I continually draw something and then a bit later, wonder how long is that edge? For a simple solid, I can get the size info by selecting the associated object. For more complex items, this doesn't work.

What I usually do is draw a line along the edge I want to measure, select it, read the size, and delete it. If I used a dimension, I suppose I could cut one step out.

Is there some sort of tape measure I've missed, or can one be added to a future release?

Thanks,
Steve

Hi Steve, I just use a line as the measuring tool like you describe.

Note that when you are drawing a line and picking the 2nd point, the length of the line is displayed in the "distance" field in the bottom command bar here:



So one way to have fewer steps is to look down there before finishing the line command and then push Escape to cancel out of it instead of selecting and deleting.

But if you would like a dedicated tool for that, there is a plug-in here that you can set up to do it as well:
http://moi3d.com/download/scripts/PetrsMoiPage/PetrsMoiPage.htm#MeasureDistance

At some point I want to add a batch of tools on an "Analyze" tab, then there would be a good place to put this.

- Michael

Thanks Michael!

Hi Steve,

Another alternative that may help since you mention measuring edges: select the edges themselves and either read the length from the Properties panel, or click Details and then click calculate length from the Curve properties.

--Larry

I also use the line tool for measuring features. If you generate a construction line or two, you can also measure to notional points within the drawing. It's probably more useful that the usual measuring tools we see.

Martin.

> "I just use a line"

Same here. Although...

> "...the length of the line is displayed in the "distance" field in the bottom command bar..."

...that is a good tip.