AutoCAD

How to Update Dimensions in AutoCAD 2019?

Updating Dimensions in AutoCAD 2019

Accessing the Dimension Style Manager

To initiate the process of modifying dimensions in AutoCAD 2019, the first step is to access the Dimension Style Manager. This can be accomplished by using the command DIMSTY in the command line. Once the Dimension Style Manager window opens, you will see a list of available dimension styles.

Selecting and Modifying a Dimension Style

  1. In the list displayed, identify and select the dimension style that you wish to alter.
  2. Click on the Modify button to open the Modify Dimension Style dialog box, where you can make necessary adjustments.

Adjusting Scaling for Dimension Features

  1. Within the Modify Dimension Style dialog, navigate to the Fit tab.
  2. Focus on the section labeled Scale for Dimension Features. Here, you can set the scale factor that suits your project requirements.
  3. After making your adjustments, click on OK to save the changes you have made.

Exiting the Dimension Style Manager

To return to your drawing environment, simply click Close in the Dimension Style Manager. Your modifications will now be applied to the dimensions associated with the selected style.


Altering the Placement of Dimension Text

If you need to reposition dimension text manually, AutoCAD allows for grip editing. This is an intuitive process:

  1. Click directly on the dimension you wish to adjust.
  2. Locate and click on one of the grips (small squares or circles) that appear.
  3. Drag the grip to a new location to reposition the dimension text according to your needs.

Showing Dimensions in Desired Units

To ensure dimensions are displayed correctly:

  1. Open the Dimension Style Manager (using DIMSTY).
  2. Select the appropriate style and click Modify.
  3. Navigate to the Primary Units tab, where you can change the Unit Format. Choose the format that you need, such as Decimal, Fractional, or Architectural.
  4. Adjust the Precision settings to your preference, and consider adding a suffix (like “ for inches) for clarity.
  5. Click OK to save changes.

Changing Dimension Units to Metric

To convert your dimensions to millimeters:

  1. Go to the Dimension menu and select Style.
  2. In the Dimension Style Manager, create a new style by clicking on New and providing an appropriate name.
  3. On the Primary Units tab, enter “mm” in the Suffix box and set the Scale Factor to 25.4.
  4. Click OK to finish creating this style and apply it as needed.

FAQ

1. How can I check the visibility of my dimensions in AutoCAD?
To verify the visibility, ensure that the layers containing dimensions are turned on. If dimension lines are visible but not the text, it may indicate that the text size is too small for the current scale.

2. Is there a shortcut to quickly access the Linear Dimension tool in AutoCAD?
Yes, you can use the command DLI to quickly initiate the Linear Dimension command without navigating through menus.

3. What should I do if the changes do not appear in my drawing?
If modifications aren’t reflecting, check if you need to regenerate your drawing. Use the command REGEN to refresh the display and apply any recent changes to the dimensions.

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.