When working with SolidWorks, it’s important to know which file type you should be in to access design tables. Design tables are a powerful tool that allow you to create and manipulate configurations of your parts or assemblies. They can save you time and effort by automating the creation of multiple configurations based on different parameters.
So, what file type should you be in?
The answer is simple: you need to be in a part or assembly file (.sldprt or .sldasm) to access design tables. Design tables are not available in drawing files (.slddrw) or any other file types within SolidWorks.
Why can’t design tables be accessed in drawing files?
Drawing files in SolidWorks primarily serve as a representation of your parts or assemblies. They are used for creating detailed views, adding dimensions and annotations, and generating manufacturing documentation. Drawing files do not contain features or configurations like part or assembly files do, hence design tables cannot be accessed within them.
Now that we know which file types support design tables, let’s dive into the process of creating and using them.
Creating a Design Table
To create a design table, start by opening a part or assembly file in SolidWorks. Make sure the feature tree is visible on the left side of the screen.
Right-click on the ‘Configurations’ folder within the feature tree and select ‘Add Configuration’. Give your new configuration a name and click ‘OK’.
Once the new configuration is created, right-click on it and choose ‘Properties’. In the properties window, check the box that says ‘Specify Configurations’ under ‘Design Table’. Click ‘OK’ to close the properties window.
Now right-click on the ‘Configurations’ folder again and select ‘Open Design Table’. A Microsoft Excel spreadsheet will open up with your configuration information displayed. You can now add parameters, dimensions, and formulas to create different configurations.
Using a Design Table
Once you have created a design table, you can use it to quickly generate multiple configurations. Simply enter the desired values in the Excel spreadsheet and close it. SolidWorks will automatically update the part or assembly based on the values specified in the design table.
If you need to make changes to your design table, simply right-click on the ‘Configurations’ folder and select ‘Open Design Table’ again. The Excel spreadsheet will open up, allowing you to edit or add new parameters as needed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when working with SolidWorks and wanting to access design tables, make sure you are in a part or assembly file (.sldasm). Design tables are not available in drawing files or any other file types within SolidWorks.
Design tables are a powerful tool that can streamline your workflow by automating the creation of multiple configurations. By following the steps outlined above, you can create and use design tables efficiently in your SolidWorks projects.