dimensioning between components

[Anonymous]

Completely new but coming along.

The rule is to create a component, then name it, then sketch it. I did that but then I wanted to add some dimensions and I can't place dimensions between different components. 

What I drew was a top down view of posts, header and rafters, basically a bunch of rectangles extruded. Each was a separate component. I wanted to get the space between rafters but I can't pick the edge of one rafter to the edge of the next one fro either component's level.

If I go to the top level and sketch there I can select edges and create some dimensions but they don't update if I move the rafter left or right. Nor can I select midpoints of component from top level, I have to be on the components level and editing the sketch of that component.

I'm missing something basic here can someone get me straightened out? 

Oh and I dont have the constraints tool palette afer the last update - where did that go? I see it on the top toolbar but I want the palette back. 

[jhackney1972]

You should give reference to your model so the forum users can troubleshoot your issue.  Normally you use Joints between components to set up relationships and locations.  As far as the Sketch Constraints on the palette, they have been moved to the sketch toolbar in an Fusion 360 update.  You will have to use this interface, the other is no longer available.

[Anonymous]

"Reference to your model"? Happy to, How can I do that? I'll be looking, if I figure it out I'll post it, otherwise I'll need help.

Not a fan of the moved palette. I'll be looking for a place to whine about that 🙂 

[Anonymous]

Here's the share link https://a360.co/2XfSIvB

[Anonymous]

Any further assistance available?

[jhackney1972]

As I mentioned earlier, you use Joints in the assembly to not only place your components in place, so they will not float off, but you use the Joint Alignment values to place dimensional relationships.  Sketches in the assembly can be used but it is a very awkward method.  Take a look at the Screencast where I place and adjusted dimensions between a couple of your components.  By the way, I used the Rigid Joint but there may be other types that fit the situation better.

[InfoURSMP]

John.  please tell me you have a youtube channel.  You are very clear and to the point, thank you for this and I am sure many other posts.  If you do have a channel could you let us know 

many thanks

Kristian

[g-andresen]

Hi,

take a look here 

günther

[jhackney1972]

I do have a YouTube channel as @g-andresen has graciously pointed out but I do not always have a video related to my posts on my Blog.  The Blog link is at the bottom of my Forum post, I have listed it here as well.

Thank you for the kind words.