Reference line dimensioning

Module(s): Dimension Lines

You can use the Reference Line Dimensioning tool to create dimension lines that are based on a reference line (an axis, for example).

Note: This tool is particularly useful for dimensioning elements which are so far from the reference line that this line is no longer displayed in the layout. The dimension line projects towards the reference line by the value you specify for Projection for reference line dimensioning in the Options - Dimension Line page - Display area.
The projection and offset value are applied to the point that is closest to the reference line.

Projection for reference line dimensioning

(A) Building you want to dimension is far away from the reference line
(B) Reference line
(1) Projection of dimension line in the direction of the reference line, with value

To create a dimension line based on a reference line

1. Click Reference Line Dimensioning (How).
   

   Activate Reference Line Dimensioning in one of the following ways

   • Menu bar: Create Dimension Lines

   • Toolbar: Basic Tools Dimension Lines flyout
   • Palette: Tools Create area in the following module(s):

   Dimension Lines

2. If you want, you can now modify the dimension line's parameters.
   Several options are provided on the context toolbar for this.
   

   • Click Properties to set the parameters in a dialog box.
   • Click Match Properties to copy the settings form an existing element.
   • Click Load favorite to select saved parameter combinations.
3. Define the position of the dimension line.
   

   • Through point: To set the position of the dimension line freely, click a point through which the dimension line is to pass.
   • Which dimension line: To create the dimension line at a defined distance from an existing dimension line, click just beside the existing dimension line. Make sure you click beside the side on which the new dimension line is to be created. The system will snap to the dimension line and display it in the selection preview color.
     
     
4. Click the reference line on which the dimension string is to be based (the direction of the dimension line is perpendicular to the reference line you specify).
5. Click the points you want to dimension one after the other.

   Tip: To ensure accurate dimensioning, you should only click genuine points. No acoustic signal is emitted when you click a genuine point.

6. With the second (or later) point to be dimensioned, you can dimension the height of an opening and/or component for the dimension line section you entered last.
7. Press ESC to finish entering the dimension line.

   

   (A) Points to be dimensioned
   (B) Position of dimension line
   (C) Existing reference line (may be outside the layout)

Example