Topic: Dim an Arc?

[craigr]

I am drawing wiring runs on a floorplan and want to show dims of Arcs. - How do I do this?

I know how to show my dims of straight runs, but cannot figure out the Arcs.

Thanks in advance,

craigr

[Rob...]

It really depends on what you want to communicate to who is reading the plan. Do you need the length of the conduit or radius and location? Show us a picture.

[craigr]

I don't have a picture.....yet.   

I am trying to figure out the arcs to come up with 'premade' wires. - I have to have them made to my specs. So I REALLY need to show the distances. I know how to FIND the distances, but not how to make them show up in Dims.

I know I can put the straight line, but the previous company showed the archs, so I should do it also.

craigr

[Rob...]

Yeah, a picture would help a lot. Even if it's a rough sketch.

[craigr]

My apologies.... I threw this together VERY Quickly, but it should explain what I am after.

craigr

[Rob...]

You do realize that is not how it is going to be installed. There is a connection point on each fixture plus there may be obstructions. Even if you had it wired correctly, anything you show for the length would be an estimate. If this is for estimating the total length of wire needed for the entire project, I would think that you would take the straight length between connection points and add a fudge factor. I would just call it out with a leader. Something like 12'-0" (plus/minus symbol).

I'm in the design industry. So, this is just a guess on my part.

[craigr]

I DO understand that there will need to be that 'Fudge Factor'. That is where experience in Installing will come in when laying it out.

BUT, the cables ARE to be pre-made. So, we have to show the length of the Arc. (I don't care for doing it this way either).   

I know I can get the length from the Properties Box, but was hoping there would be a way to show them in the Dim 'automatically'.

craigr

[Rob...]

So the fudge factor is applied afterwards? First you need to show the arc connected to the proper point on each fixture. Then try this:

[craigr]

Yes!!!

That is Exactly what I was looking for! - (I think) 

Luckily, after actually being in the field and Installing for a few years, it will be easier to 'guess' at a fudge factor on the wires. But, fully understanding that it is ONLY a guess.

It kind of sucks having to do it this way, but it is what it is - currently. Hopefully it will change some as it goes along.

Thanks for all of your help!

craigr

[Rob...]

You are quite welcome.