EQUALLY SPACED SYMMETRICAL GRIDS

[captainbunsaver]

This is so basic, and yet I can't figure it out.
I want to lay out an equally-spaced grid system for a building that is symmetrical left-right.
Should be simple, right?
I started with a pinned ref plan for the symmetry axis. Then I placed another ref plan either side for outside of walls. Dimension all three and choose "equal".
Then I place the grids (six in this case), dimension all, and choose "equal". I lock the outside grid lines to the two outside ref planes

When I try to flex the ref planes (and thus the grid system), it gives an error message
"can't change dimension segment to this value".

How can I accomplish the symmetry and equal spaced grids?

TC

p.s. Almost got it to work by using only ref planes set up as shown. But, as soon as I lock grids to even one, it gives the same error message.

[bgauthier]

Seems to work fine. I tried to move the grids and it was OK. The only thing that didn't work was when I tried to lock one of the divided one. It is then over constrained. Other then that, everything is fine

[Dimitri Harvalias]

No need to use ref planes. This is one of those cases where the order you do these things in seems to make a difference.

Layout out all grids
Place a dimension string across all grids and click on the EQ constraint
Pin the middle grid so the grids are anchored at the center (can do this before or after 2)
Place a dimensin from the center to one of the outer grids
To change the overall size click on the dimensioned outer grid and change the value of the dimension

[dhurtubise]

The order really does matter. It's like when you delete the equal dimension but keep the constraint you then have an... anchor symbol. Too bad it doesn't show when the EQ is present.

[captainbunsaver]

Thanks a ton! How dd you ever figure that out?

I found out that if there are constraints (like center to center constraints on windows) on the outside walls, the side-to-side constraints aren't available .


Thanks a bunch!

TC

[Steve_Stafford]

The anchor symbol will appear when you select one of the elements constrained by the EQ toggle. Notice in the image in the bottom left corner. You can drag the anchor to another location which will alter how the overall string behaves when you change the position of one of the grids.