Expert: Bob - 2/6/2008

Question
We have many 2-d drawings in our database that have a variety of z-dimensions associated with them. I assume it as come from our using some 3d templates and doing 2d tasks. The lines should be planer but are not since the z-dimension is different on both ends. Is there a lISP program available that could set all z values in a file to zero?

Answer
Hi ---

1--- sorry, questioners failing to describe their experience, work, AutoCAD release, etc makes me want to feel I have to give a very elaborate reply "in case"

2-- you lose me  a bit with _I assume it as come from our using some 3d templates and doing 2d tasks_
a... a 3D template, in modern terms, contains no objects, and everything is drawn at a Z value of Zero.
If you are working as if in AutoCAD R12, and you have one of those clunky things people used to call a template at the side of your drawing, maybe some of the objects in it are blocks or lines that are not all at zero elevation??????
Just go to the 3D view FRONT, and see if stuff in it is flat
b-- if you mean you are opening new drawings on a 3D template in ADT or some other vertical, the same applies as to "all created at zero value of Z coordinate"
MY POINT IS THAT A LINE YOU DRAW HAS TO HAVE AN OBJECT  AT NON-Z ELEVATION TO SNAP TO, IN ORDER TO NOT BE "FLAT" -- unless you enter a Z value when drawing (ex --27, 3, 14)

but with that said,
3-- what happens when you select everything in the drawing (or possibly only certain types of objects, if you have other than lines) and changing the "start Z and end Z" values (might vary in wording) in your Properties Palette to zero???
Yes, you could find a  lisp program online which someone wrote to work on whatever release you have, but step 3 is better, according to me.

Write back with much more elaboration if I have it wrong.

BOB