Measurement symbols are used in a different way than all other symbols. Other symbols output geometry to cut objects. Measurement symbols:
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Calculate parameter values.
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Output the parameter values to user-defined rules.
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Are like sub-routines called by the rules. The rules use these values to make decisions.
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Are not stored in the catalog and have no bulkload files.
As an example, look at the profile bounded by a profile below.
If the web cut rule only uses the profile heights in the catalog to determine the web cut for the bounded profile, it will only be correct when the profiles are orthogonal or the bounding profile has a small orientation angle. If the orientation angle is large enough, the true height is much lower and a different web cut type is needed.
A measurement symbol is used to calculate the true height and true clearance of the bounding profile. This value is then used by the rules to select the correct web cut.
There are five types of measurement symbols. Each type is similar in creation to another symbol type and uses that symbol type's Add-In toolbar:
Measurement Symbol |
Similar to |
Cross-Section |
Slot |
Cross-Section with Slot |
Collar |
Profile Web to Profile Web |
WebCut |
Profile Web to Profile Flange |
FlangeCut |
Profile Flange to Profile Flange |
FlangeCut |