Where Are Global Variables in SolidWorks?

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In SolidWorks, global variables are an essential part of the design process. They allow you to create and manage parameters that can be used throughout your assembly, part, or drawing files. Global variables provide a way to control dimensions, equations, and other design features in a centralized manner.

Accessing Global Variables

To access the global variables in SolidWorks, you need to open the Equations dialog box. There are multiple ways to do this:

  • Method 1: Go to the Tools menu and select Equations.
  • Method 2: Click on the Equations button located on the Features toolbar.
  • Method 3: Use the keyboard shortcut by pressing Ctr+G.

The Equations dialog box will appear on your screen, showing a list of all the global variables defined in your current document.

Create a Global Variable

To create a new global variable, follow these steps:

  1. Select an existing dimension or feature in your model that you want to control with a global variable.
  2. In the Equations dialog box, click on the Add/Edit Equation.. button.
  3. A new window will open where you can define your equation. Start by typing an equal sign (=) followed by a name for your variable.

    For example, if you want to create a variable called “Length,” type “=Length”.

  4. In the same line after your variable name, specify its value or assign it to another dimension or equation. For instance, if you want “Length” to be equal to 10 mm, type “=Length=10mm”.
  5. Click on the green checkmark icon to apply the equation and create your global variable.

Your newly created global variable will now appear in the Equations dialog box, ready for you to use in other dimensions or equations.

Using Global Variables

Once you have defined your global variables, you can use them in various ways within your SolidWorks document. Here are a few examples:

  • Controlling Dimensions: Instead of directly entering numerical values for dimensions, you can link them to global variables. This allows for easy modification and updating of dimensions throughout your design.
  • Creating Configurations: Global variables can be used to drive different configurations of your model. By assigning different values to the same variable, you can control multiple versions of your design without duplicating effort.
  • Building Equations: You can use global variables in mathematical equations to define complex relationships between different dimensions or features in your model.

The flexibility offered by global variables makes them a powerful tool for parametric design in SolidWorks.

Modifying Global Variables

If you need to modify an existing global variable, follow these steps:

  1. In the Equations dialog box, locate the variable you want to modify.
  2. Select the variable by clicking on its name.
  3. Edit the equation in the text field below or click on the Edit Equation. button for more advanced editing options.
  4. Click on the green checkmark icon to apply the changes.

Remember that modifying a global variable will affect all dimensions or features that depend on it.

Conclusion

Global variables are an indispensable feature in SolidWorks, allowing you to create intelligent and flexible designs. By centralizing control over dimensions, equations, and configurations, they streamline the design process and enable easy modification and iteration. Don’t overlook the power of global variables in your SolidWorks projects!