Example of using parameters and variables

In this example you create two parameters and four variables to define the dimensions for a plate with a hole. The plate curve is sketched (Edit New) from the section origin, but notice that the origin for the template curves is located in the center of the rectangle.

  • Create two Parameters A and T:

  • Create four Variables B, D, Ad and Bd:

  • Create a new primitive from Insert > Primitive > Plate.

  • Click a point in Top (XY) view to set the origin for the plate.

  • Set the direction of thickness along the positive z axis (Alt+Z).

  • Set the thickness for the plate by selecting the command Define from the context menu (or press O) and use parameter T as the value.

  • Create the section for the plate using the command Edit New from the menu.

  • Use the command Parametric Point (Shift+P) to set start point to plate's origin (U=V=0).

  • Use the command Parametric Point to set the next point (U=0 and V=B).

  • Use the command Parametric Point to set the next point (U=A and V=B).

  • Use the command Parametric Point to set the next point (U=A and V=0).

  • Press Enter to close the rectangle and end the curve command.

    Note: The corner points are defined relative (set U and V values) to the origin of the plate.

  • Move cursor inside the rectangle for a temporary location for the next curve (hole).

  • Use the command Edit Shape > New Hole from the context menu.

  • Select "Circle" from the template curves.

  • Use the variable D to set the diameter for the circle.

  • Click the definition point in the center of the circle. The active definition point is rounded by a little rectangle.

  • Select the command Set Origin (or press Shift+M) to define the location for the center of the circle.

    Note: The Set Origin command defines the location of the hole's origin, not the origin of the section or shape.

  • Set the origin of the hole using variables: U=Ad , V=Bd.

  • Press Enter (or select Done) twice to end the Edit Shape and Edit Primitive commands.

If you change the parameter A (plate length) to 400, all the variables are updated too.