Draft tutorial: Difference between revisions

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|Topic= Drafting
|Topic= Drafting
|Level= Beginner
|Level= Beginner
|Time= 20 minutes
|Time= 30 minutes
|Author=[http://freecadweb.org/wiki/index.php?title=User:Drei Drei]
|Author=[http://freecadweb.org/wiki/index.php?title=User:Drei Drei] and vocx
|FCVersion=0.16 or above
|FCVersion=0.19
|Files=[https://forum.freecadweb.org/viewtopic.php?f=36&t=43651 Draft tutorial updated]
}}
}}


== Introduction == <!--T:65-->
== Introduction == <!--T:65-->
This tutorial is meant to introduce the reader to the basic workflow of the [[Draft_Module|Draft Workbench]], which includes the creation of profiles, the use of working planes, and the creation of dimensions, text and annotations. This tutorial uses the notation '''(X, Y, Z)''' to denote the coordinates required to define points in an object.


<!--T:66-->
<!--T:118-->
This tutorial was originally written by Drei, and it was rewritten and illustrated by vocx.
[[Image:Draft_tutorial_result.png|480px]]


== Requirements == <!--T:67-->
<!--T:100-->
This tutorial is meant to introduce the reader to the basic workflow of the [[File:Workbench_Draft.svg|24px]] [[Draft_Workbench|Draft Workbench]].
* FreeCAD version 0.16 or above
* The reader know how to use the '''Data''' and '''View''' tabs to change an element's properties if desired


== Procedure == <!--T:68-->
<!--T:101-->
The reader will practice:
It is compulsory to make sure the '''Draft Snap toolbar''' will be available to use in this tutorial.
* creation of lines, arcs, and polygons
* the use of working planes
* the creation of dimensions, text, and shapestrings
* the creation of a technical drawing

<!--T:102-->
This tutorial uses the notation {{Value|(x, y, z)}} to denote the coordinates required to define points in an object. The default unit is millimeters {{Value|mm}}.

</translate>
[[File:00_Dr01_Draft_Tutorial_final.png|x400px]]
<translate>
<!--T:119-->
{{Caption|Final drawing including various Draft objects.}}

== Setup == <!--T:67-->

<!--T:103-->
1. Open FreeCAD, create a new empty document with {{MenuCommand|File → [[File:Std_New.svg|16px]] [[Std_New|New]]}}.
:1.1. Switch to the [[Draft_Workbench|Draft Workbench]] from the [[Std_Workbench|workbench selector]], or the menu {{MenuCommand|View → Workbench → [[File:Workbench_Draft.svg|16px]] Draft}}.
:1.2. Make sure you understand how to use the [[property_editor|property editor]], particularly the {{MenuCommand|Data}} and {{MenuCommand|View}} tabs to change the properties. When changing properties, you may have to do a {{Button|[[Image:Std_Refresh.svg|16px]] [[Std_Refresh|Std Refresh]]}} action to see the result in the [[3D_view|3D view]].
:1.3. Since the Draft objects are planar shapes, they are better viewed from the top. Use {{Button|[[File:Std_ViewTop.svg|16px]] [[Std_ViewTop|View top]]}} to set the [[3D_view|3D view]].
:1.4. Although it is not used in this tutorial, the Draft grid is helpful to position geometrical elements. Use {{Button|[[File:Draft_SelectPlane.svg|16px]] [[Draft_SelectPlane|SelectPlane]]}} to set both the working plane and the grid, and then show and hide the grid with {{Button|[[File:Draft_ToggleGrid.svg|16px]] [[Draft_ToggleGrid|Toggle grid]]}}.

== Snap toolbar == <!--T:68-->


<!--T:69-->
<!--T:69-->
2. The [[Draft_Snap|Draft Snap toolbar]] is normally activated when you switch to the [[Draft_Workbench|Draft Workbench]].
# Start '''FreeCAD'''
:2.1. To make sure it is always there, go to the [[Draft_Preferences|Draft Preferences]], {{MenuCommand|Edit → Preferences → Draft → Grid and snapping tab}}.
# If you haven't opened a new FreeCAD document (most of the FreeCAD window looks greyed-out), from the pull-down menu click File > New or click the Create A New Document tool [[Image:Document-new.svg|32px]].
# Activate the '''Draft Workbench'''
:2.2. Verify that the '''Show Draft Snap toolbar''' is active.
# Select the '''Edit''' menu
# Click on '''Preferences'''
# Go to '''Draft''' and select the '''Grid and snapping''' tab
# Verify that the '''Show Draft Snap toolbar''' is active


<!--T:70-->
<!--T:70-->
Note that you can change the visibility of the '''Grid''' in this menu, in case you wish to disable it.
You can also change the visibility and properties of the Draft grid in this same window.


=== Using Planes === <!--T:71-->
== Working planes == <!--T:71-->

Planes are used to restrict the behaviour of the Draft tools to a specific plane, avoiding problems with the location of points and curves in complex workpieces.
<!--T:104-->
Planes can reference the axes of the coordinate system '''(XY, YZ, ...)''' or they can use a planar surface in the document as its reference.
Most Draft objects are planar shapes so they are naturally based on a {{Emphasis|working plane}}. A working plane can be one of the main XY, XZ, and YZ global coordinate planes, or it can be a plane that is parallel to them with a positive or negative offset, or it can be a plane defined by the face of a solid object.


<!--T:72-->
<!--T:72-->
# Select [[Image:Draft_SelectPlane.png|32px]] [[Draft_SelectPlane|Set working plane]]. It ca be located within the '''Draft workbench toolbar''' or inside the '''Draft menu''' in the '''Utilities''' division.
3. Press {{Button|[[File:Draft_SelectPlane.svg|16px]] [[Draft_SelectPlane|SelectPlane]]}}, or go to the menu {{MenuCommand|Utilities [[File:Draft_SelectPlane.svg|16px]] [[Draft_SelectPlane|Select plane]]}}, to open the working plane [[task_panel|task panel]].
:3.1. Press {{Button|[[File:Std_ViewTop.svg|16px]] Top (XY)}}.
# Selec the '''XY''' plane


=== Creating Profiles === <!--T:73-->
<!--T:105-->
Before pressing the button, you can also change the value of the offset in millimeters, as well as the grid spacing, the main lines and snapping radius.
The creation of profiles can be done in several ways. Though it is possible to use simple '''arcs''' and '''lines''' to do most of the work, FreeCAD includes several tools to speed up the process.


==== Lines and Arcs ==== <!--T:74-->
== Lines and arcs == <!--T:74-->
# Select [[Image:Draft_Arc.png]] [[Draft_Arc|Arc]].
# Set the '''center''' at '''(0, 0, 0)'''
# Set the '''radius''' to 30 mm
# The '''starting angle''' is 60.0°
# The aperture is 60.0°


<!--T:75-->
<!--T:75-->
4. We will create arcs and lines.
Repeat the same procedure for a second arc with a radius of 25 mm, the other properties remain unchanged.
:4.1. Press {{Button|[[File:Draft_Arc.svg|16px]] [[Draft_Arc|Arc]]}}.

:4.2. Set the {{MenuCommand|Center}} to {{Value|(0, 0, 0)}}, and press {{KEY|Enter}}.
<!--T:76-->
:4.3. Set the {{MenuCommand|Radius}} to {{Value|30 mm}}, and press {{KEY|Enter}}.
We will now close the profile with a couple of lines.
:4.4. Set the {{MenuCommand|Start angle}} to {{Value|60.0°}}, and press {{KEY|Enter}}.
:4.5. Set the {{MenuCommand|Aperture angle}} to {{Value|60.0°}}, and press {{KEY|Enter}}.
:4.6. Repeat the same procedure for a second arc with a radius of {{Value|25 mm}}, the other properties are the same.


<!--T:77-->
<!--T:77-->
5. We will now create a closed profile by tying the arcs with lines.
# Select [[Image:Draft_Line.png]] [[Draft_Line|Line]].
:5.1. Press {{Button|[[File:Draft_Line.svg|16px]] [[Draft_Line|Line]]}}.
# Approach the '''Endpoint''' of either arc. A white point should appear, alongside this icon [[Image:Snap_Endpoint.png|32px]] when your cursor approaches the endpoint.
:5.2. In the [[Draft_Snap|Snap toolbar]] make sure {{Button|[[File:Draft_Snap_Lock.svg|16px]] [[Draft_Snap_Lock|Toggle snap]]}} is active, and only {{Button|[[File:Draft_Snap_Endpoint.svg|16px]] [[Draft_Snap_Endpoint|Endpoint]]}} as well. As you move the pointer onto the arc and close to one of its endpoints, the [[File:Draft_Snap_Endpoint.svg|24px]] [[Draft_Snap_Endpoint|Endpoint]] icon should appear. Also, the target point is emphasized with a large white dot. Click to select this point.
# Select the endpoint of the other arc.
# Repeat for the other side of the arcs.
:5.3. Move the pointer to the closest endpoint of the other arc to tie the two arcs together.
:5.4. Repeat the process for the other side of the arc to close the profile.


</translate>
<!--T:78-->
[[File:01_Dr01_Draft_Arc_profile.png|x400px]]
We now have several curves that detail a profile, however it is still not recognized as a single entity. It is possible to continue working with the elements intact, though in this case we will fuse them into a single object.
<translate>
<!--T:120-->
{{Caption|Closed profile created by two arcs and two lines.}}


<!--T:79-->
== Fusing or compounding == <!--T:107-->

The following actions will alter the way the objects behave, making it hard to edit their properties, so it is best to do any necessary modifications before proceding.
<!--T:78-->
We now have several objects in the [[tree_view|tree view]] that form a closed profile. However, this profile is still composed of disconnected objects; each of them can be edited and moved independently of the others. It is possible to continue working with the elements in this way, but it is also possible to fuse them into a single object.


<!--T:80-->
<!--T:80-->
6a. Note that fusing the objects into a single object will create an object that is no longer parametric, so their properties cannot be modified further.
# Select an arc and a line while pressing the '''CTRL''' key
:6a.1. Select all four objects in the [[tree_view|tree view]], or by holding {{KEY|Ctrl}} and picking them in the [[3D_view|3D view]].
# Click on [[Image:Draft_Upgrade.png]] [[Draft_Upgrade|Upgrade]]
:6a.2. With these objects selected, click on {{Button|[[File:Draft_Upgrade.svg|16px]] [[Draft_Upgrade|Upgrade]]}}.
:6a.3. This will upgrade the four objects into a single {{Value|Wire}}.


<!--T:81-->
<!--T:108-->
6b. If you wish to maintain the parametric nature of the objects you can create a compound instead.
This will fuse both objects into a '''Wire'''. Repeat until the four elements are fused into a single '''Wire'''.
:6b.1. Switch to the [[Image:Workbench_Part.svg|24px]] [[Part_Workbench|Part Workbench]].
:6b.2. With these objects selected, click on {{Button|[[File:Part_Compound.svg|16px]] [[Part_Compound|Part Compound]]}}.


== Rectangles, circles, and polygons == <!--T:82-->


<!--T:109-->
==== Planes, Rectangles and Circles ==== <!--T:82-->
7. We will draw a rectangular frame. (Switch back to the [[Image:Workbench_Draft.svg|24px]] [[Draft_Workbench| Draft Workbench]].)
# Click [[Image:Draft_Rectangle.png]] [[Draft_Rectangle|Rectangle]]
:7.1. Press {{Button|[[File:Draft_Rectangle.svg|16px]] [[Draft_Rectangle|Rectangle]]}}.
# Set the first point on '''(-100, -60, 0)'''. (If Relative appears checked after setting this point un-check it before setting the second point).
:7.2. Enter the values of the first point {{Value|(-100, -60, 0)}}, and press {{KEY|Enter}}.
# Set the second point on '''(140, 90, 0)'''
:7.3. Make sure the {{MenuCommand|Relative}} option is unchecked, as we will use absolute units. You may press {{KEY|R}} in the keyboard to quickly toggle this option on and off.
:7.4. Enter the values for the second point {{Value|(140, 90, 0)}}, and press {{KEY|Enter}}.


<!--T:83-->
<!--T:83-->
A rectangle is created. Go in the [[Property_editor|property editor]] to change its properties. If you don't want the rectangle to create a face, set {{PropertyData|Make Face}} to {{FALSE}}. If you want to make a face, but see only the wires of that object, keep {{PropertyData|Make Face}} to {{TRUE}} but set the {{PropertyView|Display Mode}} to {{Value|Wireframe}}.
The result is a '''Plane'''. Its properties can be modified to remove the '''filling''', by changing its '''Display Mode''' to '''Wireframe'''.


<!--T:84-->
<!--T:84-->
8. We will draw a circle.
# Select [[Image:Draft_Circle.png]]
:8.1. Press {{Button|[[File:Draft_Circle.svg|16px]] [[Draft_Circle|Circle]]}}.
# Set the center to '''(0, 0, 0)'''
:8.2. Enter the values of the center {{Value|(0, 0, 0)}}, and press {{KEY|Enter}}.
# Set the radius to 15 mm
:8.3. Set the radius to {{value|15 mm}}, and press {{KEY|Enter}}.


==== Polygons ==== <!--T:85-->
<!--T:85-->
9. We will draw a regular polygon.
# Select [[Image:Draft_Polygon.png]] [[Draft_Polygon|Polygon]]
:9.1. Press {{Button|[[File:Draft_Polygon.svg|16px]] [[Draft_Polygon|Polygon]]}}.
# The center point is located at '''(0, 0, 0)'''
:9.2. Enter the values of the center {{Value|(0, 0, 0)}}, and press {{KEY|Enter}}.
# Set the number of sides to 6
:9.3. Set the number of sides to {{Value|6}}, and press {{KEY|Enter}}.
# Set the radius to 50 mm
:9.4. Set the radius to {{Value|50 mm}}, and press {{KEY|Enter}}.


==== Arrays ==== <!--T:86-->
<!--T:110-->
Again, you may change the {{PropertyData|Make Face}} and {{PropertyView|Display Mode}} properties in the [[property_editor|property editor]] if you want.
Arrays are used to replicate an object several times in a direction, a revolution axis or along a path.
# Select the '''Wire''' that was previously created
# Click [[Image:Draft_Array.png|32px]] [[Draft_Array|Array]]
# In the '''Data''' tab of the object, change the Array type from '''ortho''' to '''polar'''
# Change '''Number Polar''' from 1 to 3


<!--T:111-->
The rectangle, the circle, the polygon, and most other objects created with the [[Draft_Workbench|Draft Workbench]] share many data and view properties because they are derived from the same base class, [[Part_Part2DObject|Part Part2DObject]].


</translate>
=== Adding Dimensions === <!--T:87-->
[[File:02_Dr01_Draft_Rectangle_circle_polygon.png|x400px]]
Dimensions require a constant use of '''Snapping Constraints''' to properly select the points that one wishes to dimension. The '''Snapping toolbar''' is used to change the possible points that can be selected.
<translate>
<!--T:121-->
{{Caption|Rectangle, circle and polygon added.}}

== Arrays == <!--T:86-->

<!--T:112-->
Arrays are used to replicate an object several times in an orthogonal direction (X, Y, Z), around a revolution axis, or along a path.

<!--T:113-->
10. We will create a polar array.
:10.1. Select the {{Value|Wire}} object that was previously created with the {{Button|[[File:Draft_Upgrade.svg|16px]] [[Draft_Upgrade|Upgrade]]}} tool, or the {{Value|Compound}} created with the {{Button|[[File:Part_Compound.svg|16px]] [[Part_Compound|Part Compound]]}} tool.
:10.2. Press {{Button|[[File:Draft_PolarArray.svg|16px]] [[Draft_PolarArray|PolarArray]]}}.
:10.3. Adjust the polar angle to {{Value|360°}}.
:10.4. Set the number of elements to {{Value|4}}.
:10.5. Enter the values for the center of rotation {{Value|(0, 0, 0)}}, and press {{KEY|Enter}}.

<!--T:116-->
The array object shows copies of the object around the origin.

</translate>
[[File:03_Dr01_Draft_PolarArray.png|x400px]]
<translate>
<!--T:122-->
{{Caption|Polar array of the small profile centered around the origin.}}

== Dimensions == <!--T:87-->

<!--T:117-->
Linear dimensions work best when using the appropriate [[Draft_Snap|Draft Snap]] methods to select points and edges to measure. However, they can also be created by specifying absolute coordinates.


<!--T:88-->
<!--T:88-->
11. Create dimensions for the different objects.
# Select [[Image:Draft_Dimension.png]] [[Draft_Dimension|Dimension]]
:11.1. Press {{Button|[[File:Draft_Dimension.svg|16px]] [[Draft_Dimension|Dimension]]}}.
# Select the first point. This can be either an existing element or specified by coordinates. For this tutorial, the first point will always be '''(0, 0, 0)'''
:11.2. Pick the first point. In this tutorial the first point will always be the origin {{Value|(0, 0, 0)}}.
# Select the second point. Approach the midpoint of the top line of the polygon. A white point should appear alongside this icon [[Image:Snap_Midpoint.png|32px]]
:11.3. In the [[Draft_Snap|Snap toolbar]] make sure {{Button|[[File:Draft_Snap_Lock.svg|16px]] [[Draft_Snap_Lock|Toggle snap]]}} is active, and only {{Button|[[File:Draft_Snap_Midpoint.svg|16px]] [[Draft_Snap_Midpoint|Midpoint]]}} as well. As you move the pointer to the top edge of the polygon, the [[File:Draft_Snap_Midpoint.svg|24px]] [[Draft_Snap_Midpoint|Midpoint]] icon should appear; click to select this point.
# Move the cursor to the desired location of the dimension and click on it.
:11.4. Move the cursor to the right to specify the location of the dimension, then click to set the final position, around {{Value|(100, 20, 0)}}. The dimension will automatically show the length value measured between the two points.
# Change the font size on the '''View''' tab to 6 mm
:11.5. Select the dimension object in the [[tree_view|tree view]], and in the [[Property_editor|property editor]], change {{PropertyView|Font Size}} to {{Value|6 mm}}, set {{PropertyView|Ext Lines}} to {{Value|45 mm}}, and {{PropertyView|Show Unit}} to {{FALSE}}.


<!--T:89-->
<!--T:89-->
12. Repeat the process for the two arcs of the closed profile. The first point of the measurement will still be the origin, and the second point will use the [[File:Draft_Snap_Midpoint.svg|24px]] [[Draft_Snap_Midpoint|Midpoint]] of the arc.
Repeat the process for the arcs and circles.

<!--T:123-->
13. Repeat the process for the circle located in the center. The first point of the measurement will still be the origin. To select the second point make sure {{Button|[[File:Draft_Snap_Lock.svg|16px]] [[Draft_Snap_Lock|Toggle snap]]}} is active, and only {{Button|[[File:Draft_Snap_Angle.svg|16px]] [[Draft_Snap_Angle|Angle]]}} as well. As you move the pointer to the top of the circle, the [[File:Draft_Snap_Angle.svg|24px]] [[Draft_Snap_Angle|Angle]] icon should appear; click to select this point. Then move the cursor to the right, and click to fix the dimension.

<!--T:124-->
Remember to adjust the {{PropertyView|Font Size}}, and other properties to see the dimension correctly.

</translate>
[[File:04_Dr01_Draft_Dimension.png|x400px]]
<translate>
<!--T:125-->
{{Caption|Dimensions that measure the vertical distance from the origin to the top of the circle, arcs, and polygon.}}

== Texts and ShapeStrings == <!--T:90-->

<!--T:91-->
14. Text objects are simple planar figures that are created in the [[3D_view|3D view]] but don't have an actual "[[Shape|shape]]" underneath. This means that they cannot be used in complex operations with shapes like extrusions or boolean operations.
:14.1. Press {{Button|[[File:Draft_Text.svg|16px]] [[Draft_Text|Text]]}}.
:14.2. Select the reference point in the [[3D_view|3D view]]. In the [[Draft_Snap|Snap toolbar]] make sure {{Button|[[File:Draft_Snap_Lock.svg|16px]] [[Draft_Snap_Lock|Toggle snap]]}} is active, and only {{Button|[[File:Draft_Snap_Midpoint.svg|16px]] [[Draft_Snap_Midpoint|Midpoint]]}} as well. Move the pointer to the top edge of the highest arc, so that the [[File:Draft_Snap_Midpoint.svg|24px]] [[Draft_Snap_Midpoint|Midpoint]] icon appears; click to select this point.
:14.3. Enter the desired {{MenuCommand|Text}}, and press {{KEY|Enter}} once to start a new line; add more lines of text as needed.
:14.4. When you are ready to finish with edition, press {{KEY|Enter}} twice.
:14.5. Select the text object in the [[tree_view|tree view]], and in the [[Property_editor|property editor]], change {{PropertyView|Font Size}} to {{Value|6 mm}}, and {{PropertyView|Justification}} to {{Value|Center}}.

<!--T:92-->
15. ShapeString objects are shapes made of primitive wires that follow the lines indicated by a certain font. This means that these objects have a real "[[Shape|shape]]" underneath, and thus can be used in complex operations like extrusions and boolean operations.
:15.1. Press {{Button|[[File:Draft_ShapeString.svg|16px]] [[Draft_ShapeString|ShapeString]]}}.
:15.2. Move the pointer to the desired location in the [[3D_view|3D view]] above the regular polygon, and click once. This will fix the base point for the ShapeString. The coordinates may be entered manually as well, for example, {{Value|(-20, 65, 0)}}.
:15.3. Enter the desired {{MenuCommand|String}}, and choose the desired {{MenuCommand|Height}}.
:15.4. If there is no default font file, you must click on the ellipsis {{Button|...}} to open a dialog window to choose the font location in the system.
:15.5. When a valid font file has been specified, you may proceed to click {{Button|OK}} or press {{KEY|Enter}}.

</translate>
[[File:05_Dr01_Draft_Text_ShapeString.png|x400px]]
<translate>
<!--T:126-->
{{Caption|Text and ShapeString objects added.}}

<!--T:127-->
To extrude letters and engrave them on to solids, see the [[Draft_ShapeString_tutorial|Draft ShapeString tutorial]].

== Creating technical drawings == <!--T:93-->

<!--T:99-->
As it is now, the objects that we have created can be saved, exported to other formats like [[SVG|SVG]] or [[DXF|DXF]], or printed.

<!--T:128-->
If you wish, you may create a technical drawing to display these objects together with additional information like a frame.

<!--T:129-->
Before doing anything, hide the Draft grid by pressing {{Button|[[File:Draft_ToggleGrid.svg|16px]] [[Draft_ToggleGrid|Toggle grid]]}}.

<!--T:130-->
16. Switch to the [[File:Workbench_TechDraw.svg|24px]] [[TechDraw_Workbench|TechDraw Workbench]].
:16.1. Create a standard page by pressing {{Button|[[File:TechDraw_PageDefault.svg|16px]] [[TechDraw_PageDefault|TechDraw PageDefault]]}}.
:16.2. In the [[tree_view|tree view]] select all objects created, except for the Page, and then press {{Button|[[File:TechDraw_ActiveView.svg|16px]] [[TechDraw_ActiveView|TechDraw ActiveView]]}}. Press {{Button|OK}} with the default options; it may take a few seconds to create the view in the page.
:16.3. Selecting the Page object in the [[tree_view|tree view]] will automatically display the Page in the main window. With the Page selected, go to the [[Property_editor|property editor]], and change {{PropertyData|Scale}} to {{Value|0.75}}.
:16.4. Expand the Page object in the [[tree_view|tree view]] to select the ActiveView object. With this view selected, go to the [[Property_editor|property editor]], and change {{PropertyData|Scale Type}} to {{Value|Page}}.
:16.5. Recompute the model by using {{Button|[[File:Std_Refresh.svg|16px]] [[Std_Refresh|Refresh]]}} or pressing {{KEY|F5}}.
:16.6. Hide the frames of the objects by pressing {{Button|[[File:TechDraw_ToggleFrame.svg|16px]] [[TechDraw_ToggleFrame|TechDraw ToggleFrame]]}}.

<!--T:131-->
Learn more about the [[TechDraw_Workbench|TechDraw Workbench]] by reading the [[Basic_TechDraw_Tutorial|Basic TechDraw Tutorial]].

</translate>
[[File:06_Dr01_Draft_TechDraw_page.png|x400px]]
<translate>
<!--T:132-->
{{Caption|TechDraw page with a projection of the shapes created with the Draft Workbench.}}


=== Annotations and Text === <!--T:90-->
<!--T:133-->
TechDraw works best with objects that have a [[Part_TopoShape|Part TopoShape]]. Since some objects from Draft, like [[Draft_Text|Draft Texts]] and [[Draft_Dimension|Draft Dimensions]], don't have such "[[Shape|shapes]]", some operations of TechDraw don't work with these elements.
There is a slight difference between the two: it is only possible to use the second one as a profile to perform 3D operations.


==== Annotations ==== <!--T:91-->
<!--T:134-->
Tools like {{Button|[[File:TechDraw_ActiveView.svg|16px]] [[TechDraw_ActiveView|TechDraw ActiveView]]}}, {{Button|[[File:TechDraw_DraftView.svg|16px]] [[TechDraw_DraftView|TechDraw DraftView]]}}, and {{Button|[[File:TechDraw_ArchView.svg|16px]] [[TechDraw_ArchView|TechDraw ArchView]]}} work by receiving an internal SVG image that is generated by internal Draft functions; therefore, TechDraw doesn't have much control about how these views are displayed. More integration of Draft and TechDraw is a work in progress.
# Select [[Image:Draft_Text.png]] [[Draft_Text|Text]]
# Select the reference point in the '''3D View'''. In this case, the midoint of the top arc.
# Enter your text and press '''Enter'''. Repeat for as many lines of text as you wish to input.
# Press '''Enter'''


==== Text ==== <!--T:92-->
==Final remarks== <!--T:94-->
# Select [[Image:Draft_ShapeString.png|32px]] [[Draft_ShapeString|ShapeString]]
# Select the reference point in the '''3D View'''. This can be an existing point or the current cursor location.
# Enter your text and press '''Enter'''
# Set the desired font size
# Leave tracking at 0 mm
# Select the '''path''' to the font file that you wish to use


=== Creating Blueprints === <!--T:93-->
<!--T:135-->
The [[Draft_Workbench|Draft Workbench]] in many ways is similar to the [[Sketcher_Workbench|Sketcher Workbench]], as both are intended to produce 2D shapes. The main difference is in the way each workbench handles coordinate systems, and how the objects are positioned. In Draft, objects are freely positioned in the global coordinates system, usually snapping their points to a grid, or to other objects. In Sketcher, a "[[Sketch|sketch object]]" defines a local coordinate system which serves as the reference for all geometrical elements within that sketch. Moreover, the sketch relies on "constraints" to define the final position of its points.
To create blueprints, it is necessary to create a '''Drawing ''' with the elements that you wish to use. Please read the [[Drawing tutorial]] for a detailed description.


<!--T:94-->
<!--T:136-->
* The [[Draft_Workbench|Draft Workbench]] is intended for 2D drawings which are suitable to be drawn on a grid. The [[Arch_Workbench|Arch Workbench]] mostly builds on top of the tools defined in the [[Draft_Workbench|Draft Workbench]].
We are now finished with the basic workflow for the [[Draft Module|Draft Module]].


== Recommended Lectures == <!--T:95-->
<!--T:137-->
* The [[Sketcher_Workbench|Sketcher Workbench]] is intended for 2D drawings that require precise relationships between its points. It does not rely on a grid, but on rules of positioning (constraints) to determine where the points and edges will be placed. The [[Sketcher_Workbench|Sketcher Workbench]] is mostly used together with the [[PartDesign_Workbench|PartDesign Workbench]] for the creation of solid [[Body|bodies]].
* For a detailed description of the workbench, please see [[Draft Module|Draft Module]]
* To know more about the '''Snapping''' controls, see [[Draft Snap|Draft Snap]]


<!--T:138-->
{{Draft Tools navi}}
* It is possible to transform a Draft object into a [[Sketch|Sketch]], and the other way around, using the {{Button|[[File:Draft_Draft2Sketch.svg|16px]] [[Draft_Draft2Sketch|Draft Draft2Sketch]]}} tool.


{{Userdocnavi}}
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{{Tutorials navi{{#translation:}}}}
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{{Draft Tools navi{{#translation:}}}}
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Revision as of 20:07, 24 August 2021

Tutorial
Topic
Drafting
Level
Beginner
Time to complete
30 minutes
Authors
Drei and vocx
FreeCAD version
0.19
Example files
Draft tutorial updated
See also
None

Introduction

This tutorial was originally written by Drei, and it was rewritten and illustrated by vocx.

This tutorial is meant to introduce the reader to the basic workflow of the Draft Workbench.

The reader will practice:

  • creation of lines, arcs, and polygons
  • the use of working planes
  • the creation of dimensions, text, and shapestrings
  • the creation of a technical drawing

This tutorial uses the notation (x, y, z) to denote the coordinates required to define points in an object. The default unit is millimeters mm.

Final drawing including various Draft objects.

Setup

1. Open FreeCAD, create a new empty document with File → New.

1.1. Switch to the Draft Workbench from the workbench selector, or the menu View → Workbench → Draft.
1.2. Make sure you understand how to use the property editor, particularly the Data and View tabs to change the properties. When changing properties, you may have to do a Std Refresh action to see the result in the 3D view.
1.3. Since the Draft objects are planar shapes, they are better viewed from the top. Use View top to set the 3D view.
1.4. Although it is not used in this tutorial, the Draft grid is helpful to position geometrical elements. Use SelectPlane to set both the working plane and the grid, and then show and hide the grid with Toggle grid.

Snap toolbar

2. The Draft Snap toolbar is normally activated when you switch to the Draft Workbench.

2.1. To make sure it is always there, go to the Draft Preferences, Edit → Preferences → Draft → Grid and snapping tab.
2.2. Verify that the Show Draft Snap toolbar is active.

You can also change the visibility and properties of the Draft grid in this same window.

Working planes

Most Draft objects are planar shapes so they are naturally based on a working plane. A working plane can be one of the main XY, XZ, and YZ global coordinate planes, or it can be a plane that is parallel to them with a positive or negative offset, or it can be a plane defined by the face of a solid object.

3. Press SelectPlane, or go to the menu Utilities → Select plane, to open the working plane task panel.

3.1. Press Top (XY).

Before pressing the button, you can also change the value of the offset in millimeters, as well as the grid spacing, the main lines and snapping radius.

Lines and arcs

4. We will create arcs and lines.

4.1. Press Arc.
4.2. Set the Center to (0, 0, 0), and press Enter.
4.3. Set the Radius to 30 mm, and press Enter.
4.4. Set the Start angle to 60.0°, and press Enter.
4.5. Set the Aperture angle to 60.0°, and press Enter.
4.6. Repeat the same procedure for a second arc with a radius of 25 mm, the other properties are the same.

5. We will now create a closed profile by tying the arcs with lines.

5.1. Press Line.
5.2. In the Snap toolbar make sure Toggle snap is active, and only Endpoint as well. As you move the pointer onto the arc and close to one of its endpoints, the Endpoint icon should appear. Also, the target point is emphasized with a large white dot. Click to select this point.
5.3. Move the pointer to the closest endpoint of the other arc to tie the two arcs together.
5.4. Repeat the process for the other side of the arc to close the profile.

Closed profile created by two arcs and two lines.

Fusing or compounding

We now have several objects in the tree view that form a closed profile. However, this profile is still composed of disconnected objects; each of them can be edited and moved independently of the others. It is possible to continue working with the elements in this way, but it is also possible to fuse them into a single object.

6a. Note that fusing the objects into a single object will create an object that is no longer parametric, so their properties cannot be modified further.

6a.1. Select all four objects in the tree view, or by holding Ctrl and picking them in the 3D view.
6a.2. With these objects selected, click on Upgrade.
6a.3. This will upgrade the four objects into a single Wire.

6b. If you wish to maintain the parametric nature of the objects you can create a compound instead.

6b.1. Switch to the Part Workbench.
6b.2. With these objects selected, click on Part Compound.

Rectangles, circles, and polygons

7. We will draw a rectangular frame. (Switch back to the Draft Workbench.)

7.1. Press Rectangle.
7.2. Enter the values of the first point (-100, -60, 0), and press Enter.
7.3. Make sure the Relative option is unchecked, as we will use absolute units. You may press R in the keyboard to quickly toggle this option on and off.
7.4. Enter the values for the second point (140, 90, 0), and press Enter.

A rectangle is created. Go in the property editor to change its properties. If you don't want the rectangle to create a face, set DataMake Face to false. If you want to make a face, but see only the wires of that object, keep DataMake Face to true but set the ViewDisplay Mode to Wireframe.

8. We will draw a circle.

8.1. Press Circle.
8.2. Enter the values of the center (0, 0, 0), and press Enter.
8.3. Set the radius to 15 mm, and press Enter.

9. We will draw a regular polygon.

9.1. Press Polygon.
9.2. Enter the values of the center (0, 0, 0), and press Enter.
9.3. Set the number of sides to 6, and press Enter.
9.4. Set the radius to 50 mm, and press Enter.

Again, you may change the DataMake Face and ViewDisplay Mode properties in the property editor if you want.

The rectangle, the circle, the polygon, and most other objects created with the Draft Workbench share many data and view properties because they are derived from the same base class, Part Part2DObject.

Rectangle, circle and polygon added.

Arrays

Arrays are used to replicate an object several times in an orthogonal direction (X, Y, Z), around a revolution axis, or along a path.

10. We will create a polar array.

10.1. Select the Wire object that was previously created with the Upgrade tool, or the Compound created with the Part Compound tool.
10.2. Press PolarArray.
10.3. Adjust the polar angle to 360°.
10.4. Set the number of elements to 4.
10.5. Enter the values for the center of rotation (0, 0, 0), and press Enter.

The array object shows copies of the object around the origin.

Polar array of the small profile centered around the origin.

Dimensions

Linear dimensions work best when using the appropriate Draft Snap methods to select points and edges to measure. However, they can also be created by specifying absolute coordinates.

11. Create dimensions for the different objects.

11.1. Press Dimension.
11.2. Pick the first point. In this tutorial the first point will always be the origin (0, 0, 0).
11.3. In the Snap toolbar make sure Toggle snap is active, and only Midpoint as well. As you move the pointer to the top edge of the polygon, the Midpoint icon should appear; click to select this point.
11.4. Move the cursor to the right to specify the location of the dimension, then click to set the final position, around (100, 20, 0). The dimension will automatically show the length value measured between the two points.
11.5. Select the dimension object in the tree view, and in the property editor, change ViewFont Size to 6 mm, set ViewExt Lines to 45 mm, and ViewShow Unit to false.

12. Repeat the process for the two arcs of the closed profile. The first point of the measurement will still be the origin, and the second point will use the Midpoint of the arc.

13. Repeat the process for the circle located in the center. The first point of the measurement will still be the origin. To select the second point make sure Toggle snap is active, and only Angle as well. As you move the pointer to the top of the circle, the Angle icon should appear; click to select this point. Then move the cursor to the right, and click to fix the dimension.

Remember to adjust the ViewFont Size, and other properties to see the dimension correctly.

Dimensions that measure the vertical distance from the origin to the top of the circle, arcs, and polygon.

Texts and ShapeStrings

14. Text objects are simple planar figures that are created in the 3D view but don't have an actual "shape" underneath. This means that they cannot be used in complex operations with shapes like extrusions or boolean operations.

14.1. Press Text.
14.2. Select the reference point in the 3D view. In the Snap toolbar make sure Toggle snap is active, and only Midpoint as well. Move the pointer to the top edge of the highest arc, so that the Midpoint icon appears; click to select this point.
14.3. Enter the desired Text, and press Enter once to start a new line; add more lines of text as needed.
14.4. When you are ready to finish with edition, press Enter twice.
14.5. Select the text object in the tree view, and in the property editor, change ViewFont Size to 6 mm, and ViewJustification to Center.

15. ShapeString objects are shapes made of primitive wires that follow the lines indicated by a certain font. This means that these objects have a real "shape" underneath, and thus can be used in complex operations like extrusions and boolean operations.

15.1. Press ShapeString.
15.2. Move the pointer to the desired location in the 3D view above the regular polygon, and click once. This will fix the base point for the ShapeString. The coordinates may be entered manually as well, for example, (-20, 65, 0).
15.3. Enter the desired String, and choose the desired Height.
15.4. If there is no default font file, you must click on the ellipsis ... to open a dialog window to choose the font location in the system.
15.5. When a valid font file has been specified, you may proceed to click OK or press Enter.

Text and ShapeString objects added.

To extrude letters and engrave them on to solids, see the Draft ShapeString tutorial.

Creating technical drawings

As it is now, the objects that we have created can be saved, exported to other formats like SVG or DXF, or printed.

If you wish, you may create a technical drawing to display these objects together with additional information like a frame.

Before doing anything, hide the Draft grid by pressing Toggle grid.

16. Switch to the TechDraw Workbench.

16.1. Create a standard page by pressing TechDraw PageDefault.
16.2. In the tree view select all objects created, except for the Page, and then press TechDraw ActiveView. Press OK with the default options; it may take a few seconds to create the view in the page.
16.3. Selecting the Page object in the tree view will automatically display the Page in the main window. With the Page selected, go to the property editor, and change DataScale to 0.75.
16.4. Expand the Page object in the tree view to select the ActiveView object. With this view selected, go to the property editor, and change DataScale Type to Page.
16.5. Recompute the model by using Refresh or pressing F5.
16.6. Hide the frames of the objects by pressing TechDraw ToggleFrame.

Learn more about the TechDraw Workbench by reading the Basic TechDraw Tutorial.

TechDraw page with a projection of the shapes created with the Draft Workbench.

TechDraw works best with objects that have a Part TopoShape. Since some objects from Draft, like Draft Texts and Draft Dimensions, don't have such "shapes", some operations of TechDraw don't work with these elements.

Tools like TechDraw ActiveView, TechDraw DraftView, and TechDraw ArchView work by receiving an internal SVG image that is generated by internal Draft functions; therefore, TechDraw doesn't have much control about how these views are displayed. More integration of Draft and TechDraw is a work in progress.

Final remarks

The Draft Workbench in many ways is similar to the Sketcher Workbench, as both are intended to produce 2D shapes. The main difference is in the way each workbench handles coordinate systems, and how the objects are positioned. In Draft, objects are freely positioned in the global coordinates system, usually snapping their points to a grid, or to other objects. In Sketcher, a "sketch object" defines a local coordinate system which serves as the reference for all geometrical elements within that sketch. Moreover, the sketch relies on "constraints" to define the final position of its points.

  • The Sketcher Workbench is intended for 2D drawings that require precise relationships between its points. It does not rely on a grid, but on rules of positioning (constraints) to determine where the points and edges will be placed. The Sketcher Workbench is mostly used together with the PartDesign Workbench for the creation of solid bodies.

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