1. The Opposite of Explode: Join

When it comes to reassembling fragmented objects, AutoCAD provides the “Join” command as the opposite of explode. Join allows you to combine individual elements into a single object without altering their properties. This command is particularly useful when dealing with groups of lines, arcs, or polylines that need to be merged together while preserving their original characteristics.

2. Joining Objects in AutoCAD

To use the Join command, follow these simple steps:

1. Select the objects you want to join. You can use a selection window or individually click on each element.
2. Right-click and choose “Join” from the context menu, or type “JOIN” in the command line and press Enter.
3. AutoCAD will attempt to join the selected objects based on their proximity and connectivity. If the command succeeds, the objects will merge into a single entity.
4. You can repeat this process to join additional objects or press Enter to exit the Join command.

3. Benefits of Using Join

The Join command offers several advantages in AutoCAD:

• Saves time and effort by quickly combining multiple objects into one.
• Preserves the original properties and characteristics of the joined objects.
• Helps maintain the integrity of complex drawings or models.
• Streamlines the editing process by treating multiple elements as a single entity.

4. Join vs. Group

While the Join command combines objects into a single entity, it should not be confused with the Group command. Joining objects creates a permanent connection, whereas grouping objects only organizes them for easy selection and manipulation.

Groups in AutoCAD allow you to select and edit multiple objects simultaneously, but they do not merge the elements into a single entity. This differentiation is crucial to understand when deciding whether to use Join or Group for your specific design requirements.

5. Use Cases for Join

The Join command can be applied in various design scenarios:

• Combining lines and arcs to create complex shapes or contours.
• Merging separate polylines to form a continuous polyline.
• Joining fragmented 3D objects to create a solid model.
• Uniting individual hatches to create a larger filled region.

6. Conclusion

AutoCAD’s Join command provides a powerful tool for reassembling fragmented objects and simplifying the editing process. Whether you need to merge lines, arcs, or polylines, Join allows you to combine them into a single entity while preserving their original characteristics. Remember to differentiate between Join and Group, as they serve different purposes.