Autocad mechanical setting dimension styles. Dimensions in autocad. Creating a New Dimension Style
Linear size
Angle measurement
Basic and related dimensions
size style
Dimensioning drawings is perhaps one of the most controversial aspects of working with AutoCAD. While creating dimensions is fairly straightforward, managing their appearance and behavior can be quite tricky. The reason for this is the existence of many different types of sizes and a large number of variables that control their appearance.
Also, how dimensions work, how they look and how they behave can be very different depending on the industry you work in (mechanical design, nuclear power, electronics, etc.). In this chapter, you will learn how to place dimensions and how to use dimension styles to control their appearance and behavior.
Dimension control commands can be launched using the corresponding buttons on the tab Annotate(Abstract) in the group Dimensions(Dimensions) of the tape (Fig. 5.1).
Rice. 5.1. Group Dimensions (Dimensions)
There are many types of dimensions available in AutoCAD. The most commonly used linear dimensions, radius, diameter and angular dimensions.
Dimensions are associated with objects and are updated automatically when changes are made to the drawing.
The first step is to select the type of dimension you want to create, and then specify the points that define its placement. AutoCAD creates point features at the specified locations, then measures the distance between these fit points and uses that distance as the default text dimension value.
For example, to measure a line, you create a linear dimension and then specify the two endpoints of the line. The program creates defining points in these places and measures the distance between them. After that, you choose a place to place the size value.
Fit points control the dimension's associativity. When their position changes, the dimension associated with them updates and moves to follow them. During dimensioning, AutoCAD automatically creates a level or layer named Defpoints(defining points). All defining points are placed on this layer.
Note
The Defpoints layer is created when you run the dimension entry command. It is unique in that it does not print regardless of the print/do not print setting. Once created, the Defpoints layer cannot be deleted with the PURGE command or by pressing the Delete Layer button. You can rename this layer, but in this case, AutoCAD will simply create a new layer Defpoints (Defining points) when creating a new dimension or updating an existing one.
Advice
Because the Defpoints layer is not plotted, it can be used to create objects that you don't want to show on the drawing. For example, these can be marks, view boundaries, and notes for other users working on the drawing.
In fact, there are three levels of associativity for size. The DIMASSOC system variable indicates which associativity level is currently in use.
The DIMASSOC system variable can be set to 0, 1, or 2. If set to 2 (which is the default state of the variable), defining dimension points are associated with drawing objects. For example, if you specify a distance between two extreme points of a line, AutoCAD will create defining points there that will be connected to the line object. As you move the line, the dimension will move with it. If the position of the end point of the line changes (the line stretches, shortens, changes direction, etc.), the definition point associated with it will also move and the size will be updated.
When DIMASSOC is set to 1, AutoCAD still creates associative dimensions, but fit points are not associated with any specific geometry. To change the size, you must move the fit points associated with the size explicitly. For example, if you specify a line size when DIMASSOC is set to 1, AutoCAD will create fit points at the ends of the line. But if you move the line, the size won't follow it. You must select and move the size along with the line so that they appear together. If you move the end of the line (by dragging, adjusting, extending, etc.), you must also move the defining point to update the size.
If DIMASSOC is set to 0, AutoCAD creates detached dimensions with no associativity or fit points. Each part of the dimension leader (line and value) is treated as a separate object.
Advice
While it is possible to create detached dimensions, this is considered bad practice in most CAD workflows. Detached dimensions are difficult to manage and updating them can lead to sloppy and inaccurate drawings.
You can change the value of the DIMASSOC variable using the check box in the Associative Dimensioning(Linked Dimensioning) tab User Preferences(Custom settings) windows Options(Parameters) (see figure 4.8). If this check box is checked, the value of the DIMASSOC variable is 2. If it is cleared, the variable is set to 1.
Linear size
To create vertical and horizontal dimensions, one command is intended - DIMLINEAR. It measures the distance between two fit points and allows you to choose the location of the dimension line.
There are two ways to create a linear dimension: specify fit points or select an object to measure. Using the pick point method, you select two points in the drawing and then specify the location of the dimension line. Depending on the direction of the text, the size is vertical or horizontal. If you place a value above or below the points, AutoCAD creates a horizontal dimension, but if you place it to the left or right, it creates a vertical dimension (Fig. 5.2).
Rice. 5.2. Dimensioning by specifying defining points
You can also create a linear dimension by selecting a line, arc, or circle. After running the DIMLINEAR command, AutoCAD will prompt you:
Press key enter, to select a line, arc, or circle. When you select the desired object with the mouse, the program will create two defining points. On fig. 5.3 shows the results of selecting various objects.
Rice. 5.3. Dimensioning with object selection
Note
You can only select a line, arc, or circle for dimensioning. You cannot select an ellipse, text element, or spline curve in this way. When you select a polyline object, AutoCAD will dimension the linear or arc section of the polyline near the point you selected.
Consider a typical sequence for creating linear dimensions.
1. Make sure that the object snap mode is on and the snapping to the extreme points and the center of objects is specified. To do this, enter the DSETTINGS command and in the dialog box that appears Drafting Settings(Drawing Modes) tab Object Snap(Capture objects). It should have checkboxes Object Snap On (F3)(Enable Object Snap (F3)), end point(end point) and Center(Centre).
2. Create or open a simple sizing image (an example is shown in Figure 5.4).
Rice. 5.4. Original simple image
3. Run the DIMLINEAR command. The program will ask you to define the beginning of the first extension line:
Specify first extension line origin or
4. Click on the lower left point of the object. You will be prompted to specify the start of the second extension line:
Specify second extension line origin:
5. Click on the right end of the lower sloped line. A prompt will appear:
In response, you can locate the dimension line by dragging it with the mouse.
6. Place the dimension line as shown in fig. 5.5. AutoCAD will then complete the DIMLINEAR command.
Rice. 5.5. Horizontal dimension created by picking fit points
7. Run the DIMLINEAR command again. A prompt will appear:
Specify first extension line origin or
8. Press the key Enter.
Select object to dimension:
9. Click on the upper sloped line. The program will place fit points at the ends of the segment and prompt you to locate the dimension line:
Specify dimension line location or :
10. Place the dimension line as shown in fig. 5.6. AutoCAD will then complete the DIMLINEAR command.
Rice. 5.6. Vertical Dimension Created with Object Selection
DIMLINEAR Command Options
Once you select fit points, AutoCAD offers many options for creating and placing dimensions. These settings are presented in Table. 5.1.
Table 5.1. DIMLINEAR Command Options
The DIMLINEAR command has two text settings, Mtext and Text. These options allow you to change the text associated with the dimension. By default, AutoCAD places the numerical value of the distance between two fit points as a dimension value. Using the Mtext and Text parameters, you can change this text and even cancel its display. For example, you can optionally choose to display a note or other additional text along with the dimension text, or print a specific size instead of using a calculated dimension value.
Forced setting of the actual size of the object
When Mtext is selected, AutoCAD displays a multi-line text editor with the dimension value highlighted. The default value is the measured distance between the fit points. You can enter any text before or after the existing one, or delete it, but you cannot change the value of the selected text. If you removed the default text, AutoCAD will ignore the measured distance and display only the text you entered.
If you have removed the default size value, you can return it by typing<>. The program will replace these brackets with the measured distance between the defining points.
You can use the same parentheses when working with the Text parameter. Once selected, AutoCAD displays the measured size as the default value and prompts for a single line of text. You can type any text using brackets<>instead of the measured distance between the defining points.
Advice
You can also use the DDEDIT command to edit the dimension value.
Consider the order of changing the value of the size.
1. Open a previously created drawing or draw objects containing straight line segments.
2. Run the DIMLINEAR command. You will be prompted to define the start of the first extension line:
Specify first extension line origin or
3. Press the key Enter. AutoCAD prompts you to select an object to dimension:
Select object to dimension:
4. Select a line. The program will create defining points at its ends and issue a query:
Specify dimension line location or :
5. Select the Mtext option. A tab will appear on the ribbon text editor(Text Editor) and the default size value will be highlighted. Delete this text and enter a value of 1.00.
6. Click outside the input field to close the editor. AutoCAD will display the dimension as 1.00.
7. Select the line you just dimensioned to activate its handles. Select a marker at one extreme point and drag it to a new location. AutoCAD changes the line length and the dimension line moves with it, but the dimension value does not update.
8. Run the DDEDIT command and highlight the dimension value 1.00. Remove the value 1.00 and enter<>. AutoCAD replaces the brackets with the actual line length.
9. Select the line to activate its handles and return the endpoint to its original position. AutoCAD changes the length of the line and the dimension line moves with it. The size value is updated to reflect the changes.
Also, if the actual dimension value does not match the distance between the extension lines, you can add a zigzag to the linear dimension using the DIMJOGLINE command. Zigzag dimension lines are usually used when the object being measured is shown at a size that is smaller than the actual size. The application of these possibilities is shown in Fig. 5.7.
Rice. 5.7. Using zigzag dimensions
Creating Aligned Dimensions
An aligned dimension is another type of linear dimension. While the horizontal and vertical dimensions measure distances along the axis X or Y accordingly, the aligned dimension shows the true distance between any two points. The dimension value is placed parallel to the straight line connecting the two fit points.
The DIMALIGNED command is used to create aligned dimensions. When using it, you can select two defining points or a line, arc, or circle. Once you have defined the anchor points, the Mtext, Text, and Angle options become available. Their meanings are identical to the corresponding parameters of the DIMLINEAR command.
Let's look at how to create aligned dimensions.
1. Open or create a drawing containing a line, arc, or circle.
2. Run the DIMALIGNED command. A prompt will appear:
Specify first extension line origin or
3. Press the key Enter. AutoCAD will ask you to select an object to dimension:
Select object to dimension:
4. Select an object. AutoCAD places fit points at the ends of the line and prompts you to locate the dimension line:
5. Place the dimension line as shown in fig. 5.8.
Rice. 5.8. Aligned Size
Dimensioning for a circle and an arc
For circles and arcs, the radius or diameter is usually measured, and for an arc, also its length. AutoCAD allows you to put down all these dimensions.
Radius measurement
The DIMRADIUS command is used to measure the radius. After launching it, AutoCAD prompts you to select an arc or a circle. When you do this, AutoCAD will measure the radius of the arc and ask you if the dimension text value is inside or outside the arc. A lead line will be created perpendicular to the arc through the point you pick, and a center mark will be placed at the center of the circle or arc. When you place a text value, AutoCAD will automatically add an R prefix to the measured radius value (Figure 5.9).
Rice. 5.9. Insert radius
Like the DIMLINEAR and DIMALIGNED commands, the DIMRADIUS command has Mtext, Text, and Angle options to change the text size value.
When using the DIMRADIUS command, the leading line will always be perpendicular to the circle or arc segment. The start point of the leading line will always be in line with the center point of the arc. A "curvy" radius differs from a regular one in that its leading line has an offset zigzag built into it (Figure 5.10), allowing you to define a different center point for the leading line. This can be useful, for example, when specifying large radii whose center point is outside the visible area of the drawing. A "curvy" radius dimension can be created using the DIMJOGGED command.
Rice. 5.10."Twisty" radius
When you run the DIMJOGGED command, AutoCAD prompts you to select a circle or arc. As soon as you select an object, you will be prompted to define a new center location:
Specify center location override:
In response, you should indicate the location of the starting point of the leading line (the end without an arrow). The leading line will extend from this point to a point on the circle or arc. Then the program will ask you to determine the location of the size text value, after which it will be possible to correct the position of the zigzag section.
Diameter definition
The diameter can be entered using the DIMDIAMETER command. This command works exactly the same as DIMRADIUS, only it measures and puts down not the radius, but the diameter and, accordingly, places the symbol of the diameter in front of the value (Fig. 5.11).
Rice. 5.11. Insert diameter
Consider inserting radius and diameter.
1. Open or create a drawing containing a circle and an arc.
2. Run the DIMRADIUS command. A prompt will appear:
Select arc or circle:
3. Select an arc. AutoCAD will place the fit points at the center of the arc and at the selected point, and then prompt you to locate the dimension line:
Specify dimension line location or :
4. Select the Mtext option and type typ after the default size value. Click the button Close Text Editor(Close Text Editor) tab text editor(Text editor).
5. Place the dimension line in a suitable location.
6. Run the DIMDIAMETER command. AutoCAD will prompt you:
Select arc or circle:
7. Select a circle. AutoCAD places fit points at the center of the circle and at the point you selected on the circle. You will then be prompted to locate the dimension line:
Specify dimension line location or :
8. Place the dimension line.
Setting the arc length
Like linear dimensions, AutoCAD can set the length of an arc, for which the DIMARC command is used. By default, the program measures the full length of the arc, from one extreme point to the other, but you can choose to measure the length of a part of the arc. In addition to Mtext, Text and Angle, this command has the Partial parameter, which allows you to select the start and end points on the arc and measure the length of only the specified section. When you place an arc length dimension, AutoCAD automatically inserts an arc symbol before the dimension value.
Let's put the length of the arc on the drawing.
1. Create an arc or arc polyline in the drawing area.
2. Run the DIMARC command. AutoCAD will ask you to select an arc or arc polyline segment:
Select arc or polyline arc segment:
3. Select an arc. AutoCAD creates fit points at the center of the arc and at the selected point on the arc. Then you will be prompted to specify the location of the dimension line:
Specify arc length dimension location, or :
4. Place the dimension line. The drawing will take approximately the same form as in Fig. 5.12.
Rice. 5.12. Insert arc length
Creating center marks
When dimensioning arcs and circles, AutoCAD puts marks at the centers of the measured objects. You may need to place center marks for arcs and circles that are not being measured. There are different ways to do this in AutoCAD. One option is to simply draw the center marks with the LINE or PLINE command. Another is to use the DIMCENTER command.
The DIMCENTER command places crossed lines at the center of a circle or arc. When you run this command, AutoCAD prompts you to select an arc or circle and then places a center mark crosshair.
Angle measurement
To define a linear dimension, AutoCAD must have two fit points. When entering angle values, three points must be specified to determine the angular size: a vertex and two end points. Angular dimensions are entered using the DIMANGULAR command. When using this command, you have three options to define an angular dimension: selecting an arc or circle, selecting two intersecting lines, and selecting three points (a vertex and two endpoints) (Figure 5.13).
Rice. 5.13. Various options for inserting angular dimensions
When you run the DIMANGULAR command, AutoCAD prompts you to select an arc, circle, line, or define a vertex:
Select arc, circle, line, or
If you select an arc, AutoCAD will use the center and ends of the arc to determine the angular dimensions. If circle - the selected point will be used as one extreme point of the corner, and the center of the circle as the vertex. In this case, AutoCAD will prompt you for the second extreme point and allow you to place the dimension text.
If a line is selected, AutoCAD will ask you to select another line and will measure the angle based on their extreme points closest to the selected point on the line.
Note
If you select two parallel lines, the Lines are parallel prompt appears. After that, the execution of the command will end. If you select something else as the second line, not a segment, AutoCAD will inform you about this and once again prompt you to select the second line.
To set the vertex and corner endpoints, press the key Enter in response to a request:
Select arc, circle, line, or
The program will ask you to specify the vertex point and then specify the two extreme points.
Let's practice creating an angular dimension.
1. Draw an angle or lines that are not parallel.
2. Run the DIMANGULAR command. AutoCAD will prompt you:
Select arc, circle, line, or
3. Select a line. The program will ask you to specify the second line:
Select second line:
4. Select the second line. A prompt will appear:
Specify dimension arc line location or :
5. Place the dimension line. Note that the angle value changes depending on the location of the mouse pointer.
In addition, you can control the location of the text value of the angular dimensions outside the measured angle: if the value is specified away from the corner, then an extension dimension arc is created for it (Fig. 5.14).
Rice. 5.14. Applying the New Dimensioning Features
Basic and related dimensions
Base and linked dimensions are linear dimensions that share a common extension line. Base size is also called baseline size, as many of its properties are measured relative to a common feature. Related dimensions are called extended, since the linear dimensions are extended from one end to the other.
Size with baseline
Base dimensions are defined from the extension line of an existing linear or angular dimension. Each base dimension is drawn from this extension line, and the dimension lines are spaced at a predefined distance. The DIMBASELINE command is used to create basic dimensions.
The DIMBASELINE command requires an existing linear or angular dimension to work. By default, AutoCAD uses the first extension line of the last linear or angular dimension as the base dimension. If you want to base a different extension line, you can press the key Enter. If the program cannot find the line of the last size, it will prompt you to choose the right one yourself.
Once you have determined which line will be used as the base line, you will be prompted to select a defining point for the next extension line. The DIMBASELINE command will continue to place dimensions with a baseline until you stop it with the Undo option.
extended size
An extended dimension is similar to a base dimension: it requires an existing linear or angular dimension to create it, and you can place multiple dimension lines with a single command. The only difference is that while baseline dimensions are based on a shared extension line, extended extensions are based on the last dimension line created. The result is a chain of dimensions in which each is measured relative to the previous one. The DIMCONTINUE command is used to create extended (or chained) dimensions.
After running the DIMCONTINUE command, AutoCAD places the dimension line near the second extension line of the last created linear or angular dimension. If you want to continue with similar dimensions, you should press the key enter, to select another extension line. Like the DIMBASELINE command, requests for the DIMCONTINUE command will be repeated until you have finished executing it. To complete the command, select the Undo parameter, to specify another extension line as the base line - Select.
Consider the process of creating basic and chain dimensions.
1. Draw approximately the same detail as in fig. 5.15.
Rice. 5.15. Parent part
2. Run the DIMLINEAR command and place a horizontal dimension near the left edge of the part.
3. Run the DIMCONTINUE command. AutoCAD will extend the dimension line from the previous dimension and prompt you to define the start of the second extension line:
4. Arrange the dimensions as shown in fig. 5.16. Press key Esc to complete the execution of the DIMCONTINUE command.
Rice. 5.16. extended size
5. Run the DIMBASELINE command. AutoCAD will start dragging the dimension line from the previous one and ask you to define the start of the second extension line:
Specify a second extension line origin or
6. Press the key Enter to select the Select option. You will be prompted to select a base size:
Select base dimension:
7. Select the extension line at the leftmost point of the shape. AutoCAD will prompt you to define the start of the second extension line:
Specify a second extension line origin or
8. Select the rightmost point of the shape. AutoCAD will automatically position the base dimension above the others. Your drawing will be something like the one shown in fig. 5.17.
Rice. 5.17. Insert base size
size style
We've covered how to create and place dimensions in a drawing. However, this is only part of the process. In this section, you will learn how to control the appearance of dimension objects using dimension styles.
A dimension style is a collection of settings stored under a specific name and applied to dimensions as settings. Dimension styles control the appearance and behavior of a dimension object: the arrow pointer used, text style, valid values and formatting, and overall dimension scale.
Dimension styles work like text or layer styles: you set a particular style as current, and any new objects are created using the settings contained in that style. Dimension styles are controlled with the DIMSTYLE command.
When you run the DIMSTYLE command, a dialog box opens Dimension Style Manager(Size Style Manager) (Fig. 5.18). In this window, you can create and edit a dimension style.
Rice. 5.18. Size Style Manager Window
In field styles(Styles) Displays dimension styles. Drop-down list List(List) allows you to specify which styles should be shown in the field styles(Styles). You can choose to display all styles or only those used in the drawing.
In addition, with the checkbox Don"t list styles in Xrefs(Do not list styles in Xref) You can choose whether to show or hide dimension styles contained in xrefs.
In the region of preview of(Preview) displays an example using the currently selected Dimension Style. The buttons on the right side of the window allow you to create, modify, undo, and compare dimension styles.
Create a dimension style
AutoCAD comes with a predefined default dimension style − ISO-25. It can be changed, renamed, and even deleted if it is not listed as current. Style Options ISO-25 defined in the template file used to create the drawing.
To create a new dimension style, click the button New(New) in dialog box Dimension Style Manager(Size style manager). As a result, a window will appear Create New Dimension Style(Create a new size style) (Fig. 5.19).
Rice. 5.19. Create New Dimension Style Dialog Box
When you create a new dimension style, AutoCAD makes a copy of the existing style as a starting point. In the window Create New Dimension Style(Create New Dimension Style) you must name the new dimension style and specify which style to copy to use as the base. You can also create a style that will only apply to certain types of dimensions. For example, you might want all dimension text values to align with the dimension lines, but the Radius and Diameter dimension text values to be placed horizontally. In such cases, so-called child styles are used, which appear as substyles of the main dimension style.
Note
If you select a child size style in the Create New Dimension Style dialog box, the Dimension Style Manager window in the Preview of area displays only those dimension style settings that differ from the parent. In area Description (Description) at the same time differences between parent and child styles are resulted.
Let's create a new dimension style and apply it to the drawing shown in fig. 5.20.
Rice. 5.20. original drawing
1. Run the DDIM command. A dialog box will appear Dimension Style Manager(Size style manager). Click the button New(New) to open a window Create New Dimension Style(Create a new dimension style).
2. Enter the Mech name in the field New Style Name(Name of the new style) and make sure that in the list start with(Start at) style selected ISO-25 and in the list Use for(Use for) - value All dimensions(All sizes). Click the button Continue(Proceed). A window will appear on the screen. New Dimension Style(New size style).
3. Change, for example, on the tab Text(Text) switch position Text alignment(Text Alignment) on Horizontal(Horizontally).
4. Click the button OK, to accept the change of settings. You will see the window again Dimension Style Manager(Size style manager). The new dimension style will appear in the box. styles(Styles).
5. Press the button close(Close) to end the execution of the DIMSTYLE command.
6. Place linear dimensions. Your drawing should look something like the one shown in Fig. 5.21.
Rice. 5.21. The result of applying the new dimension style
Customizing an Existing Dimension Style
To change the dimension style settings, select its name in the window Dimension Style Manager(Size Style Manager) and click the button Modify(Change). A window will open Modify Dimension Style(Change Dimension Style), which contains seven tabs that contain settings for various aspects of sizing.
Line OptionsTab lines(Lines) is designed to control dimension and extension lines (Fig. 5.22).
Rice. 5.22. Dimension line options
Region dimension lines(Dimension lines) allows you to set the color (color), type (line type) and thickness (lineweight) dimension lines, as well as the spacing between them, which is used when creating basic dimensions. Field Extend beyond ticks(Out of Markers) is only available when certain types of pointer arrows are specified. For example, if an architectural label is used, the parameter Extend beyond ticks(Exceeds Labels) specifies how much the dimension line will extend beyond the labels. You can also make the dimension line invisible on either side of the text value (this is what the checkboxes are for). Dim line 1 And Dim line 2). This is useful when dimensioning cluttered areas where lines often override the size text value.
Region extension lines(Leader Lines) contains similar options for leader lines. You can set the color, type, and thickness of the extension lines, adjust their length, and specify the spacing between the extension line and the object you are dimensioning.
Symbol and arrow settingsTab Symbols and Arrows(Symbols and Arrows) allows you to set the size and type of arrows used (Fig. 5.23).
Rice. 5.23. Symbol and arrow options
You can set different arrowheads for the first and second dimension lines, as well as a separate arrowhead for the guidelines (Leader). Region center marks(Center Marks) is for specifying the size and type of center marks. Here you can specify how the center marks will be displayed in radius and diameter dimensions, as well as set the creation of center mark lines with the DIMCENTER command.
You can break a dimension or extension lines where they intersect with geometry or other dimensions. Although this is not recommended drawing practice, sometimes such breaks are necessary, so in the area Dimension Break(Size gap) it is possible to set the size of such a gap.
Parameters in the area Arc length symbol(Arc Length Symbol) controls where the arc length symbol is displayed when using the DIMARC command. In field jog angle(Zigzag Angle) specifies the angle of the zigzag section of line used when executing the DIMJOGGED command.
Text settingsTab Text(Text) controls the placement and type of text (Fig. 5.24). In the region of Text appearance(Text Type) You can set the text style to be used. Pressing the button with ellipsis leads to the appearance of a dialog box Text Style(Text Style), where you can create and edit text styles. In addition, on this tab, you can set the color and background of the text, as well as set the display of a frame around the text by checking the box Draw frame around text(Draw a box around the text).
Rice. 5.24. Text options
Parameters text-height(Text height) and Fraction height scale(Fraction Height Scale) controls the height of the text. Coefficient Fraction height scale(Fraction Height Scale) applies to the text of the numerator and denominator in a fraction. For example, if the text height is set to 0.12 5, and the scale height of the fraction is 0.5, then the height of the numerator and denominator must be 0.0625 so that together they fit into the total height of the fraction.
In the region of Text placement(Text Placement) you can specify the placement of text relative to dimension and extension lines. Drop Vertical(Vertical) You can choose to position the text value relative to the dimension line: above, below, or centered. If you choose the value JIS, the text size will be positioned according to the Japanese industry standard. List Horizontal(Horizontal) specifies the placement of text relative to the leader lines: you can place text near the first or second leader lines, or drag it over any leader line. From the list view direction(View Direction) You can select the text direction from left to right or right to left. In field offset from dim line(Offset from Dimension Line) sets the gap between the line and the dimension text value.
Fit and scale optionsTab fit(Fitting) controls the behavior and scale of dimensions (Figure 5.25). Here you can specify what will happen to the dimensions if AutoCAD cannot place the dimension lines and the text value between the extension lines at the same time.
Rice. 5.25. Dimension fit and scale options
Using the settings located in the area Text placement(Text Placement), you can define where the text will be placed if it is not in the default position.
For example, if a drawing needs to be printed to scale 1/8"=1"–0", you must scale all annotations in your drawing by a factor of 96. Since the drawing is cut for printing, this ensures that the annotation is the correct size. Switch Scale for dimension features(Scale for Dimension Properties) controls the overall annotation scale of dimension features.
Attention!
It is important to note that the Scale for dimension features parameter only affects the size of the dimension objects themselves (lines, text), and not the dimension values.
Use overall scale of(Use Global Scale) is a scale factor that applies to all dimension properties. For example, if the text values and pointer arrows have a height of 0.125 and the overall scale value is 2, AutoCAD will display the text and pointer arrows at a scale of 0.25.
General scale (switch position Use overall scale of(Use full scale)) is most often used when dimensions are placed in modeling space (drawing area) and you are displaying a drawing view in this space. If you are displaying the drawing from the layout space (sheet), you can set the switch to Scale dimensions to layout(Scale dimensions for layout). In this case, AutoCAD automatically scales all dimension properties to match the scale of the layout's viewport. This is useful when a single drawing contains many views and graphical scales.
In the region of fine tuning(Fine Tuning) You can set some advanced dimension view options. If the checkbox is checked Place text manually(Place Text Manually), an additional tooltip appears when creating dimensions, allowing you to locate the dimension text value after you locate the dimension line.
Checked box Draw dim line between ext lines(Draw dimension line between extension lines) will force the dimension line to be placed between the extension lines regardless of the location of the text value.
Definition of base unitsTab Options Primary Units(Basic units) are intended for formatting the text value of the size (Fig. 5.26). In the region of Linear dimensions(Linear dimensions) you can specify how the units of measurement will be displayed, and in the area Angular dimensions(Angular dimensions) - how the angular dimensions will look.
Rice. 5.26. Dimension Text Value Formatting Options
Parameter unit format(Unit Format) sets the unit format for dimensions of all types except angular. It is usually adjusted to match the drawing units. In addition to the standard settings, you can also select units desktop Windows that use the options located in the window language and regional standards(Fig. 5.27).
Rice. 5.27. Windows regional settings window
This window can be called up by running the command Start > Control Panel and clicking on the icon in the window that opens Language and regional standards.
Using the list Unit format(Format units) in area Angular dimensions(Angular dimensions) you can control the display of angular dimensions: Decimal Degrees(decimal degrees), Degrees Minutes Seconds(Degrees, minutes, seconds) gradients(grad) or Radians(radians).
Parameter precision(Precision) controls the number of decimal places in the dimension text. It only affects the display of the text value, without changing the drawing geometry or the actual measured size value.
Drop Fraction format(Fraction Format), you can select how fractions are displayed. This setting is available only when in the list unit format(Unit Format) is selected architectural(Architectural) or Fractional(Fractional). This option is used in conjunction with Fractional height scale(Fraction Height Scale) tab Text(Text).
If in the list unit format(Unit Format) value selected Decimal(decimal) then drop down list Decimal separator(Decimal separator) You can set the character used as the decimal separator.
In field round off(Rounding) sets the rounding rule for dimensions of all types except angular. If you enter 0.25, all distances will be rounded to the nearest 0.25 unit. If you enter 1.0, all measured distances will be rounded to the nearest whole number. The number of digits displayed after the decimal point depends on the parameter value precision(Accuracy).
In field Prefix(Prefix) You can set a prefix for the dimension text value. The specified text will be placed before the default value. You can enter any text in this field or use escape codes to display special characters. For example, the control code %%C is responsible for displaying the diameter symbol.
In field Suffix(Suffix) You can also specify additional text, but in this case it will be placed after the default value. For example, you can enter the inch character ("), and the program will insert it after each dimension value.
Region measurement scale(Measurement Scale) contains options to define the scale factor for the default size values. Parameter scale factor(Scale Factor) defines the scale factor for linear dimension measurements. The value of any linear dimension is multiplied by this factor and the final value is used as the default text. For example, if you set the dimension scale factor to 2, then the dimension text value for a 1 inch line will be displayed as 2 inches. The value does not apply to angle measurements and to rounding, or to positive or negative tolerances.
If the checkbox is checked Apply to layout dimensions only(Apply to layout sizes only), the scaled size value will only apply to sizes created in layouts (view tile space).
Settings in the area Zero suppression(Zero Suppression) controls the display of leading and trailing zeros in dimension text values. For example, when using decimal units of measurement, checking the checkbox Leading(Leading) means that the value 0.5000 will be displayed as .5000. With the checkbox checked Trailing(End) size 12.5000 will look like 12.5.
Using fields Sub-units factor(Sub-size factor) and Sub-units suffix(Sub-size suffix) Sub-size factor and suffix can be specified. For example, if the unit of measurement is 1 m, you can specify a sub-size factor of 100 and a sub-size suffix of cm. In this case, when the size value is less than 1, such as 0.45, 45 cm will be displayed instead of 0.45 m.
Checkboxes 0 feet(0 in feet) and 0 inches(0 in inches) controls the display of zeros in feet and inches. For example, if the checkbox 0 feet(0 in feet) is checked, a value of 0" 8" will display as 8". When checked 0 inches(0 in inches) a value of 12" 0" will be displayed as 12".
Alternative units of measureTab Alternate Units(Alternative units) allows you to show dimensions in two different formats (Fig. 5.28). A typical example is the display of dimensions in millimeters and inches at the same time, for example 2.00 . tab Alternate Units(Alternative Units) contains options similar to those on the tab Primary Units(Basic units). To allow the use of alternative units, select the checkbox Display alternate units(Display alternate units).
Rice. 5.28. Alternate unit options
Parameter value unit format(Format units) and precision(Accuracy) does not differ from similar settings on the tab Primary Units(Basic units). When using fractional formats (architectural and fractional), you can choose between stacked and non-linked fraction types.
Settings Multiplier for alt units(multiplier for alternative units) and Round distances to(Round distances to) defines the conversion factor between the primary and alternative units. For example, to convert inches to millimeters, set the multiplier to 25.4. This value does not affect the angular dimensions. Setting Round distances to(Round Distances To) lets you apply rounded values to alternative dimensions. This rounded value is independent of the primary unit rounding value.
Parameters Prefix(Prefix), Suffix(suffix) and checkboxes in area Zero suppression(Suppression of zeros) are set in the same way as for the main units. For example, to place mm after the alternative units, type in the field Suffix(Suffix) corresponding value.
With switch Placement(Placement) you can choose where the alternate units will be displayed: after the main value (After primary value) or under it (Below primary value).
Tolerance settingsTab Tolerances(Tolerances) is designed to control the display and tolerance values for both basic and alternative units (Fig. 5.29). Setting method(Method) controls the display of tolerances. Parameter precision(Precision) and checkboxes in areas Zero suppression(Zero suppression) work in the same way as in tabs Primary Units(Basic units) and Alternate Units(Alternative Units), but only control tolerance values.
Rice. 5.29. Tolerance Options
In the fields upper value(upper bound) and lower value(Lower limit) You can set the upper and lower limits of the tolerance parameter values.
Using field Scaling for height(Scaling for Height), you can set the relative size of the tolerance text value. This is the scale factor multiplied by the base unit text height. For example, if you specify a value of 0.5, the tolerance text will be half the size of the base unit.
Listed vertical position(Vertical position) select the vertical location of the main text dimension value in relation to the tolerance text: bottom(Bottom) Middle(Middle) or Top(Above).
Let's look at how to modify an existing dimension style.
1. Run the DIMSTYLE command to bring up the dialog Dimension Style Manager(Size style manager).
2. Select the size style you created earlier Mech and click on the button Modify(Change). A dialog box will appear Modify Dimension Style(Change size style).
3. Tab Symbols and Arrows(Symbols and arrows) set the parameter Arrow size(Arrow size) value 0.125.
4. Tab Text(Text) click the ellipsis button next to the list text style(Text style). A dialog box will appear Text Style(Text style). Press the button in it New(New) and create a text style named DIM using the romans.shx font. Click the button apply(Apply) and then close(Close) to return to the window Modify Dimension Style(Change size style).
5. Select from the list text style(text style) text style DIM, which you just created and set the parameter text-height(Text Height) to 0.125.
6. Press the button OK, to save size style changes and return to window Dimension Style Manager(Size style manager). Choose size style Mech and click on the button set current(Set Current) to set this size style as the current one. Click the button close(Close) to complete the DIMSTYLE command. The dimensions associated with this style will be updated.
Any drawing in AutoCAD contains various kinds of dimensions, which are an integral part of graphic information for workers in production, construction, management and many other industries. In this chapter, we looked at the basic commands and interface elements of AutoCAD that are used to insert and edit linear and angular dimensions.
AutoCAD provides the user with a variety of tools for creating, modifying and updating dimensional objects. Effective use of dimension styles and the ability to correctly set dimension parameters is the key to your success when working in AutoCAD.
Dimensions- an important detail in the drawing. Therefore, I decided to write this article about what dimensions are in AutoCAD, how to set and change dimensions.
A dimension in AutoCAD is a complex entity that is perceived as a single entity. It consists of extension lines, a dimension line with arrows (or serifs) and a dimension value.
All sizes are fundamentally divided into two groups: linear and angular. Linear dimensions characterize such parameters as length, width, thickness, height, diameter, radius. Angle size characterizes the angle.
Sizing rules.
These rules in our country are regulated by GOST 2.307-68. So for the rules of sizing you can go there. I advise you to adhere to these rules, even if you are not a professional designer or engineer.
For now, I'll just focus on how to put down certain dimensions on drawings in AutoCAD.
On the Annotations tab on the panel "Size" click on button "Linear dimension". As you probably already know, AutoCAD has special commands for calling tools. In our case, this is the command "RZMLINEAR". Try entering the first letters of the command into the command line, for example, "RZML". The command itself will be added to the command line. Now press "Enter".
The corresponding prompt will appear on the command line: “Beginning of the first extension line or<выбрать объект>:". Specify the first dimension point on the object by clicking LMB, then the second one.
After that, the following prompt is displayed on the command line: “Dimension line position or [MText/Text/Angle/Horizontal/Vertical/Rotated]:”. Those. now you need to specify the location of the dimension line. According to GOST, this value is 10mm.
Simply moving the cursor to approximately where the size should be, type the value 10 from the keyboard. In doing so, you will see how this value is displayed in the numeric field. Now don't forget to press "Enter".
For faster work, you can not specify the size points, but specify the part of the object that we want to measure.
To do this, in response to the first prompt to specify the beginning of the first extension line, simply press “Enter”. You will have the "Select Object" option applied.
Now you need to specify the object for which you want to set the size. For example, I will specify an interior wall. And now moving the cursor away from the object, a linear dimension follows it. Here the position of the dimension line is arbitrary. Therefore, we click LMB anywhere.
Always pay attention to prompts that appear on the command line. After all, almost every command in AutoCAD has its own options.
Options that can be used when dimensioning.
After setting the second dimension point - this is the beginning of the second extension line, a number of options appear on the command line - MText, Text, Angle, Horizontal, Vertical, Rotated.
Let's consider what possibilities of sizing appear when using these options.
"MTekst". This option brings up an editor with which you can edit the dimension text.
Here you can change the value of the size itself. Or add the characters "+-", "~", etc. to the value.
"Text". This option allows you to edit the dimension text on the command line (without calling the editor). The resulting size value is displayed in angle brackets.
Enter a new numeric value on the command line. You can also change the text in the number field. After entering the value, specify the position of the dimension line.
"Injection". Allows you to change the rotation angle of the dimension text.
The task of how to adjust the dimensions in AutoCAD is dual. You can adjust the previously set size - you are not satisfied with its size or geometric characteristics; or create a new dimension style and use it in the future as a kind of library of dimensions of a very different nature.
We also have in mind one more nuance, the consideration of which can be very helpful in real work. The fact is that there are a great many situations and not everything can be foreseen. In other words, not everything can be included in the used dimension style. Therefore, the developer must be ready, if necessary, to create the size "manually" - AutoCAD provides all the tools for this - there are lines, and arrows, and text tools, and the ability to use special characters (often there are problems with setting diameters and radii according to the requirements of our GOSTs) .
In addition, do not forget that when choosing a value, the program focuses on real dimensions corresponding to the selected limits of the drawing. In other words, setting dimensions in AutoCAD necessarily comes after going to the menu "Format" / "Drawing Limits" ("Format" / "Drawing Limits"). This is fundamentally important for AutoCAD - all work and display takes place with real dimensions, the developer is freed from the need to first measure, then recalculate it into points on the screen, and then enter it into the parameter of the depicted object. This kind of “old-fashioned” work is a thing of the past.
Customizing the Created Dimension
When a dimension is set, it exactly matches the general parameters set in the current working style for the specified dimension type. But the general settings do not always reflect the desired size parameters; to change them, you can call its properties through the context menu of the size (in the menu window - “Properties”).
The properties window can also be called through the main menu using the “Changes” / “Properties” command (“Modify” / “Properties”), using the “Properties” tool on the main toolbar or using the hotkey combination - “ Ctrl+1".
Among the many possible local changes that can be made (appear immediately after the change):
- Color - color change, the color assigned to the layer is selected by default;
- Layer - transfer the size to another layer; in general, it is useful to place all sizes on a separate layer, but if you made a mistake with the data, then it is possible to transfer;
- Dim style - change the style that the size belongs to;
- Lines & Arrows - a group of "small" settings for the geometry of lines, all possible indents and the appearance of arrows;
- Text - a group of text settings - format, position, indents. Please note that by default, AutoCAD sets the actual size to the limits of the drawing (indicated in a pale color in the Measurement parameter), but this value can be changed if necessary (after all, if a sketch is created, the main thing is that the dimensions are correctly set and the graphics correspond to them not absolutely necessary). You can change the measured value using the parameter included in this group - Text override. In practice, this is one of the most frequently performed configuration tasks.
- Fit - a group of options for the relative position of lines, arrows and text, if the measured object does not allow you to set the size in a standard way - another group of frequently used settings.
Working with Dimension Styles
As a matter of fact, when they talk about setting dimensions in AutoCAD, they mean a dimension style - a library of different types of dimensions created according to the requirements, for example, of one standard.
Initially, the program uses one built-in style by default - ISO-25 (specified in the "Dim Style Control" drop-down list located on the "Dimension" toolbar). This panel is not displayed by default, so the user will need to do it himself (View / Toolbars command).
Please note that the user is given the opportunity, as necessary, to first create a dimension in one style, and then change it by selecting it in the list of styles - in this way it turns out that all dimensions of the drawing are in one style, and one in another, this is a common situation.
Work with styles is performed by the Dimension Style command, which is located to the right of the list by default (here, as in any program, the user has the right to change both the presence of the command in the panel and its location).
When you start working with styles, you have at your disposal:
- Styles - list of available styles;
- List - selection of the list formation option - all styles or only those used;
- Set Current - setting the style selected in the list as the current working one;
- New - creating a new style based on the one selected in the list;
- Modify - style change;
- Override - redefining the style;
- Compare - compare two styles (a very useful command when you have to work with an unfamiliar drawing).
When creating a new style, it is proposed to pre-select not only the original style, but also the types of dimensions that will be created. By default, it is proposed to configure all types, but among the selection only linear, radii, diameters, angular, callouts.
After the choice has been made, when pressing the “Continue” button, the developer has at his disposal a window with six tabs that provide for all possible settings. If any of the parameters is not entirely clear, the user will never have problems understanding it - all changes are immediately reflected in the preview window.
Among the most significant settings:
If you have the 2015-2017 version of AutoCAD at your disposal, then the drop-down list of dimension styles is placed here on the Annotation panel.
As you can see, setting the dimensions is a rather troublesome business - several dozens of various parameters - but on the other hand, it is fascinating, everything is organized very conveniently, the purpose of each is either described or immediately reflected in the example after use.
This is not to say that you often have to create new dimensional styles, usually the default ISO-25 is enough, but in especially “thin” situations you can’t do without size settings, and you need to remember them.
In this lesson, we'll talk about how to correctly set the settings in AutoCAD according to GOST.
This applies to the following topics:
- What fonts for AutoCAD correspond to GOST;
– How to make the dimensions and texts according to GOST;
- What GOSTs are still used in the drawings;
– How to set up lines according to GOST in AutoCAD;
- How best to insert frames according to GOST in AutoCAD;
- What are the hatching according to GOST in AutoCAD.
Video version of the lesson:
Text version of the lesson:
Hello dear colleague! Despite the fact that there is a SPDS module that helps and makes life easier for the user of AutoCAD, there is always a chance that manual configuration of the program in accordance with GOST will be required. I'm talking now about GOST sizes, GOST text, hatching and other equally important elements. I propose to immediately go to the lesson and we will start with the first question.
Question 1. How to set up hatching according to GOST in AutoCAD?
To be more precise, now we will talk about the correspondence of the samples that are in AutoCAD with the GOST designations that should be used when
Let me explain. There are a lot of hatching patterns in AutoCAD, but not all of them correspond to GOST, so now I will show below which hatches correspond to GOST and what they mean.
Step 1. Recall that to enter the hatching mode for elements, you need to click on the special hatching command of the same name. Which is located on the “home” tab on the “drawing” panel.
Step 2 Before we start hatching objects, we must select a “sample” with which we will hatch. But let me remind you that not all “samples” correspond to our GOSTs, so remember or write down the names of the “samples” of hatching that should be used according to GOST.
Sample ANSI 31- According to GOST they designate metals.
If you make an angle of 45 degrees, then such hatching denotes a tree.
Sample ANSI 32- According to GOST they designate brick.
Sample ANSI 35- According to GOST they designate reinforced concrete.
Sample ANSI 36- According to GOST they designate concrete.
Sample ANSI 37- According to GOST they designate heaters, gypsum, etc..
Question 2. How to set up text according to GOST in AutoCAD?
Step 1. Let's go to text styles.
Step 2 We go to the desired dimensional style.
Step 3 In the “Dimension Style Changes” window, go to the “Symbols and Arrows” tab and set “double serifs” in the arrows. We do this in all three paragraphs, the first, second and callout.
Step 4 The next step is to go to the “text” tab and in the text properties, in the “text style” item, select our text style, which we set up in the second question. Thus, the font of the text for the dimensions will be in accordance with GOST.
Question 4. How to adjust the line thickness according to GOST in AutoCAD?
Step 2 To set the desired thickness for the line weight, you just need to click on the “Line weight” column next to the desired layer and set the required thickness according to GOST.
Question 5. How to set up a frame and a stamp according to GOST in AutoCAD?
The easiest way to create a frame and a stamp is through the SPDS module in AutoCAD.
Step 1. If you don't have it, download and install it. If there is, go to the SPDS tab and click on the “format” command.
Step 2 In a new window, expand the list called “Sheet Template. Working drawing of SPDS”, in it we select the sheet template we need, for example, landscape A3. We click OK.
Step 3 Choose a place to insert a frame and you will receive an already designed sheet, and with the correct stamp. This goes for any format.
Let's sum it up friends! In Russia, when designing and working with projects in AutoCAD, we must adhere to our GOSTs. Accordingly, before starting work, you should set up and set everything according to GOST, and only then proceed to create projects. We briefly discussed how to set everything up according to GOST in this lesson, but if you still have questions, feel free to ask them in the comments.
Any correctly designed drawing carries information about the dimensions of the drawn objects. Of course, AutoCAD has ample opportunities for intuitive dimensioning.
After reading this article, you will learn how to apply and adjust dimensions in AutoCAD.
Dimensioning
We will consider sizing using the linear example.
1. Draw the object or open the drawing you want to dimension.
2. On the Annotate ribbon tab, go to the Dimension panel and click the Dimension (linear) button.
3. Click at the start and end points of the measured distance. Then click again to set the distance from the object to the dimension line. You have drawn the simplest dimension.
For more accurate drawings, use object snaps. To activate them, press the F3 key.
4. Let's make a dimensional chain. Select the dimension you just entered and on the Dimensions panel, click the Continue button, as shown in the screenshot.
5. Click one by one on all the points to which the dimension should be attached. To complete the operation, press the "Enter" or "Enter" key in the context menu.
All points of one projection of an object can be measured with one click! To do this, select "Express" in the dimensions panel, click on the object and select the side on which the dimensions will be shown.
Similarly, angular, radial, parallel dimensions, as well as radii and diameters, are affixed.
Editing Dimensions
Let's look at some options for editing dimensions.
1. Select a dimension and call the context menu with the right mouse button. Select "Properties".
2. In the "Lines and arrows" rollout, replace the ends of the dimension lines by setting the "Slope" value in the "Arrow 1" and "Arrow 2" drop-down lists.
In the properties panel, you can enable or disable dimension and extension lines, change their color and thickness, and set text options.
3. On the dimension bar, click the text layout buttons to move it along the dimension line. After clicking the button, click on the dimension text and it will change its position.
You can also use the Dimension Bar to break dimensions, skew text, and leader lines.
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