Autodesk 235B1-05A761-1301 User Guide - Page 676

Parallel Distance Can be defined for pairs of geometry of all types. Defines a value between 2 features in a parallel direction. The value of a distance dimension cannot be negative. Perpendicular Distance Can be defined for pairs of geometry of all types. Defines a value between 2 features in a perpendicular direction. The value of a distance dimension cannot be negative. Diameter Can be defined for circular and arc geometry. Defines a value for the diameter of a circular feature. Angle Can be defined for pairs of linear geometry. Defines a value for the degrees between 2 linear features. See also Path Angle. Path Angle Defines the sweep (angle direction) that the software uses to ensure that the 3D part is built correctly. Path Angle appears as appears as PathA1, PathA2, etc. under Size Parameters in the Content Builder. Constraints Depending on the geometry of the model, you may need to add one or more constraints to define the shape or size of the model. Constraints enforce rules that you want the model to obey. Constraining a model controls how a model can change in shape or size, called "degrees of freedom." For example, a circle has 2 degrees of freedom: the location of its center and its diameter. If the center and diameter are defined, the circle is fully constrained and those values can be maintained. Constraints specify the relationships of geometric features; for example, whether 2 features are perpendicular, parallel, tangent, concentric, or have the same midpoint or radius. NOTE After you add geometry, dimensions, or constraints to the model, the degrees of freedom are listed on the command line. Constraints work in conjunction with dimensions to control the shape and size of the model. Any time you modify the model, the geometry retains the relationships among features in accordance with the applied constraints. You add constraints to indicate your design intent. For example, a parallel constraint could be defined between 2 lines based on the geometry of the model. You could also add a constraint to force both lines to have the same length. As you apply geometric constraints, continue to analyze the model, reviewing and replacing constraints as necessary. As you gain experience, you will be able to determine which constraints control the model to meet your design requirements. Some constraints work only with lines, while others work only with arcs, circles, or points. Applying a tangent constraint Applying a parallel constraint Applying a perpendicular constraint 658 | Chapter 14 Customizing Catalog-Based Content