This
function enables the user to measure the distance in millimeter units between
two points/nodes, or a point/node and a line or a surface. The program display
a dialog box as shown in Figure 14.2.1 for the user to select the measuring type.
Figure 14.2.1 Measuring type
TO POINT/NODE
Measure
the distance between two points/nodes. Once this function is selected, the
program pops up a dialog box for the user to use the cursor to select two
points/nodes on the screen and measures the distance between them. The user can
also define two points/nodes by entering their coordinates. The program will
display the measurement result on the screen and simultaneously display the
DISTANCE, DX, DY and DZ values in the message prompt window.
DISTANCE=185.465, DX=157.975, DY=97.165, DZ=0.000
TO LINE
Measure
the shortest distance from point/node to line. Once this function is selected,
the program prompts the user to select a point/node. The user can select
point/node by mouse cursor or by entering the coordinates, and then select a
line on the screen. The program will prompt the user for the shortest distance
from this point/node to the line:
DISTANCE=80.728, DX=69.490, DY=40.977, DZ=-3.000
Simultaneously,
the points which are close to the selected point/node on line are highlighted
on the screen. The program pops up an eta/DYNAFORM Question dialog box as shown
in Figure 14.2.2 to determine whether to create a node at the shortest
distance. The user can select Yes to create a node or select No to continue the
measurement.
Figure 14.2.2 eta/DYNAFORM Question dialog box
TO SURFACE
Measure
the shortest distance from point/node to surface. Once this function is
selected, the program prompts the user to select a point/node. The user can select
point/node by mouse cursor or by entering the coordinates. Then select a
surface on the screen. The program will prompt the user for the shortest
distance from this point/node to the surface:
DISTANCE=28.193, DX=24.824, DY=13.327, DZ=-1.000
Simultaneously,
the points which are close to the selected point/node on surface are
highlighted on the screen. The program pops up an eta/DYNAFORM Question dialog
box as shown in Figure 14.2.2 to determine whether to create a node at the shortest
distance. The user can select Yes to create a node or select No to continue the
measurement.