How to Edit Dimensions in DraftSight?

Understanding Dimension Editing in Draftsight

Editing dimensions in Draftsight is a crucial skill for users who need accurate drawings and precise measurements. Whether you need to enlarge a dimension, modify annotation values, or adjust settings to improve visibility, the process is straightforward when you follow these organized steps.

Enlarging Dimension Text in Draftsight

1. Select the Dimension: Start by clicking on the dimension you want to adjust. You’ll notice that the default text size may be smaller than ideal for your drawing.

2. Access the Properties Tab: On the right side of the interface, locate the Properties tab. If it’s not visible, navigate to the appropriate menu to enable it.

3. Modify Text Height: Inside the Properties tab, look for the option labeled "Text Height." Adjust this value to your preferred size. For instance, setting it to a value like 10 often makes dimensions clearer and more legible.

Editing Smart Dimensions

1. Initiate Editing: Double-click directly on the dimension that needs editing. This action will open the dimension modification options.

2. Change the Value: You can alter the dimension value using various methods: utilize the arrows for incremental changes, use a mouse wheel, or manually enter the desired dimension in the box provided.

3. Confirm Changes: After making adjustments, be sure to click outside the dimension box or press Enter to confirm the changes.

Measuring Distances

1. Select the Measurement Tool: Go to the main menu and click on "Tools," then navigate to "Inquiry" followed by "Get Distance," or simply type GetDistance into the command line.

2. Choose Points: Click on the two points you wish to measure between in the graphics area. The distances and angles will appear, providing you data such as Distance, Angle in XY Plane, and Delta Coordinates (Delta X, Y, Z).

Editing Annotations

1. Access Annotation Modification: Click on “Modify” from the main toolbar and select “Entity,” followed by “Annotation,” or type EditAnnotation in the command line.

2. Select the Text Entity: Click on the specific text or annotation entity you wish to modify. Depending on what type of annotation it is, a dialog box suited for editing that specific type will open.

3. Update the Content: Make the necessary changes in the dialog box. Confirm by clicking OK or applying the changes.

Changing Dimension Style and Appearance

1. Open Dimension Styles: To change the overall appearance of dimensions, navigate to the Dimension Style Manager, typically found in the Home tab under the Annotation panel.

2. Modify Styles: Select an existing style and click on "Modify." You’ll have options to change various parameters, including text font, size, and color.

3. Apply Changes: After making necessary adjustments, save the modified style for future use.

FAQ

How can I delete a dimension in Draftsight?

To delete a dimension, simply select the dimension you want to remove and press the Delete key on your keyboard, or right-click and select the Delete option from the context menu.

Is it possible to batch edit dimensions?

Yes, you can batch edit dimensions by selecting multiple dimensions at once using the selection tools, then applying your desired changes via the Properties tab.

What should I do if the dimension text does not display correctly after editing?

If the dimension text isn’t displaying correctly, check the scale of the drawing and ensure that the text height in properties is adjusted to suit the scale. If issues persist, consider resetting your dimension styles or consult the Draftsight support resources for troubleshooting.