, Two bars
Two bars
: : : : :
Rebar (Indicate drawn bars) Two bars Describe two rebars R2 Coord1 coord2 coord3 text
Notes : The command is used to describe a double occurrence of a drawn rebar and generate information in the active bending schedule. A description line is drawn perpendicular from the indicated point on the rebar entity and extended horizontally or vertically to the indicated descriptive text position. The rebar's attributes are used to construct the default descriptive text for two bars. The text can then be edited to include a number of bars, spacing and more than one layer. If more than one layer is specified, eg. "T1 & B1", "NF + FF" or "EF", double the number of bars will be scheduled. The rebar layer, eg. "B1" or "T1", may be omitted from the description. The rebar will then still be scheduled. Description lines and text are drawn according the current system dimension line and text parameters. An appropriate insertion is automatically made in the active bending schedule. The description line and text are drawn according the current system dimension line and text parameters.
If the number of bars is set to zero, eg. "R10-A-200", the bar is not scheduled. This allows for the description of rebars on the drawing without scheduling. If the rebar's diameter or dimensions is later modified with the Edit entity info, Edit stretch, or Extend bar command, the bending schedule will be updated automatically. Related commands : Text on bar, One bar
Zone (one bar)
: : : : :
Rebar (Indicate drawn bars) Zone (One bar) Describe a distribution zone for a single rebar R3 Entity coord1 coord2 coord3 text confirm
Notes : The command is used to uniformly distribute a single drawn rebar over a zone, optionally shrinking the zone length with the concrete cover, and generate information in the active bending schedule. A description line is drawn perpendicular from the indicated point on the rebar entity between the
indicated zone borders and extended horizontally or vertically to the indicated descriptive text position. If the text position is indicated inside the zone, the descriptive line will extend between the zone borders and the descriptive text will be located at the indicated point. The rebar's attributes are used to construct the default descriptive text for the single bar distribution. The rebar quantity is calculated using the zone length and specified bar spacing. If more than one layer is specified, eg. "T1 & B1", "NF + FF" or "EF", double the number of bars will be scheduled. The rebar layer, eg. "B1" or "T1", may be omitted from the description. The rebar will then still be scheduled. Description lines and text are drawn according the current system dimension line and text parameters. If the rebar's diameter or dimensions is later modified with the Edit entity info, Edit stretch, or Extend bar command, the bending schedule will be updated automatically. Related commands : Zone (two bars), Multiple zones (one bar), Parallel zones (one bar), Zone (no bars)
Zone (two bars)
Menu : Command Description Short form Parameters
: : : :
Rebar (Indicate drawn bars) Zone (Two bars) Describe a distribution zone of two rebars R4 Entity1 entity2 coord1 coord2 coord3 text confirm
Notes : The command is used to uniformly distribute two drawn rebars over a zone, optionally shrinking the zone length with the concrete cover, and generate information in the active bending schedule. A description line is drawn perpendicular from the indicated point on the first rebar entity between the indicated zone borders and extended horizontally or vertically to the indicated descriptive text position. If the text position is indicated inside the zone, the descriptive line will extend between the zone borders and the descriptive text will be located at the indicated point. The attributes of the rebars are used to construct the default descriptive text for the two bar distribution. The rebar quantity is calculated using the zone length and specified bar spacing. If more than one layer is specified, eg. "T1 & B1", "NF + FF" or "EF", double the number of bars will be scheduled. The rebar layer, eg. "B1" or "T1", may be omitted from the description. The rebar will then still be scheduled. Description lines and text are drawn according the current system dimension line and text parameters. If the rebar's diameter or dimensions is later modified with the Edit entity info, Edit stretch, or Extend bar command, the bending schedule will be updated automatically. Related commands : Zone (one bar), Multiple zones (two bars), Parallel zones (two bars)
Multiple zones (one bar)
: : : : :
Rebar (Indicate drawn bars) Multiple zones (one bar) Describe multiple distribution zones of a single rebar R5 Entity coord1 coord2 [coord3coordN-1] coordN text confirm
Notes : The command is used to uniformly distribute a single drawn rebar over one or more zones, optionally shrinking the zone lengths with the concrete cover, and generate information in the active bending schedule. A description line is drawn perpendicular from the indicated point on the rebar entity between the indicated zone extremes and extended horizontally or vertically to the indicated descriptive text position. Rebar quantities are drawn on the description line for each zone. If the text position is indicated inside the zone extreme, the descriptive line will extend between the zone extremes and the descriptive text will be located at the indicated point below the descriptive line. The rebar's attributes are used to construct the default descriptive text for the single bar distribution. The rebar quantity is calculated using the zone length and specified bar spacing. If
more than one layer is specified, eg. "T1 & B1", "NF + FF" or "EF", double the number of bars will be scheduled. The rebar layer, eg. "B1" or "T1", may be omitted from the description. The rebar will then still be scheduled. Description lines and text are drawn according the current system dimension line and text parameters. If the rebar's diameter or dimensions is later modified with the Edit entity info, Edit stretch, or Extend bar command, the bending schedule will be updated automatically. Related commands : Zone (one bar), Multiple zones (two bars), Parallel zones (one bar)
Multiple zones (two bars)
: : : : :
Rebar (Indicate drawn bars) Multiple zones (two bars) Describe multiple distribution zones of two rebars R6 Entity1 entity2 coord1 coord2 [coord3coordN-1] coordN text confirm
Notes : The command is used to uniformly distribute two drawn rebars over one or more zones, optionally shrinking the zone lengths with the concrete cover, and generate information in the active bending schedule. A description line is drawn perpendicular from the indicated point on the first rebar entity between the indicated zone extremes and extended horizontally or vertically to the indicated descriptive text position. Rebar quantities are drawn on the description line for each zone. If the text position is indicated inside the zone extreme, the descriptive line will extend between the zone extremes and the descriptive text will be located at the indicated point below the descriptive line. The rebar's attributes are used to construct the default descriptive text for the two bar distribution. The rebar quantity is calculated using the zone length and specified bar spacing. If more than one layer is specified, eg. "T1 & B1", "NF + FF" or "EF", double the number of bars will be scheduled. The rebar layer, eg. "B1" or "T1", may be omitted from the description. The rebar will then still be scheduled. Description lines and text are drawn according the current system dimension line and text parameters. If the rebar's diameter or dimensions is later modified with the Edit entity info, Edit stretch, or Extend bar command, the bending schedule will be updated automatically. Related commands : Zone (two bars), Multiple zones (one bar), Parallel zones (two bars)
Parallel zones (one bar)
: : : : :
Rebar (Indicate drawn bars) Parallel zones (one bar) Describe parallel distribution zones of a single rebar R7 Entity coord1 coord2 [coord3coordN-1] coordN text confirm
Notes : The command is used to uniformly distribute a single drawn rebar over one or more parallel zones, optionally shrinking the zone lengths with the concrete cover, and generate information in the active bending schedule. A description line is drawn perpendicular from the indicated point on the rebar entity between the extremes of the first indicated zone and parallel to that in subsequently indicated zones. Rebar quantities are drawn on the description line for each zone. The rebar's attributes are used to construct the default descriptive text for the single bar distribution. The rebar quantity is calculated using the zone length and specified bar spacing. If more than one layer is specified, eg. "T1 & B1", "NF + FF" or "EF", double the number of bars will be scheduled. The rebar layer, eg. "B1" or "T1", may be omitted from the description. The rebar will then still be scheduled. Description lines and text are drawn according the current system dimension line and text parameters. If the rebar's diameter or dimensions is later modified with the Edit entity info, Edit stretch, or Extend bar command, the bending schedule will be updated automatically. Related commands :
Zone (one bar), Multiple zones (one bar), Parallel zones (two bars)
Parallel zones (two bars)
: : : : :
Rebar (Indicate drawn bars) Parallel zones (two bars) Describe parallel distribution zones of two rebars R8 Entity1 entity2 coord1 coord2 [coord3coordN-1] coordN text confirm
Notes : The command is used to uniformly distribute two drawn rebars over one or more parallel zones, optionally shrinking the zone lengths with the concrete cover, and generate information in the active bending schedule. A description line is drawn perpendicular from the indicated point on the first rebar entity between the extremes of the first indicated zone and parallel to that in subsequently indicated zones. Rebar quantities are drawn on the description line for each zone.
The attributes of the rebars are used to construct the default descriptive text for the two bar distribution. The rebar quantity is calculated using the zone length and specified bar spacing. If more than one layer is specified, eg. "T1 & B1", "NF + FF" or "EF", double the number of bars will be scheduled. The rebar layer, eg. "B1" or "T1", may be omitted from the description. The rebar will then still be scheduled. Description lines and text are drawn according the current system dimension line and text parameters. If the rebar's diameter or dimensions is later modified with the Edit entity info, Edit stretch, or Extend bar command, the bending schedule will be updated automatically. Related commands : Zone (two bars), Multiple zones (two bars), Parallel zones (one bar)
The Dimension menu

The Dimension commands are used to dimension drawn entities and measure values. Linear, radial and angular dimensions can be drawn and distances, angles and areas measured. The Dimension commands are categorized as follows: Dimensioning commands Horizontal dimension Vertical dimension Skew dimension Dimension inside diameter Dimension outside diameter Dimension radius Dimension angle Dimension parameters Measuring commands Line / circle / arc Two points Polygon area Hatch area Angle Attribute
Horizontal dimension
: : : : :
Dimension Horizontal Draw a horizontal dimension DH Coord1 coord2 coord3 [coord4 . . . coordN]
Notes : The command is used to draw linear horizontal dimensions. If baseline mode is selected, consecutive measurements are done from the first point set. If baseline is not selected, continuous measurements is done from the previous points set. Measurements are made in the current unit of measurement. Dimension lines and text are drawn as normal line and text entities using the current system dimension parameters. The appearance of the dimension lines and text can then later be modified by changing its line parameters and text parameters. Related commands : Vertical dimension, Skew dimension
Vertical dimension
: : : : :
Dimension Vertical Draw a vertical dimension DV Coord1 coord2 coord3 [coord4 . . . coordN]
Notes : The command is used to draw linear vertical dimensions. If baseline mode is selected, consecutive measurements are done from the first point set. If baseline is not selected, continuous measurements is done from the previous points set. Measurements are made in the current unit of measurement. Dimension lines and text are drawn as normal line and text entities using the current system dimension parameters. The appearance of the dimension lines and text can then later be modified by changing its line parameters and text parameters. Related commands : Horizontal dimension, Skew dimension
Skew dimension
: : : : :
Dimension Skew Draw a skew dimension DS Coord1 coord2 coord3 [coord4 . . . coordN]
Notes : The command is used to draw linear dimensions at a skew angle defined by the line joining the first dimension start point and end point. If baseline mode is selected, consecutive measurements are done from the first point set, else continuous measurements is done from the previous points set. Measurements are made in the current unit of measurement. Dimension lines and text are drawn as normal line and text entities using the current system dimension parameters. The appearance of the dimension lines and text can then later be modified by changing its line parameters and text parameters. Related commands : Horizontal dimension, Vertical dimension
Dimension inside diameter
: : : : :
Dimension Diameter inside Draw an inside diameter dimension for a circle DD Coord1 coord2
Notes : The command is used to dimension circle diameters. The dimension line is located inside the circle, passing through the centre point and continuing up to the indicated text position. Measurements are made in the current unit of measurement. Dimension lines and text are drawn as normal line and text entities using the current system dimension parameters. The appearance of the dimension lines and text can then later be modified by changing its line and text parameters. Related commands : Dimension diameter outside, Dimension radius
Dimension outside diameter
: : : : :
Dimension Diameter outside Draw an outside diameter dimension for a circle D2 Coord1 coord2
Notes : The command is used to dimension circle diameters. The dimension line is located outside the circle, extending perpendicularly from the perimeter to the indicated text position. Measurements are made in the current unit of measurement. Dimension lines and text are drawn as normal line and text entities using the current system dimension parameters. The appearance of the dimension lines and text can then later be modified by changing its line and text parameters. Related commands : Dimension diameter inside, Dimension radius
Dimension radius
: : : : :
Dimension Radius Draw a radius dimension DR Coord entity
Notes : The command is used to dimension arc and circle radii. The dimension line extends perpendicularly from the circle perimeter or arc to the indicated text position. Measurements are made in the current unit of measurement. Dimension lines and text are drawn as normal line and text entities using the current system dimension parameters. The appearance of the dimension lines and text can then later be modified by changing its line and text parameters. Related commands : Dimension diameter outside, Dimension radius
Dimension angle
: : : :
Dimension Angle Draw an angular dimension DA
Parameters
Entity1 entity2 coord
Notes : The command is used to dimension angles between two lines. The dimension text is located outside the dimension line at the indicated point. Angular dimensions are automatically indicated on the outside if insufficient room is available to clearly display its leaders. Dimension lines and text are drawn as normal line and text entities using the current system dimension parameters. The appearance of the dimension lines and text can then later be modified by changing its line and text parameters. Related commands : Measure
Dimension parameters
: : : : :
Dimension Parameters Set the system dimension parameters DP None
Notes : The command is used to set the system dimension parameters for all dimensioning functions. As before, text width and text width height are entered as a factor of text height. Dimension precision refers to the number of decimals to be displayed. The system dimension parameters are independent of the system line and text parameters and are applied to all new dimensions. Parameters of drawn dimension entities may however be set to the current system line and text parameters. Rebar indicator lines and descriptive text are drawn according to the system dimension parameters. Related commands: Line parameters, Text parameters
Line, arc, circle
: : : : :
Dimension (Measure) Line / arc / circle Measure the properties of a line / arc / circle D1 Entity
Notes : The command is used to measure the properties of a selected element (either a line, circle or arc). The measurement is made using the current unit of measurement. The bigger of the current dimension precision and three is used. Related commands: Measure two points, Measure angle
Measure two points
: : : : :
Dimension (Measure) Two points Measure the distance and angle between two points D2 Coord1 coord2
Notes : The command is used to measure the distance and angle between two points. The measurement is made using the current unit of measurement. The bigger of the current dimension precision and three is used. Related commands: Measure line/circle/arc, Measure angle
Measure polygon area
: : : : :
Dimension (Measure) Polygon area Measure and write the area of a polygon D3 Coord1 coord2 coord3 [. . . coordN]
Notes : The command is used to measure the area of the indicated polygon and optionally write the area on the drawing. The measurement is made using the current unit of measurement. The bigger of the current dimension precision and three is used. Indicate as many points as necessary to define the polygon and press ESCAPE when finished. The measured area will be displayed in a dialogue box. After pressing ESCAPE, the area can optionally be inserted into the drawing at the indicated position. A polygon can also be marked by tracing its outline with the Trace outline command. The command also creates an input file for the PROKON section properties calculation program, PROSEC, which can be used for detailed calculation of section properties. Related commands: Measure hatch area, Trace outline
Measure hatch area
: : : :
Dimension (Measure) Hatch area Measure and write the area of a hatched area D4
Parameters
Entity [coord]
Notes : The command is used to measure the area of an indicated hatch and optionally write the area on the drawing. The measurement is made using the current unit of measurement. The bigger of the current dimension precision and three is used. Indicate as many points as necessary to define the polygon and press ESCAPE when finished. The measured area will be displayed in a dialogue box. After pressing ESCAPE, the area can optionally be inserted into the drawing at the indicated position. A polygon can also be marked by tracing its outline with the Trace outline command. The command also creates an input file for the PROKON section properties calculation program, PROSEC, which can be used for detailed calculation of section properties. Note : If a hatch area contains text islands, the area of the text islands will be subtracted when calculating the hatch area. Related commands: Measure polygon area, Trace outline
Measure angle
: : :
Dimension (Measure) Angle Measure the angle between two lines
: :
D5 Entity1, entity2
Notes : The command is used to measure the angle between the two indicated lines. The two lines do not need to intersect. The measurement is made the bigger of the current dimension precision and three. A dialogue box is displayed with the measured angle of each line and the included angle. Related commands: Measure line/arc/circle, Measure two points
Measure attribute
: : : : :
Dimension (Measure) Attribute Measure the properties and totals of an attribute D6 Entity
Notes : The command is used to measure the properties and total lengths, areas and so on of all entities within a selected attribute. The attribute is selected by selecting an element within that attribute. A list of attribute names is then listed, from which the required attribute can be selected. It is thus possible for one entity to belong to more than one attribute. A window is displayed with the measured entities and totals. The quantities and totals can then be used in a Bill of Quantities. Attributes are created using the Set attribute command. Related commands: Measure line/arc/circle, Set attribute
The Block menu

The commands on the Block menu are used for grouping and manipulating entities. Blocks can be copied, moved, mirrored, rotated, rescaled or deleted. By defining entities in a block, you can change the entity parameters selectively, eg text font or layer number. The Block commands are grouped as follows: Block definition commands: Block define drawing Block define layer Block define box Block define cut Block define polygon Block define line Block define add Block define remove
Block define scope Block define swap Block define handles Block undefine Block manipulation commands: Block save Block load Block copy Block move Block mirror Block circular copy Block rotate Block scale Block delete Block change Break polylines
Block define drawing
: : : : :
Block Define drawing Add all entities to the active block BD None
Notes : The command is used to add all drawing entities, of the types defined in the block scope, to the current block definition. Related commands : Block define scope, Block define remove, Block undefine
Block define layer
: : : : :
Block Define layer Add all entities in a layer to the active block BL Integer / entity
Notes : The command is used to add all drawing entities in the indicated layer, of the types defined in the Block define scope, to the current block definition. The layer to add may be indicated be entering the layer number or indicating an entity in that layer. Related commands : Block define scope, Block swap, Block undefine
Block define box
Menu Command
: :
Block Define box
: : :
Add entities in a box drawing to the active block BB Coord1 coord2
Notes : The command is used to add all drawing entities enclosed by the indicated box, of the types defined in the Block define scope, to the current block definition. Related commands : Block define cut, Block define polygon, Block define line, Block define add, Block define remove, Block define scope, Block undefine
Block define cut
: : : : :
Block Define cut Clip lines in a box and add to the active block BC Coord1 coord2
Notes : The command is used to clip all lines in the indicated of the types defined in the block scope, to the current block definition. The clipping of the lines is temporary until a permanent change is made, eg the block is moved or line parameters are changed. Related commands : Block define box, Block define polygon, Block define line, Block define add, Block define remove, Block define scope, Block undefine
Block define polygon
: : : : :
Block Define polygon Add entities in a polygon to the active block BP Coord1 coord2 coord3 [coord4 . . . coordN]
Notes : The command is used to add all drawing entities enclosed by the indicated polygon, of the types defined in the Block define scope, to the current block definition. Related commands : Block define box, Block define cut, Block define add, Block define line, Block define remove, Block define scope, Block swap, Block undefine
Block define line
: : : : :
Block Define line Add drawing entities crossed by line to the active block BI Coord1 coord2
Notes : The command is used to draw a line and any entity crossed by the line is added to the active block. Related commands : Block define box, Block define polygon, Block define remove, Block define scope, Block swap, Block undefine
Block define add
: : : : :
Block Define add Add drawing entity to the active block BA Entity1 [entity2 . . .entityN]
Notes : The command is used to add one or more drawing entities, of the types defined in the Block define scope, to the current block definition. Related commands : Block define box, Block define polygon, Block define remove, Block define scope, Block swap, Block undefine
Block define remove
: : : : :
Block Define remove Remove entity from the active block BR Entity1 [entity2 . . . entityN]
Notes : The command is used to remove one or more drawing entities, of the types defined in the Block define scope, from the current block definition. Related commands : Block define add, Block swap, Block undefine
Block define scope
: : : : :
Block Define scope Define the scope of block entities BS Char1 [char2 . . . char6]
Notes : The command is used to define the scope of entity types allowed to be included in the active block, eg lines, text etc. Removing an entity type from the Block define scope will remove all entities of that type from the active block and prevent adding of such entities to the active block. An entity type is included in the block scope by entering an appropriate character, eg L for lines, C for circles, A for arcs, T for text, B for rebars and P for dots and rings. The block scope can further be limited to certain pen numbers by typing the relevant pen numbers, eg 1357 for pen numbers 1, 3,7 and 9. If no pen numbers are entered, all pen numbers will be included. The default scope when starting the definition of a block includes all types of entities of all pen numbers, i.e. LCATBP 12345678. Related commands : Block define drawing, Block define layer, Block define box, Block define cut, Block define polygon, Block define line, Block define add
Block swap
: : : : :
Block Swap Swap all defined and undefined block entities BW None
Notes : The command is used to remove all drawing entities from the current block definition and add all other drawing entities, of the types defined in the Block define scope, to the current block definition. Related commands : Block remove, Block define scope, Block undefine
Block define handles
: : : :
Block Handles Define block handles BH
Parameters
Coord1 [coord2 coord3]
Notes : The command is used to define block handles. One, two or three handles can be defined. Press ESCAPE after the definition of the first or second handle if no more handles should be defined. It is not always necessary to define block handles. The only instances where block handles are compulsory, are when blocks are transferred out of the active drawing, eg when copied to another drawing or when saved to disk. If a block is copied or moved in the same drawing, handles are optional. The number of handles defined may influence some block manipulation commands. When a block is moved or copied to another drawing, or saved to disk and later loaded, the influence of the number of handles is as follows: One handle : Block size and orientation are preserved. Two handles : The block is rotated and optionally resized. Text heights are optionally scaled with the block. Three handles : The block is rotated and optionally resized in one or two directions. Text heights are optionally scaled with the block. Given this behaviour, it is often useful to enable ortho mode when defining handles. That way, orthogonal scaling can easily be achieved when copying or moving a block. Related commands :
Block save, Block load, Block copy, Block move
Block undefined
: : : : :
Block Undefine Clear the block BU None
Notes : The command is used to clear the current block definition and its handles. Related commands : Block define remove, Block swap
Block save
: : : : :
Block Save Save block definition B1 Filename
Notes : The command is used to save the current block definition with its handles to a disk file. The block must be given one, two or three handles to allow it to be positioned when it is loaded again at a later a stage: One handle : Block size and orientation are preserved. Two handles : The block is rotated and optionally resized. Text heights are optionally scaled with the block. Three handles : The block is rotated and optionally resized in one or two directions. Text heights are optionally scaled with the block.
Related commands : Block define handles, Block load
Block load
Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Block Load Load a block from disk B2 File Coord1 [coord2 coord3]
Notes : The command is used to load a block from disk. A position must be specified for each handle defined in the block being loaded. The number of handles defined may influence the scale, orientation and slant of the loaded block: One handle : Block size and orientation are preserved. Two handles : The block is rotated and optionally resized. Text heights are optionally scaled with the block. Three handles : The block is rotated and optionally resized in one or two directions. Text heights are optionally scaled with the block. Related commands : Block define handles, Block save
Block copy
: : : : :
Block Copy Copy the active block B3 Coord1 [coord2 coord3] [integer]
Notes : The command is used to make one or more copies of the current block definition on the same drawing or another open drawing. If more than handle has been defined for the block, a prompt is displayed to allow scaling of the block between the indicated new handles. Text heights can also be scaled proportionally. If one handle has been defined, a prompt is displayed to allow multiple copies of the block. Additional copies will then be copied at the same spacing from the original block definition. The number of handles defined, allows different ways of copying the block: One handle : The block can be copied with its size and orientation preserved. Two handles : The block is rotated relative the orientation of the two new handles and can also be scaled between the two handles. Text heights can be proportionally scaled with the block.
Three handles : The block is rotated between the first two handles. It can also be scaled between the first two handles and in a direction perpendicular to that up to the third handle. Text heights can be proportionally scaled with the block. If the block is being copied on the same drawing, no handles need be defined beforehand. In that case, the block is copied once in relation to the two points set. No scaling is done in this case. Note : To copy a block from one drawing to another, first define the block with one or more handles. The destination drawing must then be made the active drawing before copying the block. Related commands : Block define handles, Block save, Block load, Block move, Block mirror, Block circular copy, Block scale
Block move
: : : : :
Block Move Move the active block B4 Coord1 [coord2 coord3]
Notes : The command is used to move the current block definition to another place on the same drawing or another open drawing. If more than handle has been defined for the block, a prompt is displayed to allow scaling of the block between the indicated new handles. Text heights can also be scaled proportionally. The number of handles defined, allows different ways of moving the block: One handle : The block can be moved with its size and orientation preserved. Two handles : The block is rotated relative the orientation of the two new handles and can also be scaled between the two handles. Text heights can be proportionally scaled with the block. Three handles : The block is rotated between the first two handles. It can also be scaled between the first two handles and in a direction perpendicular to that up to the third handle. Text heights can be proportionally scaled with the block. If the block is being moved to the same drawing, no handles need be defined beforehand. In that case, the block is copied once in relation to the two points set. No scaling is done in this case. Note : To move a block from one drawing to another, first define the block with one or more handles. The destination drawing must then be made the active drawing before moving the block. Related commands : Block define handles, Block copy, Block mirror, Block rotate, Block scale
Block mirror
: : : : :
Block Mirror Mirror the active block B5 Coord1 coord 2
Notes : The command is used to create a mirror image of the current block definition about the indicated mirror points. A prompt is displayed to allow the block to be moved or copied to the mirrored image. The mirror points should not be confused with block handles. The mirror points are temporary points set for this procedure only whereas block handles are considered part of the block definition and mirrored with it. Related commands : Block copy, Block move, Block circular copy, Block rotate
Block circular copy
: : : : :
Block Circular copy Make a rotated copy of the active block B6 [Coord] angle integer
Notes : The command is used to make a specified number of circular copies. Each copy of the block is rotated by the specified angle about handle 1. If the current block definition has no handles, a handle is prompted for. Related commands : Block copy, Block mirror, Block rotate
Block rotate
: : : : :
Block Rotate Rotate the active block B7 [Coord] angle
Notes : The command is used to rotate the current block definition about the blocks first handle. The rotation angle is specified anti-clockwise. If the current block definition has no handles, a handle is prompted for. Related commands : Block move, Block mirror, Block circular copy
Block scale
: : :
Block Scale Enlarge or reduce the active block
: :
B8 Real1 real2
Notes : The command is used to resize the current block definition with the specified factors, relative to the block's first handle, optionally resizing text entities. A scale factor greater that one corresponds to an enlargement and a factor smaller than one to a reduction. A negative scale factor mirrors the block about the relevant axis. If the current block definition has no handles, a handle is prompted for. The process of scaling a block should not be confused with the changing of a layer scale. When scaling a block, the size of the entities is changed without changing the scales of the included layers. Related commands : Block save, Block load, Block copy, Block move, Block change
Block delete
Menu
Block
: : : :
Delete Delete the active block B9 None
Notes : The command is used to delete all entities in the current block definition. Related commands : Block save, Block load, Block move, Block change
Block change
: : : : :
Block Change Change block entity parameters B0 Char integer1 integer2
Notes : The command is used to change the following entity parameters : Pen : Enter the pen number, or 0 for all, to be changed and the pen number to change to, eg "1,2" to change pen number 1 to 2. This function applies to all drawing entities in the active block Line type : Enter the line type, or 0 for all, to be changed and the line type to change to, eg "0,12" to change all line types to solid. This function only applies to lines, circles, ellipses, arcs and rebars. Layer : Enter the layer number, or 0 for all, to be changed and the layer number to change to, eg "4,5" to merge all marked entities in layer 4 to layer 5. Note that the size of entities merged to a layer with a different scale are not changed, causing them to be displayed smaller or bigger when moved to a layer with a different scale. Use Merge move to merge an entity without changing its display. Text font : Enter the font number, or 0 for all, to be changed and the font number to change to, eg "0,2" to change the font of all marked text entities to Simplex Text height : Specify a factor to scale the heights of all marked text entities. Text width : Specify a factor to scale the widths of all marked text entities. Related commands : Set line parameters, Set text parameters, Detail text edit, Merge move, Merge copy
Break polylines
: : : : :
Block Break polylines Break blocked polylines into single lines BK None
Notes : The command is used to break all the defined polylines into single lines. The result is exactly the same as when using the Break polyline command on the Edit menu. The difference is that this command allows for the breaking of a group of polylines in one step. Single lines with the same parameters on the same layer can be converted to a polyline using Make polyline. Related commands : Break polyline, Make polyline
The Macro menu

The commands on the Macro menu are used to record and play keyboard macros. A collection of general utilities are also available from this menu. The commands on the Macro menu are categorized as follows: Macro/Script commands Play macro Edit script Add script to menu Remove script from menu Run current script General utilities Combine bending schedules Steel profile Trace outline
Generate input file Library Component Detailing Stairs
Play macro
: : : : :
Macro Play macro Play a macro MP Filename
Notes : The command is used to play a macro. Refer to the File open command for detail on using the Open file window. Related commands : None
Edit script
: : : : :
Macro Edit script Edit a script ME Filename text
Notes : The command is used to select and edit a script or to write a new one. The Pascal Scripting window is opened (shown above) and standard scripting is used as the programming language. This is a powerful tool, allowing the writing of small and simple scripts as well as of complex ones. The last section of this manual deals with scripting functions that have been adapted especially for PADDS. For the more general commands, see any standard scripting manual. The Pascal Scripting window has an Undo and a Transparency button at the bottom left corner of the window. The Transparency button toggles the transparency of the Pascal Scripting window, allowing the PADDS window to be partially seen, if required. This is useful to view the effect of a script on a drawing in PADDS. Related commands : Add script to menu, Remove script from menu, Run current script
Add script to menu
: : : : :
Macro Add script to menu Add script name to Macro menu as a short cut MA Filename text
Notes : The command is used to add a script name to the bottom of the Macro menu as a short cut. A prompt appears requesting a script number. Enter a number for a script, not already used for another one. This number determines where in the list the script will occur eg. script number 1 will occur first in the list. To remove a script from the menu use the Remove script from menu command. Related commands : Edit script, Remove script from menu, Run current script
Remove script from menu

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Macro Remove script from menu Remove script name from Macro menu MM Filename text
Notes : The command is used to remove a script name from the bottom of the Macro menu. A window appears listing the scripts on the menu. Select one or all of the scripts and click on the Remove button. Related commands : Edit script, Add script to menu, Run current script
Combine bending schedules

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Macro Combine BS files Combine bending schedule print files on a large sheet MC None
Notes : The command is used to combine a number of bending schedule print files onto one large sheet. The Combine Bending Schedules window is displayed. One or more bending schedule print files can be selected. The number of columns and rows in which the bending schedule pages must be arranged must also be selected. To create a bending schedule file, select the Title block and Print button on the bending schedule. Ensure that the Print to File option is ticked. When requested, give a file name to be used. This file name, together with all other files created in this manner, will then appear in the list on the Combine Bending Schedule window. Related commands : Title block and Print button on bending schedule
Steel profile
: : : : :
Macro Steel profile Draw a steel profile MS Dialogue coord1 coord2
Notes : The command is used draw steel section. A selection window is displayed. Click on a section profile button, eg I of H section, to make the relevant section list appear. Select a section by clicking it. A second window appears on which to select the type of drawing to create, eg section plan or elevation and indicate the section justification point, eg bottom left. Both windows are shown below.
Set two points on the drawing to position and orientate a section or draw an elevation or plan of the profile. Note that steel profiles are drawn to scale. The current layer scale should therefore be set to an appropriate value. The dimensions of the steel profiles are read from the PROKON steel section database. Related commands : None
Trace outline
: : : : :
Macro Trace outline Trace an outline MT Entity
Notes : The command is used to trace a polygon to hatch it or calculate its section properties. Indicate the polygon to be traced to let the system trace it and set points at all intersections. Arcs and circles are approximated by straight lines at 15 angle increments. With points set at all the relevant intersections, the Hatch command can subsequently be executed to hatch the traced area. The Measure area command can be used to measure the area enclosed by the polygon. The command also creates an input file for the PROKON section properties calculation program, PROSEC. The file is called LASTSEC and will be loaded automatically when the program is executed. Calculate the section properties and save the input data under a new file name.
For this procedure to be completed successfully, the polygon must be closed and made up of a single layer of lines and arcs. Two lines lying on top of each other might cause a polygon to be traced incorrectly. Related commands : Hatch, Measure area
Generate input file
: : : : :
Macro Generate input file Generate an input file for PROKON analysis program MG Dialogue entity
Notes : The command is used to trace a group of entities and create an input file for a PROKON analysis program. The following procedures are used: A3 : FRAME : The structure should be drawn to scale using one or more layers with the same scale setting. Different pen numbers should be used to designate different section numbers, eg pen number 1 is translated to section number 1, etc. All connected entities is traced and, taking into account the current drawing units, nodal coordinates calculated in metre units at every intersection and endpoint. In the case of circles and arcs, nodes are generated at 10 intervals. The PADDS X- and Y-axes are translated to the Plane Frame X-and Y-axes. However, the PADDS X- and Y-axes are translated to the Space Frame, Grillage and Space Truss X- and negative Z-axes. A Frame input file, LASTSF, is then created in the current directory with complete nodal and element input. Input of support, section properties and loading is then done manually. S4 : PLASDES : Similar procedure as for A3: FRAME. The file LASTPLAS is created in the current directory. C3 : FESD : The outside edges of the slab and finite element layout should be drawn to scale using one or more layers with the same scale setting. A rectangular grid of elements can easily be generated using the hatch commands, eg: Select a cross pattern and adjust the scale factor to a suitable value to get the desired grid spacing. Ensure that the "Drawing scale" is set. Hatch the slab area using the auto-hatching commands on the Hatch menu. The Area hatch command can, for example, be used to hatch the whole slab and then
repeated to delete any holes. Use Vectorize hatch to convert the hatch pattern to normal lines and edit the resulting lines to ensure that all nodes are clearly defined. The resulting grid of finite elements must each have three or four nodes. Nodal coordinates are calculated at intersections of lines. Complete nodal and element input is then saved in the current directory to a file called LASTFESD. All elements will be assumed to have the same section properties. G1 : PROSEC : The indicate the polygon is traced at its intersections and the file LASTSEC created. Arcs and circles are approximated by straight lines at 15 angle increments. Related commands : Area Hatch, Measure area, Vectorize hatch
Library
: : : : :
Macro Library Library of standard details and symbols ML Dialogue
Notes : The command is used to access a library of standard details and symbols. Libraries are cutomizable to allow the user to add frequently used details and symbols. Library objects are inserted into the active drawing in a similar, but not identical, fashion as when loading blocks previously saved on disk. Library objects, called blocks, can be inserted using either drawing scale, eg details drawn to their exact scaled size, or paper scale, eg scale-independent symbols. The window has the following fields: Library : Type the name of the current selected library. The default library, PADDS.LIB, contains various useful engineering and architectural details and symbols. Browse : Select another library. Also use this function to enter a name for a new library to be created Drawing/Paper Scale : Set the scaling to be used when inserting a block. Drawing scale should be used when inserting a block using its scaled size, eg inserting a window frame
into a layer with scale 1:20. Paper scale should be used when inserting blocks that should have a fixed size on the paper, eg a North arrow symbol that must be 50mm long, irrespective of the current layer's scale. Note: Blocks are inserted into the current layer. When using drawing scale, an inserted block will be resized according to the current layer's scale. The library is organized using indexes, similar to the directory structure of a CD (compact disk). In this context, indexes are similar to directories and blocks similar to files. Frequently used details and symbols can be added to the a library as follows: First open/create a drawing with the information. Use the block definition command to highlight the detail. Define one or more block handles. See Block define handles for detail. Use a single block handle if the block will not be rotated when later selected from the library, eg a windows frame that is always inserted in an upright orientation. When the block should be rotated when inserted, eg a North arrow symbol with any arbitrary orientation, two handles should be used. In the Library window, add the block definition to the library. Related commands : Block save, Block load, Block Define handles
Stair detailing
: : : : :
Macro (Component Detailing) Stairs Detail a stair case MI Dialogue
Notes : The command is used to detail a stair by specifying the parameters defining its geometry and reinforcement. Single and double flights are supported. Related commands : Play macro, Generate input
The Assign menu

The commands on the Assign menu are used to configure the button bars and function keys. The function key setup can be edited and individual menu commands and whole menus assigned to the button bars. The commands on the Assign menu are: Assign function keys Assign speed button to status bar Load configuration Save configuration Drag and drop buttons Load default configuration
Assign function keys

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Assign Assign function keys Assign a menu command to a function key AF Integer command
Notes : The command is used to configure the function keys not permanently consigned to a function. The keys permanently consigned are highlighted on the Assign function keys window. To assign the snap functions, precede the snap function's letter by an "N", eg "NH" for Snap horizontal. Note that the F10 function key toggles the viewing of the command short cuts on and off. Command short cuts are underlined on the main menu at the top of the screen and each of the pulldown menus. The first letter of the command short form is taken from the main menu, and the second letter from the specific command on the relevant pull-down menu eg. the short form of the command for Set Paper size is SZ, and that for Edit Chamfer is EA. Related commands : F10
Assign speed button to status bar

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Assign Assign speed button to status bar Assign the short form of a command to the status bar AB Text
Notes : The command is used to save a button labelled with the short form of a selected command to the status bar at the bottom of the screen. The command can then be accessed by clicking on the button. To delete a speed button, right click on it and select Delete. Related commands : Assign function keys
Load configuration
Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Assign Load configuration Load a saved icon configuration AL File name
Notes : The command is used to open and load a file containing a customised configuration saved previously using the Save configuration command. A configuration file includes icon layouts and details such as line parameters set using the Set line parameters command. To revert back to the default PADDS configuration, use the Load default configuration command. Related commands : Save configuration, Load default configuration
Save configuration
Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Assign Save configuration Save a customised configuration for future recall AS File name
Notes : The command is used to save a specific customised configuration under a given file name in order to retrieve and reuse the configuration file at a later stage. The Load configuration command is used to load a saved configuration file. The Load default configuration command restores the PADDS default configuration settings.
Related commands : Load configuration, Load default configuration
Drag and drop buttons

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Assign Drag and drop buttons Drag and drop one or more buttons to a button bar AD None
Notes :
The command is used to drag and drop buttons onto the four button bars situated around the drawing page on the screen. Drag and drop individual buttons from the Drag and drop buttons to desired toolbars window (shown above). Alternatively, click on the list on the left of the window to drag and drop all buttons associated with that particular menu item. To remove a button from a button bar, drag the icon onto the PADDS wallpaper. Delete it then using the Block delete or Edit erase entity commands. Once customised as required, the configuration can be saved using the Save configuration command. To restore the default settings and configuration use the Load default configuration command. Related commands : Save configuration, Load default configuration, Block delete, Edit erase entity
Load default configuration

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Assign Load default configuration Reload default PADDS configuration AC None
Notes : The command is used to reload the default PADDS configuration. The existing configuration is lost, unless previously saved under a file name to be retrieved at a later date. Related commands : Save configuration, Load configuration
The Zoom menu

The Zoom commands are used to zoom into and out of the drawing in various ways. Zoom settings can be stored and recalled again. The Zoom commands are as follows: Zoom all
Zoom extents Zoom window Zoom last Zoom in Zoom out Zoom factor Zoom store Zoom recall Zoom pan Zoom centre
Zoom all
: : : : :
Zoom Zoom all Zoom all entities on paper size ZA None
Notes : The command is used to resize the drawing on screen to display all entities on the paper, without clearing any set points. Related commands : Zoom window, Zoom extents
Zoom extents
: : : : :
Zoom Zoom extents Zoom the drawing extents ZE None
Notes : The command is used to resize the drawing on screen to display all entities, even if they extend beyond the paper edges. No set points are cleared. Related commands : Zoom all, Zoom window
Zoom window
: : : : :
Zoom Zoom window Zoom in a window ZW Coord1 coord2
Notes : The command is used to zoom into the indicated window defined by the two points set. If more than two points was set before zooming, all but the first two points are retained. Related commands : Zoom all, Zoom extents
Zoom last
: : : : :
Zoom Zoom last Restore the last zoom setting ZL None
Notes : The command is used to recall the previous window size, position and zoom settings.
Related commands : Zoom store, Zoom recall
Zoom in
: : : : :
Zoom Zoom in Zoom in at the last point ZI [Coord]
Notes : The command is used to zoom into the drawing using the last set point as the midpoint of the new view. If no point has been set, the cursor position is used as zoom midpoint. No set points are cleared. Related commands : Zoom out, Zoom factor
Zoom out
: : : : :
Zoom Zoom out Zoom out at the last set point ZO [Coord]
Notes : The command is used to zoom out of the drawing using the last set point as the midpoint of the new view. If no point has been set, the cursor position is used as zoom midpoint. No set points are cleared. Related commands : Zoom in, Zoom factor
Zoom factor
: : : : :
Zoom Zoom factor Zoom in or out with a factor ZF Real
Notes : The command is used to resize the drawing on screen using the specified zoom factor. No set points are cleared. Related commands : Zoom in, Zoom out
Zoom store
: : : : :
Zoom Zoom store Store the current zoom setting ZS None
Notes : The command is used to store the current window size, position and zoom settings for later recalling. Any previously stored zoom setting is overwritten. Related commands : Zoom recall, Zoom last
Zoom recall
: : : : :
Zoom Zoom recall Recall the last stored zoom setting ZR None
Notes : The command is used to recall the current stored window size, position and zoom settings. Related commands : Zoom store, Zoom last
Zoom pan
: : : : :
Zoom Zoom pan Drag the drawing display to a new position ZP None
Notes : The command is used to move the drawing display. The cursor will change to a little hand which can be used to drag the display in any direction. Using this command has the same effect as using the window scroll bars. The only advantage is that the drawing can be panned in a diagonal direction as well. If the drawing should be panned further than the size of the display, the command can be repeated as many times as necessary. Use the repeat facility, F3 or the right mouse button on a three-button mouse, to speed up the process. Related commands : Zoom store, Zoom last
Zoom centre
: : : : :
Zoom Zoom centre Zoom in a window with its centre point at a selected position ZC Coord1 coord2
Notes : The command is used to zoom into the indicated window defined by the two points set. The first point defines the centre of the window and the second the corner of the window. If more than two points was set before zooming, all but the first two points are retained. Related commands : Zoom window
The Window menu

The Window commands are used to open and close windows and arrange open windows in various ways to view them separately or together. A window can also be printed. The Window commands are as follows: New window Close window Cascade windows Tile windows Tile horizontal Maximize window Redraw window Redraw all Print window Show or hide bending schedule
New window
Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Window New Open a new window WN None
Notes : The command is used to open a new window displaying an additional view of the active drawing. Refer to Chapter 1 of the User's manual for detail on working with multiple windows. Related commands : Close window
Close window
Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Window Close Close a window WC None
Notes : The command is used to close the active window. If the active window contains the only view of the active drawing, the active drawing is closed. Related commands : New window, File close
Cascade windows
Menu Command Description Short form : : : : Window Cascade Cascade all windows WA
Parameters
None
Notes : The command is used to make all the windows overlap so that each title bar is visible. Refer to Chapter 1 of the User's manual for detail on working with multiple windows. Related commands : Tile windows, Tile horizontal
Tile windows
Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Window Tile Tile all windows WT None
Notes : The command is used to arrange all the windows in smaller sizes to fit next to each other. Preference is given to maximum window height. The active window will be repositioned in the upper-left corner with the maximum possible size. Refer to Chapter 1 of the User's manual for detail on working with multiple windows. Related commands : Cascade windows, Tile horizontal
Tile windows horizontally

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Window Tile horizontal Tile all windows horizontally WH None
Notes : The command is used to arrange all the windows in smaller sizes to fit next to each other. Preference is given to maximum window width. The active window will be repositioned in the upper-left corner with the maximum possible size.
Refer to Chapter 1 of the User's manual for detail on working with multiple windows. Related commands : Cascade windows, Tile windows
Maximize window
Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Window Maximize Maximize or restore a windows size WM None
Notes : The command is used to maximize the active window's size or, if it is already maximized, restore it to its previous size. Related commands : Cascade windows, Tile windows, Tile horizontal
Redraw window
Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Window Redraw Redraw the active window WR None
Notes : The command is used to refresh the display of the drawing entities in the active window. Related commands : Redraw all
Redraw all windows
: : : : :
Window Redraw all Redraw all windows WL None
Notes : The command is used to refresh the display of the drawing entities in all windows. Related commands : Redraw window
Print window
Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Window Print Print a window WP Character coord
Notes : The command is used to print a rectangular area of the active drawing. Specify the paper orientation, i.e. landscape or portrait, and position a window over the active drawing. The size of the print window is determined by the paper size and scaling factor specified. A scaling factor larger than unity results in a smaller print window, i.e. the image is enlarged. Similarly, a scaling factor less than unity results in a bigger print window, i.e. the image is reduced. Related commands : File print
Show or hide bending schedule

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Window Show/hide bending schedule Show or hide bending schedule WH None
Notes : The command is used to show or hide the bending schedule associated with a drawing. When shown, the bending schedule appears in a window to the left of the drawing window. In the default setup of PADDS the S button on the status line at the bottom of the screen can also be used to hide or show the bending schedule. When the bending schedule is shown, the two arrow buttons at the bottom of the page can be used to view all the columns (using the > button) or just certain columns of the bending schedule (using the < button). In compact mode, only the number of bars per member, bar diameter and bar mark columns are visible. Related commands : S button on status line
The Help menu

The function of the commands on the Help menu is to provide information on the system's performance and to give guidance on using the different commands. This menu also provides aces to a pop-up calculator. The commands on the Help menu are: Contents Request support About PADDS
Contents
Menu : Help
: : : :
Contents Display Help contents and search functions HC None
Notes : The command is used to display the Help contents from which a selection for a specific function can be made. Related commands : None
Request support
Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Help Request support Display and submit a request, problem or suggestion form HR Text
Notes : The command is used to display the Support request form, shown above. The account number,
Program and Version are all automatically filled in. Where possible attach the current data file giving rise to the query in order to assist the support team in answering your query. Other file attachments can also be made using the Browse button. Provide a brief but complete description of the query or problem. Include vital information such as error numbers if errors were encountered. All requests for support will be handled as speedily as possible. However, in order to assist in our planning, please select an accurate indication of urgency by selecting the relevant Priority. Related commands : None
About PADDS
Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Help About PADDS Display system version information HA None
Notes : The command is used to display the system version number, the PROKON website address and the system details. Related commands : None
Repeating commands
Menu Command Description Short form Parameters : : : : : Status Bar (R) Repeat mode Repeat certain commands without selecting command a second time R on status bar None
Notes : The command is used to set the repeat mode on or off. When repeat mode is selected various commands can be repeated more than once without selecting the command more than once. The commands which can be repeated in repeat mode are: Edit menu : Join Lines, Clip lines, Trim Lines Text menu : Text, Text Edit, Text Move, Text Copy, Text Caption, Text Box Line menu : Horizontal Construction Line, Vertical Construction Line, Construction Crosshair, Line Box, Parallel One Line Circle menu : Circle Centre and Radius; Arc Start Point, Centre Point and Angle; Arc Start Point, End Point and Radius Dimension menu : Dimension Angle, Measure Angle, Measure Line/circle/arc, Measure 2 Points, Measure Polygon Area, Measure Hatch Area Block menu : Block Copy

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Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

File New drawing Create a new drawing file FN None

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

File Open Open a drawing file FO File name

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

File Save Save the active drawing FS None

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

File Save all Save all open drawings FL None

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

File Read DXF Open and convert a DXF drawing FR Filename

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

File Write DXF Save and close a DXF drawing FW Filename

Insert raster image

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Related commands : File open, Read DXF, Import DWG

Save raster image

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

File Print Print active drawing FP None

Print to GIF file

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

File Pack Pack the active drawing FK None

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

File Drawing info Display information on the active drawing FI None

Save in text format

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

File Exit Exit PADDS FX None

The Edit menu

Edit entity info

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Edit Entity info Edit an entity's information EI Entity

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Extend line / arc

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Clip line / arc

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Menu Command Description

Short form Parameters

Move line endpoint

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Copy line endpoint

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Edit Break polyline Break polyline into line segments EB Entity

Related commands : Clip line/ arc

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Edit Make polyline Make a polyline from line segments EP Entity

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Edit Join lines Join two lines EJ Entity1 entity2

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Edit Resize bitmap Resize a bitmap or picture file EZ Entity, Coord1

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Edit (Erase) Line Erase a line entity E1 Entity1 [entity2 . . . entityN]

Menu Command Description Short form Parameters

Edit (Erase) Circle Erase a circle entity E2 Entity1 [entity2 . . . entityN]