Add a Parallel Constraint
General
- A parallel constraint can be given between two lines (segments) or between a segment and the lines of the central cross.
- A distance constraint between two lines, in a way, includes the parallel constraint, because it turns the lines in the same direction.
- If you add a line locked in the horizontal or vertical direction, the line automatically gets a parallel constraint with the horizontal or vertical axis of the sketch's center cross.
- If you add a line using the E key to select its direction, the line automatically gets a parallel constraint with the line that you used as a reference.
- In sketch geometry, the symbol for parallel constraint is .
- You can use the F9 key to show and hide the symbols of the constraints.
Add a parallel constraint in a plane sketch
- Select Sketch | Constraints | Add parallel constraint.
- Select the first line.
- This line will remain in place unless the second line to be clicked is locked in its direction with constraints.
- Select the second line.
- This line moves so that it is parallel with the first line.
- If the direction of the line is locked with constraints, then the first line moves.
- Repeat steps 2 and 3 to add new parallel constraints
- Stop adding parallel constraints
- Select another function or
- press the V key or
- press the Esc key or
- click the middle mouse button.
Draw a line parallel to another line
- Select a line adding function.
- Two-Point Line.
- Polyline.
- Rectangle.
- Click the start point of the line.
- Move the cursor over the line parallel to which you want to draw the line.
- Press the E key.
- The line direction is locked.
- Click the end point of the line. Continue drawing the sketch according to the function you selected.
- A parallel constraint is automatically added to the line that served as a reference.