ENGINEER4ING DRAWING N1

MODULE 1 – Fundamentals of Engineering Drawing

Introduction to Engineering Drawing – Module1

Learning outcomes:
1. Understand and apply standard abbreviations used in engineering drawing.
2. Identify and describe the advantages and disadvantages of various printing devices.
3. Understand the need and evolution of storage devices.
4. Understand the importance of back-up systems in the modern world.

Introduction
Engineering drawing is a sub-category of technical drawing. Its purpose is to convey all the
information necessary for manufacturing a product or an object. Engineering drawings use
standardised language and symbols, thus making the understanding of drawings simple with
little to no personal interpretation. The purpose of an engineering drawing is to capture all
geometric features of a product or component clearly and accurately so that a manufacturer
or engineer can produce the required item.

Technical Drawing is a precise and detailed drawing of an object, as employed in

architecture or engineering.

Engineering Drawing is the language used by engineers to transfer ideas and information
needed for the construction of products and objects. This language includes drawings,
sketches, plans, schedules, diagrams, notes, and instructions.

Engineered Items are completed types of equipment or products that have had specific and
unique engineering and specifications applied to it.

The following are some of the information communicated by engineering drawings:

• Shape
• Design and Structure
• Size or dimensions
• The material used
• Parts list and quantity
• The surface finish of the final product

Some benefits of studying engineering drawing

 Develop drawing skills needed to produce high-quality drawings and sketches for
engineers and manufacturers.
 Develop skills to read and interpret engineering drawings.
 Understand how components or objects function in a specific environment.
 Develop knowledge of how the many components or objects work together in
harmony in a working environment.
 Enables you to diagnose, repair or replace malfunctioning components.

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Computer-Aided Design (CAD)

The discovery of technology has made our work simple and saves time. CAD is a software
programme used by architects, engineers, drafters, artists, and others to create precision
drawings. It is significantly faster than drawing manually or by hand. CAD is used for two-
dimensional (2-D) drawings or three-dimensional (3-D) models. These designs show objects
that will later be manufactured and delivered to customers. CAD allows for easier
development and greater modelling of products. In the engineering world, CAD is essential
and widely used in designing and developing products. Some standard CAD programmes
include Tinker CAD, Autodesk, BlocksCAD, Fusion 360°, Solidworks and AutoCAD.

Advantages of using CAD

1. Better Quality Designs: The programme tools help in producing designs with high
accuracy and low margin of error compared to drawing by hand. The higher accuracy
leads to better and faster design turnaround times which help to speed up the
manufacturing of components.
2. Easy saving and sharing: All designs and drawings created with a CAD programme
can be easily saved and stored on a computer for future use and reference. These
drawings can be edited and printed when required.
3. Modify and reproduce faster: Drawing is simple, with all the tools available in the
CAD software. Correcting errors is quicker than using manual tools, like a pencil and
paper.
4. Ability to create 3D models: CAD programmes can transform a rough idea into a
visible sketch in a matter of a few minutes. The user can build on this idea can create
something with the software.
5. Template and database creation: You can create any number of CAD templates with
simple detail which can be used and reused many times. These templates save time
and are convenient with multiple uses.

Advantages of Manual Drawing

• Work done is original: In the past, drafters sat at drawing boards and used pencils,
pens, compasses, protractors, triangles, and other drawing instruments to prepare a
drawing by hand. Most of the drawing work was done by technical people, like
architects and engineers. It this way, work drawn was authentic and original.
• Low cost of drawing equipment: When you draw by hand, all you need is a drawing
board, pencil/eraser, a ruler, a T-square, set squares, French curves, and a
compass. The cost of drawing equipment is much cheaper than buying a CAD
package.
• No high-tech and cutting-edge technology required: Unlike CAD software, you do not
need state of the art technology like systems engineer(s), IT engineers, air
conditioning and technicians to maintain a pencil and paper.
• No further training required: Apart from the training we get when we study drawing,
there is no need for the designer to be taught a CAD package. Architects and
engineers would draw their sketches and later be developed by assistants who are
diploma holders or architectural and engineering draughtsmen in their respective
trades.

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 • No yearly subscriptions: Unlike the CAD software, which requires regular updates
and extra costs of subscription and training, drawing by hand does not have these
high costs.

Definitions:

Computer: An electronic device that uses programs to manipulate information or data. It can
store, retrieve, and process data.

Software/program: A set of instructions or a group of procedures that allow for a specific

type of computer operation.

Cloud: An online storage facility using a network of remote servers hosted on the internet to
store, manage, and process data. It is different from a local server found on a computer.

1.1 Terms and Abbreviations used in Engineering Drawings

Symbols and abbreviations are used in drawings to save space and time. It gives precise
instructions and descriptions. They are the same in singular or plural.

1. Term: Across Corners

Abbreviation: A/C
Description: The distance across corners of a polygon e.g.: squares or hexagonal
head

2. Term: Across Flats

Abbreviation: A/F
Description: The distance across the parallel sides of a polygon

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3. Term: Hexagonal Head
Abbreviation: HEX HD
Description: The hexagonal shape of the head of a bolt or screw

4. Term: Assembly
Abbreviation: ASSY
Description: The assembling off different components to form one object

Some features expressed in an assembly drawing include:

• May have several views to show how parts fit together.

• Sectional views to show how parts fit and to eliminate hidden detail.
• Dimensions to indicate size of components.
• Drawings of the complete object after assembly.
• Assembly drawings may include specification information.
• Lists of the component parts also called “Bill of Materials”.
• Reference numbers.

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 • Represent items that consist of more than one component.

5. Term: Countersunk
Abbreviation: CSK
Description: The bevel edge of the rim of a drilled hole so that a screw or bolt can
be inserted flush with the surface

6. Term: Countersunk Head

Abbreviation: CSK HD
Description: The conical shape of a countersunk head of a bolt or screw which can
fit into a countersunk hole

7. Term: Counterbore
Abbreviation: CBORE
Description: A drilled hole that has a wider hole drilled at the top so that a screw or
bolt can be inserted flush with the surface

8. Term: Chamfered
Abbreviation: Cham
Description: The cutting away of a right-angled corner or edge of a component.
This is usually done at 45 degrees.

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9. Term: Pitch Circle Diameter
Abbreviation: PCD
Description: The diameter of the circle which passes through the centre of all the
studs, wheel bolts or wheel rim holes

More terms and abbreviations

Abbreviation Term Description

mm Millimetre A standard metric measurement – 1/1000 of a metre
R Radius A straight line drawn from the centre of a circle to the
circumference
Ø Diameter A straight line drawn from one side of a circumference to
the opposite side passing through the centre point
CR Centre The midpoint of an object
CL Centre Line A line which divides an object in two parts
HEX Hexagon A polygon with six equal sides and angles
SQ Square A polygon with four equal sides and angles
CYL Cylinder A geometrical figure with straight parallel sides and a
circular or oval base.
OD Outside Diameter Refers to the outside diameter of a pipe
ID Inside Diameter Refers to the inside diameter of a pipe

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Activity 1

1. Define the term Technical Drawing.

2. Name 6 features that engineering drawings should communicate.
3. Define “Computer Aided Design (CAD).
4. State 3 advantages of using CAD.
5. Provide definitions for the following engineering terms.
5.1. Across corners 5.2. Across Flats
5.3. Countersunk Head 5.4. Chamfered
5.5. Counterbore 5.6. Pitch Circle Diameter
5.7. Assembly

6. Provide abbreviations for the following engineering terms.

6.1. Outside Diameter 6.2. Hexagon
6.3. Centre Line 6.4. Diameter
6.5. Cylinder 6.6. Square
7.Draw a picture of a bolt head and explain how you would go about choosing the correct
tool to use.
8. Provide abbreviations for the following engineering descriptions.
8.1. The midpoint of an object.
8.2. Refers to the outside diameter of a pipe.
8.3. Cutting away the right angle or sharp edge of an object.
8.4. The hexagonal shape of the head of a bolt or screw.
8.5. The diameter of the circle which passes through the centre of all the studs,
wheel bolts or wheel rim holes.

1.2 Plotters and printers used in engineering drawings

A computer printer is a piece of hardware for a computer. It allows a user to print items on
paper, such as letters and pictures. The most common types of printers used today are laser
and thermal printers.

Thermal printing is a digital printing process which produces a printed image by heating
coated thermo-chromic paper, or thermal paper as it is commonly known. When the paper
passes over the thermal print head, it turns black in the areas where it is heated by the head,
producing an image. Thermal paper is a special paper that is coated with a material formulated
to change colour when exposed to heat. Thermal printers are still commonly used in seafloor
exploration and engineering geology due to their speed, and ability to print continuous reels
or sheets of paper.

Advantages of thermal printers:

 Thermal printers contain fewer moving parts than other printers, which makes them
more durable and reliable.

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  They contain fewer moving parts and no consumables besides paper. They can be
used continuously with fewer interruptions such as jams and breakdowns.
 No need to change ink cartridges. It is less complicated and cheaper to use than
other printers.
 Printing time is faster. It is also less noisy.

Disadvantages of thermal printers:

 Quality of images deteriorates at higher temperatures.

 Damage to paper may occur at high temperatures, damaging images.
 Damaged images are expensive to repair.

A laser printer is a printer that uses laser and heat to transfer powder ink called toner
onto a page. The toner comes in various colours and is easy to replace in the printer.
The most common size of paper used in laser printers is A4. Any colour of paper may
be used.

When an image is sent from the computer to the printer, the laser within the printer forms a
pattern of electrostatically charged dots on a light-sensitive drum corresponding to the image
from the computer. These dots attract the toner causing the toner to stick to the drum. The
toner is then transferred to a sheet of paper when the paper rolls over the drum. The image
is then fixed onto the paper by a heating process. Laser printers are most popular in offices
because of their ability to print fast in large volumes.

Advantages of laser printers:

 The printer can print on both sides of a page quickly. This saves time and money.
 Print quality can be adjusted when printing large volumes to save on toner.
 The machine does not require continuous monitoring when set to print.
 Much faster and less noisy than other printers.

Disadvantages of laser printers:

 Expensive to replace toner cartridges, especially colour cartridges.
 Toner can be harmful to humans.

A plotter is a large format printer designed for industry. Plotters draw continuous lines,
which makes it ideal for printing architectural blueprints, engineering designs, and other CAD
drawings. Most flat materials can be used in the printer such as paper; plastic; fabric; and
vinyl. There are many types of plotters, such as pen and inkjet.

A pen plotter is a printer which uses ink pens. These plotters draw point-to-point lines
directly from vector (line) graphics files on the computer (such as full-size engineering and
architectural drawings).

Disadvantages of pen plotters:

 More expensive than conventional printers.
 Large and heavy machines, making it difficult to move around.
 Unable to print in multi colours such as in photos.

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An inkjet plotter is also a large format printer. It uses liquid ink, which is stored in cartridges
within the printer. The printer is wide and can accommodate large sheets of paper, or other
suitable material such as vinyl. The ink is applied to the material via the printing head as it
moves through the printer.

Advantages of inkjet plotters:

 A versatile printer used for printing signs; billboards; art, maps, and architecture etc.
 High-quality images.

Disadvantages of inkjet plotters:

 Ink is expensive
 Ink takes time to dry

Definitions:
 Output Devices: Hardware connected to a computer to perform a specific function.
 Cartridge: The part of the printer which stores the ink or toner.
 Thermal Printer: A printer that uses heat to create images on thermal paper.
 Thermal Paper: A special type of paper produced to change colour when it comes
into contact with heat.
 Engineering Geology: Is the study and application of geology to engineering for the
purpose of assuring that factors regarding the location, design, construction of
engineering works is recognised and accounted for.
 Laser Printer: A printer which uses toner as an ink type for printing.

Activity 2
1. Define the term printer.
2. Explain how laser printer’s work.
3. Explain the advantages a pen plotter to engineers.
4. List 2 disadvantages of inkjet plotters.

1.3 Storage Devices

A storage device is a piece of computer hardware used for saving, carrying, and retrieving
data for use by the CPU (Central Processing Unit). It can store and keep information for
short or long-term. It can be a device inside or outside (portable) a computer.

There are two types of storage devices used with computers: a primary storage device, such
as RAM (Random Access Memory), and a secondary storage device, such as a hard drive
(HD). Secondary storage devices can be removable, internal, or external. Other terms for
external storage are storage medium or storage media.

A primary storage device is an internal storage medium that holds memory for the CPU.
Primary memory can be broken down into two types, namely: volatile memory or non
-volatile memory. Volatile memory is computer memory that requires power to maintain the
stored information. It retains its contents while the powered is on but when the power is
interrupted, the stored data is quickly lost. Non-volatile data is a type of information that is
stored within a file system on a form of electronic medium (storage device) that is preserved
in a specific state when power is removed.

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Secondary storage is non-volatile data or long-term storage. There are three main types of
secondary storage in a computer system: solid-state storage devices, such as USB memory
sticks. Optical storage devices, such as: CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs. Magnetic storage
devices, such as hard disk drives (HDD).

A hard disk drive (HDD), hard disk, hard drive, or fixed disk is an internal storage device. It is
an electromechanical data storage device that uses magnetic storage to store and retrieve
digital data using one or more rigid, rapidly rotating plates coated with magnetic material.
This drive stores files that make the computer work, like the operating system files.

Earlier computers came with very little storage space and a few megabytes (MB). It only
allowed for the basic computer programmes to be stored. Modern computers have larger
storage capacities: Gigabytes and Terabytes.

Tape streamers are a storage medium that allows for data archiving, collection, and back-up.
At first, the tapes were wound in wheel-like reels, but then cassettes and cartridges came
along, which offered more protection for the tape inside.

The diskette or floppy disk was in use from the mid-1970s to the late 1990s. The first floppy
disk, introduced in 1971, had a capacity of 79.7 kilobytes and was read-only. A read-write
version came a year later. It is a thin, flexible disk encased in a plastic housing. It also has a
tab which, when moved, allows the user to copy files.

A data disk or optical disk is a storage device for a computer in the shape of a round flat
plate which can be rotated to give access to all parts of the surface. As the disk rotates, the
data is read or written by a laser in the CD-ROM. There are two types of data disks: The
Compact Disk (CD) and the Digital Video Disk (DVD). The CDs have a storage capacity of
700MB and commonly used to store and play music. DVDs have a larger storing capacity
ranging from 2 gigabytes to 8 gigabytes. Larger capacity DVDs were manufactured at a late
period.

Not all CDs and DVDs are re-writable (erase and re-write data). Labels on the disks indicate
which will be able to erase and write, e.g., CD-R and DVD-RW. Optical disks can get
damaged very easily. Extreme environmental conditions and scratches can lead to damage
and data loss.

Modern storage devices include USB flash drives and memory cards. The disks can be
erased and re-written on as many times as desired. Memory cards are small devices that
provide extra storage space for smaller equipment such as cell phones and cameras. They
can also be used to retrieve and store information from the computer. They have storage
capacities of up to 64GB.

USB flash drives are the most common portable storage device. They connect via a port on
the computer called Universal Serial Bus (USB). Most electronic devices such as TVs and
car stereo systems are manufactured with USB ports, thus making it easy to save and
transfer data between devices. It is used to store music for the car, or movies to watch on
TVs.

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Since storage devices can quickly become damaged and cause loss of data, important
information can also be stored online in places like the Cloud. Cloud storage is an online
service provided by private companies. Data stored in the Cloud can be retrieved from
anywhere in the world using the internet. It may be free for small storage spaces or a paid
service for large spaces.

Definitions:

Hardware: The physical parts or components of a computer.

Portable device: Any device that can be carried.
Hard disk drive (HDD): A large storage device used to store and retrieve files.
Byte: The smallest unit of digital storage space.
Kilobyte (KB):Digital storage space of 1000 bytes.
Megabyte (MB): Digital storage space of 1000 kilobytes.
Gigabyte (GB): Digital storage space of 1000 megabytes.

Terabyte (TB): Digital storage space of 1000 gigabytes.

Floppy disk drive: A computer device used to read and write data on a floppy disk.
Tape drive: A computer device used to read and write data on a tape streamer.
Disk drive: A computer device used to read and write data on a data disk.
Universal serial bus (USB):A type of connecting port used to connect or link electronic
devices.
USB connection port: A connection port found on computers and other electronic devices.
Online services: Paid or un-paid services on the internet.
Input devices: Hardware devices connected to a computer to provide extra control signals.

Activity 3

Explain the meaning of the following terms:

1. Portable Device 2. Hard disk drive (HDD)

3. Byte 4. Kilobyte
5. Megabyte 6. Gigabyte
7. Terabyte 8. Floppy disk drive
9. Tape drive 10. Disk drive
11. Universal serial bus(USB) 12. USB connection port
13. Online services 14. Input devices
15. Hardware

1.4 Backup System

Data is always at risk of being lost or damaged through software failure, data corruption, or
accidental deletion or a malicious attack (virus or malware). Loss of data can be costly to
restore and retrieve, and this can be the downfall of many companies. The purpose of a
back-up is to create a copy of data that can be recovered in the event of a primary data
failure.

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A back-up system is a storage system used to repair or restore lost information. It allows the
user to choose the files and types of data they want to save as back up. The computer can
beset to perform back-ups automatically and regularly at specific times.

Back-up files can be stored on various storage devices. Many of the smaller storage devices
can become damaged or lost. Large companies with lots of information and data choose to
store their information online in the Cloud. Backing up data to the Cloud has less risk. There
is no damage and loss of data; however, it can be expensive to back-up and retrieve large
amounts of data via the internet.

It is always wise and essential to back-up regularly. Updating the back-up system saves time
and avoids the total loss of data. Store back up data on multiple devices to ensure the safety
of your information.

The importance of back-up systems:

 It provides data security.
 Lost or corrupt data can be restored to their original state.
 It avoids the cost of recreating the lost data.

Definitions

Download: To copy information from the internet onto a computer.

Upload: To transfer information from your computer onto the internet.
User: A person who uses a computer

Activity 1.4
What is a back-up system and why is it important?

Module summary
In this module you would have learnt that:
 Engineering Drawing is the language used by engineers to transfer ideas and
information needed for the construction of products and objects. This language
includes drawings, sketches, plans, schedules, diagrams, notes, and instructions.
 Engineering drawings show the shape; design and structure; the size or dimensions;
materials; quantity of parts used and the surface finish of the finished design.
 Studying engineering drawing allows you to draw engineering drawings and
sketches, understand and read drawings and understand how components in a
machine work.
 CAD is engineering drawings done on computers to make it easier to design; store
and keep track of the different components of a drawing.

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  There are different types of printers and plotters in industry and each with its
advantages and disadvantages.
 Primary storage is the short-term storage like RAM.
 Secondary storage is the long-term storage of data, like hard drives, CDs, and flash
disks.
 A back-up system is a system for saving and securing data to ensure that no data is
lost when the computer fails.

Summative Assessment

Theoretical assessment

1. Choose the answer from the multiple-choice questions. Only write down the number and
the correct corresponding letter.

a) One of the things communicated by engineering drawings is: (1)

A. The list of components.
B. Instructions of the assembly process.
C. Dimensions of components.
D. Measurements and figures of the assembled design.

b) One of the advantages of CAD is that: (1)

A. It draws designs automatically.
B. It demonstrates the complete design.
C. It avoids mistakes in the drafting process.
D. Designs cannot be shared by anyone.

c) A countersunk head is: (1)

A. The head of a screw sunk into a conical hole.
B. The head of an object with six sides.
C. The head of an object sunk into a cylindrical hole.
D. The head of a screw with six sides.

d) The following is one of the advantages of a laser printer: (1)

A. Longer lifespan compared to other printers.
B. Less complicated and easier to use.
C. Functions with less noise.
D. Able to print many pages at very high speeds.

e) The following statement is NOT one of the disadvantages of a pen plotter. (1)
A. Large in size and difficult to move.
B. More expensive than normal printers.
C. Printed material takes time to dry.
D. Coloured parts of images are not properly drawn.

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 f) The largest unit of electronic space is: (1)
A. Megabyte (MB)
B. Kilobyte (KB)
C. Terabyte (TB)
D. Gigabyte (GB)

g) A tape streamer is a storage device that: (1)

A. Stores very large files.
B. Has a round flexible disk.
C. Stores data on a long strip of tape.
D. Has a round disk that rotates.

2. Match Column A with the correct answer in Column B1. (5x1 = 5)

a) Cloud storage A. Stores files which can be used to

repair corrupt data.
b) Floppy disk B. Copying data from the internet
c) Backup Systems C. A storage system which allows data to
be stored in tape reels.
d) Download D. An encased disk and has a tab to
operate.
e) Tape streamers E. An online service which allows for large
storage capacities.

3. Define the following:

a) Assembly (2)
b) CAD (2)
c) Engineering drawing (2)
d) Back-up system (2)
e) printer (2)

4. Complete the following table. Write down the alphabet and the answer. (14)

Term Abbreviation Description

Hexagon Head a. b.
c. A/F d.
e. CBORE f.
g. h. The distance across corners of a polygon, e.g.,
squares or hexagonal head

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 i. j. A line which divides an object into two parts
Chamfer k. l.
m. OD n.

5. Answer the following questions:

a) Explain one difference between primary and secondary storage. (2)

b) Name two advantages of thermal printers. (2)
c) Explain one difference between a pen plotter and an inkjet plotter. (2)
d) Give three reasons why it is essential to do regular back-ups. (3)
e) Give 4 advantages of manual drawing? (4)
f) List 4 items that an assembly drawing should contain. (4)
g) Give 4 advantages of using CAD. (4)
h) Name two disadvantages of laser printers. (2)
i) Name 3 CAD software programmes. (3)
j) What is PCD in drawing and explain its purpose. (3)

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References

1. Van Leeuwen, J.; du Plooy, D. (2014)

2. Mind Action Series Engineering Graphics and Design Textbook
3. Allcopy Publishers, Sanlamhof, 7532

4. Deon, R. (2017) Hands On! Engineering Drawing N1

5. Mowbray: Future Managers

6. Brink; C.G., Gibbons; P.J., Theron; A.E. (1997) Engineering Drawing N1: Second
Edition.
7. Pearson South Africa (Pty) Ltd.

8. en.wikipedia.org › wiki › Geometry

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