Variable/Parameter driven modeling

[BamaCod]

I have several parts that are similar and are driven by 5 dimensions. Unfortunately these parts range from small to large, so I am faced with creating numerous models of basically the same part.

Does anyone know of a method that would allow me to create ONE model using parameters (say A, B, C etc) that would allow me to set the value of each parameter by either being prompted to enter the value or by physically going to a table and inserting the values and after rebuilding the model adopts these new dimensions? This would save me tons of time and make it really easy for the other guys in my group to use.

Forgive me if I overlooked this answer in searching through past posts, but I couldn't find anything that nailed this down for me.

 

[Arlin]

Look in help for "design table."

This really is basic, core SolidWorks functionality. Have you gone throught the tutorials, or help files, or had any training?

I just want to warn you that this is a pretty basic question that you should have found in the help file or tutorials. Some of the members here may get a bit cranky with you for these kind of simple questions.

 

[CorBlimeyLimey]

Arlin ... shame on you for suggesting such a thing ... all the members of this forum are always very professional & courteous when faced with dumb-ass stupid simple questions like this.

Sorry BamaCod, just kidding, Welcome to the forum.

A big problem when learning a new program is knowing what terms to look for when searching for a topic. The terms you need to look for are Configuration & Design Table.
What Arlin says is true though, if you had worked through the Online tutorials (in the SW Help section) you would have found the answer to your question. I strongly suggest you do that as soon as possible and talk to your VAR about training. It may be expensive, but will pay for itself in the long run.

Also, many questions have already been answered in the FAQ section (tab at top of page) so please read through it (faq559-1091 in particular).

Thankyou for stopping at Eng-Tips, we hope you enjoy your stay.


Making the best use of this Forum. faq559-716
How to get answers to your SW questions. faq559-1091
Helpful SW websites every user should be aware of. faq559-520

 

[BamaCod]

Well, I expected to get flamed a bit for this, so thanks for not being TOO rough on me, lol.

My background is 100% ProE, just sorta got thrown into using SW, so some of the simple things to you guys may take me a while, even with tutorials and such.

Again, appreciate the help.

 

[rgrayclamps]

Hi, BamaCod:

Just a curiosity, what would you do in Pro-E for the similar application (several parts with 5 dimensions)?

Thanks,

Alex

 

[BamaCod]

I would use a parameter table, which seems to be very similar to the design table. The more I learn about the design table and management of configurations the more I'm liking it. I've always loved Excel and now I get to use it in my modeling.

 

[smcadman]

Forgive me if I overlooked this answer in searching through past posts, but I couldn't find anything that nailed this down for me.

As you can see, apologies will not be accepted in this forum. Next time bring your crystal ball so you will know the terminolgy needed for your questions.

(By the way, when I was a new user, I got the same replies that you did, so don't worry about it)

Flores