About Model Parameters

Model parameters control the model’s overall shape and size by establishing relationships between defined parameters. As you add dimensions and constraints to the model, parameters appear under the Model Parameters folder in the part browser. The Model Parameters dialog box provides a central location where you can view, create, and edit the dimensional parameters of the model. You can define parameters to create additional model relationships or to enhance drawing schedules later.

It is often more efficient to assign numeric values to dimensions and other feature parameters as you build the model. When you finalize the geometry, you can edit the model parameters to add calculated values. An equation assistant is available in the Model Parameters dialog box to ensure that the equation you create is valid and can produce a result. Each parameter in the Model Parameters dialog box includes the following:

Name

A unique identifier for the parameter. Model parameters are assigned default names, such as D1, D2, and D3, that can be changed. User-defined parameters must have unique names.

Value

The result of evaluating the equation.

Equation

The mathematical expression that defines the value of the parameter. Constants, other model and user-defined parameters, and mathematical operators can be used in an equation. You can use the Equation Assistant to define the equation.

Description

A narrative, user-defined description of the parameter.

Note: When using a constant value in an equation, be sure to define the constant as a model parameter. You should verify that the result of the equation is non-zero to avoid undesirable results in your model.