Alibre Design

Chapter 6 - Reference Geometry6.1 Reference PlanesBy default, three reference planes are visible in a part and assembly workspace, theXY-plane, YZ-plane, and ZX-plane; any can be used as the sketch plane. Additionalreference planes can be inserted in any orientation and also used as the sketch plane.You can modify the display options of the reference planes.‣ To modify plane display options:1. From the Tools menu, select Options, General Tab2. Check Shade reference planes to see the reference planes slightly shaded in thework area. Uncheck the box if you do not wish to see the shading.3. Check Show reference plane normals to see a 3D arrow designating thedirection of a reference plane's normal when you place the cursor over it. Uncheckthe box if you do not wish to see the designating arrows.6.1.1 Offset PlaneYou can create a new reference plane parallel to an existing reference plane or planarface offset by a specified distance.‣ To create an offset plane:1. Select the Insert Plane tool from the Inspection toolbar; or from the Insertmenu, select Plane; or right-click in the work area and select Insert Plane fromthe pop-up menu. The Insert Plane dialog box appears.2. Select the existing reference plane or planar face to offset.Enter the offset Distance value. A preview of the new plane is displayed.3. If necessary, select Reverse to create the plane in the opposite direction.140