How Do I Change Custom Properties in SolidWorks?

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Changing custom properties in SolidWorks allows you to add specific information and details to your models, making it easier to manage and organize your designs. Custom properties are user-defined attributes that can be associated with a part, assembly, or drawing file. In this tutorial, we will explore how to change custom properties in SolidWorks using a step-by-step approach.

Accessing the Custom Properties

To begin, open the desired part, assembly, or drawing file in SolidWorks. Once the file is open, navigate to the “File” menu at the top left corner of the interface. From the drop-down menu that appears, select “Properties” – this will open the “Custom Properties” window.

Alternatively, you can access the “Custom Properties” window by right-clicking on an empty area of the feature manager design tree and selecting “Properties” from the context menu.

Adding Custom Properties

In the “Custom Properties” window, you will find several tabs such as “Summary”, “Configuration Specific”, “Custom”, and “Cut-List Item”. These tabs allow you to define different types of properties for your files. For example:

  • Summary: Contains general information like title, subject, author name.
  • Configuration Specific: Used when working with assemblies having multiple configurations.
  • Custom: Allows you to add specific user-defined properties such as material type or part number.
  • Cut-List Item: Pertains specifically to sheet metal parts and defines properties related to cut-list items.

To add a custom property, select the desired tab and click on the “Add Custom Property” button. This will open a dialog box where you can specify the property name, value, and other relevant details.

Modifying Custom Properties

If you need to modify an existing custom property, simply select the property from the list and click on the “Modify” button. This will allow you to change the property’s name, value, or any other associated information.

Linking Custom Properties to Model Features

A powerful feature in SolidWorks is the ability to link custom properties to specific model features. This allows for automatic updates of custom properties when associated features change. To link a custom property to a model feature:

  1. Select the desired feature in the feature manager design tree.
  2. Right-click on it and choose “Properties” from the context menu.
  3. In the “PropertyManager” window that appears, select the “Custom” tab.
  4. In this tab, you can either select an existing custom property or create a new one by clicking on the “Add..” button.
  5. If you choose an existing custom property, its value will automatically populate in this window. Otherwise, you can enter a new value for your linked custom property.

Displaying Custom Properties in Drawings

To display custom properties in your SolidWorks drawings:

  1. Create or open a drawing file corresponding to your part or assembly.
  2. Navigate to the “Insert” menu at the top of the interface and select “Annotations > Note”.
  3. Click on the location in the drawing where you want to display the custom property.
  4. In the “PropertyManager” window that appears, click on the “Link to Property” button.
  5. Select the desired file and custom property from the options provided.
  6. Click “OK” to insert the note with the linked custom property value into your drawing.

Changing custom properties in SolidWorks is a straightforward process that can greatly enhance your workflow. By adding relevant information and linking properties to model features, you can create more descriptive and organized designs. Utilize these techniques to streamline your SolidWorks projects and improve collaboration within your design team.