Dimensioning and resizing your schematics

HydroSym includes a dedicated dimensioning function that allows engineers to add precise measurements to schematics. These tools are essential for creating clean geometry, preparing manufacturing documentation, and ensuring clear communication between departments.

Adding and Modifying Dimensions

• Two-Point Dimension Tool: Located in the vertical left sidebar (represented by a ruler-like icon), this tool allows you to add dimensions directly to the canvas by selecting two points.
• Manual Editing: To change a dimension value, double-click the dimension or select it and press Shift + Enter. Type the new value to update it immediately.
• O-Snap Integration: Use the OSnap (Object Snap) feature (toggleable in the bottom status bar) to ensure dimension lines are placed exactly on component connection points or geometry edges.
• Workflow Flexibility: You can place a dimension first and then stretch geometry (such as a cylinder) until it fits the predefined measurement.

Adding Dimensions

You can add dimensions to any shape or component within the drawing canvas.

1. Select the Tool: Use the two-point dimension tool located in the left vertical toolbar (represented by a ruler-like icon).
2. Pick Points: Click two points on your geometry (e.g., the corners of a rectangle).
3. Place the Dimension: Move the cursor to position the dimension line higher or lower, then click to set it. The exact measurement appears instantly.
4. Using O-Snap: Ensure OSnap is enabled in the bottom status bar. This ensures the dimension snaps exactly to corners, centers, and midpoints for maximum precision.

Customizing Dimension Styles

Dimension appearances are managed through the Dimension Styles menu.

1. Navigate to the Format tab in the top menu bar.
2. Select Modify Dimension Styles... (also accessible via the Modify menu).
3. In this menu, you can define:
   • Scale and Text Height.
   • Text Style.
   • Arrow Size.
   • Line Type and Line Style.

Working with Tables and Borders

When documenting dimensions in tables or borders, use the following formatting tools:

• Auto-Resize Cells: If text exceeds a cell's size, double-click the column or row header (e.g., Column B or Row 3) to automatically adjust the size to fit the content.
• Text Wrapping: Select a cell and click the Wrap Text icon in the table toolbar to display long strings across multiple lines.
• Standard Sheet Sizes: HydroSym supports standard ISO sizes (A0–A4). You can manage these in the Papersize table dialog, where you can select predefined sizes like "ISO A3 (420 x 297)" or create "New" custom borders.