Difference between first and projection and third angle projection

First angle projection and third angle projection are two methods used in technical drawing to represent three-dimensional objects in a two-dimensional space, such as engineering and architectural drawings. The main difference between them lies in the placement of the object in relation to the views and the location of the observer.

First Angle Projection:

First angle projection is a method commonly used in Europe and several other parts of the world. In this method, the object is placed in the first quadrant, i.e., between the observer and the plane of projection. The planes of projection are placed as if they were transparent, with the object appearing to project onto them. The views are then created by projecting lines from the object onto these planes of projection. The observer's position is assumed to be in the first quadrant looking towards the object.

Third Angle Projection:

Third angle projection is the method predominantly used in North America. In this approach, the object is placed in the third quadrant, i.e., behind the plane of projection. The planes of projection are positioned between the observer and the object. Views are created by projecting lines from the object onto these planes of projection. The observer is assumed to be situated in the third quadrant, looking through the planes of projection towards the object.

To summarize:

In first angle projection, the object is placed in front of the planes of projection, with the observer looking from the first quadrant.
In third angle projection, the object is situated behind the planes of projection, and the observer is positioned in the third quadrant.

It's worth noting that the choice of projection method depends on regional standards and conventions. Both methods aim to represent the same object, but they differ in how the object and the observer's position are related to the planes of projection.

Here are few more points to consider when comparing first angle projection and third angle projection:

Symbolic Representation:

In technical drawings, the symbol used to represent each projection method is different. First angle projection is typically denoted by placing a symbol of a right-angle triangle with the right angle in the lower-left corner of the view. Third angle projection, on the other hand, is represented by a right-angle triangle with the right angle in the lower-right corner of the view.

Position of Views:

In first angle projection, the views of the object are created by projecting lines from the object onto the planes of projection. The top view is placed above the front view, and the side view is placed to the right of the front view. In third angle projection, the views are arranged differently. The top view is positioned below the front view, and the side view is placed to the left of the front view.

Orthographic Projection:

Both first angle projection and third angle projection are types of orthographic projection, which means that the object is projected onto two or more planes of projection. These planes are usually the frontal plane, horizontal plane, and profile plane. The object is represented by multiple views, such as the front view, top view, and side view, to provide a comprehensive understanding of its shape and dimensions.

Standard Conventions:

The choice between first angle projection and third angle projection often follows specific standards and conventions established within a particular region or industry. For example, in Europe, the first angle projection is more commonly used, whereas third angle projection is prevalent in North America. It is important to adhere to the appropriate projection method as specified by the relevant standards to ensure consistency and clarity in technical documentation.

Visual Perception:

The difference in placement of the object and the observer in first angle and third angle projection affects the way the views appear. First angle projection presents the object as if it were in front of the observer, while third angle projection gives the impression of the object being behind the observer. This variation can influence how designers, engineers, and other professionals interpret and visualize the object from the provided views.

Remember, while there are differences between first angle projection and third angle projection, the objective of both methods is to accurately represent the object's shape, size, and details in a clear and standardized manner for communication and technical documentation purposes.

First and projection and third angle projection: Difference