How to add a dimension between hidden lines on a drawing?

leon_karsten

I need to indicate the machined depth on a part, but I can't seem to find an easy solution/tool to insert this dimension on my final drawing. Outline dimensions are fairly easy with the 2 point, point to line & line to line etc measurement tools, but these don't seem to snap to hidden lines.

PeteYodis

@leon_karsten Currently in Onshape drawings we do not dimension to hidden lines.  I will add you to that request.  In the meantime, we recommend creating another view (for example a section view) where the geometry is now visible and can be dimension-ed to.  This is also regarded by many as proper drafting practice, as many don't look too kindly to making dimensions to hidden lines.  This is not the reason we have not implemented this yet, but I thought I would point it out.  Thank you for your patience while we work on adding this capability.

spiritrider

I would like to dimension to a hidden line as well. Sometimes it is necessary without creating a whole new view.

bert_fourie

Agreed from a purist and drafting standard point of view it is not done, but in practice it is very handy sometimes!

eric_taylor

From a strict drafting point of view dimensions should ONLY be applied to "object lines."

Hidden lines are not "visible" in a "view" and often can overlap others. Dimensioning hidden lines is a strict no-no because there is potential uncertainty about which object is being dimensioned.

While we all have wanted to do so as a shortcut at times, a drafting purest will question your competence and professionalism. A breakout view can often be done without a new view and should eliminate any ambiguity.

Thank goodness for 3d models. So many of those drafting principles are relegated to the past. If a customer or supplier has the model and a computer, dimensions between any features in a model can be clarified or obtained when omitted on a 2d drawing.