Introduction to Pictorial Drawings

Pictorial Drawings
[CA, TL, CW]


Pictorial drawing is the oldest written method of communication known. A major value of pictorial drawings is that they show objects three-dimensionally. Engineering drawings, with all their dimensions and multiple views, are difficult to read for an untrained person. A pictorial drawing, on the other hand, can be viewed and understood by individuals with no background in engineering design.

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Cavalier Oblique
Projection
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Cabinet Oblique
Projection
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Isometric
Projection

Pictorial drawings have many industrial uses. They are often included on engineering drawings to clarify a detail. Sometimes, a section is shown pictorially. Maintenance manuals and parts manuals rely heavily on pictorial drawings. Often an assembly is drawn in an exploded view. This shows the relationships of the parts and their order of assembly.

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Exploded Isometric Assembly

Shaded pictorial drawings are used extensively in sales literature. Architectural perspectives show the exteriors of buildings, the areas surrounding the building, and the interiors of rooms. Most pictorial drawings are made by a special type of drafter, the technical illustrator. These individuals have artistic ability and special preparation.


Last Updated June 6/2001