Using Equations to Define a Feature 2

[ecarr]

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.

 

[PDMAdmin]

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

 

[StefanHamminga]

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

 

[ecarr]

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?

 

[ecarr]

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

 

[MElam]

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!

 

[CorBlimeyLimey]

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


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

 

[ecarr]

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?

 

[CorBlimeyLimey]

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.


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