Chapter 10: Using Equations

SolidWorks equations and related dimension-management tools are powerful. In the last several releases, they have been vastly updated. Even if you're not a huge equation user, the ability to build equations in the Modify and PropertyManager dimension boxes is a great convenience for such a powerful function.

Be careful about crossing SolidWorks native equation functionality with configurations; you may end up with dimensions that are controlled by both tools. Remember that the calculation capability of Excel is far greater than what is found in SolidWorks equations.

• Master It Equations and variables are keys to parametric design. Start simple by creating a rectangle with sides made equal by using the same variable name for vertical and horizontal dimensions.
• Solution Chapter 10 Solution 1.sldprt holds the key. Edit the sketch and show the dimensions. You can enter the variable name right in the Modify box. To make the second one equal, type...