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What is the difference between isometric and axonometric?

Published in Engineering 2 mins read

Isometric and axonometric are both types of projection methods used in technical drawings, but they differ in their angle of projection.

Isometric Projection

  • Isometric projection uses a 30-degree angle for all three axes (x, y, and z). This results in a distorted view where all three axes appear at the same length.
  • Practical applications: Often used in mechanical drawings and architectural plans for representing objects in a simplified and easily understandable way.

Axonometric Projection

  • Axonometric projection uses different angles for each axis.
  • Three types of axonometric projection:
    • Orthographic projection: Uses 90-degree angles for all axes.
    • Oblique projection: Uses one axis at a 90-degree angle and the other two at different angles.
    • Isometric projection: A specific type of axonometric projection where all angles are 30 degrees.
  • Practical applications: Used in various fields, including architecture, engineering, and design, to represent objects in a more realistic way compared to isometric projection.

Key Differences

Feature Isometric Projection Axonometric Projection
Projection Angle 30 degrees for all axes Varies for each axis
Axis Length All axes appear equal Axes can appear at different lengths
Distortion More distorted Less distorted
Realism Less realistic More realistic
Applications Mechanical drawings, architectural plans Architecture, engineering, design

Example:

  • A cube drawn in isometric projection will appear with all sides equal, while in axonometric projection, one side might appear longer than the others.

In conclusion, both isometric and axonometric projection are valuable tools for representing objects in 2D, but they differ in their angle of projection and level of realism. Isometric projection is simpler and easier to understand, while axonometric projection offers a more accurate and realistic representation.

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