Reference line dimensioning

Task area Dimension

You can use this tool to create axis-based dimension lines.

Note: This tool is particularly useful for dimensioning elements which are so far from the reference line that this line is no longer visible in the layout. The dimension line projects toward the reference line by the value you define for Projection for reference line dimensioning in the Options - Dimension Line page - Display area.
The projection and offset value apply 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

   • Actionbar:Role Draft Task Label Task area Dimension

   • Menu bar: Create Dimension Lines

   • Palette: Tools Create area in the following module(s):

   Dimension Lines

2. If you want, you can now modify the dimension line's parameters.
   Use the options on the context toolbar.
   

   • Click Properties to set the parameters in a dialog box.
   • Click Match properties to copy the settings from an existing element.
   • Click Load favorite to select saved parameter combinations.
3. Select the Associative option on the context toolbar to create associative dimension lines. When you use associative dimension lines, you can dimension genuine points only.
4. 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.
     
     
5. 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).
6. Click the points you want to dimension one after the other.

   Tip: To ensure exact dimensions, click genuine points only. You cannot hear an acoustic signal when you click a genuine point.

7. Starting with the second point to be dimensioned, you can dimension the height of an opening or component for the dimension line section that you entered last. However, this is only possible if the Associative option is not selected.
8. Select the Esc key to finish entering the dimension line.

   

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

Example