Understanding Geometric Constraints

Geometric Constraints define relationships that force dependencies and limitations between entities.

There are two types of Geometric Constraints: those that act on a single geometric entity and those that define a relationship between two geometric entities. For example, the Fix, Horizontal, and Vertical Geometric Constraints act on a single entity, whereas Perpendicular, Parallel, Tangent, and others control two entities.

You can apply Geometric Constraints to 2D entities only.

Constraint Points

When you use a Geometric Constraint command and move the cursor over an entity, selectable constraint points are indicated with an icon .

This table lists the entity types to which you can apply Geometric Constraints. Also, it outlines valid constraint points per entity type:

Entity Type	Constraint Points
Line	Endpoints, Midpoint
Linear PolyLine segment	Endpoints, Midpoint
Circle	Center
Arc	Endpoints, Midpoint
PolyLine Arc	Endpoints, Midpoint
Ellipse	Center
Elliptical Arc	Endpoints, Midpoint
Spline	Endpoints
SimpleNote	Insertion point, Alignment point
Note	Insertion point
Block	Insertion point
AttributeDefinition	Insertion point

Constraint Bars

Constraint bars group together the Geometric Constraints icons associated with an entity.

Example:

The constraints bar above shows that a horizontal, parallel constraint, collinear, and symmetric constraint are defined for a linear entity.

You can show or hide individual constraint bars, or show or hide them all. Also, you can relocate constraint bars to their default position. See: Controlling the Visibility of Geometric Constraint Icons.

Related Topics

Working with Constraints

Applying Geometric Constraints

Controlling the Visibility of Geometric Constraint Icons

Parent Topic

Applying Geometric Constraints