Converting Raster Entities to Vector

Vectorization tools (VTools) can convert geometry and text in a bitonal raster image.

With vectorization tools, you can:

• Use a one-pick method to accurately trace raster entities you select.
• Use a follower method to trace complex geometry, such as contours.
• Verify and adjust a vector entity's dimensions as it is drawn to make it more precise.
• Remove a raster entity automatically as you trace it.

In many cases, a vectorization command can convert a raster entity to vector with a single click. You can also define the raster entity by clicking two or more points on the image. Once a vectorization command is initiated, you can continue to vectorize additional raster entities using either selection method.

There are seven primary vectorization tools for converting raster entities to corresponding AutoCAD objects:

• Line tool
• Polyline tool
• Rectangle tool
• Circle tool
• Arc tool
• Text tool and Multiline Text tool

Follower VTools provide a semi-automatic method of tracing the raster polylines you want to vectorize. For example, the contour follower tool traces a selected contour line until it meets a decision point such as an endpoint or a contour label. At each decision point, you can provide more information, change course, go back up to a previous vertex, or stop the follower.

Vector separation options can help you to manage new vectors by automatically assigning line weights (widths) or drawing layers based on vector attributes. For more information, see the Vector Separation Options dialog box.

Note: To make the most efficient use of vectorization tools, adjust the vectorization tools settings in the Raster Design Options dialog box. These settings are located on three tabs: VTools General, VTools Follower, and Raster Entity Detection.

Text recognition tools in AutoCAD Raster Design toolset can automatically read raster text in an image, present it to you for correction, and convert it to a line or block of AutoCAD vector text.