Label a Dimension with a Global Parameter

From the Label option for a dimension, you can create a global parameter or select an existing global parameter to control the dimension value or to use its value to drive other parameters.

Notes

• Dimensions labeled with global parameters cannot be included in groups. If both references of a dimension are to the same group, an error displays, and you have the option to remove the label. Dimensions with only one reference inside a group are allowed to associate with the group.
• Because arrays in a project can't be labeled, global parameters can't be used on arrays in a project.

To label a dimension

1. Select a dimension.

   If you select a multi-segmented dimension, all segments of the dimension will be labeled with the same global parameter.

2. On the Modify | Dimensions tabLabel Dimension panel, do one of the following:
   • Click the Label drop-down, and select an existing global parameter.
   • To create a new global parameter, click (Create Parameter), and do the following:
     1. In the Global Parameter Properties dialog, enter a Name.

        By default, the Discipline is Common, and the Type of Parameter is Length or Angle, depending on the type of dimension. The default value for the parameter is the current value of the dimension.

     2. If you want this dimension value to drive (provide input to) other parameters, select the Reporting Parameter option.

        Do not select this option if you want the new parameter to control the value of the dimension, creating a constraint.

     3. Click OK.
   Note: You can also access the Label options by selecting the dimension, right-clicking, and clicking Label on the context menu.

   When you specify the global parameter for the dimension, the following conditions apply:

   • The Global Parameters icon in the drawing area indicates that a global parameter is assigned.
   • If you selected a reporting parameter, the dimension value can be used as input to other parameters, and no constraint is created for the dimension.
   • If you selected a non-reporting global parameter, the dimension is now locked, and a constraint is created.
   • If you position the cursor over the dimension, the tooltip displays the Label (name of the parameter) and the Equation (formula), if defined.
   • If you select one of the references of the dimension (for example if the constraint is between 2 walls and you select one of the walls), the constraint element displays along with the label and value of the assigned global parameter.
3. (Optional) With the dimension selected, on the Properties palette, select Show Label in View to display the global parameter name with the dimension value.

   Selecting this option can make it easier to understand how and where global parameters are used in a model.

4. (Optional) Click the dimension value, and customize the text on the Dimension Text dialog.

   You can add a prefix, suffix, text above, or text below the label. See Add Text to a Dimension or an Equality Text Label.

If you selected a non-reporting global parameter, you can change the dimension value using one of the following methods:

• Modifying a project element labeled with a reporting global parameter, which is used in a reporting parameter formula for a dimension.
• Changing the value of the global parameter in the Global Parameters dialog, as follows:

  Select the dimension, and click the Global Parameters icon that displays near the dimension. In the Global Parameters dialog, modify the Value and/or Formula for the parameter as required. See Creating Global Parameters. Changing the value of the global parameter will change the dimension in the model.