Linking dimensions similarly ensures that dimensions that should be equal will update together, reducing the number of dimensions that need to be changed between configurations. By creating and assigning global variables, we can control multiple dimensions in one step. Global variables and linked dimensions are also very helpful for creating configurations. Features can be renamed by slow double-clicking on the feature name in the Design Tree. We also changed the name of several features, to make it easy to choose which ones will remain unsuppressed down the line. Dimensions can be renamed by selecting the dimension and changing the name in the Property Manager, or by double-clicking on a dimension and changing the name from the Modify dialog. This way, when we change a dimension between configurations, we can make sure we know what the dimension is controlling. Since configuring a model often involves changing the values of dimensions and suppressing features, it is good practice to change dimension and feature names to simplify the configuration creation process.įor the socket model, we changed the name of several dimensions to more clearly represent what the specific dimensions control. Configurations can also be employed to describe a model as it proceeds through steps in the manufacturing or assembly process. For example, it is common to suppress features that are largely cosmetic and computationally heavy-such as threads or fillets-when using a part in a large assembly or running a simulation. In this way, configurations allow for easy propagation of design changes.Ĭonfigurations are also commonly used to create simplified versions of parts for use in assemblies and analysis. By assigning different values to the outer diameter and depth of the socket and choosing whether to use a 12-point cut or a 16-point cut, we can easily create multiple configurations of the socket without having to go through the work of recreating all the sketches and features that make up the model.
In the image above, all twelve sockets are contained in a single part file. The most common reason to use configurations is to quickly establish a family of similar parts or assemblies.
Future articles in this series will cover using configurations in assemblies and using configurations in drawings.
In this article, we will examine the best cases for using configurations in SOLIDWORKS, preparing a model for configuration, and 3 methods for creating configurations: manually, using a Configuration Table, and using a Design Table. This blog is the first part in a series about configurations.
( For a full list of configurable items, see the SOLIDWORKS Help article, “ Configurable Items for Parts”).
The differences between configurations are established by changing dimension values, suppressing features, and changing other parameters. SOLIDWORKS configurations allow users to maintain multiple versions of a part or an assembly in a single file.