How to dimension parallel to 'Z' axis?

[DennisMLinton]

Can anyone tell me how to dimension parallel to the 'Z' axis. I have tried both VerticalDimension and ParallelDimension but the dimension lines and text seem to end up in the X or Y plane rather than parallet to the Z axis. Am I doing something incorrectly or will DraftSight not actually do this?

Thanks in advance,
Dennis

 

[PatCouture]

I don't know about draftsight but in AutoCad I would reorient my UCS in the XZ plane instead of XY then I would be able to dimension accordingly.

Just an idea!

Patrick

 

[MikeHalloran]

I haven't tried it, but I wouldn't be surprised if the ability to reorient the UCS or otherwise allow Z dimensioning is artificially suppressed, since DS is only promoted as a 2D program. I was frankly surprised to find that it could understand and generate 3D models.


Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

 

[4Pipes]

Pat Couture is spot on. Draftsight is pretty good at 3D. I don't know why it is only pushed as 2D - seems odd to keep quiet about such great features. I never did understand marketing.

 

[PatCouture]

Draftsight and AutoCad may be good at 3D but I find it way too complicated and tedious to modify something so unless I just want to model something simple for a quick view then it's ok but for real work I much prefer a parametric modeler.

 

[4Pipes]

I would agree. However, Draftsight is a different tool with some overlap and it is free. I cannot comment on current AutoCAD. It seems a good comparison to AutoCAD 2004. I have not found any free parametric modellers that come close. All are better at 3d but few can produce proper dimensioned drawings of 3d piping for example. Draftsight can and is therefore a useable tool.