Engineering drawings and measurements

Engineering Drawings

Engineering drawings are a type of technical drawing used to fully and clearly define requirements for engineered items. They help to visualize the design and structure of the product or system being created.
Orthographic projection is a method of projection in which an object is depicted or a surface mapped using parallel lines to project its outline onto a plane.
Isometric drawings are another type of graphical representation of an object, where all three dimensions of the object can be seen in one view. This gives a more realistic view compared to orthographic projections.
An important aspect of engineering drawings is dimensioning, which is the process of adding measurement annotations to a drawing. This includes not only the size but the location of each feature.
Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) is a system for defining and communicating engineering tolerances. It uses symbolic language on engineering drawings and computer-generated three-dimensional solid models.

Measurements in Engineering

In engineering, accurate measurements are critical. They ensure components fit together properly, function correctly, and are safe and reliable.
Common measuring tools in engineering include vernier calipers, micrometers, and gauge blocks. Each of these tools has its own strengths and are suited to measure different parameters.
Calibration is the process of comparing measurements from the device in question to those from a standard device, to guarantee the tool’s accuracy.
Tolerance is the allowable amount of variation in a physically produced item or the precision of a measurement device. It ensures the proper function of assembled parts despite manufacturing variability.

Knowing how to read engineering drawings and taking accurate measurements is fundamental to creating and maintaining engineered products. It’s a communication tool between design and manufacturing, conveying all necessary information to turn a concept into reality.