How can you use constraints to ensure the integrity of your 2D CAD drawing?

2 Types of constraints

There are two main types of constraints that you can use in your 2D CAD drawing: geometric and dimensional. Geometric constraints define the shape and position of your elements, such as parallel, perpendicular, tangent, or concentric. Dimensional constraints define the size and distance of your elements, such as length, radius, angle, or offset. You can apply both types of constraints to your elements using the tools and options available in your CAD software.

3 Applying geometric constraints

To apply geometric constraints to your elements, you need to select them and choose the type of constraint you want to apply from the toolbar or the menu. For example, if you want to make two lines parallel, you need to select them and click on the parallel constraint icon. You will see a symbol indicating that the constraint has been applied. You can also apply multiple geometric constraints to the same element or to different elements at once.

4 Applying dimensional constraints

To apply dimensional constraints to your elements, you need to select them and choose the type of constraint you want to apply from the toolbar or the menu. For example, if you want to specify the length of a line, you need to select it and click on the linear dimension constraint icon. You will see a value indicating the length of the line. You can also edit the value by double-clicking on it or by entering a new value in the dialog box. You can also apply multiple dimensional constraints to the same element or to different elements at once.

5 Editing and deleting constraints

If you want to edit or delete a constraint that you have applied to your elements, you need to select the constraint symbol or value and use the tools and options available in your CAD software. For example, if you want to change the angle of a line that has an angular dimension constraint, you need to select the value and enter a new value in the dialog box. If you want to remove the constraint, you need to select the value and press the delete key.

6 Tips and best practices

When using constraints in your 2D CAD drawing, it is important to plan ahead and decide which elements need to have constraints and which type of constraints they need. Applying constraints as you draw or as soon as possible after drawing can help avoid conflicts or inconsistencies between your elements. It is also important to use the minimum number of constraints necessary to define your elements, in order to avoid over-constraining or under-constraining them. Lastly, you should check your constraints regularly and resolve any errors or warnings that might occur, to ensure that your drawing is valid and accurate.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?