Use reference distance variables
to add a distance between two points or a point and a plane. The reference distance changes
as you move the objects it refers to. You can use reference distances in calculations, for
example, to determine the spacing of rungs on a ladder. Reference distance variables
automatically get the prefix D (distance), which is shown in the Variables dialog box.
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In a custom component view, select a handle.
This is the starting point for
your measurement.
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In the custom component editor, click the
Add reference distance button
.
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Move the mouse pointer in the view to highlight a plane.
This will be the end point for your measurement. If you cannot highlight
the correct plane, change the plane type on the Custom component editor toolbar.
-
Click the plane to select it.
Tekla Structures displays the distance.
The corresponding reference distance variable
is shown in the Variables dialog box:
Note that the
Add reference distance command remains active. You can click more planes if you want to measure other distances.
-
To stop measuring, press
Esc.
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To check that the reference distance works correctly, move the handle.
The distance changes accordingly. For example: