To change the measure tool units in SolidWorks, you access the Measure Units/Precision dialog box directly from within the Measure tool's interface to modify the displayed units and precision. This allows you to temporarily or permanently adjust how measurements are presented, independent of the document's default unit settings.
Step-by-Step Guide to Customizing Measure Units
Here's how to precisely adjust the units used by the Measure tool in SolidWorks:
1. Activate the Measure Tool
First, you need to open the Measure tool. There are several ways to do this:
- Via CommandManager: Go to the Evaluate tab on the CommandManager and click Measure (often represented by a ruler icon).
- Via Menus: Navigate to
Tools > Evaluate > Measure. - Right-Click Shortcut: Right-click anywhere in the graphics area and select Measure from the context menu.
2. Access Units/Precision Settings
Once the Measure dialog box appears, you will see various measurement results. To change the units:
- Click the Units/Precision button within the Measure dialog box. This will open a new dialog specifically for unit and precision settings.
3. Select Desired Options
In the Measure Units/Precision dialog box, you can customize various aspects of the measurement display. Select from the following options:
- Length Units: Choose your preferred unit for linear measurements (e.g., millimeters, inches, centimeters, meters, feet, microinches).
- Angular Units: Specify the unit for angular measurements (e.g., degrees, radians).
- Precision: Set the number of decimal places for both length and angular measurements to control the level of detail displayed.
- Dual Units: Enable this option to display measurements in two different unit systems simultaneously (e.g., millimeters and inches), which can be very useful for international collaboration or checking conversions.
- Use Document Settings: This checkbox allows you to quickly revert the Measure tool's units back to the default units defined in the current SolidWorks document.
4. Apply Changes
- After making your selections, click OK in the Measure Units/Precision dialog box to apply the new settings. The Measure tool will immediately update to display measurements using your chosen units and precision.
Understanding Document Units vs. Measure Tool Units
It's crucial to differentiate between the global document units and the Measure tool's units:
- Document Units: These are the default units for the entire SolidWorks document and are set in
Tools > Options > Document Properties > Units. They dictate the primary units for modeling, drawings, and simulations. - Measure Tool Units: These settings specifically control how the Measure tool displays its results. They are temporary and can be changed independently of the document units, offering flexibility for specific measurement tasks without altering your document's core settings. You can always revert to document settings within the Measure Units/Precision dialog box.
For more detailed information on SolidWorks measurement tools, refer to the official SolidWorks Help documentation.
Practical Tips for Effective Measurement Customization
- Quick Conversion: Use the Dual Units option when you need to quickly see a measurement in both your primary unit system and an alternative one without manual calculation.
- Precision Control: Adjust precision as needed. For initial design checks, fewer decimal places might suffice, while for manufacturing, higher precision is often required.
- Resetting Units: If you've made several temporary changes and want to go back to your document's standard, simply check the "Use Document Settings" box in the Units/Precision dialog.
- Consistency: While the Measure tool allows for temporary changes, ensuring your document's default units (
Document Properties > Units) are correctly set from the start promotes consistency across your entire project.
By mastering these settings, you can enhance your workflow and ensure accurate, context-appropriate measurements in SolidWorks.
