Page 360 - Mastering SolidWorks

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THE BOTTOM lInE 333

The Bottom Line
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.
Master It After you have created the rectangular sketch with equal sides, make the extrusion
depth also equal so that no matter what size it is, the solid will always be a cube.
Master It One of the most common situations in design is needing to spread out holes.
Equations are a great way to do this. Study the part named Chapter 10 Equations.sldprt
and re-create it on your own.