GD&T Symbol Guide
Continuous Feature
Indicates separated surfaces or feature segments are to be treated as one continuous feature.
Definition
The continuous feature symbol tells the reader to apply Rule #1 and related geometric controls across disjointed feature segments as though the interruption were not present.
ASME Y14.5-2018 expanded its use so surfaces as well as features of size can be treated continuously when the drawing makes that intent clear.
Application
Use it for interrupted bosses, split cylindrical lands, or separated coplanar pads that must behave as one feature.
Do not use an identical-feature count when the real intent is one combined feature; use continuous feature instead.
Continuous Feature Drawing Use
Continuous Feature is read with the adjacent dimension, note, or feature control frame so inspection uses the intended feature definition.
3D Tolerance Zone
This modifier changes how a related dimension, note, or feature control frame is interpreted.
Inspection Method
Read the symbol with the attached dimension, note, or feature control frame before evaluating the feature.
Verify the controlled feature using the drawing's stated limits, datum setup, and any special notes tied to the symbol.
Worked Read: Continuous Feature
A drawing includes the Continuous Feature symbol with a related feature requirement.
Identify
CF
Recognize the Continuous Feature symbol and the feature it modifies.
Read
Adjacent value
Use the attached dimension, note, or frame cells as the controlling requirement.
Inspect
Per drawing
Measure the named feature using the specified interpretation rather than assuming a generic size check.
Continuous Feature clarifies how the feature is defined so the drawing and inspection method stay aligned.
Comparison Table
| Item | Controls | Typical Placement |
|---|---|---|
| Continuous Feature | Requirement interpretation | Next to a dimension, note, or frame |
| GD&T control | Geometric variation | Feature control frame |
| Datum reference | Measurement setup | Datum feature or frame cell |
Notes
This page is part of the drawing-symbol reference set rather than a standalone geometric tolerance category.
When the symbol modifies a feature control frame, read it together with the tolerance value and datum references.