Maximum and Minimum Dimensions with Arcs

Create linear and ordinate dimensions to minimum, center, and maximum arc extents when you add dimensions between two arcs, or between a line or a sketch point and an arc using the Smart Dimension tool.

The minimum and maximum arc extents are confined to 45° zones. The minimum zone is located closest to the entity you measure from. When you move beyond the 45° zones, the dimension reverts to a linear dimension between the center of the arc and the other sketch entity.

• Arcs. The dimension between two arcs provides two 45° zones where you can dimension to the perimeter of the arc as opposed to the center of the arc. The 45° zones are based on an imaginary line between the two sketch entities.

• Arc and line or sketch point. The dimension between a line or a sketch point and an arc provides a single 45° zone where you can dimension to the perimeter of the arc as opposed to the center of the arc. The imaginary line is from the initial position on the sketch entity to the center of the arc.

To dimension to the arc:

1. Sketch two arcs or an arc and a line or a sketch point.

2. Click Smart Dimension on the Dimensions/Relations toolbar or click Tools, Dimensions, Smart.

3. Hold down Shift to apply maximum and minimum dimensions between entities.

• Between two arcs: Select the center of the first arc, and move the pointer on a straight line towards the center of the second arc, until you reach the closest perimeter of the second arc (minimum).

• Between a line or a sketch point and an arc: Select the line or sketch point, and move the pointer on a straight line towards the arc, until you reach the closest perimeter of the second arc (minimum).

4. Move the pointer up and down along the perimeter, staying within the 45° zone.

5. If the arc you are dimensioning to is a circle, move the pointer across to the other side of the circle (maximum).

An equivalent 45° zone exists.

6. Move outside the 45° zone on either side of the perimeter of the arc you are dimensioning to, and the dimension changes to linear between the two sketch entities.

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