Auto Outliner

Automatic outlines are the most convenient outlining method. Other methods are described in the Outlines - Overview chapter.

The Auto Outliner command allows you to create double-layered outlines for a single object or multiple objects (Fig. 1). Objects may overlap or intersect one another, and the program creates outlines only for the visible parts. This is useful for creating outlines like those shown in picture 2.

Auto Outliner is accessible via Main Menu > Build > Auto-Outliner.

Fig. 1. Overlapping objects for which the outline is to be created.

Fig. 2. Double-layered outline.

Fig. 3. Logo with a double-layered outline.

Select the objects you want to outline and use the Main Menu > Build > Auto Outliner command. This will create a number of small outline elements. The program will ask you whether it should arrange all elements into a single outline. If you select yes, the program will also ask if you wish to add a connection if there are separate outline parts.

The new outline has the same color as the first object from those that were chosen for outlining. Select a new color from the palette and drag and drop it onto the selection (which is the newly created outline) to change the color of the outline elements.

Fig. 4. Outline of a hole connected to the main outline.

Fig. 5. Hidden parts are ignored.

In places where one object lies on top of another, automatic outlines are created only for the parts that are on top. The program automatically ignores hidden parts (Fig. 5, marked by arrows).

Note: The Auto Outliner may fail to work properly in places where the edge of one object runs (almost) on top of the edge of another object, i.e., parts of their edges are nearly identical. In such places, the Outliner may generate a large number of small outlines because nearly identical edges intersect each other in many places. Common designs have either separate or overlapped areas, and such a situation does not usually occur. In most cases, the problem occurs when vector graphics (SVG files) are used, because graphic files are created in a different way (no overlays, many identical edges).