Fusion 360

How to Move Origin Point in Fusion 360

Understanding how to adjust the origin point in Fusion 360 is essential for any designer looking to create precise models. The origin point serves as a reference for all other features within your design, making its proper placement crucial for accurate positioning and alignment. Follow these steps to move the origin point in Fusion 360 effectively.

Step 1: Starting the Process

Begin by opening your design in Fusion 360. Ensure you are in the modeling workspace, as this is where you will have the tools necessary to manipulate the origin point. You can create a new design or open an existing one where you need to change the origin location.

Step 2: Access the Move Command

Locate the "Move" command, which is crucial for repositioning various objects within your design. Find it under the “Modify” menu in the toolbar at the top of the screen. Alternatively, you can right-click on the object you want to move and select “Move” from the context menu.

Step 3: Select the Objects

Once the Move command is active, select the components that you wish to reposition relative to the new origin point. This could include sketches, bodies, or components that are already existing in your design. Make sure all the relevant items are highlighted before proceeding.

Step 4: Resizing the Selection Box

If you accidentally select additional elements that you do not need, you can adjust your selection. Click on the “Select” button and drag a box around the objects you want to include. You can also hold down the Shift key while clicking on elements to add or remove them from your selection.

Step 5: Using the Move Manipulator

After selecting the objects, the Move manipulator tool will appear. This tool consists of a set of arrows and rotation rings that allow you to translate and rotate the selected items dynamically. Drag the arrows to relocate the selection precisely along the desired axis.

Step 6: Positioning to New Origin

To accurately set the new origin point, pay attention to the values displayed in the dialog box associated with the Move manipulator. You can manually input specific coordinates for exact positioning. Input the new location values based on your measurement needs or reference points within the design.

Step 7: Finalizing the Move

After you’ve positioned your objects according to the new origin point, click the OK button in the Move dialog box. This action will finalize the new positions, and your components will now be aligned with the updated origin.

Step 8: Verifying New Alignment

Inspect your model to ensure that all elements have adjusted correctly to the new origin. Rotate, zoom, and pan around your design to confirm that the realignment has maintained the integrity of your model.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I reset the origin point to default?
To revert to the default origin, you can create a new origin by going to the "Origin" folder in the Browser panel, right-clicking, and selecting ‘New Origin’. Then you can manually set it back to the coordinates of the original origin point.

Can I move the origin point in assemblies?
Yes, moving the origin point in assemblies follows a similar method. Just ensure that you are modifying the correct components and that their positions are updated accurately within the overall assembly structure.

Is it possible to move the origin point after creating a sketch?
Yes, origin points can be moved even after a sketch is created. However, be cautious as this may affect the dimensions and constraints applied within your sketch, requiring adjustments upon repositioning.

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.