2004

Extract or Calculate Geometric Information from Objects | 259
Use the Geometry Calculator
By entering a formula on the command line, you can quickly solve a
mathematical problem or locate points in your drawing.
By entering a formula on the command line, you can quickly solve a
mathematical problem or locate points in your drawing. The CAL command
runs the AutoCAD 3D calculator utility to evaluate vector expressions (com-
bining points, vectors, and numbers) and real and integer expressions. The
calculator performs standard mathematical functions. It also contains a set
of specialized functions for calculations involving points, vectors, and
AutoCAD geometry. With the
CAL command, you can
■ Calculate a vector from two points, the length of a vector, a normal vector
(perpendicular to the XY plane), or a point on a line.
■ Calculate a distance, radius, or angle.
■ Specify a point with the pointing device.
■ Specify the last-specified point or intersection.
■ Use object snaps as variables in an expression.
■ Convert points between a UCS and the WCS.
■ Filter the X, Y, and Z components of a vector.
■ Rotate a point around an axis.
Evaluating Expressions
CAL evaluates expressions according to standard mathematical rules of
precedence.
Mathematical operators in order of precedence
Operator Operation
( ) Groups expressions
^ Indicates numeric exponent
*, / Multiplies and divides numbers
+, – Adds and subtracts numbers