Confused about constraint in family

[HeadbuttJ]

I have been creating some families, but I keep so confused about how to properly set constraints in family.

I tried to use ref plane to control the diemeters of the family type by setting the dimensions between ref planes as a parameter. How do I make my objects always locate on the ref plane so that I only need to control the size of the object by changing the paramter value?

For example, I want to make one side of the void always lie on the ref plane. Thanks.

 

[esr712]

Try selecting the void, and then use the drag tool that pops up (the blue arrow) and drag the side to the plane you want to lock it to. A little lock should appear (default unlocked). Lock it, and then the void should change as your parameters change. Refer to attached .png for visual aid.

If this works, please accept as solution.

[Secttor]

Hi @HeadbuttJ 

1. If you're dealing with diameters.. the simple solution would be to assign the diameter dimension to the parameter that you've created.

2. In the case you posted.. you simply drag the void edge until overlaps one refplane and the lock symbol will appear.. you'll have to click on it in order to finish the constrain.

[barthbradley]

For what it is worth, I would avoid diameter dimensions/constraints. I would control geometry diameter parametrically via radius dimensions.  Something along these lines:  

Rad1.jpgRad2.jpg

Just a tip.