You can create dimensions in the graphics area which display various text labels or numerical dimensions on the model. Dimensions do not affect the behavior of the model, and cannot be used to create features or surfaces and so on.
To create a dimension, select Construct tab > Geometry panel > Dimension and select an option.
You can create these types of dimensions:
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Horizontal Distance — dimension information only in the horizontal axis of the model.
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Vertical Distance — dimension information only in the vertical axis of the model.
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Linear Distance — dimension information based on the direct distance between two points, regardless of angle.
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Radius — dimension information for the radius of the selected object.
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Diameter — dimension information for the diameter of the selected object.
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Angle — dimension information for the angle between two selected lines.
You can create these types of text labels:
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Text Label — a floating text label, which is not pinned to an object.
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Annotation — a text label which is pinned to an object, with an arrow pointing to a specific location on the object. If you move the object, the annotation moves also.
Curvature samples the surface and computes the curvature in two directions to describe how the surface behaves at a point. Unlike the other dimensioning tools,
Curvature is a real-time rubber-banding effect where you traverse the surface to find the point with the smallest curvature radius. From this information you can determine the smallest tool you need to manufacture the surface.
To use
Curvature:
- Select Construct tab > Geometry panel > Dimension > Curvature.
- Select a surface in the graphics window.
- Move the cursor over a point on the surface, particularly in the tight constrained areas or joints. The properties of the point are displayed in the dialog bar.
- Note the smallest value of the
Radius of curvature. This is the smallest tool end radius you need to accurately machine the surface.
- Set up rough and finish passes for the surface feature based on this knowledge, and ensure the tool is available for production.