How to Revolve Objects in AutoCAD: Step-by-Step Guide
In AutoCAD, use the
REVOLVE command to create a 3D solid or surface by rotating a 2D object around an axis. Select the object, specify the axis start and end points, then enter the angle of revolution to complete the operation.Syntax
The REVOLVE command syntax in AutoCAD is:
- Object: Select the 2D shape to revolve.
- Axis start point: Define the start point of the axis around which the object will revolve.
- Axis end point: Define the end point of the axis.
- Angle of revolution: Specify the angle in degrees (usually 360 for a full revolution).
autocad command line
Command: REVOLVE Select objects: (select 2D object) Specify axis start point: (pick point) Specify axis end point: (pick point) Specify angle of revolution <360>: (enter angle)
Output
3D solid or surface created by revolving the selected 2D object around the specified axis.
Example
This example shows how to revolve a semicircle to create a sphere-like 3D solid.
autocad command line
1. Draw a semicircle using the ARC or CIRCLE command and trim it to half. 2. Type <code>REVOLVE</code> and press Enter. 3. Select the semicircle. 4. Specify the axis start point at one end of the semicircle's diameter. 5. Specify the axis end point at the other end of the diameter. 6. Enter <code>360</code> for the angle of revolution. 7. AutoCAD creates a 3D solid sphere-like shape.
Output
A 3D solid sphere-like shape formed by revolving the semicircle 360 degrees around its diameter axis.
Common Pitfalls
- Not selecting a closed 2D shape can cause the revolve to fail or create unexpected results.
- Incorrectly specifying the axis points can revolve the object in the wrong direction or create a distorted shape.
- For partial revolutions, entering an angle less than 360 creates a partial 3D shape, which may not be intended.
- Trying to revolve 3D objects instead of 2D profiles will not work as expected.
autocad command line
Wrong way: Command: REVOLVE Select objects: (select open polyline) Specify axis start point: (pick point) Specify axis end point: (pick point) Specify angle of revolution <360>: 360 Right way: Ensure the 2D shape is closed before using REVOLVE to get a proper 3D solid.
Output
Wrong way may produce errors or incomplete solids; right way produces a smooth 3D solid.
Quick Reference
| Step | Action | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Draw 2D shape | Create a closed 2D profile to revolve |
| 2 | Start REVOLVE | Type REVOLVE and press Enter |
| 3 | Select object | Pick the 2D shape to revolve |
| 4 | Define axis start | Pick the start point of the axis |
| 5 | Define axis end | Pick the end point of the axis |
| 6 | Set angle | Enter angle of revolution (default 360) |
| 7 | Finish | AutoCAD creates the 3D solid or surface |
Key Takeaways
Use the REVOLVE command to turn 2D shapes into 3D solids by rotating around an axis.
Always select a closed 2D profile for best results.
Carefully specify the axis start and end points to control the revolve direction.
Enter 360 degrees for a full revolution or less for partial shapes.
Revolve works only on 2D objects, not existing 3D solids.