Create a Reference Axis

Reference planes can be used with the Sketch, Slice, and Mirror tools to create or modify geometry, or to create section cuts.

  1. On the Geometry ribbon, select the Reference Axis tool.
  2. In the guide bar, choose an axis creation method from the dropdown menu.

    Previews for axes based on the selected option will appear as you move your cursor in the modelling window.

  3. Follow the directions in the workflow help text underneath the guide bar to define the axis.
    What you need to select in the modeling window varies based on the axis creation method you chose in the previous step.
    Method What to Select
    Through Cylinder Select a cylindrical face.
    Through Two Points Select two points.
    Through Edge Select a straight edge.
    Through Two Planes Select two non-parallel planes or planar faces.
    Normal to Face at a Point Select a planar face and a point.
  4. Click Apply on the guide bar or microdialog.

    The axis is created in the modeling area and is also available in the Model Browser’s References directory.

  5. Right-click and mouse through the check mark to exit, or double-right-click.
    Tip:
    • Once a reference axis is placed, it cannot be moved.
    • To resize a reference axis, select an endpoint of the axis and drag it.

Video: Reference Axes

Through Cylinder

Through Two Points

Through Edge

Through Two Planes

Normal to Face at Point