How do I use constraint-based sketching in DesignSpark Mechanical?

Using constraints allows you to more easily create sketches to exact sizes and shapes. Moving from prototype to production demands precision and the constraint-based sketch tools ensures your design meets the correct specifications. You can find these tools in the dedicated ‘Sketch’ tab of DesignSpark Mechanical.

If you do not see this independent ‘Sketch’ tab yet, you can enable it via File -> DesignSpark Options -> Advanced. Then, click OK to save the change and restart the software. You can also use this tick box to turn off constraint-based sketching entirely and use a basic set of sketch tools for freeform part modelling.

Now, let's get started with the tutorial video:

Additional reading

Get a Creator or Engineer subscription (7-day free trial available) for in-depth tutorials on each type of constraint, colour definitions, using the auto-constrain tool and much more:

• How do I apply a coincident constraint in my sketch?
• How do I apply a concentric constraint in my sketch?
• How do I apply a dimensional constraint in my sketch?
• How do I apply a fixed constraint in my sketch?
• How do I apply a midpoint constraint in my sketch?
• How do I apply a parallel constraint in my sketch?
• How do I apply a perpendicular constraint in my sketch?
• How do I apply a symmetric constraint in my sketch?
• How do I apply a tangency constraint in my sketch?
• How do I apply an equal distance constraint in my sketch?
• How do I apply an equal length constraint in my sketch?
• How do I apply horizontal and vertical constraints in my sketch?
• What colours indicate how constrained an object is?
• How do I apply an equal radius constraint in my sketch?
• How do I use the autoconstrain tool?
• How do I identify constraints with visual tips?
• How do I use dimension expressions and label them?