Seitenabstand

Seitenabstand is a German term describing the lateral distance or clearance between a subject and a side boundary, edge, or adjacent object. It is used across different fields to specify how much space should be maintained on the side of an element to ensure safety, readability, function, or manufacturability.

In road traffic, Seitenabstand refers to the lateral clearance to other road users on the side or during passing. Regulations in many jurisdictions require a minimum side clearance to protect cyclists, pedestrians, and other vehicles; the exact distance is defined by local law and vehicle type, and it can vary depending on circumstances such as speed, road type, and weather.

In page layout and printing, Seitenabstand describes the margins between content and the page edge, or the gap between facing pages (the gutter). This spacing influences readability, binding tolerances, and the visual design of the finished product. Layout guidelines specify different values for inner and outer margins, depending on format and binding method.

In technical design and engineering, Seitenabstand denotes the horizontal clearance between components, such as between shafts, housings, or panels. Adequate side clearance accounts for manufacturing tolerances, thermal expansion, and maintenance access, while too little clearance risks interference or wear.

In architecture and construction, the term can refer to required side clearance between buildings, installations, or structures and property boundaries, corridors, or other infrastructure, often dictated by building codes and safety regulations.

Overall, Seitenabstand functions as a generic concept of side distance important for safety, usability, and compatibility across disciplines.