Dimensions Versus Parameters(SolidWorks)
Dimensions Versus Parameters(SolidWorks)
(OP)
Way back when...
I was always told to use smart dimensions instead of feature parameters. I never was told why.
My guess is that the parameters "lock" a feature to a certain value, and not be adjustable. Or could it be, having the ability to "name" a dimension?
Any ideas?
Regards,
Mon
I was always told to use smart dimensions instead of feature parameters. I never was told why.
My guess is that the parameters "lock" a feature to a certain value, and not be adjustable. Or could it be, having the ability to "name" a dimension?
Any ideas?
Regards,
Mon






RE: Dimensions Versus Parameters(SolidWorks)
-Dustin
Professional Engineer
Pretty good with SolidWorks
RE: Dimensions Versus Parameters(SolidWorks)
If you mean "Is it better to use geometric constraints or dimensions to completely define a sketch?" the answer is that depends on the design intent. There are times when a feature/sketch element should be constrained to some other element so they move together - if that is the most elegent form of the design intent. There are other times when it makes more sense to use an independent dimension to define an element.
- - -Updraft
RE: Dimensions Versus Parameters(SolidWorks)
RE: Dimensions Versus Parameters(SolidWorks)
This is 2D CAD thinking vs. parametric modeling thinking. With 2D CAD, you draw lines and put them places, then you add dimensions to communicate information about where you drew the lines. With parametric modeling, you use relations and dimensions to control where entities go.
-handleman, CSWP (The new, easy test)
RE: Dimensions Versus Parameters(SolidWorks)
Mon
RE: Dimensions Versus Parameters(SolidWorks)
Also, it is not necessary to completely define every entity within a sketch, though this is an unpopular view among CAD admins and CAD managers. The reason is that sometimes there is no value in fully defining every entity within a sketch. Sketches only need to be defined to the degree necessary to capture the design intent. Often, this does mean the sketch is fully defined, but there are plenty of instances where it's just a waste of time and computer resources to fully define a sketch.
Matt Lorono
Lorono's SolidWorks Resources & SolidWorks Legion
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