2009

Using Model Edges as References for Sketches
While you sketch, you can:
■ Automatically project edges of the part to the sketch plane as you sketch
a curve.
■ Create dimensions and constraints to edges of the part that do not lie on
the sketch plane.
■ Control the automatic projection of part edges to the sketch plane.
Workflow overview: Project part edges to a sketch plane
■ Click the Project Geometry tool, and then select any part edge.
■ Select an edge of the part while creating a dimension or constraint.
NOTE You can also use model edges as references for continuous loops or points.
Precise Values
In the sketch environment, you can enter relative X and Y distances from the
last point selected. The tools for precise input are located on the Precise Input
toolbar. It is only available when a sketch tool that requires placement of a
point is activated. For example, you can use precise input to define a line, a
sketch point, and a three-point arc, among others.
Enter precise values for geometry as you sketch. The Precise Input toolbar has
X and Y fields. You can enter both values to define a point, or enter only X
or Y to limit the placement of the point to a vertical or horizontal line.
TRY IT: Input precise values
1 In the sketch environment, click a Sketch tool to make it active.
2 On the standard toolbar, click View ➤ Toolbar ➤ Autodesk Inventor
Precise Input.
The toolbar is displayed in the graphics window.
3 Click a start point, or on the Precise Input dialog box, enter a value in
the X field.
24 | Chapter 2 Creating Sketches