Autodesk Inventor

How to Change from Imperial to Metric in Autodesk Inventor?

To switch from imperial to metric measurements in Autodesk Inventor, follow these detailed steps:

Step 1: Open Autodesk Inventor

Begin by launching the Autodesk Inventor application on your device. Make sure you open either a part or assembly file, as unit settings are specific to the document you are working with.

Step 2: Access the Tools Tab

Once you are in the main interface, locate the Tools tab located in the ribbon at the top of the screen. This tab provides several options for modifying your document settings.

Step 3: Open Document Settings

Within the Tools tab, find the Document Settings option. Click on it to open a new dialog window. This section allows you to change various settings for the current document.

Step 4: Navigate to the Units Tab

In the Document Settings dialog, you will notice several tabs. Click on the Units tab. This is where you can manage the measurement units being used in your project.

Step 5: Select the Desired Units

You will see a drop-down menu for length units. Click on this menu to view available options. Look for millimeters (mm) and select it if you want to switch from inches. After selecting the desired unit, make sure to confirm your choice by clicking OK or Apply.

Step 6: Verify Your Change

To ensure that the change has been effective, you can create a new dimension in your drawing. The dimension should reflect the newly set metric units. If this is not displayed correctly, revisit the settings to confirm that the units have been properly changed.

Step 7: Save Your Document

Finally, don’t forget to save your document to ensure that all the changes you made to the measurement settings are preserved. You can do this by clicking File and then Save.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How can I change measurement units for an existing drawing?

For an existing drawing, you can access the Document Settings from the Tools tab as described above. Simply navigate to the Units tab and select your desired unit of measurement.

What effect does changing units have on existing dimensions?

When you change the measurement units in Autodesk Inventor, existing dimensions will convert according to the new setting. For example, if you switch from inches to millimeters, the numerical value will automatically adjust to reflect the conversion.

Is it possible to have both imperial and metric dimensions displayed simultaneously?

Yes, it is possible to set up your drawing so that both imperial and metric dimensions are displayed. You can do this by configuring your dimension styles to show dual units. This setting can typically be found in the Dimension Style Manager under the primary unit settings.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.