How to Put Dimensions in DraftSight?

Setting Dimensions in Draftsight: A Step-by-Step Guide

Draftsight is a powerful CAD tool that allows you to create precise drawings and models. One of the essential functions in Draftsight is the ability to set and modify dimensions effectively. This guide will walk you through the processes involved in adding and adjusting dimensions in Draftsight, making it easier for you to achieve accurate representations of your designs.

How to Add Dimensions

To effectively add dimensions to your drawings, follow these steps:

1. Accessing Dimension Tools: Start by selecting the dimension command from the tool menu or use the command prompt by typing DIM. This command activates the dimensioning tools you need.

2. Choosing Dimension Type: Decide on the type of dimension you want to apply, such as linear, angular, or radial. Each type can be selected from the dropdown menu or via corresponding commands.

3. Specifying Points: Click on the two points in your drawing that you wish to measure the distance between. For linear dimensions, these points will typically be the endpoints of the line or feature you want to dimension.

4. Positioning the Dimension: After selecting the points, you will be prompted to place the dimension line. Move your cursor to determine where you want the dimension to appear, and click to finalize its position.

5. Editing Dimension Text: If you want to adjust the displayed dimension values or add specific annotations, double-click on the dimension text to edit it directly.

Modifying Existing Dimensions

Sometimes, you might want to update or rotate existing dimensions to ensure they fit well within your drawing. Here’s how:

1. Activate the Edit Command: Use the command prompt to type EditDimension and press Enter. This will allow you to select dimensions for modification.

2. Select Existing Dimensions: Click on the dimension or dimensions you want to change. You can choose multiple dimensions if desired.

3. Rotate Text: If you wish to adjust the orientation of the dimension text, you can specify an angle of rotation.

4. Finalize Changes: Press Enter to apply your modifications to the selected dimensions.

Changing Dimension Styles

To ensure your dimensions align with your project’s aesthetics, you may find the need to alter dimension styles. Here’s how to do it:

1. Access the Dimension Style Manager: Go to the Annotate tab and click on the Dimensions panel’s dialog box launcher.

2. Select a Style: In the Dimension Style Manager, choose the dimension style you wish to override or modify.

3. Modify Style Attributes: Click on the Override button. Here, you can change various attributes such as text height, color, and line type.

4. Save Changes: Once adjustments are made, click OK to save your modifications.

Changing Units in Draftsight

Adjusting the units of measurement in Draftsight is crucial for ensuring project accuracy. Follow these steps to modify your unit settings:

1. Open Unit Settings: Navigate to the Format menu, then select Unit System, or simply type UnitSystem in the command line.

2. Set Base Angles and Length: You can adjust the settings under Base Angle and Length. Change these according to the requirements of your project.

3. Units Scale: Pick the reference units for blocks and drawings in the Units scale section to ensure uniformity throughout.

4. Confirmation: Click OK to apply your changes and exit the unit settings.

FAQ

1. Can I undo dimension changes after applying them?

• Yes, Draftsight allows you to undo changes. You can simply use the Undo command (Ctrl + Z) to revert to the prior state.

2. Is there a way to save custom dimension styles for future use?

• Absolutely! After creating or modifying a dimension style, save it within the Dimension Style Manager to easily access it in future projects.

3. What should I do if my dimensions are not displaying correctly?

• Check your drawing scale and dimension style settings. If issues persist, you may need to reset your dimension styles or adjust text height and scaling options.