Part Modeling with Equations Flashcards

In a SOLIDWORKS part model, you need to control the number of instances in a linear pattern based on the overall length of the part. If the overall length, controlled by a global variable "OverallLength", is less than 100mm, there should be 3 instances. Otherwise, there should be 5 instances. Which of the following is the correct syntax for the equation to control the pattern instances?

Answer: "D1@LPattern1" = IIF("OverallLength" < 100, 3, 5)

SOLIDWORKS equations use Visual Basic syntax for conditional statements, which requires the IIF() function. The syntax is IIF(expression, value_if_true, value_if_false). Global variables must be enclosed in double quotes.

You are tasked with creating a part where multiple, non-adjacent sketch dimensions must always be equal. As the design is likely to change, you need an efficient way to update all these dimensions simultaneously. Which of the following methods is MOST efficient for linking these dimensions to a single controlling value?

Answer: Creating a single Global Variable and setting each dimension equal to that Global Variable.

Global variables are designed for this exact purpose. By defining a single global variable (e.g., "Width"), you can then set multiple dimensions equal to this variable. Changing the value of the global variable in the Equations Manager will automatically update all linked dimensions, which is highly efficient for managing design intent.

A design requires a cut feature to be suppressed whenever a global variable named "Diameter" is greater than or equal to 50mm. In the Equations dialog box, what is the correct syntax to achieve this?

Answer: "Cut-Extrude1" = IIF ("Diameter" >= 50, "suppressed", "unsuppressed")

To control the suppression state of a feature with an equation, you set the feature's name (as a string) equal to an IIF statement. The IIF statement evaluates a condition and returns the string "suppressed" or "unsuppressed" accordingly, which then controls the feature's state.

You have created a complex part driven by several key global variables ("A", "B", "C"). Now you need to create a new, separate part file that will share some of these same key dimensions. What is the most robust method to link these variables between the two separate part files, ensuring that an update in one location propagates to both models?

Answer: Export the equations from the source part to an external text file and link both parts to this file.

SOLIDWORKS allows you to export equations and global variables to an external .txt file. You can then link this text file to multiple parts. When the text file is updated, any SOLIDWORKS part linked to it will update upon rebuild, ensuring consistency across separate files.

When building a part for the CSWP exam, you are given a dimension that is defined by the formula: (A + B) / 2, where 'A' and 'B' are global variables. Which is the correct way to enter this into the dimension modification box?

Answer: ="A" + "B" / 2

To initiate an equation in a dimension box, you must start with an equals sign (=). When referencing global variables within the equation, their names must be enclosed in double quotation marks. The mathematical operators follow standard order of operations, though parentheses can be used for clarity.

Which of the following statements is true regarding the difference between using 'Linked Values' (also known as 'Shared Values') and 'Global Variables' to make dimensions equal?

Answer: A single Linked Value can be applied to multiple selected dimensions at once, while a Global Variable must be applied to each dimension individually.

The primary advantage of 'Linked Values' is the ability to select multiple dimensions in the graphics area, right-click, and link them all in one operation. While Global Variables are generally more powerful and manageable from the Equations dialog, they must be assigned to each dimension one by one.