BIM Software Tip: How to Create Text Along Curves in AutoCAD
Question:
How can you align or bend text so that it follows a curve?
Solution:
You can use the ARCText Express Tool to align text along arc objects. Note that this tool works specifically with arcs, not splines or circles.
At the command prompt, type ARCNEXT or select Arc Alignment from the Text panel on the Express Tools tab.
Next, select an existing arc.
Enter your text in the ArcAlignText Workshop dialog box that appears.
This process will create a special object called ARCALIGNEDTEXT.
You can decompose these ARCALIGNEDTEXT objects into individual letters. Then, run the TXTEXP command (another Express Tool) to convert the letters into polyline contours. These polylines can be used to create tool paths or be converted for 3D extrusion.
Note: If you want curved text suitable for CNC engraving, you will need higher-quality text with more detailed curves in each letter and better letter spacing. In such cases, consider using commercial fonts designed specifically for this purpose.
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