SolidWorks 2010 Bible

Chapter 9: Using Equations ........................................................................................................

Named dimensions make a huge difference when you want to recognize the function of an

equation by simply reading it. A most obvious example would be the difference between

D3@Sketch6 and Length@WindowExtrusionSketch. The first name means nothing, but the

second one is descriptive if you are familiar with the part.

To name a dimension, click the dimension and go to the PropertyManager. In the Primary Value

panel shown in Figure 9.2, type the new name for the dimension in the Name text box. You

cannot use the symbol @ in dimension names because it is used as a delimiter between the name

of the dimension and the feature or sketch to which it applies. Also, be aware that even though the

software allows you to change the name of the sketch or feature in the Dimension

PropertyManager, it will not accept this change.

FIGURE 9.2

Renaming a dimension

Best Practice
You should keep dimension names as short as possible while still making them unique and descriptive. This is
because space in the interface is often limited, and when combined with sketch or feature names (and even
part names when used in an assembly), the names can become difficult to display in a readable fashion. n

Tip
You can show dimension names as a part of the dimension itself; choose View ➪ Dimension Names and select
the option. It’s also helpful to know the FeatureManager Filter filters dimension names, which makes named
dimensions easy to find. Figure 9.3 shows the filter displaying features and sketches that contain a dimension
containing the filtered word “height.” Other filtered words display in tool tips, but dimension names appear
not to. n