Transformation Functions - PARALLEL

This function is used to transform the current part with a parallel and distant constraint. The operator will be prompted to indicate first a line in the current part, then a line in another part or possibly a plate edge. (If an arc is indicated instead, the tangent at the indicated position will be used.) The operator will, in this case, be notified for acceptance. Then the

transformation will occur instantaneously. The current part will be rotated, so that the two indicated lines become parallel (the least possible rotation angle will be chosen). Then the

part will be moved, so that the distance between the two indicated lines will be the default distance and so that the indication points come as close as possible to each other. (The

second indication defines on what side of the first line the second line shall be placed.) Answering REJECT instead of indicating the first line adds some other features to the

function. The default distance can be replaced with a keyed in distance (or twice the kerf compensation for common cuts) or the rotation part of the function can be excluded, so that

the distance is measured from a node point in the current part (e.g. a corner) to the second line.

The following figure illustrates the action of the function in a simple case:

Figure 3:8 Figure Showing the Action of the Function in a Simple Case.