Where Is the Design Table in SolidWorks?

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In SolidWorks, the Design Table is a powerful tool that allows users to create multiple configurations of a part or assembly. It provides a convenient way to modify parameters and dimensions, making it easier to explore different design options without manually changing each feature.

Accessing the Design Table

To access the Design Table in SolidWorks, follow these simple steps:

  1. Open your part or assembly file: Begin by opening the file you want to work on in SolidWorks.
  2. Go to the ConfigurationManager: In the feature tree, locate and click on “Configuration Manager” at the top of the screen.
  3. Right-click on the desired Configuration: Right-click on the configuration for which you want to create a design table. This will typically be your default configuration.
  4. Select “Design Table”: From the context menu that appears, select “Design Table.”

Once you have followed these steps, SolidWorks will generate a new Excel spreadsheet containing all the dimensions and parameters associated with your selected configuration.

Working with the Design Table

The Design Table consists of rows and columns, with each row representing a different configuration and each column representing a different dimension or parameter.

Add or Modify Dimensions

To add or modify dimensions in your Design Table:

  1. Edit Cell Values Directly: Double-click on any cell within the Design Table to edit its value directly. You can input numerical values or even equations using Excel’s formula capabilities.
  2. Add New Dimensions: To add new dimensions, simply insert new columns within Excel. SolidWorks will automatically detect and recognize these new dimensions, allowing you to modify them for each configuration.

Create New Configurations

You can also use the Design Table to create new configurations based on existing ones. To do this:

  1. Duplicate an Existing Row: Right-click on an existing row within the Design Table and select “Insert Copied Cells.” This will duplicate the row, including all dimension values.
  2. Modify Dimension Values: Change the dimension values in the duplicated row to create a new configuration. SolidWorks will automatically update the part or assembly based on these changes.

Updating the Model from the Design Table

Once you have made all necessary changes within the Design Table, you can update your part or assembly with the modified configurations by following these steps:

  1. Save and Close Excel: Save your changes within Excel and close it.
  2. Update Configuration(s): Back in SolidWorks, right-click on your configuration within the ConfigurationManager and select “Properties.”
  3. Select “Rebuild”: In the Configuration Properties dialog box, select “Rebuild” to apply all changes made in the Design Table to your part or assembly.

The model will now be updated with the modified dimensions and parameters as defined in your Design Table.

Using the Design Table in SolidWorks is a great way to streamline design iterations and explore different possibilities for your parts or assemblies. By leveraging this powerful tool, you can save time and effort while maintaining full control over your designs.