AutoCAD

How To Do Auxiliary Views In AutoCAD?

Understanding Auxiliary Views

Auxiliary views serve as a critical tool in technical drawing, particularly when dealing with objects that have inclined surfaces. These views enable the representation of true dimensions and shapes of features that cannot be effectively depicted using standard orthographic projections. An auxiliary view is created by projecting onto a plane that is parallel to the inclined surface of the object, allowing for a clearer understanding of its geometry.

Steps to Create an Auxiliary View in AutoCAD

Creating auxiliary views in AutoCAD consists of a straightforward process. Follow these steps to generate an auxiliary view effectively:

1. Begin with Orthographic Views

Start by having at least two orthographic views of the object prepared on your AutoCAD workspace. These foundational views will provide reference points for the auxiliary projection.

2. Identify the Inclined Surface

Determine which surface of the object requires an auxiliary view. This is typically the surface that is inclined and does not show its true shape in the orthographic views.

3. Set Up Projection Lines

Using the line tool, draw projection lines that are perpendicular (90 degrees) to the inclined surface. These lines will guide the creation of the auxiliary view.

4. Access the Place Views Tab

Navigate to the Place Views tab on the AutoCAD ribbon, and select the Auxiliary panel from the dropdown menu. This action prepares the program for the creation of an auxiliary representation.

5. Select the Parent View

Choose an existing view that will serve as the parent view for the auxiliary projection. This selection is crucial as the auxiliary view will derive its dimensions from this reference.

6. Configure the Auxiliary View Settings

In the Auxiliary View dialog box that appears, adjust the settings such as scale, style of display, and view labeling. You can either customize these or accept the default options provided by AutoCAD.

7. Finalize Your Auxiliary View

Once the settings are configured, confirm the creation of the auxiliary view. Afterward, you can further edit or refine the newly generated view as required.

Types of Auxiliary Views

Understanding the types of auxiliary views is crucial for effective use:

  • Primary Auxiliary Views: These are projected onto a plane perpendicular to one of the main projection planes while being inclined to the other two. They provide essential insights into the true shapes of features on the inclined surface.

  • Secondary Auxiliary Views: Created from a primary auxiliary view, these provide additional perspectives that may be inclined to all three principal projections, offering a more comprehensive understanding of complex shapes.

Situations for Using Auxiliary Views

Auxiliary views are particularly useful when depicting the true shape of surfaces that are not aligned with the standard projection planes. They help in accurately representing components in engineering drawings, especially when the object’s geometry is complex or non-standard.

Types of Auxiliary Planes

Auxiliary planes can be classified into:

  • Auxiliary Vertical Plane (A.V.P): This is perpendicular to the horizontal plane and inclined to the vertical plane.

  • Auxiliary Inclined Plane (A.I.P): Specifically positioned to showcase inclined surfaces accurately.

FAQs

1. What materials are necessary to create auxiliary views in AutoCAD?
You primarily need a computer with AutoCAD installed, alongside a mouse and possibly a digitizing tablet for precise input.

2. Can auxiliary views be created for 3D models in AutoCAD?
Yes, auxiliary views can also be derived from 3D models. The process is similar but requires navigating the three-dimensional aspects of the model.

3. How do I adjust the scale of my auxiliary view after creating it?
Select the auxiliary view, and under the properties panel, you will find options to change the scale as well as other display settings. Adjust these to meet your requirements.

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.