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Fernando

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In this article, I will tell you about making isometric dimension and text in an isometric drawing. For explaining this feature I will use a simple isometric cube as shown in the image below.

I have also prepared this video for explaining this tip, but if you prefer the article instead of video then scroll down to for the full article.

Making Isometric Dimensions:

Make aligned dimensions A, B and C on the geometry as shown in drawing A above using DIMALIGNED command.

Now type DIMEDIT on the command line and press enter, select oblique from the command line as shown in the image below.

Now click on dimension marked A from drawing shown above and press enter. Command line will prompt you to select an angle to align this dimension type 30 and press enter again. Your dimension will now align with the geometry to make it look like isometric dimension.

For dimensions B and C you can use the same method with the oblique angle of 30 and -30 respectively. Your final drawing will look like this after using DIMEDIT on all three dimensions.

Making Isometric Dimension Text:

The dimensions now look correct but when you look closely at dimension text they are still not properly aligned as per drawing. You need to make changes to dimension text also in order to make it look normal.

Type DIMTEDIT on the command line and press enter then click on the dimension which you want to edit, I am selecting dimension C for this case.

From the command line, select Angle option and type an angle of 30 degrees then press enter. The dimension text will now align with the dimension line. For dimensions, A and B use an angle of 30 and -30 degrees respectively in DIMTEDIT command.

Making Isometric Text:

To write text on the isometric cube type TEXT on the command line and press Enter. Now click on the face of cube towards dimension C and enter a text height value and rotation angle of 30 degrees in the command line prompts.

Type any text and press enter twice to exit the TEXT command, I am using "Text" as the sample text on the isometric cube.

Repeat the process of writing text on the face of cube towards dimension B as well, but in this case change angle of text to -30 degrees keeping all other parameters unchanged.

Now select text on the face of dimension C then right click and select Properties from the contextual menu. From the Text panel of properties palette change value of Obliquing to 30.

Repeat the process for text on cube facing dimension B but in this case change obliquing value to -30. The final drawing with isometric dimension and text will look like the image shown below.

Do you have any questions related to isometric text and dimensions? Let me know in comments below.

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How to make isometric dimension and text in AutoCAD

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In this article, I will tell you about making isometric dimension and text in an isometric drawing. For explaining this feature I will use a simple isometric cube as shown in the image below. I have also prepared this video for explaining this tip, but if you prefer the article instead of video then scroll down to for the full article.

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Kobi

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The ALIGNED dimension command aligns the dimension with the angle of the object that you are dimensioning. The process is the same as Linear dimensioning. It requires two extension line origins and placement of text location. (Example below)

1. Select the ALIGNED command using one of the following:

TYPE = DIMALIGNED or DIMALI or DAL
PULLDOWN = DIMENSION / ALIGNED
TOOLBAR = DIMENSION

Command: _dimaligned

2. Specify first extension line origin or : select the first extension line origin (P1)

3. Specify second extension line origin: select the second extension line origin (P2)

4. Specify dimension line location or [Mtext/Text/Angle]: place dimension text location

Dimension text = the dimension value will appear here

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The ALIGNED dimension command aligns the dimension with the angle of the object that you are dimensioning. The process is the same as Linear dimensioning. It requires two extension line origins and placement of text location.

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Fernando

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Topics covered in this Lesson:

Dimension Types in AutoCAD

Concept:
This tutorial will explain the different types of dimensions which are commonly used in AutoCAD and help you understand their differences. A good AutoCAD drawing will convey the needed information clearly and accurately. Dimensioning is used to let the drawing reader know what size each length or curve is, without having to open the drawing and measure it. If your dimensions are inaccurate, you will not be working in CAD for very long, no matter how accurate your drawing is. Learn when each dimension is needed and how to use it.

If you need to modify the appearance of your dimension, please refer to the previous tutorial - 4-11.

Types of Dimensions in AutoCAD

You have most likely already used some of the common dimension types like 'linear' or 'radius'. This section will describe how each one works in more detail.

Linear Dimensions:
Linear dimensions are used to create a dimension that measures a line that is either horizontal or perpendicular to the UCS. This is the most commonly used dimension and is very easy to use. Below are some typical linear dimensions:

It's good practice (thought not always allowed by time) to have your dimensions at a consistent distance from the object. Make sure that it is not to close to overlap the object and not too far to confuse which object you dimensioned. To create a linear dimension, either use the icon or key in DIMLINEAR. Just pick the two endpoints of a line (or any two points) and then place the dimension line where you want it. Very quick, very simple.

Command: DIMLINEAR

Specify first extension line origin or <select object>:SELECT FIRST POINT
Specify second extension line origin:SELECT SECOND POINT
Specify dimension line location or
[Mtext/Text/Angle/Horizontal/Vertical/Rotated]: SELECT LOCATION OF DIM LINE
Dimension text = 5.00

Note that there are some options at the command line:

MText / Text

You don't need to use these, it doesn't really affect your dimensions

Angle

This will place your text at the angle you specify

Horizontal

This will create a horizontal dim, but you select this when you place your dimension line. Rarely needed.

Vertical

This will create a vertical dim, but you select this when you place your dimension line. Rarely needed.

Rotated

This will create a 'rotated' dimension. This is explained below.

You'll also notice on the first prompt, you can <select object>, but press <enter> at this point and then you can just select the line instead of the two endpoints. This is a lot quicker and more accurate as you don't have to worry about picking the wrong Endpoint Osnap.

Since this is a common command, it is worth creating an alias for it (see next lesson).

Aligned Dimensions:
The Aligned dimension works just like the linear dimension. The big difference is that it works with lines or distances that are not square to the UCS. You can also use this on any 2 points that are also compatible with the linear dimension. It will create a dimension parallel to the angled line.

Command: DIMALIGNED

Specify first extension line origin or <select object>:SELECT FIRST POINT
Specify second extension line origin:SELECT SECOND POINT
Specify dimension line location or
[Mtext/Text/Angle]: SELECT LOCATION OF DIM LINE
Dimension text = 2.00

You'll see that command line prompts are almost the same. Of course, there are no options for horizontal or vertical placement. Also Rotate is missing to avoid confusion and errors. You can also select Angle for your text to match the angle of line (just select 2 points on the line you are dimensioning). You can also set your text to be aligned with the dimension line in your Dimension Style Manager.

Angular Dimensions:
Not every dimension gives the reader a length. Sometimes other measurements are need. Angular dimensions will display the angle between two objects. The measurement of the angle is defined by your dimstyle, but degrees is standard. The command works similar to the linear dimensions (see a pattern?).

Command: _dimangular
Select arc, circle, line, or <specify vertex>: <select first line>
Select second line: <select second line>
Specify dimension arc

The example above shows 3 common uses of this tool. To get the angle on the arc, just select anywhere on it. Getting the outside measurement (225° in this example) is done by using the prompt <select vertex>.

Command: DIMANGULAR
Select arc, circle, line, or <specify vertex>:

Specify angle vertex: <select point A>
Specify first angle endpoint: <select point B>
Specify second angle endpoint: <select point C>
Specify dimension arc line location or [Mtext/Text/Angle/Quadrant]:<place dim>
Dimension text = 225

Arc Length:
This is a fairly new command in AutoCAD and will not be available on some older versions. This command works simply, just start the command and select an arc or arc segment of a polyline. In the example below, I have shown the Angular (180°) dimension with the Arc length so that you can see the difference. Notice the symbol in front of the 3.14.

Command: _dimarc
Select arc or polyline arc segment: <select the arc>
Specify arc length dimension location, or [Mtext/Text/Angle/Partial/Leader]: 1.2
Dimension text = 3.14

Once again, you are offered some options when dimensioning. Mtext/Text/Angle are the same options for text that you saw earlier. Partial will allow you to dimension only part of the arc. This is useful for midpoints or nodes, when the arc is segmented. Leader will draw a leader from the dim text to the arc that it refers to.

Radius Dimension:
Another common and simple command. DIMRAD will dimension any arc or circle and give you the radius and place a center mark at the center of the selected object. A center mark is a cross the indicates the center point of an arc or circle.

Command: _dimradius
Select arc or circle: <select object>
Dimension text = 0.40
Specify dimension line location or [Mtext/Text/Angle]: <place the dim>

Once again, you have some options for the text at the command prompt.

Diameter Dimension:
The diameter and radius dimensions work the same, but give a different measurement. As a rule, I will use the diameter dim on things like a hole to be drilled or for the dimensions of an overall part and radius for filleted corners, etc.

As you see, the diameter and radius dimensions add a center mark (this can be turned off, or changed to a larger line (in DDIM). I will usually dimension the circles first so that I can select the center mark and have a small gap (it looks cleaner).

Command: _dimdiameter
Select arc or circle: <select the object>
Dimension text = 1.00
Specify dimension line location or [Mtext/Text/Angle]: <place the dim>

In the example image above, you can see that even a very simple drawing can have enough dimensions to clutter things up. Make sure that you have enough dimensions and don't duplicate or miss any. Make sure that they can be read from one or two angles when printed (usually from the bottom right corner).

Center Mark:
By now you should be getting the hang of how this works. The DIMCENTER command adds a center mark to a circle or arc. How it is displayed is set in the DDIM dialog box under the "Symbols and Arrows" tab. If you select "None" you will not be able to place a center mark using this command. The icon for center marks is in the sub menu on the dimension panel.

Sometimes you might use both in the drawing. Below. on the left, I used the center mark that was made with the diameter dimension, then I dimensioned from it. On the right, I used a Line center mark and extended one of the lines to the other side to indicate the the holes are aligned. Then I double-clicked on the diameter text and added a suffix to indicate that both holes are the same size.

But when you do this, any of the center marks made by the diameter or radius dimensions will change to the new style that you selected. It's best to start with one style and leave it. The size of your center mark is defined by the DIMCEN system variable.

Rotated Dimensions:
A rotated dimension is not a dimension that was rotated using the rotate command. Instead it allows you to create a linear dimension to two points that are not in a straight line. Look at the image below and see the difference between an aligned dimension and a rotated one.

First, look the dimension on the far right. See how it gives a true overall size of 10 units? On the right, the aligned dimension is not the overall size due to the 94° angle in the bottom left corner. Also in the top right, notice the rotated dimension with 2.00 units. I need to rotate it as the 2 points that I selected were not on the same axis. It's a little confusing at first, but try it a few times.

Command: dimlin
DIMLINEAR
Specify first extension line origin or <select object>: <first endpoint>
Specify second extension line origin: <first endpoint>
Specify dimension line location or
[Mtext/Text/Angle/Horizontal/Vertical/Rotated]: R <enter>

Specify angle of dimension line <0>: <select first point on axis>
Specify second point: <select second point on axis>
Specify dimension line location or
[Mtext/Text/Angle/Horizontal/Vertical/Rotated]: <place dim>
Dimension text = 2.00

When it comes to selecting points on the axis, pick the common parallel line (in this example, I click 2 points on the 10 unit dimension. You can also created a rotated dim by using the DIMROTATED command. In this case, you select the angle first.

Even Spacing of Dimensions:
Sometimes you might have a bunch of dimensions in one area and want to space them evenly. The easy way to do this is to place them quickly, then use the Adjust Space command, DIMSPACE. Look at the image below with the random spacing. Then mouse over it to see how this commands gives them even spacing.

Draw a similar shape and try this. Place your dims, but allow for enough room to fit them all (just don't worry about the spacing). Then start the DIMSPACE command.

Command: DIMSPACE
Select base dimension: <I selected the 2.00 dim in this example>
Select dimensions to space:
Specify opposite corner: 3 found <select the others>
Select dimensions to space: <enter>
Enter value or [Auto] <Auto>: <enter>

Fast and easy. You have the option at the end to enter a distance between each dim, but Auto should work in most cases. Just be careful to select the "Base" dimension you want first - try selecting other dimensions as your 'base' to see what results you get.

Continue Dimensions:
Another shortcut is to use is "Continued Dimensions". This is used when you have a series of linear dimensions that will all be on one side of an object. With this command, you can select a 'base' dimension and then have AutoCAD help by continuing the command so that you can just click and endpoint and continue to the next, click an endpoint, etc. Have a look at the drawing below:

When you have a series of dimensions all in one plane like this, just create the first one with DIMLIN and then use the DIMCONT command to create the rest of them. In this example, I created the dim on the left first.

Command: _dimcontinue
Specify second extension line origin or [Select/Undo] <Select>: <SELECT A>
Dimension text = 2.0000
Specify second extension line origin or [Select/Undo] <Select>: <SELECT A>
Dimension text = 1.0000
Specify second extension line origin or [Select/Undo] <Select>: <ENTER>

Tip: When using this command or the Baseline dimensions, select your points for the base dim in the direction that the others will follow. In the example above, since I selected the base dim on the left, I had to first pick the left point and then the right point. This sets the direction for the others to follow.

After doing this, the next time you start the DIMCONT command, it will return to this point and continue on. Try this out in your own drawing with a simple shape like the one above.

Baseline Dimensions
This command is very similar in function to the continue command, but instead provides an overall dimension based upon the first point you select in your first (base) linear dimension.

Command: _dimbaseline
Specify second extension line origin or [Select/Undo] <Select>: <SELECT A>
Dimension text = 3.0000
Specify second extension line origin or [Select/Undo] <Select>: <SELECT B>
Dimension text = 4.0000
Specify second extension line origin or [Select/Undo] <Select>: <ENTER>

Once again, I first needed to create a base dimension with the DIMLIN command. I again used the dim on the left (first point was on the left). Then I started the DIMBASE command and selected points A and B. Once again, try it out and see how this works. See what happens when you create your base dim from right to left.

Summary:
You have a lot of tools at your disposal when it comes to dimensions. The trick is to know when to use each one. It's also extremely important that you are accurate. Clicking on another dimension instead of a line's endpoint can be a huge mistake - especially in mechanical drafting where tolerances are small. Review your dimensions before sending a drawing off to someone else, or printing it- then check it again. Check for overlaps or other confusing areas. The commands themselves are easy to use, but accuracy is critical.

Video: Types of Dimensions in AutoCAD

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Types of Dimensions - AutoCAD Tutorial and Videos

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Topics covered in this Lesson: Concept: This tutorial will explain the different types of dimensions which are commonly used in AutoCAD and help you understand their differences. A good AutoCAD drawing will convey the needed information clearly and accurately.

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KobI

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A few weeks ago, we cover how you can create a custom command to adjust dimension spacing. We utilized DIMSPACE command to create it.

DIMSPACE is not just useful to adjust your dimension spacing. You can use it to quickly align multiple dimensions too.

Let's take this image as example.

You can use DIMSPACE to align all dimensions in several clicks.

Command: DIMSPACE
Select base dimension: select a dimension as new location reference.
Select dimensions to space:Specify opposite corner: 7 found select all other dimensions you want to align
Select dimensions to space: press enter to complete selection
Enter value or [Auto] <Auto>: 0 type 0 to make it align with base dimension

Now you can see the are now look neat, they all are aligned.

Just a note, you can type 0 (zero) to make the dimensions aligned. Or you can type value to create space between dimensions. Auto option, will create distance twice the text height.

About Edwin Prakoso

I work as a Sr. Technical Consultant in Tech Data Advanced Solutions Indonesia. I've been using AutoCAD since R14 and Revit since Revit Building 9. I occasionally write for AUGIWorld magazine and also active in Autodesk discussion forum.
I'm an Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP) for Revit Architecture and AutoCAD. I'm also a member of Autodesk Expert Elite, appreciation for individuals who give contribution to Autodesk community.
Connect with me on twitter or LinkedIn

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How to quickly align multiple dimensions

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A few weeks ago, we cover how you can create a custom command to adjust dimension spacing. We utilized DIMSPACE command to create it. DIMSPACE is not just useful to adjust your dimension spacing. You can use it to quickly align multiple dimensions too. Let's take this image as example.

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AutoCAD Floor Plan Tutorial for Beginners - 6

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A floor plan is carefully dimensioned to ensure that items such as walls, columns, doors, windows, openings, stairs, and other particulars are correctly located for construction. Sometimes after a plan is drawn accurately to a scale, its reproduction causes a slight enlargement or reduction of the drawing. In such cases, the floor plan is slightly out of true scale, but this is acceptable because the written dimensions are the controlling factors. In fact, most designers add a note on the drawing that says, "do not scale drawing, follow written dimensions."

Generally, elements such as walls are dimensioned to the frame (Figure 6-32), as the builder first erects this and then adds the finishes to it. This dimensioning technique gives the exact location of the studs, columns, and beams and is generally placed to the face of these. In some cases, however, the centerline of the wall might be located and dimensioned, as illustrated in Figure 6-33.

Figure 6-31 A portion of a floor plan can be keyed with a symbol to a larger, more detailed plan that is drawn elsewhere. For example, this part of the plan is referenced as area 6 and enlarged on sheet A4.

Figure 6-32 Dimensions on a floor plan generally locate the framework of the building, such as the face of these 2x4 studs.

As noted in Chapter 5, dimensioning is done in a hierarchical manner. Buildings, structural framework, rooms, and fixtures are dimensioned in decreasing size order. The actual number of dimensions on a plan is dependent upon how much latitude the designer affords the contractor. A very detailed and dimensioned plan gives the builder little room for deviation from the original design. However, if only a few key dimensions are shown, the builder is trusted to determine exact locations of interior components. A good guideline for dimensioning falls somewhere between these two approaches. An overdimensioned plan allows the builder little freedom to make field adjustments or substitute cost-saving techniques. However, too few dimensions can produce a lot of guesswork and increase the chances for error in the field and in coordination between subcontractors.

Figure 6-31 A portion of a floor plan can be keyed with a symbol to a larger, more detailed plan that is drawn elsewhere. For example, this part of the plan is referenced as area 6 and enlarged on sheet A4.

Figure 6-32 Dimensions on a floor plan generally locate the framework of the building, such as the face of these 2x4 studs.

Figure 6-33 All dimensions in this floor plan are to the face of a stud, except for the wall between the closets. It is dimensioned to the centerline of the wall. The cen-terline technique can also be used to locate exterior windows and doors, as seen in this example.

Figure 6-33 All dimensions in this floor plan are to the face of a stud, except for the wall between the closets. It is dimensioned to the centerline of the wall. The cen-terline technique can also be used to locate exterior windows and doors, as seen in this example.

Figure 6-34 Note that the dimensions on this partial floor plan are placed outside of the spaces. The extension lines do not touch the walls, and dark 45-degree tick marks indicate the extent of the dimensions.

Dimensioning Techniques

Dimensions are placed on the floor plan as shown in Figure 6-34. Note that the dimension lines are drafted lighter than wall lines and are generally done as a continuous group or string of numbers along a line. The extension line begins slightly away from the object (a minimum of Vi6 inch or 1.58 mm), never touching it. It extends about V8 inch (3.17 mm) beyond the dimension line. Arrows, dots, or 45-degree tick marks (most common) are used at the extension line and dimension line junction (Figure 6-35). The arrows, dots, or tick marks are drawn with a thicker and/or darker line to make them stand out graphically. The 45-degree tick marks are drawn in a consistent direction. However, some draftspersons slope the tick marks for vertically read dimensions from left to right and horizontally read dimensions from right to left. When using the computer, any of these three graphic symbols (arrows, dots, or ticks) can be called up and consistently inserted for all dimensions.

Dimensioning on a floor plan usually requires two or three continuous dimension lines to locate exterior walls, wall jogs, interior walls, windows, doors, and other elements, as shown in Figure 6-36. Exterior walls of a building are dimensioned outside the floor plan. The outermost dimension line is the overall building dimension. The next dimension line, moving toward the plan, indicates wall locations and centerlines to doors and windows. Other miscellaneous details in the plan (such as minor offsets, jogs, or cabinetry and fixtures) are located on a third dimension line. This hierarchy of line work allows the carpenters and other trades to quickly locate major framing elements and minor details by referring to the appropriate dimension line.

BAR STOOLS

30VS4' SOFA END TABLE

BAR STOOLS

30VS4' SOFA END TABLE

Figure 6-36 Dimensioning on a floor plan is grouped hierarchically, working from the overall dimension of the exterior walls to the smaller components of a building or space, such as wall jogs, interior walls, windows, doors, and other important elements.

Figure 6-35 Dark tick marks at 45 degrees to a dimension's extension line are the most common technique for indicating junction points.

Figure 6-36 Dimensioning on a floor plan is grouped hierarchically, working from the overall dimension of the exterior walls to the smaller components of a building or space, such as wall jogs, interior walls, windows, doors, and other important elements.

Figure 6-38 Floor plans in small residential projects often depict material finishes, such as this tiled floor in the entry, kitchen, breakfast area, and utility room.

Continue reading here: Designation of Materials

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Dimensioning Floor Plans - Construction Drawings

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A floor plan is carefully dimensioned to ensure that items such as walls, columns, doors, windows, openings, stairs, and other particulars are correctly located for construction. Sometimes after a plan is drawn accurately to a scale, its reproduction causes a slight enlargement or reduction of the drawing.

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Previous Next

Features of a Dimension

Dimensions use special lines, arrows, symbols and text. Dimensions make use of dimension lines, extension lines and leader lines. All three line types are drawn continuous and thin.

Leader Lines

A leader line may be terminated in three different ways. Leader lines should be constructed such that there are ...

no crossing leaders.

no excessively long leaders.

no leaders that are parallel to dimension or extension lines.

no leaders that make a small angle with the surface to which it refers.

Arrowheads

Arrowheads are drawn between the extension lines if possible. If space is limited, they may be drawn on the outside.

Types of Dimensions

Dimensions are given in the form of linear distances, angles, and notes.

Linear distances: They are usually arranged horizontally or vertically, but may also be aligned with a particular feature of the part.

Angles: Used to give the angle between two surfaces or features of a part.

Notes: Used to dimension diameters, radii, chamfers, threads, and other features that can not be dimensioned by the other two methods.

Lettering

Lettering should be legible, easy to read, and uniform throughout the drawing. Upper case letters should be used for all lettering unless a lower case is required. The minimum lettering height is 0.12 in (3 mm).

Dimension symbols

Dimensioning symbols replace text. The goal of using dimensioning symbols is to eliminate the need for language translation.

(NOTE: to view the symbols in the table, your browser must support the GDT font.)

Type

Symbol

Diameter

n

Spherical Diameter

Sn

Radius

R

Spherical Radius

SR

Reference Dimension

(8)

Counterbore / Spotface

v

Countersink

w

Number of times or places

X

Depth / Deep

x

Dimension not to scale
10

Square (shape)

o

Arc length

Conical taper

y

Slope

z

Symmetry

i

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Previous Next Dimensions use special lines, arrows, symbols and text. Dimensions make use of dimension lines, extension lines and leader lines. All three line types are drawn continuous and thin. A leader line may be terminated in three different ways. Leader lines should be constructed such that there are ...

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Dimensions and Types of Dimensioning Systems

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Dimensions and Types of Dimensioning Systems

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In this article, we will learn about what is Dimensions and types of Dimensioning systems used in Engineering Drawings.

Dimensions and Dimensioning Systems

A Dimension is a numerical value expressed in appropriate units of measurement and used to define the size, location, orientation, form or other geometric characteristics of a part. In other words, indicating on a drawing, the sizes of the object and the other details essential for its construction and function using lines, numerals, symbols, notes, etc., is called dimensioning.

To construct an object its shape and size must be known. Therefore, an engineering drawing, illustrating the shape, size and relevant details most essential for the construction of the object. The dimensions are given to indicate the sizes of the various features of the object and their location. It is mainly used to know the object size, the name of parts and diameter of the hole etc.

Read Also - 10 Different Types of Lines Used In Engineering Drawing

What you'll learn in this post:

Elements of Dimensioning

Units of Dimensions

Dimensioning common features

Types of Dimensioning Systems

Type of Dimensioning

It includes projection line, leader line, termination of the dimension line, the origin indication, symbols and the dimension itself.

Dimension Line: Dimension line is a continuous thin line. it is indicated by arrowheads, it is drawn parallel to the surface whose length must be indicated.

Projection or Extension Line: A projection line or extension line, it is a thin line. It is drawn perpendicular to the surface which is to be dimensioned. The projection line slightly extends than the dimension line.

Constructions line: A construction line is a thin line drawn to indicate the dimension line. The construction line is extended slightly beyond the point intersection.

Arrowheads: Arrowheads are used to indicate the dimension line. Usually, the arrowhead must include angles of a minimum of 15°. The Arrowhead may be open or close or closed and filled.

Leader or Pointer Lines: These are thin continuous lines drawn from a dimension figure to the feature to which it refers. Leader line is drawn may be 30° or 60° to the bottom of dimensions.

Dimension Figure: These are drawn may be vertical or inclined to indicate the height of the dimension figure.

The dimension unit is millimetre. The unit of the dimension is omitted while writing the dimension fig. and a footnote stating "ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN MM" is written at the prominent place on the drawing sheet.

Dimensioning diameters

Circular features like cylindrical parts like shafts, pipes, rods or any other round shape are always dimensioned by indicating their diameter. Because it is easily measured.

The diameter is indicated by the symbol ∅. The diameters on the circular objects may be indicated in any one of the following ways as shown in fig.

The curved, fillets and round figures are shown in drawings by arcs or circles. The dimensioning is done by giving radii.

The measured radius is indicated by letter R. The dimension line is drawn radial with the arrowhead touching the arc.

When the centre is located by the projection lines, the centre shall be marked by a clear dot and the arrowhead may be reversed.

When the centre of the arc falls outside the drawing limit, the dimension line of the radius should be broken or interrupted according to whether or not it located the centres.

When dimensioning the length of an arc the dimension figure identified by symbol being written above the dimension.

It is a linear distance between any two points of an arc. And it is dimensioned as shown in the figure.

The angles are dimensioned in the same manner as that of linear dimensions.

There are two types of dimensioning systems one is Aligned system and another is Unidirectional system.

In this type of dimensioning systems, Dimensions are placed above the dimension lines which are drawn without any break and written parallel to them.

That they may be read from the bottom or any other side of the drawing sheet. Dimensions are placed in the middle and on top of the dimension lines.

Unidirectional System

In this type of dimensioning system, dimensions are placed in such a way that they can be read from the bottom edge of the drawing sheet. Dimensions are inserts by breaking the dimension lines at the middle.

Use only one placing of dimension system in one entire drawing. The aligned and unidirectional system should not be mixed together in one drawing.

The different methods, arrangement and the indication of dimension are

Chain Dimensioning

Parallel Dimensioning

Combined Dimensioning

Progressive Dimensioning

Dimensioning by Co-ordinates

Equidistant Dimensioning

Repeated Dimensions

Chain dimensioning is a dimensioning system that dimensions from point to point. Or it is a series of adjacent dimensions are arranged in one horizontal row. When chain dimensioning is used the location of one feature is based on the location of the previous feature from which it is dimensioned.

Chain dimensioning is used when it is important that two features are located at a certain distance from each other. For example, Two fixed holes with two fixed pins may require a certain distance from each other to draw chain dimensions.

Parallel Dimensioning

When the number of dimensions is measured in the same direction from a common surface or line. The method of indicating all the dimensions from the same feature is called parallel dimensioning. The dimension lines are parallel to each other and equally spaced.

Combined Dimensioning

In this method, both the chain and parallel dimensions are used in the same drawing.

Progressive Dimensioning

This method is adopted when dimension has to be established from a particular datum. The overall dimensions are placed outside the smaller dimensions this dimension is showed by the common reference line.

Dimensioning by Coordinates

Dimensioning by a coordinate table can be used in place of other dimensioning styles. This can make drawing easier to read, this method is done when a number of holes of different sizes have to be dimensioned.

Equidistant Dimensioning

The dimensioning simplified by given the product of the number of spacing and the dimension value. A point is said to be equidistant from a set of objects if the distance becomes that points and each object in the set are equal.

When certain features or elements of the same size are repeated a number of times on drawing, to avoid repetition of the same dimension everywhere, the product of a number of repeated features and the dimensions value may be indicated only at one such feature.

Conclusion

Dimensions are very important in the engineering field and it is the most useful skill in an industry that will help you to read any type of engineering drawing without any confusion. Learning and understanding of how dimensions are mentioned are very easy if you focus on learning.
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References: https://www.enggwave.com/dimensioning-arrangements

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Dimensions and Types of Dimensioning System | How They Used?

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In this article, we will learn about what is Dimensions and types of Dimensioning systems used in Engineering Drawings. A Dimension is a numerical value expressed in appropriate units of measurement and used to define the size, location, orientation, form or other geometric characteristics of a part.

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To Align Parallel Linear and Angular Dimensions

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Click Annotate tabDimensions panelAdjust Space. Find Select the dimension that you want to use as the base dimension when equally spacing dimensions. Select the next dimension to align. Continue to select dimensions and then press Enter. Enter 0 and press Enter

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Making a simple floor plan in AutoCAD: Part 1 of 3

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By Bill Schmalz, FAIA, CSI, LEED AP

Today's architectural interns don't have it easy. Compared to when I entered the profession, they have to know a lot more stuff-and a lot of different kinds of stuff. For one thing, they have to learn 40 years of architectural history that I didn't (because it hadn't happened yet). And they have to know about accessible design, sustainable design, and resilient design-all of which we should have been paying attention to 40 years ago but mostly weren't. And then there's the technology. Just the number of software programs that interns need to master is daunting: Revit, AutoCAD, Word, Excel, 3D Studio Max, PowerPoint, Photoshop, InDesign, Grasshopper, Rhino, Ladybug, Octopus, DungBeetle, and goodness knows what else [1]. Do you know the number of programs I had to know? Exactly zero. With all this additional knowledge they need, it's understandable that a few things that used to be considered basic skills might fall into a crack in the Sidewalk of Experience. Things such as dimensioning.

Dimensioning, like any skill, is taught-not (unfortunately) in schools but in practice, with seasoned veterans showing interns the few tips needed to master the skill. Good dimensioning isn't hard, not like, say, mastering Revit. All it takes to dimension well is a desire to create clean and clear drawings, and a few simple tips. I can't provide the desire, but I can offer the following tips. [2]
Start with Column Lines
Column center lines are the starting points for all strings of dimensions [3]. You should be able to trace every dimension to its closest column line. (For renovation or tenant improvement projects where column lines don't exist or can't be precisely located, used fixed elements, such as faces of existing walls, as the starting points for dimensions.)
Location of Plan Dimensions
Keep dimensions of column lines and exterior building elements, such as piers and window openings, outside the floor plan, while interior dimensions should be located inside the floor plan. This prevents confusion and clutter. Place the column line dimension strings along the top and the right-hand sides of the sheet, where they can be most easily found and read.
Interior Plan Dimensions
No interior dimension should be longer than half the column bay that it's in. This makes sense, since every interior dimension should be tied to its closest column line. If you have an interior dimension longer than half its column bay, then you're probably dimensioning the wrong thing.

Don't dimension the clear widths of rooms unless they're important. In most cases, they aren't, so just locate one face of each partition to its nearest column line. Two cases where clear widths are often critical: (1) means of egress (e.g., stairs and corridors), which are governed by building codes; and (2) toilet rooms, where accessibility dimensions are governed by ADAAG or building codes. In those cases, make sure you dimension to the face of partition finishes; otherwise, the clear dimension could be as much as an inch less than intended (and the room won't meet the required clear width).
Construction Tolerances
Every aspect of construction is governed by tolerances and degrees of precision. Work built in a shop under controlled conditions, such as millwork, can be built with considerable precision, while work built on site, under whatever conditions are prevailing at the time of construction, can be built much less precisely. When we dimension, we have to allow for these construction tolerances or our drawings won't be buildable.

Most floor plan dimensions should be to the nearest half inch, and on rare occasions to the nearest quarter inch, but never smaller. There are two reasons for this:

1. Most important dimensions, the ones that really matter, are nice round numbers, usually to the nearest inch. For example, most code-related dimensions, such as minimum corridor, stair, and door widths, are to the nearest inch. Things that require dimensions more precise than half an inch are probably not the things you should be dimensioning.

2. Industry-standard construction tolerances dictate the appropriate precision of dimensions. Dimensioning a partition at, say, 1'-5 5/8" from a column line is not achievable without requiring-and paying for-better-than-industry-standard tolerances. Owners won't be willing to pay for such precision unless there's a damn good reason for it. Here are some common industry standards for construction tolerances [4]:

Concrete columns and shear walls: +/- 1" in plan

Ten-foot-wide precast panels: +/- 1/8"

20- to 40-foot-wide precast panels: +/- 1/4"

Gypsum board partitions in plan: +/- 1/4"

What this means is the face of a concrete column can be an inch in either direction from where you think it should be. Dimensioning columns even to half an inch is probably asking for unachievable precision.

Speaking of precision, don't let Revit tell you what a dimension should be. Don't get me wrong: I think Revit is a wonderful modeling software that does amazing things. But when it comes to dimensioning, it doesn't know anything about tolerances and precision except what you tell it. It thinks nothing of providing dimensions to the nearest 256th of an inch (0.004 inches), which is roughly the thickness of two sheets of standard bond paper. Such precision may be appropriate for aeronautics, but not for construction work. But avoid setting a BIM dimension style that automatically rounds your dimensions to, say, the nearest inch. Overly large rounding can hide fractional dimensions that may be appropriate, or allow a string of hidden fractional dimensions accumulate into a significant dimensional error.
Open vs. Closed Dimensions
When a dimension string specifies the dimensions of everything between two known points (such as two column lines), that's called a closed dimension string. An open string, on the other hand, leaves at least one dimension in the string unspecified (or "open"). Open dimension strings are usually preferred, and the reason is tied to construction tolerances. Let's say we're dimensioning between two concrete columns. From our discussion of construction tolerances, we know that the concrete columns can be as much as two inches closer to each other than our drawing shows. Where will those two inches come from in our dimension string? From the unspecified open dimension, which should be the dimension string's least critical dimension.
Dimension Things Once
The purpose of dimensioning, like every other aspect of the construction drawings, is to give the contractor just enough information to build the project, and-ideally-not a bit more than that. In the case of dimensions, every element of a floor plan should be locatable through two strings of dimensions (one for each direction), but no more. When dimensioning, think minimalist. Every dimension should serve a purpose, and no other dimension should be serving the same purpose.

Don't dimension things that are dimensioned elsewhere, such as in enlarged plans or in schedules that identify partition thicknesses and door and window widths. Similarly, don't repeat dimensions from details, such as the widths of column enclosures.
Elegance Matters
Even a plan that follows all the above tips can still look ugly and messy. Thus, the final step in creating well-dimensioned plans is organizing the dimension strings so they elegantly provide information without cluttering the drawing. Provide all the necessary dimensions in the fewest possible number of strings and avoid scattering the strings randomly throughout the plan. Make the plan drawing look good as well as be informative.
Frequently Asked Questions Q: Why do we drive on parkways and park on driveways?
A: I meant frequently asked questions about dimensioning.
Q: Oh, okay. At each end of a dimension, should you use little arrows, or diagonal slashes, or dots?
A: I don't care. Just be consistent. If your firm has a standard, always follow that.

Q: For dimensions less than one foot, Revit always inserts a "0'-" (e.g., 0'-6") in front the inches. Should I make it stop doing that?

A: The 0'- is annoying and unnecessary, and it takes up valuable space in a dimension string. But it will be hard enough keeping Revit from dimensioning everything to the 256th inch, so you may want to let it win this one. Check if your office standards address this.
Q: What if the dimensioning is in metric? Do these tips still apply?
A: They certainly do. Instead of feet and inches, use millimeters. But don't use the mm symbol. All dimensions are in millimeters unless otherwise noted. For construction tolerances, convert inches to millimeters and round to the nearest 0 or 5mm (so 1/4" is 5mm).
Q: Is there a way to make dimensioning fun?
A: Why, yes, there is. In my drafting days, I used to approach dimensioning as a sort of puzzle. I challenged myself to locate everything that needed to be located with as few dimensions as possible. That meant planning the dimensions by marking a drawing with tentative dimension strings until finding the best solution. It's almost as entertaining as sudoku.
Q: Should all dimensions one foot or longer be written in feet and inches, as in 5'-0" instead of 60"?
A: In general, yes, except-and this is optional-when dimensioning accessibility clearances. If ADAAG or your local accessibility code gives dimensions only in inches, then you might want to do the same. [Looks at clock.] Time for one more question. Yes?
Q: So who cares about all this. Why does it matter if the dimensions are in 256ths of an inch, or the dimension strings are all over the place, or the dimension strings are closed, or the column lines aren't used, or it two dimension strings are locating the same element? If all the dimensions are on the plan somewhere, in some form, then the contractor has all the necessary information. Why waste time making it look clean and elegant?
A: I'm glad you asked that. I have two answers, one practical, the other kind of philosophical. First, the practical answer: A well-dimensioned plan doesn't necessarily take more time than a messily dimensioned one, and is less likely to have mistakes. Later, when the project is in construction, if the information isn't clearly presented, the contractor will issue RFIs asking you to clarify all the dimensions that are ambiguous or contradictory; responding to these RFIs will take more time than dimensioning the plan correctly in the first place. And finally, if the dimensions are in 256ths of an inch, the contractors will laugh at you.

And now the philosophical answer: I remember reading, around 15 years ago, a story about Richard Meier telling his staff to "make it look like an architect did it." Whatever we may think of Meier now, this advice remains sound. Everything architects produce should look as though it was designed, that someone was thinking while drafting/modeling, and that attention was paid to the details. Even for something as mundane as dimensioning, make it look like an architect did it.

Follow the author on Twitter @bill_schmwil.
Footnotes:
[1] While DungBeetle isn't a real software (you knew that, right?), there is in fact an Australian product called The Dungbeetle. It is-seriously-a device to scoop up horse manure, although I can easily imagine innovative folks using it to scoop up pretty much any kind of manure. It has a large scoop and comes with either a short or a long handle (which, to me, is not nearly long enough). The best part may be the company's logo, which features the smiling face of a happy dung beetle.

[2] While these tips may sound like dogmatic rules, none are unbreakable. You will inevitably encounter situations where not following a tip is the only way to solve a problem.

[3] A dimension string, as I use it in this article, is one or more dimensions along the same straight, continuous line. For example, in the image above, the bottom example is a string of four dimensions: 1'-0 9/16", 5'-1 1/8", 13'-6 245/256", and 8'-0 171/256". Every one of those dimensions, by the way, is awful.

[4] All these industry standards and more can be found in the Handbook of Construction Tolerances by David Ballast. Every architect's office library should have a copy.

Disclaimer: The viewpoints expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and are not necessarily approved by, reflective of or edited by other individuals, groups, or institutions. This article is an expression by the author(s) to generate discussion and interest in this topic.

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By Bill Schmalz, FAIA, CSI, LEED AP Today's architectural interns don't have it easy. Compared to when I entered the profession, they have to know a lot more stuff-and a lot of different kinds of stuff. For one thing, they have to learn 40 years of architectural history that I didn't (because it hadn't happened yet).

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Features of a Dimension

Dimensions use special lines, arrows, symbols and text. Dimensions make use of dimension lines, extension lines and leader lines. All three line types are drawn continuous and thin.

Leader Lines

A leader line may be terminated in three different ways. Leader lines should be constructed such that there are ...

no crossing leaders.

no excessively long leaders.

no leaders that are parallel to dimension or extension lines.

no leaders that make a small angle with the surface to which it refers.

Arrowheads

Arrowheads are drawn between the extension lines if possible. If space is limited, they may be drawn on the outside.

Types of Dimensions

Dimensions are given in the form of linear distances, angles, and notes.

Linear distances: They are usually arranged horizontally or vertically, but may also be aligned with a particular feature of the part.

Angles: Used to give the angle between two surfaces or features of a part.

Notes: Used to dimension diameters, radii, chamfers, threads, and other features that can not be dimensioned by the other two methods.

Lettering

Lettering should be legible, easy to read, and uniform throughout the drawing. Upper case letters should be used for all lettering unless a lower case is required. The minimum lettering height is 0.12 in (3 mm).

Dimension symbols

Dimensioning symbols replace text. The goal of using dimensioning symbols is to eliminate the need for language translation.

(NOTE: to view the symbols in the table, your browser must support the GDT font.)

Type

Symbol

Diameter

n

Spherical Diameter

Sn

Radius

R

Spherical Radius

SR

Reference Dimension

(8)

Counterbore / Spotface

v

Countersink

w

Number of times or places

X

Depth / Deep

x

Dimension not to scale
10

Square (shape)

o

Arc length

Conical taper

y

Slope

z

Symmetry

i

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Previous Next Dimensions use special lines, arrows, symbols and text. Dimensions make use of dimension lines, extension lines and leader lines. All three line types are drawn continuous and thin. A leader line may be terminated in three different ways. Leader lines should be constructed such that there are ...

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What is a Floor Plan?

A floor plan is a scaled diagram of a room or building viewed from above. The floor plan may depict an entire building, one floor of a building, or a single room. It may also include measurements, furniture, appliances, or anything else necessary to the purpose of the plan.

Floor plans are useful to help design furniture layout, wiring systems, and much more. They're also a valuable tool for real estate agents and leasing companies in helping sell or rent out a space.

The Importance of Floor Plan Design

Floor plans are essential when designing and building a home. A good floor plan can increase the enjoyment of the home by creating a nice flow between spaces and can even increase its resale value.

What are the key characteristics of a good floor plan when designing your house?

Versatile and flexible. Make sure in the future an office can easily be turned into a child's bedroom whether for your family or a future buyer's.

Ideal room layout. Make sure bedrooms are far from entertaining spaces. Bathrooms shouldn't face common entertainment spaces like dining rooms or living rooms. Most people will like if the kitchen opens to the dining or living rooms so whoever is cooking can still interact with guests or keep an eye on the kids playing.

Size matters. Whenever designing any room or hallway, think about how many people will be in that space at one time. Do they have room to move around? Is there room for furniture to accommodate all the planned activities?

Fits your priorities and lifestyle. If entertaining is important, make sure there's a good flow from the kitchen to an outside space and living room. If you work from home, make sure your office gets ideal light and is perhaps in a quiet location. When you do laundry, is it ok if you have to climb three floors to get from your master bedroom to the laundry room?

Find the balance between architectural details and practical considerations. Think about the safety of kids, cleaning, heating and cooling bill before falling in love with some majestic staircase or floor to ceiling windows.

Read some tips for creating perfect floor plans.

Marketing and communicating with floor plans

Floor plans are also key in communicating the flow of your space to potential buyers or renters.

Rightmove released a study in 2013 that suggests that real estate buyers consider floor plans not just nice to have, but essential when looking at properties. One in five said they would ignore a property without a floor plan. They also rated floor plans more important than photos and the description of the property. On the flip side, when sellers consider hiring a real estate agent, Rightmove found that 42% wouldn't hire an agent that didn't offer a floor plan.

Adding a floor plan to a real estate listing can increase click-throughs from buyers by 52%.

You can also use a floor plan to communicate with contractors and vendors about an upcoming remodeling project.

How to Draw a Floor Plan

There are a few basic steps to creating a floor plan:

Choose an area. Determine the area to be drawn. If the building already exists, decide how much (a room, a floor, or the entire building) of it to draw. If the building does not yet exist, brainstorm designs based on the size and shape of the location on which to build.

Take measurements. If the building exists, measure the walls, doors, and pertinent furniture so that the floor plan will be accurate. If the layout is being created for an entirely new area, be sure that the total area will fit where it is to be built. It is advisable to examine buildings built in similar areas to use as an estimate for this floor plan. Learn more about how to measure and draw your floor plan to scale.

Draw walls. Add walls for each room of the building, taking care to draw them to scale.

Add architectural features. Begin adding features to the space by including the unchangeable things, like the doors and windows, as well as the refrigerator, dishwasher, dryer, and other important appliances that must be placed in a specific location.

Add furniture. Add furniture if the floor plan calls for it.

Read SmartDraw's comprehensive guide to drawing floor plans.

Floor Plan Examples

The best way to understand floor plans is to look at some examples of floor plans.

Click on any of these floor plans included in SmartDraw and edit them:
Browse SmartDraw's entire collection of floor plan examples and templates

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A floor plan is a scaled diagram of a room or building viewed from above. The floor plan may depict an entire building, one floor of a building, or a single room. It may also include measurements, furniture, appliances, or anything else necessary to the purpose of the plan.

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In this tutorial, you will learn how to create a simple floor plan. This will allow you to conceptualize and communicate the overhead dimensions and layouts of your designs.

Prerequisites

If you haven't already, learn these commands before taking the tutorial:

Use dline to create a double line using straight line segments and arcs.

Use rectang to create a rectangular polyline.

Draw internal walls

1. There is no double-line tool on the ribbon, so enter DLINE and press Enter to start the command.

2. Type w and press space for the Width option. Enter 4 to specify a width of 4" for the interior walls.

3. Right-click and select Osnap Overrides, then select Nearest.

4. Click to specify a point on the inside rectangle of the wall on the East side.

5. Click to specify a point inside the building.

6. Right-click and select Osnap Overrides, then select Perpendicular.

7. Click on the inside of the South outer wall. Press Enter to escape the dline command.

Note: The dline command is available only in AutoCAD LT. If you are following these steps in AutoCAD, use mline instead.

Dimension the window

1. Dimension. In the ribbon, in the Annotation pane, click Dimension.

2. Place the dimension. Specify both sides of the window by clicking on the outside edges with your mouse, then dragging away from the wall.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, you learned how to create a simple floor plan in AutoCAD LT.

Now you can:

Draw external walls

Draw internal walls

Draw a simple window

Annotate with Dimensions

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In this tutorial, you will learn how to create a simple floor plan. This will allow you to conceptualize and communicate the overhead dimensions and layouts of your designs. Prerequisites If you haven't already, learn these commands before taking the tutorial: Use dline to create a double line using straight line segments and arcs.

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How to Measure and Draw a Floor Plan to Scale

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Learn how to determine the level of accuracy required for your floor plan and read tips on how to measure an area properly.

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Kobi

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You can create dimensions that are parallel to the locations or objects that you specify.

In aligned dimensions, the dimension line is parallel to the extension line origins. The illustration shows two examples of aligned dimensioning. The object is selected (1), and the location of the aligned dimension is specified (2). The extension lines are drawn automatically.

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You can create dimensions that are parallel to the locations or objects that you specify. In aligned dimensions, the dimension line is parallel to the extension line origins. The illustration shows two examples of aligned dimensioning. The object is selected (1), and the location of the aligned dimension is specified (2).

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A floor plan is carefully dimensioned to ensure that items such as walls, columns, doors, windows, openings, stairs, and other particulars are correctly located for construction. Sometimes after a plan is drawn accurately to a scale, its reproduction causes a slight enlargement or reduction of the drawing. In such cases, the floor plan is slightly out of true scale, but this is acceptable because the written dimensions are the controlling factors. In fact, most designers add a note on the drawing that says, "do not scale drawing, follow written dimensions."

Generally, elements such as walls are dimensioned to the frame (Figure 6-32), as the builder first erects this and then adds the finishes to it. This dimensioning technique gives the exact location of the studs, columns, and beams and is generally placed to the face of these. In some cases, however, the centerline of the wall might be located and dimensioned, as illustrated in Figure 6-33.

Figure 6-31 A portion of a floor plan can be keyed with a symbol to a larger, more detailed plan that is drawn elsewhere. For example, this part of the plan is referenced as area 6 and enlarged on sheet A4.

Figure 6-32 Dimensions on a floor plan generally locate the framework of the building, such as the face of these 2x4 studs.

As noted in Chapter 5, dimensioning is done in a hierarchical manner. Buildings, structural framework, rooms, and fixtures are dimensioned in decreasing size order. The actual number of dimensions on a plan is dependent upon how much latitude the designer affords the contractor. A very detailed and dimensioned plan gives the builder little room for deviation from the original design. However, if only a few key dimensions are shown, the builder is trusted to determine exact locations of interior components. A good guideline for dimensioning falls somewhere between these two approaches. An overdimensioned plan allows the builder little freedom to make field adjustments or substitute cost-saving techniques. However, too few dimensions can produce a lot of guesswork and increase the chances for error in the field and in coordination between subcontractors.

Figure 6-31 A portion of a floor plan can be keyed with a symbol to a larger, more detailed plan that is drawn elsewhere. For example, this part of the plan is referenced as area 6 and enlarged on sheet A4.

Figure 6-32 Dimensions on a floor plan generally locate the framework of the building, such as the face of these 2x4 studs.

Figure 6-33 All dimensions in this floor plan are to the face of a stud, except for the wall between the closets. It is dimensioned to the centerline of the wall. The cen-terline technique can also be used to locate exterior windows and doors, as seen in this example.

Figure 6-33 All dimensions in this floor plan are to the face of a stud, except for the wall between the closets. It is dimensioned to the centerline of the wall. The cen-terline technique can also be used to locate exterior windows and doors, as seen in this example.

Figure 6-34 Note that the dimensions on this partial floor plan are placed outside of the spaces. The extension lines do not touch the walls, and dark 45-degree tick marks indicate the extent of the dimensions.

Dimensioning Techniques

Dimensions are placed on the floor plan as shown in Figure 6-34. Note that the dimension lines are drafted lighter than wall lines and are generally done as a continuous group or string of numbers along a line. The extension line begins slightly away from the object (a minimum of Vi6 inch or 1.58 mm), never touching it. It extends about V8 inch (3.17 mm) beyond the dimension line. Arrows, dots, or 45-degree tick marks (most common) are used at the extension line and dimension line junction (Figure 6-35). The arrows, dots, or tick marks are drawn with a thicker and/or darker line to make them stand out graphically. The 45-degree tick marks are drawn in a consistent direction. However, some draftspersons slope the tick marks for vertically read dimensions from left to right and horizontally read dimensions from right to left. When using the computer, any of these three graphic symbols (arrows, dots, or ticks) can be called up and consistently inserted for all dimensions.

Dimensioning on a floor plan usually requires two or three continuous dimension lines to locate exterior walls, wall jogs, interior walls, windows, doors, and other elements, as shown in Figure 6-36. Exterior walls of a building are dimensioned outside the floor plan. The outermost dimension line is the overall building dimension. The next dimension line, moving toward the plan, indicates wall locations and centerlines to doors and windows. Other miscellaneous details in the plan (such as minor offsets, jogs, or cabinetry and fixtures) are located on a third dimension line. This hierarchy of line work allows the carpenters and other trades to quickly locate major framing elements and minor details by referring to the appropriate dimension line.

BAR STOOLS

30VS4' SOFA END TABLE

BAR STOOLS

30VS4' SOFA END TABLE

Figure 6-36 Dimensioning on a floor plan is grouped hierarchically, working from the overall dimension of the exterior walls to the smaller components of a building or space, such as wall jogs, interior walls, windows, doors, and other important elements.

Figure 6-35 Dark tick marks at 45 degrees to a dimension's extension line are the most common technique for indicating junction points.

Figure 6-36 Dimensioning on a floor plan is grouped hierarchically, working from the overall dimension of the exterior walls to the smaller components of a building or space, such as wall jogs, interior walls, windows, doors, and other important elements.

Figure 6-38 Floor plans in small residential projects often depict material finishes, such as this tiled floor in the entry, kitchen, breakfast area, and utility room.

Continue reading here: Designation of Materials

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Dimensioning Floor Plans - Construction Drawings

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A floor plan is carefully dimensioned to ensure that items such as walls, columns, doors, windows, openings, stairs, and other particulars are correctly located for construction. Sometimes after a plan is drawn accurately to a scale, its reproduction causes a slight enlargement or reduction of the drawing.

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Kobi

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In this article, we will learn about what is Dimensions and types of Dimensioning systems used in Engineering Drawings.

Dimensions and Dimensioning Systems

A Dimension is a numerical value expressed in appropriate units of measurement and used to define the size, location, orientation, form or other geometric characteristics of a part. In other words, indicating on a drawing, the sizes of the object and the other details essential for its construction and function using lines, numerals, symbols, notes, etc., is called dimensioning.

To construct an object its shape and size must be known. Therefore, an engineering drawing, illustrating the shape, size and relevant details most essential for the construction of the object. The dimensions are given to indicate the sizes of the various features of the object and their location. It is mainly used to know the object size, the name of parts and diameter of the hole etc.

Read Also - 10 Different Types of Lines Used In Engineering Drawing

What you'll learn in this post:

Elements of Dimensioning

Units of Dimensions

Dimensioning common features

Types of Dimensioning Systems

Type of Dimensioning

It includes projection line, leader line, termination of the dimension line, the origin indication, symbols and the dimension itself.

Dimension Line: Dimension line is a continuous thin line. it is indicated by arrowheads, it is drawn parallel to the surface whose length must be indicated.

Projection or Extension Line: A projection line or extension line, it is a thin line. It is drawn perpendicular to the surface which is to be dimensioned. The projection line slightly extends than the dimension line.

Constructions line: A construction line is a thin line drawn to indicate the dimension line. The construction line is extended slightly beyond the point intersection.

Arrowheads: Arrowheads are used to indicate the dimension line. Usually, the arrowhead must include angles of a minimum of 15°. The Arrowhead may be open or close or closed and filled.

Leader or Pointer Lines: These are thin continuous lines drawn from a dimension figure to the feature to which it refers. Leader line is drawn may be 30° or 60° to the bottom of dimensions.

Dimension Figure: These are drawn may be vertical or inclined to indicate the height of the dimension figure.

The dimension unit is millimetre. The unit of the dimension is omitted while writing the dimension fig. and a footnote stating "ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN MM" is written at the prominent place on the drawing sheet.

Dimensioning diameters

Circular features like cylindrical parts like shafts, pipes, rods or any other round shape are always dimensioned by indicating their diameter. Because it is easily measured.

The diameter is indicated by the symbol ∅. The diameters on the circular objects may be indicated in any one of the following ways as shown in fig.

The curved, fillets and round figures are shown in drawings by arcs or circles. The dimensioning is done by giving radii.

The measured radius is indicated by letter R. The dimension line is drawn radial with the arrowhead touching the arc.

When the centre is located by the projection lines, the centre shall be marked by a clear dot and the arrowhead may be reversed.

When the centre of the arc falls outside the drawing limit, the dimension line of the radius should be broken or interrupted according to whether or not it located the centres.

When dimensioning the length of an arc the dimension figure identified by symbol being written above the dimension.

It is a linear distance between any two points of an arc. And it is dimensioned as shown in the figure.

The angles are dimensioned in the same manner as that of linear dimensions.

There are two types of dimensioning systems one is Aligned system and another is Unidirectional system.

In this type of dimensioning systems, Dimensions are placed above the dimension lines which are drawn without any break and written parallel to them.

That they may be read from the bottom or any other side of the drawing sheet. Dimensions are placed in the middle and on top of the dimension lines.

Unidirectional System

In this type of dimensioning system, dimensions are placed in such a way that they can be read from the bottom edge of the drawing sheet. Dimensions are inserts by breaking the dimension lines at the middle.

Use only one placing of dimension system in one entire drawing. The aligned and unidirectional system should not be mixed together in one drawing.

The different methods, arrangement and the indication of dimension are

Chain Dimensioning

Parallel Dimensioning

Combined Dimensioning

Progressive Dimensioning

Dimensioning by Co-ordinates

Equidistant Dimensioning

Repeated Dimensions

Chain dimensioning is a dimensioning system that dimensions from point to point. Or it is a series of adjacent dimensions are arranged in one horizontal row. When chain dimensioning is used the location of one feature is based on the location of the previous feature from which it is dimensioned.

Chain dimensioning is used when it is important that two features are located at a certain distance from each other. For example, Two fixed holes with two fixed pins may require a certain distance from each other to draw chain dimensions.

Parallel Dimensioning

When the number of dimensions is measured in the same direction from a common surface or line. The method of indicating all the dimensions from the same feature is called parallel dimensioning. The dimension lines are parallel to each other and equally spaced.

Combined Dimensioning

In this method, both the chain and parallel dimensions are used in the same drawing.

Progressive Dimensioning

This method is adopted when dimension has to be established from a particular datum. The overall dimensions are placed outside the smaller dimensions this dimension is showed by the common reference line.

Dimensioning by Coordinates

Dimensioning by a coordinate table can be used in place of other dimensioning styles. This can make drawing easier to read, this method is done when a number of holes of different sizes have to be dimensioned.

Equidistant Dimensioning

The dimensioning simplified by given the product of the number of spacing and the dimension value. A point is said to be equidistant from a set of objects if the distance becomes that points and each object in the set are equal.

When certain features or elements of the same size are repeated a number of times on drawing, to avoid repetition of the same dimension everywhere, the product of a number of repeated features and the dimensions value may be indicated only at one such feature.

Conclusion

Dimensions are very important in the engineering field and it is the most useful skill in an industry that will help you to read any type of engineering drawing without any confusion. Learning and understanding of how dimensions are mentioned are very easy if you focus on learning.
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Dimensions and Types of Dimensioning System | How They Used?

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In this article, we will learn about what is Dimensions and types of Dimensioning systems used in Engineering Drawings. A Dimension is a numerical value expressed in appropriate units of measurement and used to define the size, location, orientation, form or other geometric characteristics of a part.

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In this article, we will learn about what is Dimensions and types of Dimensioning systems used in Engineering Drawings.

Dimensions and Dimensioning Systems

A Dimension is a numerical value expressed in appropriate units of measurement and used to define the size, location, orientation, form or other geometric characteristics of a part. In other words, indicating on a drawing, the sizes of the object and the other details essential for its construction and function using lines, numerals, symbols, notes, etc., is called dimensioning.

To construct an object its shape and size must be known. Therefore, an engineering drawing, illustrating the shape, size and relevant details most essential for the construction of the object. The dimensions are given to indicate the sizes of the various features of the object and their location. It is mainly used to know the object size, the name of parts and diameter of the hole etc.

Read Also - 10 Different Types of Lines Used In Engineering Drawing

What you'll learn in this post:

Elements of Dimensioning

Units of Dimensions

Dimensioning common features

Types of Dimensioning Systems

Type of Dimensioning

It includes projection line, leader line, termination of the dimension line, the origin indication, symbols and the dimension itself.

Dimension Line: Dimension line is a continuous thin line. it is indicated by arrowheads, it is drawn parallel to the surface whose length must be indicated.

Projection or Extension Line: A projection line or extension line, it is a thin line. It is drawn perpendicular to the surface which is to be dimensioned. The projection line slightly extends than the dimension line.

Constructions line: A construction line is a thin line drawn to indicate the dimension line. The construction line is extended slightly beyond the point intersection.

Arrowheads: Arrowheads are used to indicate the dimension line. Usually, the arrowhead must include angles of a minimum of 15°. The Arrowhead may be open or close or closed and filled.

Leader or Pointer Lines: These are thin continuous lines drawn from a dimension figure to the feature to which it refers. Leader line is drawn may be 30° or 60° to the bottom of dimensions.

Dimension Figure: These are drawn may be vertical or inclined to indicate the height of the dimension figure.

The dimension unit is millimetre. The unit of the dimension is omitted while writing the dimension fig. and a footnote stating "ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN MM" is written at the prominent place on the drawing sheet.

Dimensioning diameters

Circular features like cylindrical parts like shafts, pipes, rods or any other round shape are always dimensioned by indicating their diameter. Because it is easily measured.

The diameter is indicated by the symbol ∅. The diameters on the circular objects may be indicated in any one of the following ways as shown in fig.

The curved, fillets and round figures are shown in drawings by arcs or circles. The dimensioning is done by giving radii.

The measured radius is indicated by letter R. The dimension line is drawn radial with the arrowhead touching the arc.

When the centre is located by the projection lines, the centre shall be marked by a clear dot and the arrowhead may be reversed.

When the centre of the arc falls outside the drawing limit, the dimension line of the radius should be broken or interrupted according to whether or not it located the centres.

When dimensioning the length of an arc the dimension figure identified by symbol being written above the dimension.

It is a linear distance between any two points of an arc. And it is dimensioned as shown in the figure.

The angles are dimensioned in the same manner as that of linear dimensions.

There are two types of dimensioning systems one is Aligned system and another is Unidirectional system.

In this type of dimensioning systems, Dimensions are placed above the dimension lines which are drawn without any break and written parallel to them.

That they may be read from the bottom or any other side of the drawing sheet. Dimensions are placed in the middle and on top of the dimension lines.

Unidirectional System

In this type of dimensioning system, dimensions are placed in such a way that they can be read from the bottom edge of the drawing sheet. Dimensions are inserts by breaking the dimension lines at the middle.

Use only one placing of dimension system in one entire drawing. The aligned and unidirectional system should not be mixed together in one drawing.

The different methods, arrangement and the indication of dimension are

Chain Dimensioning

Parallel Dimensioning

Combined Dimensioning

Progressive Dimensioning

Dimensioning by Co-ordinates

Equidistant Dimensioning

Repeated Dimensions

Chain dimensioning is a dimensioning system that dimensions from point to point. Or it is a series of adjacent dimensions are arranged in one horizontal row. When chain dimensioning is used the location of one feature is based on the location of the previous feature from which it is dimensioned.

Chain dimensioning is used when it is important that two features are located at a certain distance from each other. For example, Two fixed holes with two fixed pins may require a certain distance from each other to draw chain dimensions.

Parallel Dimensioning

When the number of dimensions is measured in the same direction from a common surface or line. The method of indicating all the dimensions from the same feature is called parallel dimensioning. The dimension lines are parallel to each other and equally spaced.

Combined Dimensioning

In this method, both the chain and parallel dimensions are used in the same drawing.

Progressive Dimensioning

This method is adopted when dimension has to be established from a particular datum. The overall dimensions are placed outside the smaller dimensions this dimension is showed by the common reference line.

Dimensioning by Coordinates

Dimensioning by a coordinate table can be used in place of other dimensioning styles. This can make drawing easier to read, this method is done when a number of holes of different sizes have to be dimensioned.

Equidistant Dimensioning

The dimensioning simplified by given the product of the number of spacing and the dimension value. A point is said to be equidistant from a set of objects if the distance becomes that points and each object in the set are equal.

When certain features or elements of the same size are repeated a number of times on drawing, to avoid repetition of the same dimension everywhere, the product of a number of repeated features and the dimensions value may be indicated only at one such feature.

Conclusion

Dimensions are very important in the engineering field and it is the most useful skill in an industry that will help you to read any type of engineering drawing without any confusion. Learning and understanding of how dimensions are mentioned are very easy if you focus on learning.
Download PDF of this article
That's it, thanks for reading. hey if you like our article on "dimensions and types of the dimensioning system" please share with your friends. Have any questions about this topic leave a comment I'll respond to every single one.

Read more on this blog:

References: https://www.enggwave.com/dimensioning-arrangements

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Dimensions and Types of Dimensioning System | How They Used?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
In this article, we will learn about what is Dimensions and types of Dimensioning systems used in Engineering Drawings. A Dimension is a numerical value expressed in appropriate units of measurement and used to define the size, location, orientation, form or other geometric characteristics of a part.