How to Add Dimensions in DraftSight?

Adding dimensions in DraftSight involves a series of steps that allow you to accurately present measurements on your drawings. Below is a detailed guide divided into sections addressing various aspects of dimensioning in DraftSight.

Understanding Dimension Types in DraftSight

Before adding dimensions, familiarize yourself with the types available in DraftSight:

1. Linear Dimensions: Measure straight distances between two points.
2. Angular Dimensions: Indicate the angle between two line segments.
3. Radial and Diameter Dimensions: Used for circles, showing radius and diameter respectively.
4. Objective Dimensions: Provide information about specific features such as points or edges.

Setting Up the Dimension Style

1. Open the Dimension Style Manager: Navigate to the Annotate tab and click on the Dimension Style button.
2. Create or Modify a Style: You can choose to modify an existing style or create a new one. Click New to start fresh or select an existing style and click Modify.
3. Adjust Settings: Within the Dimension Style dialogue, configure various settings such as text height, arrow styles, and units of measurement to fit your design needs.
4. Save the Changes: After adjustments, save the style for future use.

Adding Linear Dimensions

1. Activate the Dimension Tool: Click on Dimension from the toolbar and select Linear or type the command DIMLINEAR.
2. Select Points: Click on the starting point of the dimension and then click on the endpoint. A dimension line will appear showing the distance.
3. Position the Dimension Line: Move your cursor to position the dimension text as needed. Click to place it, completing the process.

Utilizing Smart Dimensioning

1. Activate Smart Dimension: Click on Smart Dimension from the toolbar or type the command DIMSMART.
2. Select the Objects: Choose the line or object for which you want to create a dimension. This can be done by clicking directly on the entity.
3. Confirm the Dimension: Based on the selection, DraftSight will generate the appropriate dimension automatically.

Changing Dimension Appearance

1. Edit Dimension Properties: Click on the selected dimension to highlight it. Right-click and choose Properties or locate the Properties panel.
2. Modify Text Height or Color: Adjust the text height or color to improve visibility and match your drafting standards. This can be done in the Text section of the properties.
3. Apply Changes: Confirm and apply your changes to see the updated dimension.

Adjusting Dimension Values and Overrides

1. Changing Dimension Text: If the actual measurement is not required, you can manually change the text. Type REPLACEDIMENSIONTEXT in the command line.
2. Follow Prompts: The system will guide you through selecting the specific dimension and entering your desired text.
3. Override Styles: If you need specific dimensions to stand out, you can override them. Access Override Dimension Style and enter the parameter you’d like to modify, such as text or line type.

Measuring in DraftSight

To ensure the accuracy of your dimensions, utilize the measuring tools:

1. Activate Measurement Tool: Go to Tools > Inquiry > Get Distance or type GETDISTANCE.
2. Select Points: Click on the two points you wish to measure. The measurement will display immediately in the command line.
3. Use for Reference: This feature allows you to validate distances before committing them to your dimensions.

FAQ

1. What if I need to change the unit system for my dimensions?
To change the unit system, go to Format > Unit System. Here, you can adjust the base angle, length units, and other settings accordingly.

2. How can I join two lines before dimensioning?
You can use the Edit Polyline option under the Modify tab to join lines. Select the lines you want to join and press Enter to create a continuous polyline.

3. Is it possible to customize dimension text for individual measurements?
Yes, you can override the text for specific dimensions using the ReplaceDimensionText command, allowing for more detailed or unique descriptions as needed.