Can't dimension to a symbol in an IDW

[csmac2004]

I'm sure many of you are saying "Who the heck would dimension to a symbol anyways?" However, we do actually have a need here due to Fabrication Department requirements that we actually dimension to a sketched symbol. However, it does not appear like it can be done!

Has anyone figured out a way to do this? Am I just missing something, or can it just not be done and that's that??? Thanks!

[pauldoubet]

I am pretty sure there is a work around to do something like this but...why does it have to be a symbol?

I have a model which uses a piece of sq tube cut 4" longer than required to facilitate assembling the weldment. Once welding is complete the tube is cut off. In the model I just make the tube the finished length. To show what actually needs to be done in the idw file I create a sketch showing the extra 4" of material and the saw cut that is partially completed at the bandsaw prior to welding.

To do this you highlight the drawing view you want to add the sketch to and then select the sketch button at the top of the screen. This will anchor the sketch to that view and by using the familiar sketch tools and constraints you can create what you need to represent your symbol or in my case the extra material. Then finish the sketch and add the required dimensions to your drawing view.

Hope this helps, Paul