Sketcher Workbench: Difference between revisions

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[[Image:Workbench_Sketcher.svg|thumb|128px|Sketcher workbench icon]]


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== Introduction == <!--T:117-->
== Introduction == <!--T:117-->


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With the FreeCAD [[Image:Workbench_Sketcher.svg|24px]] [[Sketcher_Workbench|Sketcher Workbench]] 2D sketches intended for use in other workbenches can be created. 2D sketches are the starting point for many CAD models. They typically define the profiles and paths for operations to create 3D shapes. A model may depend on several sketches for its final shape.
The [[Sketcher Workbench|Sketcher Workbench]] is used to create 2D geometries intended for use in the [[PartDesign Workbench|PartDesign Workbench]], [[Arch Workbench|Arch Workbench]], and other workbenches. Generally, a 2D drawing is considered the starting point for most CAD models, as a 2D sketch can be "extruded" to create a 3D shape; further 2D sketches can be used to create other features like pockets, ridges, or extrusions on top of the previously built 3D shapes. Together with boolean operations defined in the [[Part Workbench|Part Workbench]], the Sketcher forms the basis of the [[constructive solid geometry|constructive solid geometry]] (CSG) method of building solids. Moreover, together with the [[PartDesign Workbench|PartDesign Workbench]] operations, the Sketcher also forms the basis of the [[feature editing|feature editing]] methodology of creating solids.

Together with boolean operations defined in the [[Image:Workbench_Part.svg|16px]] [[Part Workbench|Part Workbench]], the Sketcher Workbench, or "The Sketcher" for short, forms the basis of the [[constructive solid geometry|constructive solid geometry]] (CSG) method of building solids. Together with [[Image:Workbench_PartDesign.svg|16px]] [[PartDesign_Workbench|PartDesign Workbench]] operations, it also forms the basis of the [[feature editing|feature editing]] methodology of creating solids. But many other workbenches use sketches as well.


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The Sketcher workbench features "constraints", allowing 2D shapes to follow precise geometrical definitions in terms of length, angles, and relationships (horizontality, verticality, perpendicularity, etc.). A constraint solver calculates the constrained-extent of 2D geometry and allows interactive exploration of degrees-of-freedom of the sketch.
The Sketcher workbench features [[#What_are_constraints?|constraints]], allowing 2D shapes to follow precise geometrical definitions in terms of length, angles, and relationships (horizontality, verticality, perpendicularity, etc.). A constraint solver calculates the constrained-extent of 2D geometry and allows interactive exploration of the degrees-of-freedom of the sketch.

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The Sketcher is not intended for producing 2D blueprints. Once sketches are used to generate a solid feature, they are automatically hidden and Constraints are only visible in Sketch edit mode. If you only need to produce 2D views for print, and don't want to create 3D models, check out the [[Draft_Workbench|Draft workbench]].


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{{Caption|A fully constrained sketch}}
{{Caption|A fully constrained sketch}}


== Constraints ==
== Basics of constraint sketching == <!--T:4-->
To explain how the Sketcher works, it may be useful to compare it to the "traditional" way of drafting.

==== Traditional Drafting ==== <!--T:5-->
The traditional way of CAD drafting inherits from the old [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drawing_board drawing board]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multiview_orthographic_projection Orthogonal (2D) views] are drawn manually and intended for producing technical drawings (also known as blueprints). Objects are drawn precisely to the intended size or dimension. If you want to draw an horizontal line 100mm in length starting at (0,0), you activate the line tool, either click on the screen or input the (0,0) coordinates for the first point, then make a second click or input the second point coordinates at (100,0). Or you will draw your line without regard to its position, and move it afterwards. When you've finished drawing your geometries, you add dimensions to them.

==== Constraint Sketching ==== <!--T:6-->
The '''Sketcher''' moves away from this logic. Objects do not need to be drawn exactly as you intend to, because they will be defined later on by constraints. Objects can be drawn loosely, and as long as they are unconstrained, can be modified. They are in effect "floating" and can be moved, stretched, rotated, scaled, and so on. This gives great flexibility in the design process.


==== What are constraints? ==== <!--T:7-->
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Instead of dimensions, Constraints are used to limit the degrees of freedom of an object. For example, a line without constraints has 4 [[#Degrees Of Freedom|Degrees Of Freedom]] (abbreviated as " DOF "): it can be moved horizontally or vertically, it can be stretched, and it can be rotated.
Constraints are used to limit the degrees of freedom of an object. For example, a line without constraints has 4 Degrees Of Freedom (abbreviated as "DoF"): it can be moved horizontally or vertically, it can be stretched, and it can be rotated.


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Multiple objects can be constrained between one another. Two lines can be joined through one of their points with the coincident point constraint. An angle can be set between them, or they can be set perpendicular. A line can be tangent to an arc or a circle, and so on. A complex Sketch with multiple objects will have a number of different solutions, and making it '''fully-constrained''' means that just one of these possible solutions has been reached based on the applied constraints.
Objects can be constrained in relation to one another. Two lines can be joined through one of their points with the coincident point constraint. An angle can be set between them, or they can be set perpendicular. A line can be tangent to an arc or a circle, and so on. A complex Sketch with multiple objects may have a number of different solutions, and making it '''fully-constrained''' can mean that just one of these possible solutions has been reached based on the applied constraints.


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There are two kinds of constraints: geometric and dimensional. They are detailed in the [[#The tools|'The tools']] section below.
There are two kinds of constraints: geometric and dimensional. They are detailed in the [[#Tools|Tools]] section below.


=== Driving vs. reference constraints ===
==== What the Sketcher is not good for ==== <!--T:11-->
The Sketcher is not intended for producing 2D blueprints. Once sketches are used to generate a solid feature, they are automatically hidden. Constraints are only visible in Sketch edit mode.


=== Edit constraints ===
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If you only need to produce 2D views for print, and don't want to create 3D models, check out the [[Draft Module|Draft workbench]]. Unlike Sketcher elements, Draft objects don't use constraints; they are simple shapes defined at the moment of creation. Both Draft and Sketcher can be used for 2D geometry drawing, and 3D solid creation, although their preferred use is different; the Sketcher is normally used together with [[Part Workbench|Part]] and [[PartDesign Workbench|PartDesign]] to create solids; Draft is normally used for simple planar drawings over a grid, like when drawing an architectural floor plan; in this situations Draft is mostly used together with the [[Arch Workbench|Arch Workbench]]. The tool [[Draft Draft2Sketch|Draft2Sketch]] converts a Draft object to a Sketch object, and vice versa; many tools that require a 2D element as input work with either type of object as an internal conversion is done automatically.


When a [[Sketcher_ToggleDrivingConstraint|driving constraint]] is created, and if the {{MenuCommand|Ask for value after creating a dimensional constraint}} [[Sketcher_Preferences#Display|preference]] is selected (default), a dialog opens to edit its value.
== Sketching Workflow == <!--T:13-->
A Sketch is always 2-dimensional (2D). To create a solid, a 2D Sketch of a single enclosed area is created and then either Padded or Revolved to add the 3rd dimension, creating a 3D solid from the 2D Sketch.


[[Image:Sketcher_Edit_Constraint.png|Sketcher_Edit_Constraint.png]]
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If the Sketch has segments that cross one another, places where a Point is not directly on a segment, or places where there are gaps between endpoints of adjacent segments, Pad or Revolve won't create a solid. The exception to this rule is that it doesn't apply to Construction (blue) Geometry.


You can enter a numerical value or an [[Expressions|expression]], and it is possible to name the constraint to facilitate its use in other expressions. You can also check the {{MenuCommand|Reference}} checkbox to switch the constrain to reference mode.
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Inside the enclosed area we can have smaller non-overlapping areas. These will become voids when the 3D solid is created.


To edit the value of an existing dimensional constraint do one of the following:
== The tools == <!--T:16-->
* Double-click the constraint value in the [[3D_view|3D view]].
The Sketcher Workbench tools are all located in the Sketch menu that appears when you load the Sketcher Workbench.
* Double-click the constraint in the [[Sketcher_Dialog|Sketcher Dialog]].
* Right-click the constraint in the Sketcher Dialog and select the {{MenuCommand|Change value}} option from the context menu.

=== Reposition constraints ===

Constraints can be repositioned in the 3D view by dragging. Hold down the left mouse button over the constraint value and move the mouse.

== Profile sketches ==

To create a sketch that can be used as a profile for generating solids certain rules must be followed:
* The sketch must contain only closed contours. Gaps between endpoints, however small, are not allowed.
* Contours can be nested, to create voids, but should not self-intersect or intersect other contours.
* Contours cannot share edges with other contours. Duplicate edges should be avoided.
* T-connections, that is more than two edges sharing a common point, or a point touching an edge, are not allowed.

These rules do not apply to construction geometry (default color blue), which is not shown outside edit mode, or if the sketch is used for a different purpose. Depending on the workbench and the tool that will use the profile sketch, additional restrictions may apply.

== Drawing aids ==

The Sketcher Workbench has several drawing aids and other features that can help when creating geometry and applying constraints.

=== Continue modes ===

There are two continue modes: '''Geometry creation "Continue Mode"''' and '''Constraint creation "Continue Mode"'''. If these are checked (default) in the [[Sketcher_Preferences#Display|preferences]], related tools will restart after finishing. To exit an continuous tool press {{KEY|Esc}} or the right mouse button. This must be repeated if a continuous geometry tool has already received input. You can also exit a continuous tool by starting another geometry or constraint creation tool. Note that pressing {{KEY|Esc}} if no tool is active will exit sketch edit mode. Uncheck the '''Esc can leave sketch edit mode''' [[Sketcher_Preferences#General|preference]] if you often inadvertently press {{KEY|Esc}} too many times.

=== Auto constraints ===

In sketches that have '''Auto constraints''' checked (default) several constraints are applied automatically. This is a per-sketch setting that can be changed in the [[Sketcher_Dialog#Constraints|Sketcher Dialog]] or by changing the {{PropertyView|Autoconstraints}} [[Property_editor|property]] of the sketch.

=== Snapping ===

{{Version|0.21}}

It is possible to [[Sketcher_Snap|snap]] to grid lines and grid intersection, to edges of geometry and midpoints of lines and arcs, and to certain angles. Please note that snapping does not produce constraints in and of itself. For example, only if Auto constraints is switched on will snapping to the midpoint of an edge produce a [[Sketcher_ConstrainPointOnObject|point onto object constraint]]. But just picking a point on the edge would then have the same result (there is currently no midpoint constraint, the [[Sketcher_ConstrainSymmetric|symmetrical contraint]] has to be applied instead).

=== On-View-Parameters ===

{{Version|0.22}}

Depending on the selected option in the [[Sketcher_Preferences#General|preferences]] only the dimensional On-View-Parameters or both the dimensional and the positional On-View-Parameters can be enabled. Positional parameters allow the input of exact coordinates, for example the center of a circle, or the start point of a line. Dimensional parameters allow the input of exact dimensions, for example the radius of a circle, or the length and angle of a line. On-View-Parameters are not available for all tools.

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{{Caption|Determining the center point of a circle with the positional parameters enabled}}

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[[Image:Sketcher_On_view_parameters_dimensional.png]]
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{{Caption|Determining the radius of a circle with the dimensional parameters enabled}}

If values are entered and confirmed by pressing {{KEY|Enter}} or {{KEY|Tab}}, related constraints are added automatically. If two parameters are displayed at the same time, for example the X and Y coordinate of a point, it is possible to enter one value and pick a point to define the other. Depending on the object additional constraints may be required to fully constrain it. Constraints resulting from On-View-Parameters take precedence over those that may result from [[Sketcher_Dialog#Constraints|Auto constraints]].

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{{Caption|Arc created by entering all On-View-Parameters with resulting automatically created constraints}}

=== Coordinate display ===

If the '''Show coordinates beside cursor while editing''' [[Sketcher_Preferences#Display|preference]] is checked (default), the parameters of the current geometry tool (coordinates, radius, or length and angle) are displayed next to the cursor. This is deactivated while On-View-Parameters are shown.

== Copy, cut and paste ==

{{Version|0.22}}

The standard keyboard shortcuts can be used to copy, {{KEY|Ctrl}}+{{KEY|C}}, cut, {{KEY|Ctrl}}+{{KEY|X}}, and paste, {{KEY|Ctrl}}+{{KEY|V}}, the currently selected Sketcher geometry including related constraints. But these tools are also available from the {{MenuCommand|Sketch → Sketcher tools}} menu. They can be used within a single sketch but also between different sketches or separate instances of FreeCAD. Since the data is copied to the clipboard in the form of a Python code, it can be used in other ways too (e.g. shared on the forum).

== Tools == <!--T:144-->

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The Sketcher Workbench tools are located in the Sketch menu and/or several toolbars. {{Version|0.21}}: Almost all Sketcher toolbars are only displayed while a sketch is in edit mode. The only exception is the [[#Sketcher_toolbar|Sketcher toolbar]] which is only displayed if no sketch is in edit mode.

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{{Version|0.21}}: If a sketch is in edit mode the Structure toolbar is hidden as none of its tools can then be used.

=== General === <!--T:126-->

==== Sketcher toolbar ==== <!--T:164-->


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* [[Image:Sketcher_NewSketch.svg‎‎|32px]] [[Sketcher_NewSketch|New sketch]]: Creates‎ a new sketch on a selected face or plane. If no face is selected while this tool is executed the user is prompted to select a plane from a pop-up window.
* [[Image:Sketcher_NewSketch.svg‎‎|32px]] [[Sketcher_NewSketch|Create sketch]]: Creates‎ a new sketch on a selected face or plane. If no face is selected while this tool is executed the user is prompted to select a plane from a pop-up window.


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* [[Image:Sketcher_EditSketch.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_EditSketch|Edit sketch]]: Edit the selected Sketch. This will open the [[Sketcher Dialog]].
* [[Image:Sketcher_EditSketch.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_EditSketch|Edit sketch]]: Edit the selected Sketch. This will open the [[Sketcher_Dialog|Sketcher Dialog]].

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* [[Image:Sketcher_MapSketch.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_MapSketch|Map sketch to face]]: Maps a sketch to the previously selected face of a solid.

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* [[File:Sketcher_ReorientSketch.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ReorientSketch|Reorient sketch]]: Allows you to attach the sketch to one of the main planes.

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* [[File:Sketcher_ValidateSketch.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ValidateSketch|Validate sketch]]: Analyze and repair a sketch that is no longer editable, has invalid constraints, or is missing coincident constraints.

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* [[Image:Sketcher_MergeSketches.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_MergeSketches|Merge sketches]]: Merge two or more sketches.

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* [[Image:Sketcher_MirrorSketch.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_MirrorSketch|Mirror sketch]]: Mirror a sketch along the x-axis, the y-axis or the origin.

==== Sketcher Edit Mode toolbar ==== <!--T:165-->


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* [[Image:Sketcher ViewSection.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ViewSection|View section]]: Creates a section plane that temporarily hides any matter in front of the sketch plane. {{Version|0.18}}
* [[Image:Sketcher_ViewSection.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ViewSection|View section]]: Creates a section plane that temporarily hides any matter in front of the sketch plane.


==== Sketcher edit tools toolbar ==== <!--T:175-->
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* [[Image:Sketcher_MapSketch.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_MapSketch|Map sketch to face]]: Maps a sketch to the previously selected face of a solid.


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* [[Image:Sketcher_Grid.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Grid|Toggle grid]]: Toggles the grid in the sketch currently being edited. Settings can be changed in the related menu. {{Version|0.21}}
* [[Sketcher_Reorient|Reorient sketch ]]: Allows you to change the position of a sketch


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* [[Image:Sketcher_Snap.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Snap|Toggle snap]]: Toggles snapping in all sketches. Settings can be changed in the related menu. {{Version|0.21}}
* [[Sketcher_ValidateSketch|Validate sketch]]: Verify the tolerance of different points and adjust them.


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* [[Image:Sketcher MergeSketch.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher MergeSketches|Merge sketches]]: Merge two or more sketches. {{Version|0.15}}
* [[Image:Sketcher_RenderingOrder.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_RenderingOrder|Configure rendering order]]: The rendering order of all sketches can be changed in the related menu. {{Version|0.21}}


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==== Other ==== <!--T:168-->

* [[Image:Sketcher MirrorSketch.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher MirrorSketch|Mirror sketch]]: Mirror a sketch along the x-axis, the y-axis or the origin. {{Version|0.16}}
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* [[File:Sketcher_StopOperation.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_StopOperation|Stop operation]]: When in edit mode, stop the current operation, whether that is drawing, setting constraints, etc.


===Sketcher geometries=== <!--T:33-->
===Sketcher geometries=== <!--T:33-->
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* [[Image:Sketcher_Line.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateLine|Line]]: Draws a line segment between 2 points. Lines are infinite regarding certain constraints.
* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateLine.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateLine|Line]]: Draws a line segment between 2 points. Lines are infinite regarding certain constraints.


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* <span id="Sketcher_CompCreateArc">[[Image:Sketcher_CreateArc.svg|x32px]][[Image:Toolbar_flyout_arrow_blue_background.svg|x32px]] Create arc:</span><!--Do not edit span id: the Sketcher_CompCreateArc pages redirect here-->
* [[Image:Sketcher_CompCreateArc.png|48px]] [[Sketcher_CompCreateArc|Create an arc]]: This is an icon menu in the Sketcher toolbar that holds the following commands:


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:* [[Image:Sketcher_Arc.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateArc|Arc]]: Draws an arc segment from center, radius, start angle and end angle.
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateArc.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateArc|Arc]]: Draws an arc segment from center, radius, start angle and end angle.


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:* [[Image:Sketcher_Create3PointArc.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Create3PointArc|Arc by 3 points]]: Draws an arc segment from two endpoints and another point on the circumference.
:* [[Image:Sketcher_Create3PointArc.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Create3PointArc|Arc by 3 points]]: Draws an arc segment from two endpoints and another point on the circumference.


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* <span id="Sketcher_CompCreateCircle">[[Image:Sketcher_CreateCircle.svg|x32px]][[Image:Toolbar_flyout_arrow_blue_background.svg|x32px]] Create circle:</span><!--Do not edit span id: the Sketcher_CompCreateCircle pages redirect here-->
* [[Image:Sketcher_CompCreateCircle.png|48px]] [[Sketcher_CompCreateCircle|Create a circle]]: This is an icon menu in the Sketcher toolbar that holds the following commands:


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:* [[Image:Sketcher_Circle.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateCircle|Circle]]: Draws a circle from center and radius.
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateCircle.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateCircle|Circle]]: Draws a circle from center and radius.


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:* [[Image:Sketcher_Create3PointCircle.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Create3PointCircle|Circle by 3 points]]: Draws a circle from three points on the circumference.
:* [[Image:Sketcher_Create3PointCircle.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Create3PointCircle|Circle by 3 points]]: Draws a circle from three points on the circumference.


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* <span id="Sketcher_CompCreateConic">[[Image:Sketcher_Conics.svg|x32px]][[Image:Toolbar_flyout_arrow_blue_background.svg|x32px]] Create conic:</span><!--Do not edit span id: the Sketcher_CompCreateConic pages redirect here-->
* [[Image:Sketcher_CompCreateConic.png|48px]] [[Sketcher_CompCreateConic|Create a conic]]: The sketcher provides the following conical sections. Unlike B-splines they can be used with all sorts of constraints such as tangents, point-on-object, or orthogonal.
** [[Image:Sketcher_CreateEllipse.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher CreateEllipseByCenter|Ellipse by center]]: Draws an ellipse by center point, major radius point and minor radius point. {{Version|0.15}}
** [[Image:Sketcher_CreateEllipse_3points.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher CreateEllipseBy3Points|Ellipse by 3 points]]: Draws an ellipse by major diameter (2 points) and minor radius point. {{Version|0.15}}
** [[Image:Sketcher_Elliptical_Arc.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateArcOfEllipse|Arc of ellipse]]: Draws an arc of ellipse by center point, major radius point, starting point and ending point. {{Version|0.15}}
**[[Image:Sketcher_Hyperbolic_Arc.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateArcOfHyperbola|Arc of hyperbola]]: Draws an arc of hyperbola. {{Version|0.17}}
**[[Image:Sketcher_Parabolic_Arc.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateArcOfParabola|Arc of parabola]]: Draws an arc of parabola. {{Version|0.17}}


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:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateEllipseByCenter.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateEllipseByCenter|Ellipse by center]]: Draws an ellipse by center point, major radius point and minor radius point.
* [[Image:Sketcher_CompCreateBSpline.png|48px]] [[Sketcher_CompCreateBSpline|Create a B-spline]]: This is an icon menu in the Sketcher toolbar that holds the following commands:

** [[File:Sketcher_CreateBSpline.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateBSpline|Create B-spline]]: Draws a B-spline curve by its control points. {{Version|0.17}}
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** [[File:Sketcher_Create_Periodic_BSpline.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreatePeriodicBSpline|Create periodic B-spline]]: Draws a periodic (closed) B-spline curve by its control points. {{Version|0.17}}
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateEllipseBy3Points.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateEllipseBy3Points|Ellipse by 3 points]]: Draws an ellipse by major diameter (2 points) and minor radius point.

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:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateArcOfEllipse.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateArcOfEllipse|Arc of ellipse]]: Draws an arc of ellipse by center point, major radius point, starting point and ending point.

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:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateArcOfHyperbola.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateArcOfHyperbola|Arc of hyperbola]]: Draws an arc of hyperbola.

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:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateArcOfParabola.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateArcOfParabola|Arc of parabola]]: Draws an arc of parabola.

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* <span id="Sketcher_CompCreateBSpline">[[Image:Sketcher_CreateBSpline.svg|x32px]][[Image:Toolbar_flyout_arrow_blue_background.svg|x32px]] B-spline:</span><!--Do not edit span id: the Sketcher_CompCreateBSpline pages redirect here-->

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:* [[File:Sketcher_CreateBSpline.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateBSpline|B-spline by control points]]: Draws a B-spline curve by its control points.

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:* [[File:Sketcher_CreatePeriodicBSpline.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreatePeriodicBSpline|Periodic B-spline by control points]]: Draws a periodic (closed) B-spline curve by its control points.

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:* [[File:Sketcher_CreateBSplineByInterpolation.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateBSplineByInterpolation|B-spline by knots]]: Draws a B-spline curve by its knots. {{Version|0.21}}

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:* [[File:Sketcher_CreatePeriodicBSplineByInterpolation.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreatePeriodicBSplineByInterpolation|Periodic B-spline by knots]]: Draws a periodic (closed) B-spline curve by its knots. {{Version|0.21}}


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* [[Image:Sketcher_CreatePolyline.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreatePolyline|Polyline (multiple-point line)]]: Draws a line made of multiple line segments. Pressing the M key while drawing a Polyline toggles between the different polyline modes.
* [[Image:Sketcher_CreatePolyline.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreatePolyline|Polyline (multiple-point line)]]: Draws a line made of multiple line segments. Pressing the {{KEY|M}} key while drawing a Polyline toggles between the different polyline modes.

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* <span id="Sketcher_CompCreateRectangles">[[Image:Sketcher_CreateRectangle.svg|x32px]][[Image:Toolbar_flyout_arrow_blue_background.svg|x32px]] Create rectangle:</span><!--Do not edit span id: the Sketcher_CompCreateRectangles pages redirect here-->


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* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateRectangle.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateRectangle|Rectangle]]: Draws a rectangle from 2 opposite points.
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateRectangle.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateRectangle|Rectangle]]: Draws a rectangle from 2 opposite points.


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:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateRectangle_Center.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateRectangle_Center|Centered rectangle]]: Draws a rectangle from a central point and an edge point. {{Version|0.20}}
* [[Image:Sketcher_CompCreateRegularPolygon.png|48px]] [[Sketcher_CompCreateRegularPolygon|Create regular polygon]]: This is an icon menu in the Sketcher toolbar that holds the following commands:

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:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateOblong.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateOblong|Rounded rectangle]]: Draws a rounded rectangle from 2 opposite points. {{Version|0.20}}

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* <span id="Sketcher_CompCreateRegularPolygon">[[Image:Sketcher_CreateHexagon.svg|x32px]][[Image:Toolbar_flyout_arrow_blue_background.svg|x32px]] Create regular polygon:</span><!--Do not edit span id: the Sketcher_CompCreateRegularPolygon pages redirect here-->


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<!--T:44-->
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateTriangle.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateTriangle|Triangle]]: Draws a regular triangle inscribed in a construction geometry circle. {{Version|0.15}}
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateTriangle.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateTriangle|Triangle]]: Draws a regular triangle inscribed in a construction geometry circle.


<!--T:45-->
<!--T:45-->
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateSquare.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateSquare|Square]]: Draws a regular square inscribed in a construction geometry circle. {{Version|0.15}}
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateSquare.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateSquare|Square]]: Draws a regular square inscribed in a construction geometry circle.


<!--T:46-->
<!--T:46-->
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreatePentagon.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreatePentagon|Pentagon]]: Draws a regular pentagon inscribed in a construction geometry circle. {{Version|0.15}}
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreatePentagon.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreatePentagon|Pentagon]]: Draws a regular pentagon inscribed in a construction geometry circle.


<!--T:47-->
<!--T:47-->
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateHexagon.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateHexagon|Hexagon]]: Draws a regular hexagon inscribed in a construction geometry circle. {{Version|0.15}}
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateHexagon.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateHexagon|Hexagon]]: Draws a regular hexagon inscribed in a construction geometry circle.


<!--T:48-->
<!--T:48-->
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateHeptagon.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateHeptagon|Heptagon]]: Draws a regular heptagon inscribed in a construction geometry circle. {{Version|0.15}}
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateHeptagon.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateHeptagon|Heptagon]]: Draws a regular heptagon inscribed in a construction geometry circle.


<!--T:49-->
<!--T:49-->
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateOctagon.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateOctagon|Octagon]]: Draws a regular octagon inscribed in a construction geometry circle. {{Version|0.15}}
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateOctagon.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateOctagon|Octagon]]: Draws a regular octagon inscribed in a construction geometry circle.


<!--T:118-->
<!--T:118-->
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateRegularPolygon.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateRegularPolygon|Create Regular Polygon]] : Draws a regular polygon by selecting the number of sides and picking two points: the center and one corner.
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateRegularPolygon.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateRegularPolygon|Regular polygon]] : Draws a regular polygon by selecting the number of sides and picking two points: the center and one corner.

<!--T:186-->
* <span id="Sketcher_CompSlot">[[Image:Sketcher_CreateSlot.svg|x32px]][[Image:Toolbar_flyout_arrow_blue_background.svg|x32px]] Create slot:</span><!--Do not edit span id: the Sketcher_CompSlot pages redirect here-->


<!--T:50-->
<!--T:50-->
* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateSlot.png|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateSlot|Slot]]: Draws an oval by selecting the center of one semicircle and an endpoint of the other semicircle.
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateSlot.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateSlot|Slot]]: Draws an oval by selecting the center of one semicircle and an endpoint of the other semicircle.

<!--T:178-->
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateArcSlot.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateArcSlot|Arc slot]]: Draws an arc slot consisting of two semicircles connected by two parallel concentric arcs. {{Version|0.22}}

<!--T:187-->
* <span id="Sketcher_CompCreateFillets">[[Image:Sketcher_CreatePointFillet.svg|x32px]][[Image:Toolbar_flyout_arrow_blue_background.svg|x32px]] Create fillet:</span><!--Do not edit span id: the Sketcher_CompCreateFillets pages redirect here-->


<!--T:51-->
<!--T:51-->
* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateFillet.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateFillet|Fillet]]: Makes a fillet between two lines joined at one point. Select both lines or click on the corner point, then activate the tool.
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreateFillet.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreateFillet|Fillet]]: Creates a fillet between two non-parallel lines.

<!--T:162-->
:* [[Image:Sketcher_CreatePointFillet.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CreatePointFillet|Corner-preserving fillet]]: Creates a fillet between two non-parallel lines while preserving their (virtual) intersection.

<!--T:188-->
* <span id="Sketcher_CompCurveEdition">[[Image:Sketcher_Trimming.svg|x32px]][[Image:Toolbar_flyout_arrow_blue_background.svg|x32px]] Edit edge:</span><!--Do not edit span id: the Sketcher_CompCurveEdition pages redirect here-->


<!--T:52-->
<!--T:52-->
* [[Image:Sketcher_Trimming.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Trimming|Trimming]]: Trims a line, circle or arc with respect to the clicked point.
:* [[Image:Sketcher_Trimming.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Trimming|Trim]]: Trims a line, circle or arc with respect to the clicked point.

<!--T:134-->
:* [[Image:Sketcher_Split.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Split|Split]]: Splits an edge into two while keeping most of the constraints. {{Version|0.20}}


<!--T:115-->
<!--T:115-->
* [[File:Sketcher_Extend.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Extend|Extend]]: Extends a line or an arc to a boundary line, arc, ellipse, arc of ellipse or a point in space. {{Version|0.17}}
:* [[File:Sketcher_Extend.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Extend|Extend]]: Extends a line or an arc to a boundary line, arc, ellipse, arc of ellipse or a point in space.


<!--T:53-->
<!--T:53-->
* [[Image:Sketcher_External.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_External|External Geometry]]: Creates an edge linked to external geometry.
* [[Image:Sketcher_External.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_External|External geometry]]: Creates an edge linked to external geometry.


<!--T:116-->
<!--T:116-->
* [[File:Sketcher_CarbonCopy.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CarbonCopy|CarbonCopy]]: Copies the geometry of another sketch. {{Version|0.17}}
* [[File:Sketcher_CarbonCopy.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CarbonCopy|Carbon copy]]: Copies the geometry of another sketch.


<!--T:54-->
<!--T:54-->
* [[File:Sketcher AlterConstruction.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ToggleConstruction|Construction Mode]]: Toggles sketch geometry from/to construction mode. Construction geometry is shown in blue and is discarded outside of Sketch editing mode.
* [[File:Sketcher_ToggleConstruction.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ToggleConstruction|Toggle construction geometry]]: Toggles sketch geometry from/to construction mode. Construction geometry is shown in blue and is discarded outside of Sketch editing mode.


===Sketcher constraints=== <!--T:55-->
===Sketcher constraints=== <!--T:55-->
Line 190: Line 335:
Constraints are used to define lengths, set rules between sketch elements, and to lock the sketch along the vertical and horizontal axes. Some constraints require use of [[Sketcher_helper_constraint|Helper constraints]].
Constraints are used to define lengths, set rules between sketch elements, and to lock the sketch along the vertical and horizontal axes. Some constraints require use of [[Sketcher_helper_constraint|Helper constraints]].


====Geometric constraints==== <!--T:57-->
<!--T:196-->
* [[File:Sketcher_ConstrainCoincidentUnified.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainCoincidentUnified|Coincident (unified)]]: Can replace the [[Sketcher_ConstrainCoincident|Coincident]] and [[Sketcher_ConstrainPointOnObject|Point on object]] constraints. {{Version|0.22}}
These constraints are not associated with numeric data.


<!--T:58-->
<!--T:58-->
* [[Image:Constraint_PointOnPoint.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher ConstrainCoincident|Coincident]]: Affixes a point onto (coincident with) one or more other points.
* [[File:Sketcher_ConstrainCoincident.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainCoincident|Coincident]]: Affixes a point onto (coincident with) one or more other points. It acts as a concentric constraint if two or more circles, arcs, ellipses or arcs of ellipses are selected.


<!--T:59-->
<!--T:59-->
* [[Image:Constraint_PointOnObject.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher ConstrainPointOnObject|Point On Object]]: Affixes a point onto another object such as a line, arc, or axis.
* [[File:Sketcher_ConstrainPointOnObject.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainPointOnObject|Point on object]]: Affixes a point onto another object such as a line, arc, or axis.


<!--T:60-->
<!--T:189-->
* <span id="Sketcher_CompHorVer">[[Image:Sketcher_ConstrainHorVer.svg|x32px]][[Image:Toolbar_flyout_arrow_blue_background.svg|x32px]]Horizontal/Vertical constraints:</span><!--Do not edit span id: the Sketcher_CompHorVer pages redirect here-->
* [[Image:Constraint_Vertical.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainVertical|Vertical]]: Constrains the selected lines or polyline elements to a true vertical orientation. More than one object can be selected before applying this constraint.

<!--T:190-->
:* [[File:Sketcher_ConstrainHorVer.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainHorVer|Horizontal/Vertical]]: Automatically applies [[Sketcher_ConstrainHorizontal|Horizontal]] or [[Sketcher_ConstrainVertical|Vertical]] constraint depending on the orientation of a line. {{Version|0.22}}


<!--T:61-->
<!--T:61-->
* [[Image:Constraint_Horizontal.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainHorizontal|Horizontal]]: Constrains the selected lines or polyline elements to a true horizontal orientation. More than one object can be selected before applying this constraint.
:* [[File:Sketcher_ConstrainHorizontal.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainHorizontal|Horizontal]]: Constrains the selected lines or polyline elements to a true horizontal orientation. More than one object can be selected before applying this constraint.

<!--T:60-->
:* [[File:Sketcher_ConstrainVertical.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainVertical|Vertical]]: Constrains the selected lines or polyline elements to a true vertical orientation. More than one object can be selected before applying this constraint.


<!--T:62-->
<!--T:62-->
* [[Image:Constraint_Parallel.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainParallel|Parallel]]: Constrains two or more lines parallel to one another.
* [[File:Sketcher_ConstrainParallel.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainParallel|Parallel]]: Constrains two or more lines parallel to one another.


<!--T:63-->
<!--T:63-->
* [[Image:Constraint_Perpendicular.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainPerpendicular|Perpendicular]]: Constrains two lines perpendicular to one another, or constrains a line perpendicular to an arc endpoint.
* [[File:Sketcher_ConstrainPerpendicular.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainPerpendicular|Perpendicular]]: Constrains two lines perpendicular to one another, or constrains a line perpendicular to an arc endpoint.


<!--T:64-->
<!--T:64-->
* [[Image:Constraint_Tangent.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher ConstrainTangent|Tangent]]: Creates a tangent constraint between two selected entities, or a co-linear constraint between two line segments. A line segment does not have to lie directly on an arc or circle to be constrained tangent to that arc or circle.
* [[File:Sketcher_ConstrainTangent.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainTangent|Tangent]]: Creates a tangent constraint between two selected entities, or a co-linear constraint between two line segments. A line segment does not have to lie directly on an arc or circle to be constrained tangent to that arc or circle.


<!--T:65-->
<!--T:65-->
* [[Image:Constraint_EqualLength.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainEqual|Equal Length]]: Constrains two selected entities equal to one another. If used on circles or arcs their radii will be set equal.
* [[File:Sketcher_ConstrainEqual.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainEqual|Equal]]: Constrains two selected entities equal to one another. If used on circles or arcs their radii will be set equal.


<!--T:66-->
<!--T:66-->
* [[Image:Constraint_Symmetric.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainSymmetric|Symmetric]]: Constrains two points symmetrically about a line, or constrains the first two selected points symmetrically about a third selected point.
* [[File:Sketcher_ConstrainSymmetric.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainSymmetric|Symmetric]]: Constrains two points symmetrically about a line, or constrains the first two selected points symmetrically about a third selected point.


<!--T:67-->
<!--T:67-->
* [[Image:Sketcher_ConstrainBlock.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainBlock|Constrain Block]]: Basically allows to block a geometric element in place with a single constraint. It should be particularly useful to work with B-Splines. See the [https://forum.freecadweb.org/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=26572 Block Constraint forum topic]. {{Version|0.17}}
* [[Image:Sketcher_ConstrainBlock.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainBlock|Block]]: it blocks an edge from moving, that is, it prevents its vertices from changing their current positions. It should be particularly useful to fix the position of B-Splines. See the [https://forum.freecadweb.org/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=26572 Block Constraint forum topic].


<!--T:191-->
====Dimensional constraints ==== <!--T:68-->
* <span id="Sketcher_CompDimensionTools">[[Image:Sketcher_Dimension.svg|x32px]][[Image:Toolbar_flyout_arrow_blue_background.svg|x32px]] Dimensional constraints:</span><!--Do not edit span id: the Sketcher_CompDimensionTools pages redirect here-->
These are constraints associated with numeric data, for which you can use the [[Expressions|expressions]]. The data may be taken from a [[Spreadsheet_Workbench|spreadsheet]].


<!--T:69-->
<!--T:192-->
:* [[File:Sketcher_Dimension.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Dimension|Dimension]]: TBD. {{Version|0.22}}
* [[Image:Sketcher_ConstrainLock.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher ConstrainLock|Lock]]: Constrains the selected item by setting vertical and horizontal distances relative to the origin, thereby locking the location of that item. These constraint distances can be edited later.


<!--T:70-->
<!--T:70-->
* [[Image:Constraint_HorizontalDistance.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher ConstrainDistanceX|Horizontal Distance]]: Fixes the horizontal distance between two points or line endpoints. If only one item is selected, the distance is set to the origin.
:* [[File:Sketcher_ConstrainDistanceX.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainDistanceX|Horizontal distance]]: Fixes the horizontal distance between two points or line endpoints. If only one item is selected, the distance is set to the origin.


<!--T:71-->
<!--T:71-->
* [[Image:Constraint_VerticalDistance.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainDistanceY|Vertical Distance]]: Fixes the vertical distance between 2 points or line endpoints. If only one item is selected, the distance is set to the origin.
:* [[File:Sketcher_ConstrainDistanceY.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainDistanceY|Vertical distance]]: Fixes the vertical distance between 2 points or line endpoints. If only one item is selected, the distance is set to the origin.


<!--T:72-->
<!--T:72-->
* [[Image:Constraint_Length.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainDistance|Distance]]: Defines the distance of a selected line by constraining its length, or defines the distance between two points by constraining the distance between them.
:* [[File:Sketcher_ConstrainDistance.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainDistance|Distance]]: Defines the length of a line, the perpendicular distance between a point and a line, the distance between two points, or, {{Version|0.21}}, the distance between the edges of two circles.

<!--T:159-->
:* <span id="Sketcher_CompConstrainRadDia">[[File:Sketcher_ConstrainRadiam.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainRadiam|Auto radius/diameter]]: Defines the radius of an arc, the diameter of a circle or the weight of a B-spline pole. {{Version|0.20}}</span><!--Do not edit span id: the Sketcher_CompConstrainRadDia pages redirect here-->


<!--T:73-->
<!--T:73-->
* [[Image:Constraint_Radius.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainRadius|Radius]]: Defines the radius of a selected arc or circle by constraining the radius.
:* [[File:Sketcher_ConstrainRadius.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainRadius|Radius]]: Defines the radius of an arc or circle or the weight of a B-spline pole.

* [[Image:Constraint_InternalAngle.png|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainAngle|Internal Angle]]: Defines the internal angle between two selected lines.
<!--T:158-->
:* [[File:Sketcher_ConstrainDiameter.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainDiameter|Diameter]]: Defines the diameter of an arc or circle.

<!--T:160-->
:* [[File:Sketcher_ConstrainAngle.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainAngle|Angle]]: Defines the internal angle between two selected lines.

<!--T:69-->
:* [[File:Sketcher_ConstrainLock.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainLock|Lock]]: Constrains the selected item by setting vertical and horizontal distances relative to the origin, thereby locking the location of that item. These constraint distances can be edited later.

==== Special constraints ==== <!--T:130-->


<!--T:74-->
<!--T:74-->
* [[Image:Constraint_SnellsLaw.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher ConstrainSnellsLaw|Snell's Law]]: Constrains two lines to obey a refraction law to simulate the light going through an interface. {{Version|0.15}}
* [[File:Sketcher_ConstrainSnellsLaw.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainSnellsLaw|Refraction (Snell's law)]]: Constrains two lines to obey a refraction law to simulate the light going through an interface.


<!--T:75-->
==== Constraint tools ==== <!--T:147-->

* [[Image:Constraint_InternalAlignment.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConstrainInternalAlignment|Internal Alignment]]: Aligns selected elements to selected shape (e.g. a line to become major axis of an ellipse).
<!--T:131-->
The following tools can be used the change the effect of constraints:


<!--T:76-->
<!--T:76-->
* [[Image:Sketcher_ToggleConstraint.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ToggleDrivingConstraint|Toggle reference/driving constraint]]: Toggles the toolbar or the selected constraints to/from reference mode. {{Version|0.16}}
* [[File:Sketcher_ToggleDrivingConstraint.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ToggleDrivingConstraint|Toggle driving/reference constraint]]: Toggles the toolbar or the selected constraints to/from reference mode.

<!--T:124-->
* [[File:Sketcher_ToggleActiveConstraint.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ToggleActiveConstraint|Activate/deactivate constraint]]: Enable or disable an already placed constraint.


===Sketcher tools=== <!--T:77-->
===Sketcher tools=== <!--T:77-->


<!--T:78-->
<!--T:78-->
* [[File:Sketcher SelectElementsWithDoFs.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_SelectElementsWithDoFs|Select solver DOFs]]: Highlights in green the geometry with degrees of freedom (DOFs), i.e. not fully constrained. {{Version|0.18}}
* [[File:Sketcher_SelectElementsWithDoFs.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_SelectElementsWithDoFs|Select unconstrained DoF]]: Highlights in green the geometry with degrees of freedom (DoFs), i.e. not fully constrained.


<!--T:79-->
<!--T:81-->
* [[File:Sketcher_SelectConstraints.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_SelectConstraints|Select associated constraints]]: Selects the constraints of a Sketcher element.
* [[Image:Sketcher CloseShape.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher CloseShape|Close Shape]]: Creates a closed shape by applying coincident constraints to endpoints {{Version|0.15}}


<!--T:80-->
<!--T:87-->
* [[File:Sketcher_SelectElementsAssociatedWithConstraints.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_SelectElementsAssociatedWithConstraints|Select associated geometry]]: Select Sketcher elements associated with constraints.
* [[Image:Sketcher ConnectLines.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher ConnectLines|Connect Edges]]: Connect sketcher elements by applying coincident constraints to endpoints {{Version|0.15}}


<!--T:81-->
<!--T:85-->
* [[Image:Sketcher SelectConstraints.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher SelectConstraints|Select Constraints]]: Selects the constraints of a sketcher element {{Version|0.15}}
* [[File:Sketcher_SelectRedundantConstraints.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_SelectRedundantConstraints|Select redundant constraints]]: Selects redundant constraints of a sketch.


<!--T:82-->
<!--T:86-->
* [[Image:Sketcher SelectOrigin.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher SelectOrigin|Select Origin]]: Selects the origin of a sketch {{Version|0.15}}
* [[File:Sketcher_SelectConflictingConstraints.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_SelectConflictingConstraints|Select conflicting constraints]]: Selects conflicting constraints of a sketch.


<!--T:83-->
<!--T:89-->
* [[File:Sketcher_RestoreInternalAlignmentGeometry.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_RestoreInternalAlignmentGeometry|Show/hide internal geometry]]: Recreates missing/deletes unneeded internal geometry of a selected ellipse, arc of ellipse/hyperbola/parabola or B-spline.
* [[Image:Sketcher SelectVerticalAxis.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher SelectVerticalAxis|Select Vertical Axis]]: Selects the vertical axis of a sketch {{Version|0.15}}

<!--T:82-->
* [[File:Sketcher_SelectOrigin.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_SelectOrigin|Select origin]]: Selects the origin of a sketch.


<!--T:84-->
<!--T:84-->
* [[Image:Sketcher SelectHorizontalAxis.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher SelectHorizontalAxis|Select Horizontal Axis]]: Selects the horizontal axis of a sketch {{Version|0.15}}
* [[File:Sketcher_SelectHorizontalAxis.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_SelectHorizontalAxis|Select horizontal axis]]: Selects the horizontal axis of a sketch.


<!--T:85-->
<!--T:83-->
* [[Image:Sketcher SelectRedundantConstraints.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher SelectRedundantConstraints|Select Redundant Constraints]]: Selects redundant constraints of a sketch {{Version|0.15}}
* [[File:Sketcher_SelectVerticalAxis.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_SelectVerticalAxis|Select vertical axis]]: Selects the vertical axis of a sketch.


<!--T:86-->
<!--T:179-->
* [[Image:Sketcher SelectConflictingConstraints.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher SelectConflictingConstraints|Select Conflicting Constraints]]: Selects conflicting constraints of a sketch {{Version|0.15}}
* [[File:Sketcher_Offset.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Offset|Offset geometry]]: Adds an equidistant outline around selected edges. {{Version|0.22}}


<!--T:87-->
<!--T:193-->
* [[File:Sketcher_Rotate.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Rotate|Polar transform]]: Rotates and optionally copies (to create polar patterns) selected geometries. {{Version|0.22}}
* [[Image:Sketcher SelectElementsAssociatedWithConstraints.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher SelectElementsAssociatedWithConstraints|Select Elements Associated with constraints]]: Select sketcher elements associated with constraints {{Version|0.15}}


* [[File:Sketcher_Scale.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Scale|Scale transform]]: Scales and optionally copies selected geometries. {{Version|0.22}}
<!--T:89-->
* [[File:Sketcher_Element_Ellipse_All.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_RestoreInternalAlignmentGeometry|Show/Hide internal geometry]]: Recreates missing/deletes unneeded internal geometry of a selected ellipse, arc of ellipse/hyperbola/parabola or B-spline.


<!--T:90-->
<!--T:90-->
* [[Image:Sketcher Symmetry.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher Symmetry|Symmetry]]: Copies a sketcher element symmetrical to a chosen line {{Version|0.16}}
* [[File:Sketcher_Symmetry.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Symmetry|Symmetry]]: Copies a Sketcher element symmetrically to a chosen line.


* [[File:Sketcher_Translate.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Translate|Array transform]]: Translates and optionally copies (to create linear patterns) selected geometries. {{Version|0.22}}
<!--T:91-->
* [[Image:Sketcher Clone.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher Clone|Clone]]: Clones a sketcher element {{Version|0.16}}


<!--T:92-->
<!--T:138-->
* [[File:Sketcher_RemoveAxesAlignment.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_RemoveAxesAlignment|Remove axes alignment]]: Remove axes alignment while trying to preserve the constraint relationship of the selection. {{Version|0.20}}
* [[Image:Sketcher Copy.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher Copy|Copy]]: Copies a sketcher element {{Version|0.16}}

<!--T:93-->
* [[File:Sketcher_Move.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Move|Move]]: Moves the selected geometry taking as reference the last selected point. {{Version|0.18}}

<!--T:94-->
* [[Image:Sketcher RectangularArray.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher RectangularArray|Rectangular Array]]: Creates an array of selected sketcher elements {{Version|0.16}}


<!--T:95-->
<!--T:95-->
* [[File:Sketcher Element SelectionTypeInvalid.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_DeleteAllGeometry|Delete All Geometry]]: Deletes all geometry from the sketch. {{Version|0.18}}
* [[File:Sketcher_DeleteAllGeometry.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_DeleteAllGeometry|Delete all geometry]]: Deletes all geometry from the sketch.


<!--T:96-->
<!--T:96-->
* [[File:Sketcher Element SelectionTypeInvalid.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_DeleteAllConstraints|Delete All Constraints]]: Deletes all constraints from the sketch. {{Version|0.18}}
* [[File:Sketcher_DeleteAllConstraints.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_DeleteAllConstraints|Delete all constraints]]: Deletes all constraints from the sketch.

* <span id="Sketcher_CopyClipboard">[[File:Edit-copy.svg|32px]] Copy in Sketcher: See [[#Copy,_cut_and_paste|Copy, cut and paste]].</span><!--Do not edit span id: the Sketcher_CopyClipboard pages redirect here-->

* <span id="Sketcher_Cut">[[File:Edit-cut.svg|32px]] Cut in Sketcher: See [[#Copy,_cut_and_paste|Copy, cut and paste]].</span><!--Do not edit span id: the Sketcher_Cut pages redirect here-->

* <span id="Sketcher_Paste">[[File:Edit-paste.svg|32px]] Paste in Sketcher: See [[#Copy,_cut_and_paste|Copy, cut and paste]].</span><!--Do not edit span id: the Sketcher_Paste pages redirect here-->


===Sketcher B-spline tools=== <!--T:97-->
===Sketcher B-spline tools=== <!--T:97-->

<!--T:102-->
* [[File:Sketcher_BSplineApproximate.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_BSplineApproximate|Convert geometry to B-spline]]: Converts compatible geometry, edges and curves, into a B-spline.

<!--T:103-->
* [[File:Sketcher_BSplineIncreaseDegree.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_BSplineIncreaseDegree|Increase B-spline degree]]: Increases the degree (order) of a B-spline.

<!--T:128-->
* [[File:Sketcher_BSplineDecreaseDegree.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_BSplineDecreaseDegree|Decrease B-spline degree]]: Decreases the degree (order) of a B-spline.

<!--T:104-->
* [[File:Sketcher_BSplineIncreaseKnotMultiplicity.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_BSplineIncreaseKnotMultiplicity|Increase knot multiplicity]]: Increases the multiplicity of a B-spline knot.

<!--T:105-->
* [[File:Sketcher_BSplineDecreaseKnotMultiplicity.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_BSplineDecreaseKnotMultiplicity|Decrease knot multiplicity]]: Decreases the multiplicity of a B-spline knot.

<!--T:149-->
* [[File:Sketcher_BSplineInsertKnot.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_BSplineInsertKnot|Insert knot]]: Inserts a knot into an existing B-spline. {{Version|0.20}}

<!--T:163-->
* [[File:Sketcher_JoinCurves.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_JoinCurves|Join curves]]: Joins two curves at selected end points. {{Version|0.21}}

===Sketcher visual=== <!--T:194-->

<!--T:107-->
* [[File:Sketcher_SwitchVirtualSpace.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_SwitchVirtualSpace|Switch virtual space]]: Allows you to hide all constraints of a sketch and make them visible again.


<!--T:98-->
<!--T:98-->
* [[File:Sketcher_BSplineDegree.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_BSplineDegree|Show/Hide B-spline degree]]
* [[File:Sketcher_BSplineDegree.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_BSplineDegree|Show/hide B-spline degree]]: Shows or hides the display of the degree of a B-spline.


<!--T:99-->
<!--T:99-->
* [[File:Sketcher_BSplinePolygon.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_BSplinePolygon|Show/Hide B-spline control polygon]]
* [[File:Sketcher_BSplinePolygon.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_BSplinePolygon|Show/hide B-spline control polygon]]: Shows or hides the display of the defining polygon of a B-spline.


<!--T:100-->
<!--T:100-->
* [[File:Sketcher_BSplineComb.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_BSplineComb|Show/Hide B-spline curvature comb]]
* [[File:Sketcher_BSplineComb.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_BSplineComb|Show/hide B-spline curvature comb]]: Shows or hides the display of the curvature comb of a B-spline.


<!--T:101-->
<!--T:101-->
* [[File:Sketcher_BSplineKnotMultiplicity.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_BSplineKnotMultiplicity|Show/Hide B-spline knot multiplicity]]
* [[File:Sketcher_BSplineKnotMultiplicity.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_BSplineKnotMultiplicity|Show/hide B-spline knot multiplicity]]: Shows or hides the display of the knot multiplicity of a B-spline.


<!--T:102-->
<!--T:129-->
* [[File:Sketcher_BSplinePoleWeight.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_BSplinePoleWeight|Show/hide B-spline control point weight]]: Shows or hides the display of the weights for the control points of a B-spline.
* [[File:Sketcher_BSplineApproximate.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConvertToNURB|Convert Geometry to B-spline]]


<!--T:103-->
<!--T:195-->
* [[File:Sketcher_ArcOverlay.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ArcOverlay|Show/hide circular helper for arcs]]: Shows or hides the circular helpers (circle outlines) for arcs. {{Version|0.22}}
* [[File:Sketcher_BSplineIncreaseDegree.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_BSplineIncreaseDegree|Increase degree]]


<!--T:104-->
===Obsolete tools=== <!--T:173-->
* [[File:Sketcher_BSplineIncreaseKnotMultiplicity.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_BSplineIncreaseKnotMultiplicity|Increase knot multiplicity]]


<!--T:105-->
<!--T:91-->
* [[File:Sketcher_Clone.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Clone|Clone]]: Clones a Sketcher element. Not available in {{VersionPlus|0.22}}.
* [[File:Sketcher_BSplineDecreaseKnotMultiplicity.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_BSplineDecreaseKnotMultiplicity|Decrease knot multiplicity]]


===Sketcher virtual space=== <!--T:106-->
<!--T:79-->
* [[File:Sketcher_CloseShape.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_CloseShape|Close shape]]: Creates a closed shape by applying coincident constraints to endpoints. Not available in {{VersionPlus|0.21}}.


<!--T:107-->
<!--T:80-->
* [[Image:Sketcher SwitchVirtualSpace.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_SwitchVirtualSpace|Switch Virtual Space]]: Allows you to hide all constraints of a sketch and make them visible again. {{Version|0.17}}
* [[File:Sketcher_ConnectLines.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_ConnectLines|Connect edges]]: Connect Sketcher elements by applying coincident constraints to endpoints. Not available in {{VersionPlus|0.21}}.

<!--T:92-->
* [[File:Sketcher_Copy.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Copy|Copy]]: Copies a Sketcher element. Not available in {{VersionPlus|0.22}}.

<!--T:93-->
* [[File:Sketcher_Move.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Move|Move]]: Moves the selected geometry taking as reference the last selected point. Not available in {{VersionPlus|0.22}}.

<!--T:94-->
* [[File:Sketcher_RectangularArray.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_RectangularArray|Rectangular array]]: Creates an array of selected Sketcher elements. Not available in {{VersionPlus|0.22}}.


===Preferences=== <!--T:108-->
== Preferences == <!--T:108-->


<!--T:109-->
<!--T:109-->
* [[Image:Preferences-general.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Preferences|Preferences]]: Preferences for the '''Sketcher''' workbench.
* [[Image:Workbench_Sketcher.svg|32px]] [[Sketcher_Preferences|Preferences]]: Preferences for the Sketcher Workbench.


== Best Practices == <!--T:14-->
== Best practices == <!--T:148-->

Every CAD user develops his own way of working over time, but there are some useful general principles to follow.
<!--T:14-->
Every CAD user develops their own way of working over time, but there are some useful general principles to follow.


<!--T:15-->
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Line 351: Line 558:
* Use the auto constraints feature to limit the number of constraints you'll have to add manually.
* Use the auto constraints feature to limit the number of constraints you'll have to add manually.
* As a general rule, apply geometric constraints first, then dimensional constraints, and lock your sketch last. But remember: rules are made to be broken. If you're having trouble manipulating your sketch, it may be useful to constrain a few objects first before completing your profile.
* As a general rule, apply geometric constraints first, then dimensional constraints, and lock your sketch last. But remember: rules are made to be broken. If you're having trouble manipulating your sketch, it may be useful to constrain a few objects first before completing your profile.
* If possible, center your sketch to the origin (0,0) with the lock constraint. If your sketch is not symmetric, locate one of its points to the origin, or choose nice round numbers for the lock distances. In v0.12, external constraints (constraining the sketch to existing 3D geometry like edges or to other sketches) are not implemented. This means that to locate following sketches geometry to your first sketch, you'll need to set distances relative to your first sketch manually. A lock constraint of (25,75) from the origin is more easily remembered than (23.47,73.02).
* If possible, center your sketch to the origin (0,0) with the lock constraint. If your sketch is not symmetric, locate one of its points to the origin, or choose nice round numbers for the lock distances.
* If you have the possibility to choose between the Length constraint and the Horizontal or Vertical Distance constraints, prefer the latter. Horizontal and Vertical Distance constraints are computationally cheaper.
* If you have the possibility to choose between the Length constraint and the Horizontal or Vertical Distance constraints, prefer the latter. Horizontal and Vertical Distance constraints are computationally cheaper.
* In general, the best constraints to use are: Horizontal and Vertical Constraints; Horizontal and Vertical Length Constraints; Point-to-Point Tangency. If possible, limit the use of these: the general Length Constraint; Edge-to-Edge Tangency; Fix Point Onto a Line Constraint; Symmetry Constraint.
* In general, the best constraints to use are: Horizontal and Vertical Constraints; Horizontal and Vertical Length Constraints; Point-to-Point Tangency. If possible, limit the use of these: the general Length Constraint; Edge-to-Edge Tangency; Fix Point Onto a Line Constraint; Symmetry Constraint.
* If in doubt about the validity of a sketch once it is complete (features turn green), close the Sketcher dialog and use [[File:Sketcher_ValidateSketch.svg|24px]] [[Sketcher_ValidateSketch|Validate sketch]].



== Tutorials == <!--T:19-->
== Tutorials == <!--T:19-->


<!--T:121-->
* [https://forum.freecadweb.org/viewtopic.php?f=36&t=30104 Sketcher tutorial] by chrisb. This is a 70-page long PDF document that serves as a detailed manual for the sketcher. It explains the basics of Sketcher usage, and goes into a lot of detail into the creation of geometrical shapes, and each of the constraints.
* [https://forum.freecadweb.org/viewtopic.php?f=36&t=30104 Sketcher Lecture] by chrisb. This is a more than 80 page PDF document that serves as a detailed manual for the Sketcher. It explains the basics of Sketcher usage, and goes into a lot of detail about the creation of geometrical shapes, and each of the constraints.
* [[Sketcher tutorial|Sketcher tutorial]] for beginners
* [[Sketcher Tutorial|Sketcher Tutorial]]
* [[Basic_Sketcher_Tutorial|Basic Sketcher Tutorial]] for beginners
* [[Sketcher Micro Tutorial - Constraint Practices|Sketcher Micro Tutorial - Constraint Practices]]
* [[Sketcher_Micro_Tutorial_-_Constraint_Practices|Sketcher Micro Tutorial - Constraint Practices]]
* [[Sketcher_requirement_for_a_sketch|Sketcher requirement for a sketch]] Minimum requirement for a sketch and Complete determination of a sketch

== Scripting == <!--T:132-->

<!--T:133-->
The [[Sketcher_scripting|Sketcher scripting]] page contains examples on how to create constraints from Python scripts.

== Examples == <!--T:171-->

<!--T:172-->
For some ideas of what can be achieved with Sketcher tools, have a look at: [[Sketcher_Examples|Sketcher examples]].

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Latest revision as of 21:47, 11 March 2024

Sketcher workbench icon

Introduction

With the FreeCAD Sketcher Workbench 2D sketches intended for use in other workbenches can be created. 2D sketches are the starting point for many CAD models. They typically define the profiles and paths for operations to create 3D shapes. A model may depend on several sketches for its final shape.

Together with boolean operations defined in the Part Workbench, the Sketcher Workbench, or "The Sketcher" for short, forms the basis of the constructive solid geometry (CSG) method of building solids. Together with PartDesign Workbench operations, it also forms the basis of the feature editing methodology of creating solids. But many other workbenches use sketches as well.

The Sketcher workbench features constraints, allowing 2D shapes to follow precise geometrical definitions in terms of length, angles, and relationships (horizontality, verticality, perpendicularity, etc.). A constraint solver calculates the constrained-extent of 2D geometry and allows interactive exploration of the degrees-of-freedom of the sketch.

The Sketcher is not intended for producing 2D blueprints. Once sketches are used to generate a solid feature, they are automatically hidden and Constraints are only visible in Sketch edit mode. If you only need to produce 2D views for print, and don't want to create 3D models, check out the Draft workbench.

A fully constrained sketch

Constraints

Constraints are used to limit the degrees of freedom of an object. For example, a line without constraints has 4 Degrees Of Freedom (abbreviated as "DoF"): it can be moved horizontally or vertically, it can be stretched, and it can be rotated.

Applying a horizontal or vertical constraint, or an angle constraint (relative to another line or to one of the axes), will limit its capacity to rotate, thus leaving it with 3 degrees of freedom. Locking one of its points in relation to the origin will remove another 2 degrees of freedom. And applying a dimension constraint will remove the last degree of freedom. The line is then considered fully-constrained.

Objects can be constrained in relation to one another. Two lines can be joined through one of their points with the coincident point constraint. An angle can be set between them, or they can be set perpendicular. A line can be tangent to an arc or a circle, and so on. A complex Sketch with multiple objects may have a number of different solutions, and making it fully-constrained can mean that just one of these possible solutions has been reached based on the applied constraints.

There are two kinds of constraints: geometric and dimensional. They are detailed in the Tools section below.

Driving vs. reference constraints

Edit constraints

When a driving constraint is created, and if the Ask for value after creating a dimensional constraint preference is selected (default), a dialog opens to edit its value.

Sketcher_Edit_Constraint.png

You can enter a numerical value or an expression, and it is possible to name the constraint to facilitate its use in other expressions. You can also check the Reference checkbox to switch the constrain to reference mode.

To edit the value of an existing dimensional constraint do one of the following:

  • Double-click the constraint value in the 3D view.
  • Double-click the constraint in the Sketcher Dialog.
  • Right-click the constraint in the Sketcher Dialog and select the Change value option from the context menu.

Reposition constraints

Constraints can be repositioned in the 3D view by dragging. Hold down the left mouse button over the constraint value and move the mouse.

Profile sketches

To create a sketch that can be used as a profile for generating solids certain rules must be followed:

  • The sketch must contain only closed contours. Gaps between endpoints, however small, are not allowed.
  • Contours can be nested, to create voids, but should not self-intersect or intersect other contours.
  • Contours cannot share edges with other contours. Duplicate edges should be avoided.
  • T-connections, that is more than two edges sharing a common point, or a point touching an edge, are not allowed.

These rules do not apply to construction geometry (default color blue), which is not shown outside edit mode, or if the sketch is used for a different purpose. Depending on the workbench and the tool that will use the profile sketch, additional restrictions may apply.

Drawing aids

The Sketcher Workbench has several drawing aids and other features that can help when creating geometry and applying constraints.

Continue modes

There are two continue modes: Geometry creation "Continue Mode" and Constraint creation "Continue Mode". If these are checked (default) in the preferences, related tools will restart after finishing. To exit an continuous tool press Esc or the right mouse button. This must be repeated if a continuous geometry tool has already received input. You can also exit a continuous tool by starting another geometry or constraint creation tool. Note that pressing Esc if no tool is active will exit sketch edit mode. Uncheck the Esc can leave sketch edit mode preference if you often inadvertently press Esc too many times.

Auto constraints

In sketches that have Auto constraints checked (default) several constraints are applied automatically. This is a per-sketch setting that can be changed in the Sketcher Dialog or by changing the ViewAutoconstraints property of the sketch.

Snapping

introduced in version 0.21

It is possible to snap to grid lines and grid intersection, to edges of geometry and midpoints of lines and arcs, and to certain angles. Please note that snapping does not produce constraints in and of itself. For example, only if Auto constraints is switched on will snapping to the midpoint of an edge produce a point onto object constraint. But just picking a point on the edge would then have the same result (there is currently no midpoint constraint, the symmetrical contraint has to be applied instead).

On-View-Parameters

introduced in version 0.22

Depending on the selected option in the preferences only the dimensional On-View-Parameters or both the dimensional and the positional On-View-Parameters can be enabled. Positional parameters allow the input of exact coordinates, for example the center of a circle, or the start point of a line. Dimensional parameters allow the input of exact dimensions, for example the radius of a circle, or the length and angle of a line. On-View-Parameters are not available for all tools.

Determining the center point of a circle with the positional parameters enabled

Determining the radius of a circle with the dimensional parameters enabled

If values are entered and confirmed by pressing Enter or Tab, related constraints are added automatically. If two parameters are displayed at the same time, for example the X and Y coordinate of a point, it is possible to enter one value and pick a point to define the other. Depending on the object additional constraints may be required to fully constrain it. Constraints resulting from On-View-Parameters take precedence over those that may result from Auto constraints.

Arc created by entering all On-View-Parameters with resulting automatically created constraints

Coordinate display

If the Show coordinates beside cursor while editing preference is checked (default), the parameters of the current geometry tool (coordinates, radius, or length and angle) are displayed next to the cursor. This is deactivated while On-View-Parameters are shown.

Copy, cut and paste

introduced in version 0.22

The standard keyboard shortcuts can be used to copy, Ctrl+C, cut, Ctrl+X, and paste, Ctrl+V, the currently selected Sketcher geometry including related constraints. But these tools are also available from the Sketch → Sketcher tools menu. They can be used within a single sketch but also between different sketches or separate instances of FreeCAD. Since the data is copied to the clipboard in the form of a Python code, it can be used in other ways too (e.g. shared on the forum).

Tools

The Sketcher Workbench tools are located in the Sketch menu and/or several toolbars. introduced in version 0.21: Almost all Sketcher toolbars are only displayed while a sketch is in edit mode. The only exception is the Sketcher toolbar which is only displayed if no sketch is in edit mode.

introduced in version 0.21: If a sketch is in edit mode the Structure toolbar is hidden as none of its tools can then be used.

General

Sketcher toolbar

  • Create sketch: Creates‎ a new sketch on a selected face or plane. If no face is selected while this tool is executed the user is prompted to select a plane from a pop-up window.
  • Reorient sketch: Allows you to attach the sketch to one of the main planes.
  • Validate sketch: Analyze and repair a sketch that is no longer editable, has invalid constraints, or is missing coincident constraints.
  • Mirror sketch: Mirror a sketch along the x-axis, the y-axis or the origin.

Sketcher Edit Mode toolbar

  • View sketch: Sets the model view perpendicular to the sketch plane.
  • View section: Creates a section plane that temporarily hides any matter in front of the sketch plane.

Sketcher edit tools toolbar

Other

  • Stop operation: When in edit mode, stop the current operation, whether that is drawing, setting constraints, etc.

Sketcher geometries

These are tools for creating objects.

  • Line: Draws a line segment between 2 points. Lines are infinite regarding certain constraints.
  • Create arc:
  • Arc: Draws an arc segment from center, radius, start angle and end angle.
  • Arc by 3 points: Draws an arc segment from two endpoints and another point on the circumference.
  • Create circle:
  • Circle: Draws a circle from center and radius.
  • Create conic:
  • Ellipse by center: Draws an ellipse by center point, major radius point and minor radius point.
  • Arc of ellipse: Draws an arc of ellipse by center point, major radius point, starting point and ending point.
  • B-spline:
  • Polyline (multiple-point line): Draws a line made of multiple line segments. Pressing the M key while drawing a Polyline toggles between the different polyline modes.
  • Create rectangle:
  • Rectangle: Draws a rectangle from 2 opposite points.
  • Create regular polygon:
  • Triangle: Draws a regular triangle inscribed in a construction geometry circle.
  • Square: Draws a regular square inscribed in a construction geometry circle.
  • Pentagon: Draws a regular pentagon inscribed in a construction geometry circle.
  • Hexagon: Draws a regular hexagon inscribed in a construction geometry circle.
  • Heptagon: Draws a regular heptagon inscribed in a construction geometry circle.
  • Octagon: Draws a regular octagon inscribed in a construction geometry circle.
  • Regular polygon : Draws a regular polygon by selecting the number of sides and picking two points: the center and one corner.
  • Create slot:
  • Slot: Draws an oval by selecting the center of one semicircle and an endpoint of the other semicircle.
  • Create fillet:
  • Fillet: Creates a fillet between two non-parallel lines.
  • Corner-preserving fillet: Creates a fillet between two non-parallel lines while preserving their (virtual) intersection.
  • Edit edge:
  • Trim: Trims a line, circle or arc with respect to the clicked point.
  • Extend: Extends a line or an arc to a boundary line, arc, ellipse, arc of ellipse or a point in space.
  • Toggle construction geometry: Toggles sketch geometry from/to construction mode. Construction geometry is shown in blue and is discarded outside of Sketch editing mode.

Sketcher constraints

Constraints are used to define lengths, set rules between sketch elements, and to lock the sketch along the vertical and horizontal axes. Some constraints require use of Helper constraints.

  • Coincident: Affixes a point onto (coincident with) one or more other points. It acts as a concentric constraint if two or more circles, arcs, ellipses or arcs of ellipses are selected.
  • Point on object: Affixes a point onto another object such as a line, arc, or axis.
  • Horizontal/Vertical constraints:
  • Horizontal: Constrains the selected lines or polyline elements to a true horizontal orientation. More than one object can be selected before applying this constraint.
  • Vertical: Constrains the selected lines or polyline elements to a true vertical orientation. More than one object can be selected before applying this constraint.
  • Parallel: Constrains two or more lines parallel to one another.
  • Perpendicular: Constrains two lines perpendicular to one another, or constrains a line perpendicular to an arc endpoint.
  • Tangent: Creates a tangent constraint between two selected entities, or a co-linear constraint between two line segments. A line segment does not have to lie directly on an arc or circle to be constrained tangent to that arc or circle.
  • Equal: Constrains two selected entities equal to one another. If used on circles or arcs their radii will be set equal.
  • Symmetric: Constrains two points symmetrically about a line, or constrains the first two selected points symmetrically about a third selected point.
  • Block: it blocks an edge from moving, that is, it prevents its vertices from changing their current positions. It should be particularly useful to fix the position of B-Splines. See the Block Constraint forum topic.
  • Dimensional constraints:
  • Horizontal distance: Fixes the horizontal distance between two points or line endpoints. If only one item is selected, the distance is set to the origin.
  • Vertical distance: Fixes the vertical distance between 2 points or line endpoints. If only one item is selected, the distance is set to the origin.
  • Distance: Defines the length of a line, the perpendicular distance between a point and a line, the distance between two points, or, introduced in version 0.21, the distance between the edges of two circles.
  • Radius: Defines the radius of an arc or circle or the weight of a B-spline pole.
  • Diameter: Defines the diameter of an arc or circle.
  • Angle: Defines the internal angle between two selected lines.
  • Lock: Constrains the selected item by setting vertical and horizontal distances relative to the origin, thereby locking the location of that item. These constraint distances can be edited later.

Special constraints

  • Refraction (Snell's law): Constrains two lines to obey a refraction law to simulate the light going through an interface.

Constraint tools

The following tools can be used the change the effect of constraints:

Sketcher tools

  • Show/hide internal geometry: Recreates missing/deletes unneeded internal geometry of a selected ellipse, arc of ellipse/hyperbola/parabola or B-spline.
  • Symmetry: Copies a Sketcher element symmetrically to a chosen line.

Sketcher B-spline tools

Sketcher visual

Obsolete tools

  • Clone: Clones a Sketcher element. Not available in version 0.22 and above.
  • Close shape: Creates a closed shape by applying coincident constraints to endpoints. Not available in version 0.21 and above.
  • Connect edges: Connect Sketcher elements by applying coincident constraints to endpoints. Not available in version 0.21 and above.
  • Copy: Copies a Sketcher element. Not available in version 0.22 and above.
  • Move: Moves the selected geometry taking as reference the last selected point. Not available in version 0.22 and above.
  • Rectangular array: Creates an array of selected Sketcher elements. Not available in version 0.22 and above.

Preferences

Best practices

Every CAD user develops their own way of working over time, but there are some useful general principles to follow.

  • A series of simple sketches is easier to manage than a single complex one. For example, a first sketch can be created for the base 3D feature (either a pad or a revolve), while a second one can contain holes or cutouts (pockets). Some details can be left out, to be realized later on as 3D features. You can choose to avoid fillets in your sketch if there are too many, and add them as a 3D feature.
  • Always create a closed profile, or your sketch won't produce a solid, but rather a set of open faces. If you don't want some of the objects to be included in the solid creation, turn them to construction elements with the Construction Mode tool.
  • Use the auto constraints feature to limit the number of constraints you'll have to add manually.
  • As a general rule, apply geometric constraints first, then dimensional constraints, and lock your sketch last. But remember: rules are made to be broken. If you're having trouble manipulating your sketch, it may be useful to constrain a few objects first before completing your profile.
  • If possible, center your sketch to the origin (0,0) with the lock constraint. If your sketch is not symmetric, locate one of its points to the origin, or choose nice round numbers for the lock distances.
  • If you have the possibility to choose between the Length constraint and the Horizontal or Vertical Distance constraints, prefer the latter. Horizontal and Vertical Distance constraints are computationally cheaper.
  • In general, the best constraints to use are: Horizontal and Vertical Constraints; Horizontal and Vertical Length Constraints; Point-to-Point Tangency. If possible, limit the use of these: the general Length Constraint; Edge-to-Edge Tangency; Fix Point Onto a Line Constraint; Symmetry Constraint.
  • If in doubt about the validity of a sketch once it is complete (features turn green), close the Sketcher dialog and use Validate sketch.

Tutorials

Scripting

The Sketcher scripting page contains examples on how to create constraints from Python scripts.

Examples

For some ideas of what can be achieved with Sketcher tools, have a look at: Sketcher examples.