In SOLIDWORKS, the software determines whether you want to create a tangent or normal arc based on how you move the pointer. There are four zones that help guide this, offering eight possible outcomes.
When you move the pointer in the direction of a tangent, you’ll create a tangent arc, while moving it in a normal direction will result in a normal arc.
If you need to switch between the two, simply return to the end point of the arc and move in a different direction.
Characteristics of a Tangent Arc:
- A tangent arc connects to a tangent line at exactly one point.
- the tangent line and the radius it intersects are always perpendicular.
Difference Between Tangent Arc and Normal Arc:
Tangent arc: The tangent arc touches the tangent line at the point highlighted by the red circle. At this point, the tangent line and the arc’s radius form a 90-degree angle (perpendicular).
Normal arc: The tangent line and the arc’s radius are not perpendicular (they do not form a 90-degree angle).