Understanding Dimension Editing in Vectorworks
Editing dimensions in Vectorworks is a crucial skill for precise drafting and ensuring your designs communicate measurements effectively. Whether adjusting the appearance of dimensions or editing specific measurement values, Vectorworks provides a range of tools for these tasks. This guide outlines how to manipulate dimensions in a detailed, step-by-step manner.
Accessing the Dimension Tools
To begin editing dimensions:
1. Navigate to the_toolbar_ that contains your dimension tools. Ensure you’re in the correct view—either the 2D Plan or 2D Elevation, as dimensions are created in these environments.
2. Locate the **Dimension tool** icon, usually represented with a ruler or a measuring tape.
Editing Existing Dimensions
If you need to edit a currently placed dimension, follow these steps:
1. **Select the Dimension**: Click on the desired dimension line within your drawing. This will highlight the dimension and show selection handles you can manipulate.
2. **Open the Edit Menu**: Right-click (on Windows) or Ctrl-click (on Mac) to bring up the context menu.
3. **Choose Edit Dimension**: From the menu, select **Edit Dimension**. This action will allow you to modify dimensions such as distance and offset values.
4. **Make Necessary Changes**: In the editing interface, you can adjust specific values. Any changes made here will reflect in the selected dimension.
Making Dimension Adjustments
If the goal is to alter the size or position of dimensions, here’s how:
1. **Select the Dimension**: As before, click on the dimension you wish to change.
2. **Access Properties**: Once selected, use the Object Info palette, displayed typically on the right of your workspace, to modify parameters such as font size, unit of measurement, or visibility settings.
3. **Resize or Reposition**: Use the handle at the ends of the dimension line to resize or move your dimension. This allows for precision in placement as you align it with your illustrations.
Creating New Dimensions
Adding new dimensions is straightforward:
1. **Select a Dimension Standard**: Go to the toolbar and choose a Dim Std (dimension standard) that matches your requirements.
2. **Position the Cursor**: Move your cursor close to the object or group of objects you wish to dimension. Pay attention to alignment as you prepare to create a new dimension.
3. **Draw the Dimension Line**: Click to establish the starting point of your measurement, then move the cursor in the desired direction. A preview will appear, enabling you to see how the dimension will be laid out.
4. **Finalize the Dimension**: Click once more to set the endpoint of the dimension line. The new dimension will now be a part of your drawing.
Utilizing Additional Dimensioning Tools
Vectorworks offers several specific dimensioning tools to suit various needs:
– **Linear Dimensions (DIMLINEAR)**: Ideal for measuring straight distances, whether horizontal or vertical.
– **Aligned Dimensions (DIMALIGNED)**: Use this for measurements that are not orthogonal, ensuring the dimension line aligns with the object.
– **Arc Length Dimensions (DIMARC)** and **Radius Dimensions (DIMRADIUS)**: Perfect for measuring circular elements and arcs.
FAQs
**How do I override a specific dimension value in Vectorworks?**
Right-click on the dimension you want to change and select “Edit Dimension” to adjust the overrides for specific measurements.
**Can I change the font size of dimensions after they are created?**
Yes, after selecting the dimension, access the Object Info palette or right-click to find options for adjusting the font size to meet your design standards.
**What to do if the dimension does not appear correctly in the drawing?**
Ensure that the correct dimension standard is selected and check that the dimension tools are aligned properly with your objects. If problems persist, adjust the dimension settings in the Object Info palette.
