Overview
ISO 8560:2019 - Technical drawings - Construction drawings - Representation of modular sizes, lines and grids - specifies rules for showing modular sizes, modular lines and modular grids on construction and design drawings. The standard defines the basic module M = 100 mm (see ISO 1006) and sets out how modular and multimodular dimensions are designated and graphically represented. Modular sizes are primarily intended for design drawings but may also be added to production drawings to aid manufacturing, orientation and location.
Key topics and requirements
- Designation formats: use formats such as n × M, M (basic), 3 M / 6 M / 12 M (multimodules), and combined forms like 10 × 3 M or 5 × 6 M for multimodular sizes.
- Line representation:
- Modular and multimodular lines are drawn as continuous lines; the lowest level uses a continuous thin line.
- A chain line may be used to indicate a modular line in an axial position for clarity.
- Multimodular grid lines can be terminated with a thin circle for identification; designations (labels) may be placed inside the circle.
- Size terminations: terminations for modular zone dimensions follow ISO 129-1 conventions for dimensioning.
- Modular grids:
- Grids with different intervals are clarified by varying line weight (thin for smallest intervals, thicker for larger intervals).
- The standard specifies conventions for indicating grid sizes, modular zones, changes in grid direction, grid displacement, and axial modular lines.
- Notes and drawing practice: drawings using modular sizes should include a clear note that modular sizing is applied. Drawings must also conform to general presentation rules in ISO 128-1 and dimensioning rules in ISO 129-1.
Applications and users
ISO 8560:2019 is practical for professionals involved in:
- Architectural and building design - to standardize modular coordination and layout.
- Structural and civil engineering - for consistent grid and module communication.
- CAD technicians and drafters - to apply correct line styles and labeling on construction drawings.
- Manufacturing and prefabrication - where modular dimensions assist orientation, location and production setup.
- Construction management and coordination - to ensure components and spaces align to modular systems.
Using ISO 8560 improves clarity, reduces misinterpretation between design and production, and supports modular coordination and prefabrication workflows.
Related standards
Keywords: ISO 8560:2019, modular sizes, modular grids, construction drawings, technical drawings, basic module M, multimodular, CAD, design drawings.
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