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Parametric 3D modeling

Parametric 3D modeling

Parametric 3D modeling

(OP)
Imagine a cube, fabricated from 1 1/2 inch square tubing. The outside cube dimensions are 42"W X 55-1/2" L X 85" H.  Perhaps I have 100 different size cubes; I don't want to go into the parts and change every part length. Is there a way to change any one of the dimensions and have the overall model change without going into the individual parts drawings and changing the dimensions there?

RE: Parametric 3D modeling

Create a 3d sketch (or a set of 2D sketches) at the top level assy, and reference the tube lengths to those sketches. A DT or equation can then be used to control the sketch dimensions.

Have you also explored the possibility of using the Weldment function?

RE: Parametric 3D modeling

weldments is the way to go for what you want to do, it will handle all the miter angles and terminations as necessary. Otherwise you're into an in-context assembly situation where things are extruded up to vertex. We used to do structural base plates like that, it got ugly.  

Joe Hasik, CSWP/SMTL
SW 09 x64, SP 3.0
Dell T3400
Intel Core2 Quad
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3.93 GB RAM
NVIDIA Quadro FX 4600

RE: Parametric 3D modeling

Moving from parametric to pedantic...

How can you have a cube that's 42"W X 55-1/2" L X 85" H?

RE: Parametric 3D modeling

I suppose it's technically a right cuboid, rectangular box, rectangular hexahedron, right rectangular prism, or rectangular parallelepiped. However, I would have called it a "cube" and likely more people will understand with this (incorrect) terminalogy than the above terms...

-- MechEng2005

RE: Parametric 3D modeling

(OP)
Good point on the definition of the "cube". Consider it a frame or box with the overall specified dimensions. I may want to change the overall dimensions in a hundred different sizes over the course on one month. And I need to make it as simple as possible.  

RE: Parametric 3D modeling

Then use the Weldment function.

RE: Parametric 3D modeling

(OP)
FYI for everyone...further exploration looks like DriveWorks in SolidWorks may be the way to proceed. I am presently working through the tutorial and it looks promising.  

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