axis in layout

[pmolson]

As you can see in the image below I am dimensioning overhangs on a roof plan in layout.
this is home has many different angles. in sketchup I have many scenes saved at all the associated axis angle so I can easily switch from one to the other to make the inference engine work nicely while modeling.

now that I am in layout the model is imported from the roof plan scene in sketchup and is set to one axis.
When I am dimensioning the overhangs on portions of the model that are not aligned to the model axis
it makes it very difficult to get the dimension to "snap" to a perpendicular point and I end up having to get as close as I can, then check the actual distance in the model and come back to layout and edit the text in the dimension.

so, is there a way to force the dimension to recognize that I am trying to dimension between two perpendicular points.....

Not sure if I am doing a good job at asking this question...Dave, you usualy understand my babbling, any help for me this time?

sketchucation question.jpg

[Dave R]

Hi Paul,

I think I understand. Are you anchoring the dimensions to corners or intersections in the model?If so, you should be able to drag the dimensions out in the correct dimension. Try pressing Alt+Shift qhwn placing the dimension.

Click on the picture:

dims.gif

[pmolson]

it was the alt/shift i was missing. I was pushing shift to try to get it to lock in which of course was not working.

it seems to me that when you working within the model axis you dont need the alt / shift but when you are working on areas not in the axis one needs alt shift.

is that right?

p

[Dave R]

If your dimension lines are either vertical or horizontal or the anchor points are aligned, you can place the dimensions without Alt+Shift. Is that what you mean?

[pmolson]

yes, that is what I mean.
the alt shift is making my life easier.
thank you.

[Dave R]

Good deal!