See Full-Size ImageOverview: After drawing geometry and applying dimensions, the power of Sketcher becomes apparent. By simply editing a dimension value, the sketch, and all its associated geometry, updates. By applying and changing geometric and dimensional constraints, you can evaluate different designs quickly and efficiently.
Constraint Definition Dialog
Enables you to easily modify dimension values, convert a dimension to a reference dimension, and reconnect dimensions. To display this dialog, you can either double-click a dimension, select [feature name] object Definition from the dimension's pop-up menu, or select Edit [feature name] object Definition.
See Full-Size ImageReference Dimension
Denotes a non-controlling dimension in a sketch. It is only used for information purposes. The value of a reference dimension displays with parenthesis. Often times, changing a dimension to reference is an easy way to fix conflicting constraints.
See Full-Size ImageReconnect Dimension
Lets you change the object associativity of a dimension, and move it to another element. This option is only available after clicking More in the Constraint Definition dialog and then picking a 'component" from the list area. This capability is essential if you create any formulas that link the different dimensions together.
See Full-Size ImageDeactivate\Activate Dimensions
Deactivating a dimension turns a controlling dimension into a non-controlling dimension. This lets you temporarily prevent a dimension from controlling the geometry. A deactivated dimension has small bold parenthesis before the value. Deactivate\Activate is available through the dimension right-click pop-up menu. The advantage of a deactivated dimension is that it retains the value that you initially defined, which allows you to temporarily move the element, then re-activate the dimension and have it restore to the original value.
See Full-Size ImageAngular Sector
Angular Sector Options are only available for angular dimensions. By selecting a sector, the angular dimension displays with different values. This display is useful when you want to maintain the dimension, but have changed the design intent from the original sector.
See Full-Size ImageSwap Location
Flip a dimension on an under-constrained element to the opposite side of the static element. This option is necessary since CATIA does not allow negative dimensional values. Note that swap can only be performed on Offset dimensions types.
See Full-Size ImageTips
• Many of these Options are available when you right-click while placing the dimension.