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Using Equations to Define a Feature
2

Using Equations to Define a Feature

Using Equations to Define a Feature

(OP)
Is it possible to use an Equation to define a feature.  For example, I would like to define a variable "A" as 5.  Then I would like to extrude several different sketches all with a length of 5.  Then I can change "A" to 7 and all the extrusions would change.  

RE: Using Equations to Define a Feature

In SolidWorks help, do a search on "Link / dimension values."  That will help you accomplish what you're trying to do.

RE: Using Equations to Define a Feature

2
1. click "tools"->"Equations"->"add"
2. give it a meaningfull name, use the ' at the end of the line to describe it.
3. double click the extrusion, it's dims will pop up.
4. give the dims a more meaningfull name (rightclick->properties)
5. double click the dim and hit the down-arrow to pop up the equation editor.
6. link to the equation or dim you want as a driving dimension

Stefan Hamminga
EngIT Solutions
CSWP/Mechanical designer/AI student

RE: Using Equations to Define a Feature

(OP)
Thanks for the tip.  I wasn't using the right keywords!  I found an answer that said to double-click on the feature and modify the dimension that way.  But my dimension isn't showing up in the model when I double-click the feature.  Any ideas why?

RE: Using Equations to Define a Feature

(OP)
Nevermind, I just figured it out.  My dimension was just really far away.  THANKS!

RE: Using Equations to Define a Feature

Go to Tools, Options, Document Properties tab, Annotations Display.

Check the box next to "Always display text at the same size"

Then it will not matter how far away those dimensions are!

RE: Using Equations to Define a Feature

You should also look into using a Design Table to control features & configurations.

cheers
Helpful SW websites  FAQ559-520
How to get answers to your SW questions  FAQ559-1091

RE: Using Equations to Define a Feature

(OP)
I tried using a Design Table at first but I am a newbie so it didn't work the way I would like it to.  I am a CATIA user, so I am unfamiliar with Solidworks Design Tables.  I'll definitely look into that though.  What is the advantage over using Design Tables rather than Equations?

RE: Using Equations to Define a Feature

Biggest advantage for Equations is that you only need to do a rebuild to update the model. With a DT you have to open & close it.
Aside from that, DTs can do everything Equations can ... and then a whole lot more. DTs are just Excel spreadsheets, so if you know Excels power, then you should appreciate the DTs power.

cheers
Helpful SW websites  FAQ559-520
How to get answers to your SW questions  FAQ559-1091

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