Note: Scaling constraints can only be applied to version 8 solids. If your model contains post-version 8 solids, you must
convert them manually before applying constraints.
Scaling constraints let you keep certain entities locked, but scale the rest of a model. You can apply scaling constraints to the following:
- solids
- groups of adjoining surfaces in a solid that have been defined as a User Defined feature
- symbols.
Note: If you apply constraints to solids that you wish to scale, it is advisable to use small scaling factors (for example, 1.2, 1.3) when you are using scaling to ensure that the stitch margin can produce a smooth and acceptable solution.
When you set up a scaling constraint, a check
icon is displayed against
Scaling Constraints
in the solid context menu.
Scaling constraints are useful for creating graded copies of some geometry, but when portions of the geometry are to be kept constant irrespective of the scale factor that is being applied.
You could use scaling constraints in the following situations:
- Bottles — scale the whole bottle but keep the neck of the bottle the same size.
- Shoes — scale the shoe sole but keep the airbag or logos the same size.
Note: Applying scaling constraints does not make any immediate changes; they are used when you scale the model.
A warning message is displayed when you use the Scale option on the Edit tab if any selected object has scaling constraints set.