What Is Custom Property in SolidWorks?
Custom properties in SolidWorks allow users to add additional information and data to their model files. These properties can be used to store various types of data, including part numbers, descriptions, material specifications, and other relevant information. Custom properties provide a way to organize and manage important data related to the design and manufacturing process.
Creating Custom Properties
Creating custom properties in SolidWorks is a straightforward process. Here’s how you can do it:
- Select the desired component or assembly in the feature tree.
- Right-click on the selected item and choose “Properties” from the context menu.
- In the Properties dialog box, click on the “Custom” tab.
- Click on the “Edit” button next to “Property Name” to add a new custom property.
You can create multiple custom properties by clicking on the “Add” button and entering the necessary details. Once you have added custom properties, you can assign values to them by selecting the component or assembly and entering the values in the corresponding fields.
Using Custom Properties for Design Management
Custom properties play a crucial role in design management as they allow users to store valuable information about their models. This information can be utilized for various purposes:
- Bill of Materials (BOM): Custom properties such as part numbers, descriptions, quantities, and material specifications can be linked directly to BOM templates. This makes it easier for designers and manufacturers to generate accurate BOMs without manual data entry.
- Data Organization: Organizing models based on custom properties enables efficient data management.
Users can search, filter, and sort models based on specific criteria, such as material type or revision number.
- Customized Drawing Templates: Custom properties can be linked to drawing templates to automatically populate information like part numbers, dimensions, and revision details in the drawing views. This saves time and ensures consistency across drawings.
Linking Custom Properties with Equations
SolidWorks allows users to link custom properties with equations. This feature enables dynamic updates of custom property values based on mathematical relationships or formulas defined by the user. By linking custom properties with equations, designers can automate calculations and maintain accurate data across different models.
Conclusion
Custom properties in SolidWorks provide a powerful tool for organizing and managing important data related to 3D models. By leveraging custom properties, designers can streamline design processes, generate accurate BOMs, automate calculations, and enhance overall productivity. Incorporating custom properties into your SolidWorks workflow is essential for efficient design management and collaboration.