7 - 4.2   Three-dimensional Axis Limits

3d_axis_limits.pngIn a 3D plot, whenever you read a data file, manipulate the values of variables assigned to the axes, or change variables assigned to the axes, Tecplot 360 EX examines the data and determines how to plot it. The data may require scaling in one or more axis directions, a change of the axis dependency, an adjustment of the space between the data and the axis box, and/or an adjustment of the shape of the axis box.

Because there are many valid forms in which the data could be plotted, by using the 3D Axis Limits dialog (accessed via the Plot menu), you can input information to help Tecplot 360 EX determine how to automatically configure the plot the way you want.

note00149.pngAspect Ratio - Ratio of the range of the variable assigned to one axis (multiplied by the axis size factor) and the range of the variable assigned to another axis (multiplied by the axis size factor).

• Data Aspect Ratio Limit - When the data aspect ratio of any two axes exceeds the Data Aspect Ratio Limit, Tecplot 360 EX automatically rescales the longer axis so that the new data aspect ratio is equal to the Data Aspect Ratio Reset value.

If your plots are usually unscaled (such as plots of real physical objects), you should set the data aspect ratio maximum to a large number like 30. Use a smaller number for evenly scaled axes.

• Axes Aspect Ratio Limit - Works similarly to the Data Aspect Ratio Limit, except Axes Aspect Ratio Limit attends to the shape and size of the axes box.