To Work With Path Arrays

Create a Path Array

The easiest way to work with path arrays is to create them and then use the tools on the contextual ribbon tab or the Properties palette to make adjustments.

1. Click Home tab Modify panel Path Array. Find
2. Select the objects to array and press Enter.
3. Select an object such as a line, polyline, 3D polyline, spline, helix, arc, circle, or ellipse to serve as a path for the array.
4. Specify a method for distributing the objects along the path:
   • To evenly distribute the items along the entire length of the path, click Properties panel Divide on the contextual ribbon tab. Find
   • To distribute the objects at specific intervals, click Properties panel Measure. Find
5. Move the cursor along the path to make adjustments.
6. Press Enter to complete the array.

To Specify the Distance Between Objects Arrayed on a Path

Use this method if the path array is associative and ribbons are displayed.

1. Select an item in the array.
2. Click Array tabItems panel Between. Find
3. Enter a distance.

Fill in Arrayed Objects After the Path Length Changes (Properties window)

Use this method if the path array is associative and the Properties window is displayed.

1. Select an item in the array.
2. In the Properties palette, under Misc, make sure the Method setting equals Measure.
3. In the Fill Entire Path box, click Yes.

Toggle the Object Alignment on Path Arrays

Use this method if the path array is associative and ribbons are displayed. This option determines whether the arrayed items stay parallel to each other or follow the alignment of the path.

1. Select an item in the array.
2. Click Properties panel Align Items on the contextual ribbon tab. Find

Adjust the Spacing Between Items in a Path Array

1. Select an item in the array.
2. In the Properties palette, set the Method property to Measure.
3. Click the Item Spacing grip. When there are three or more items in the array, this grip displays on the second item in the first row of the path array.
   
4. Move the cursor along the path to increase or decrease the distance between the items and then click.