To create labels with Interactive dimensioning

Select features to dimension and place labels using a mouse.

Use the Interactive dimensioning function to create distance, radial, angular and slot dimension labels in the CAD View.

Choose the datum and dimensioning plane

Before you can select the features you want to dimension, you choose the appropriate datum and dimensioning plane in the CAD View.

1. In the CAD view, display the datums that contain the planes you want to use for dimensioning.
2. Select Home tab > Report panel > Interactive Dimension. The dimensioning plane is superimposed on the PCS (CAD Datum) icon in the CAD view.
3. By default, PowerInspect uses the PCS (CAD Datum) to identify the available dimensioning planes and selects the plane that best matches the orientation of the CAD model. To change:
   • the datum, double-click the origin of the datum you want to use. The dimensioning plane switches to the selected datum.
   • the dimensioning plane, rotate the CAD model to display the face you want to work with, then double-click the dimensioning plane. The plane changes its orientation to match the model.

   You can also select a major plane of the current datum by pressing the X, Y, or Z key.

Pick the reference item and place the dimension label

As you move the cursor over a reference item, it displays in yellow. When you select it, it changes to red.

1. Click the following reference point(s), depending upon the feature:
   • Distance between two points — Select the points between which to measure the distance.
   • Distance between two planes — Select the planes between which to measure the distance.
   • Distance between two circles — Select the circumferences of the circles between which to measure the distance. Hold the Ctrl key while selecting the first circle.
   • Diameter of a circle — Select the circumference of the circle.
   • Radius of a circle — Select the centre of the circle.
   • Dimensions of a torus — Select the torus.
   • Dimensions of a cylinder — Select the cylinder.
   • Angle between two lines — Select the plane on which to project the lines and then select the lines.
   • Angle between two vectors — Select the two vectors.
   • Angle between two planes — Select the two planes.
   • Half-angle of a cone — Select the cone.
   • Dimensions of a slot — Select the slot.

   See the Interactive dimensioning graphical reference for visual examples of the reference points.

2. Right-click the label that appears to choose an option from a context menu.

   Not all dimension labels have context menus with options.

3. Move the dimension label to position it and click to place it.

Press the Esc key to cancel a dimension.

To move a dimension after you have positioned it, left-click and hold the box, drag the label to a new position, then release the mouse button. To conceal a dimension, right-click the box, and select Hide from the context menu. To edit the label, right-click it and select an option from the context menu.