Dimensioning a Hexagon

In the event that this is a dumb question, this group has my apologies.
I am always having a problem dimensioning a hexagon. It seems that if
I add more than one dimension, SWX gives me an "overdefined" error
messsage. Even auto-dimension will turn my sketch red. If someone
could provide an answer to this, I most certainly would appreciate it.
I am under the impression that every sketch should be fully defined,
(turned black), before exiting the sketch, to do whatever it is I must
do, be it extrude, revolve, etc. if this impression is incorrect, I
would like to know this as well.
Thanking you,
Karen

 

Karen,

I use the polygon sketch tool, dimension the circle and simply define
the angle of one of the lines, (usually making one horizontal or
vertical). Because the line segments are patterned, anything more will
over-define the sketch.

Reaper.

 

It's just good practice to help ensure reliable updates after changes to
shape or dimensions of the part, and to fully capture design intent - it's
not actually a requirement.

John H

 

Karen,

Reaper2561, is correct, and that's how I do it with one slight exception.
After dimensioning the circle, I'll make that dimension Driven and add a
dimension across two parallel lines (if it's even sided).
Just a little idiosyncrasy of mine, so don't pay too much attention.

Muggs

 

Ok, so I'm curious - what do you get with your modification other than the
ability to bring that particular dim into the drawing? Obviously the
polygon sketch doesn't care, but what started the thought process in your
head that you would need to spend time making that change?

WT

 

LOL!
Mostly it's just that as a former mechanic aren't all hexagons (bolt heads)
measured across the flats?
I told you (well Karen anyway) that it was an idiosyncrasy of mine.

Also, one of the model makers that I use "needs" to know the distance across
the flats.
Sorry Wayne if I caused you any agita, there's no "secret" that you're
missing out on.

Muggs

 

ummm, ok guys, polygons aint just hexagons, OK? I have made Septagons,
Octogons and 19 sided-ogons. The rules are the same.

Resectfully, Reap.