DraftSight: Coordinate with Ordinate Dimensions

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When drawing designs that are more detailed and require certain measurements, like the location of objects in an interior space, I found that labeling with regular linear dimensions can appear messy and confusing. So as usual, I did some searching through DraftSight’s ribbon and found the Ordinate dimension option, which defines perpendicular distances in relation to the location of the CCS icon, or (0,0).

The Ordinate option is located under the Dimension icon in the Annotations section of the Home tab in the ribbon. When selected, DraftSight prompts you to specify your datum position, which is where you want the base point of your dimension to lie. You’ll then choose your dimension position, which is the location of your distance label.

Keep in mind that its crucial to have one boundary corner of your design positioned and identified at (0,0) in order for your other Ordinate dimensions to be valuable to the readers of your drafts. If you’re unsure how to move your CCS icon, check out my previous blog on the matter.

Likewise, you may notice that when you insert your Ordinate dimensions they have a jog to them. If you dislike the jog, simply turn on your Ortho icon centered at the bottom of your DraftSight window, and your dimensions will be straight.

Lastly, if some of your Ordinate dimensions overlap due to similar heights or widths from the orientation point, just select one overlapping dimension and drag it to create a jog.

I hope this post enlightens you about the functions and benefits of Ordinate Dimensions!

Take a look at the video below to see what they can do!

(0:00 Ordinate Dimensions, 0:23 Jog Ordinate Dimension)

 

Learn more at DraftSight.com!

 

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