Seeing All Sides: Orthographic Drawing
Students learn how to create two-dimensional representations of three-dimensional objects by utilizing orthographic projection techniques. They build shapes using cube blocks and then draw orthographic and isometric views of those shapes—which are the side views, such as top, front, right—with no depth indicated. Then working in pairs, one blindfolded partner describes a shape by feel alone as the other partner draws what is described. A worksheet is provided. This activity is part of a multi-activity series towards improving spatial visualization skills.
The orthographic views of an L-shaped 3-D object.Copyright 2007 Zink, Wikimedia Commons https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Isometric_projections_of_an_l_shape.png
Orthographic projection is a technique used in spatial visualization, which is an essential skill for engineers in taking an idea that initially only exists in the mind, to something that can be communicated clearly to other engineers and eventually turned into a product. Orthographic views are especially helpful for detailing the product/structure designs for manufacturing and construction. Since orthographic drawings show multiple viewpoints, they are helpful to make sure that a product or object can be accurately created in accordance with an engineer’s requirements. While isometric drawings, which provide a three-dimensional view of an object, can be a convenient means of providing a complete understanding of some objects from a single drawing, other objects require information from additional viewpoints; in these cases, engineers use orthographic drawings.
After this activity, students should be able to:
- Explain the concept of orthographic projection and why it is useful in engineering.
- Draw the three principle orthographic views of an object.