What Is Jogged Dimension in AutoCAD?

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The jogged dimension is a commonly used feature in AutoCAD that allows you to create dimensions with breaks or jogs in them. This can be useful in situations where dimensions need to avoid overlapping or conflicting with other elements in a drawing.

How to Create a Jogged Dimension

To create a jogged dimension, follow these steps:

  1. Select the Dimension tool from the AutoCAD toolbar.
  2. Select the objects you want to dimension.
  3. Click on the first point for the dimension line.
  4. Move the cursor to the desired location for the jog and click again.
  5. Continue moving the cursor to set the final position of the dimension line and click once more to complete the jogged dimension.

Note: You can use snaps, object snaps, or specific distances while creating jogged dimensions for more precise placement.

Jogged Dimension Styles

In AutoCAD, you have control over various aspects of jogged dimensions through their styles. You can modify these styles according to your project requirements. Here are some common properties you can adjust:

  • Jog Symbol: The symbol used for indicating a jog in the dimension line, such as a zigzag or break symbol.
  • Jog Size: The length of each segment of the jog symbol.
  • Jog Offset: The distance between each segment of the jog symbol and the dimension line.

Customizing Jogged Dimension Styles

To customize jogged dimension styles, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Dimension Style Manager by typing “DIMSTYLE” in the command line.
  2. In the Dimension Style Manager dialog box, select the desired dimension style or create a new one.
  3. Click on the “Modify” button to edit the selected style.
  4. In the Modify Dimension Style dialog box, navigate to the “Jogged” tab.
  5. Modify the jog symbol, size, offset, and other properties as per your preference.
  6. Click “OK” to apply the changes and exit the dialog boxes.

Jogged Dimensions in Practice

The jogged dimension feature is particularly useful when dimensioning around obstructions or in crowded areas of a drawing. By using jogged dimensions, you can ensure that your dimensions remain clear and readable without overlapping or interfering with other elements such as text, hatches, or other dimensions.

Note: Remember to use jogged dimensions sparingly and only when necessary. Overuse of jogged dimensions can make a drawing appear cluttered and confusing.

Tips for Working with Jogged Dimensions

To make your work with jogged dimensions even more efficient, consider these tips:

  • Use Layers: Assign different layers to your jogged dimensions and other elements. This way, you can easily control their visibility or make adjustments as needed.
  • Group Dimensions: If multiple dimensions relate to a specific feature or object, group them together using appropriate layering techniques for better organization and clarity.
  • Check Scale: Before finalizing your jogged dimensions, check the scale of your drawing to ensure that they are legible and appropriately sized.

With the ability to create jogged dimensions in AutoCAD, you can enhance the readability and clarity of your drawings. By utilizing the jogged dimension feature effectively and customizing its styles, you can produce professional-looking drawings with ease.