Parametrizing a Dimension

A varying (parametric) dimension can be defined for a volume with an origin point macro and dimensions. Variation is only applied to the elements of a group or a macro. The dimension to be defined to vary is selected from the volume and is identified (with a variable) in a dialog box.

Define Parametric Dimension Dialog Box

Variation points are selected for the start and end point of the dimension. The program marks the variation point with the letter M on the volume. By default, the program suggests variation points for both ends of the dimension. If there are variation points at both ends of the dimension (marked with M), the volume is stretched centrally outwards or shrunk centrally inwards. It is suggested that in variation, one end of the dimension stays fixed and the other end is stretched. In such a case there is a variation point only at one end of the dimension.

The geometry at the start or end point of the volume can be prevented from varying by selecting a fixed variation point for the dimension. The variation point (marked with M) becomes fixed (indicated with an X), when the variation point in question is clicked. If more than one variation point is to be selected for the start or end point of a dimension, they are selected by limiting an area of the volume. A variation point can be removed from the area by clicking it.

During variation, the surfaces of the volume mostly maintain their original shape. However, a slanted change of angle of a planar surface can be accepted, if necessary. The identification marks of the varying dimension defined in a volume can be set visible in the model with the Visibility of the Varying Dimension function.

1. Select Dimensions > Parametrize Dimensions.
2. Select the dimension to be parametrized from the volume.
3. Type variation identification for the dimension.
4. Enable and disable the (slanted) angle change of a planar surface with the function on the contextual toolbar.
5. Do either of the following:
   • Select the variation points of the start point, and finally select the Confirm function.
   • Press Ctrl+Z and select the variation points by limiting an area from the model, and finally select the Confirm function.
6. Select the variation points of the end point as above.

Example

1. L has been typed as the identification of the varying dimension. The volume has been varied after selecting the points. The starting point of the volume is varied.

   

2. The variation point and the fixed point of the volume have been switched. The volume is now varied at the other end. Because the machined notch has not been defined to vary, it is not moved, despite the stretching of the volume.

    

3. When the points of the machined notch are also defined to vary by limiting an area, the notch is moved, when the volume is stretched.

   

Changing Parametric Dimension
Changing Parametric Dimensions of a Group or the Entire Model
3D Dimensions