Pattern on path - set 'Extent' distance to 100% of path

[rasmusfjordside]

Hi Forum

I'm doing a Pattern on Path with 'Extent' as my distribution method. I would like to have the first and last object at the start and end point of the path I'm using. It is only possible to type in an exact distance in mm or use the hidden 'measure' feature next to the type field, though my path consist of multiple tangent lines and I'm not able to 'measure' the hole path at once. Is there a way to set the distance for the 'extent' as a percentage of the path? (in my case I would like to set it at 100%) I can eyeball the extent distance to match the length of my path but this is not exactly the nature of a CAD software. I am not able to attach my file unfortunately but again this address the features of the tool (Pattern on Path) in general more than my specific file. I have attached a screenshot of my issue, though. EDIT: I have attached the section of my file in question.

Best regards

Rasmus

[g-andresen]

Hi,

Simply create a a sample design and share it for reply

günther

[rasmusfjordside]

Hi @g-andresen , thank you for your reply - I have attached a section of my file now.

/Rasmus

[laughingcreek · Accepted solution]

IMO the pattern on path tool is a bit broken.  I don't really understand why it doesn't get more love from the developers,  but I'm not expecting it to anytime soon.

 when you drag the arrow out along the path, you will get snap points at the endpoints and midpoints of the various sketch entities.  You can tell when you've snapped to one because there will be a black dot-

the location of these snap points can be easier to visualize when (ironically) the path is covered un by bodies.  then white dots show up at their locations-

this is, unfortunately, a SNAP, and not a CONSTRAINT.  meaning if you change the overall length of your path, you will have to edit the pattern command to reflect the new length.  gaaa!

don't get me started on patterning along a non-planer path...........

[rasmusfjordside]

@laughingcreek thank you for your reply! Yeah, I've noticed that the arrow actually snaps to sketch entities when dragging it out, but I've found it to be vague and not relied on it and I've not really payed attention to the black (and white) dots confirming the snaps - but I will from now on!