Create and add pattern lines in drawings
You can easily apply special and complex lines to drawings by using pattern lines. You can create new pattern lines and modify existing pattern lines in Pattern line editor, and add the created pattern lines in drawings using the Pattern line command. Pattern lines may include symbols, lines and spacings. You can create pattern lines to indicate cut lines, foundations, weld paths, or electrical wiring, for example.
Create a pattern line
Now you can open a drawing and create a pattern line using the pattern line that you defined.
- The symbol at the left end is the start element, symbol #49.
- The symbol at the right end is the end element, symbol #48.
- Blue color is defined for the start and end elements.
- Symbol #51 in red is used as a repeating element.
- Two SolidLines are used as continuous elements with vertical offsets 2.0 and -2.0.
Tip: If your pattern lines are jumping like in the example below, try using continuous elements instead of repeating elements.
Add a pattern line in a drawing
You may select among predefined pattern lines, or create your own in Pattern line editor.
Limitations
- Pattern lines are not included in a 2D Library detail unless the pattern line has been exploded.
- You cannot rotate or mirror created pattern lines.
- You cannot clone pattern lines.
Pattern line elements
A pattern line consists of one or several blocks of elements. These element blocks are arranged between two given points.
The illustration below shows a pattern line consisting of two repeating symbol elements in three blocks.
The symbol elements have the following settings:
Space = 1.5
Spacing type = Fixed
Size = 1
Color = 1st element is blue, and the 2nd element is red
1. Block size
2. Unoccupied space, which is the space that is left when the blocks are arranged between two points. This space is redistributed to the elements which have the spacing type Variable.
The following illustration describes the different element settings. The letter E inside a circle is an element:
1. Size of the element
2. Origin
3. Horizontal offset from the origin
4. Vertical offset from the origin
5. Space