SolidSmack - Latest Comments in SolidWorks Feature Tip to Improve Design

Re: SolidWorks Feature Tip to Improve Design

Josh — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 14:08:07 -0000

I also name the features after I've create them, instead of using the option. Helps me see where improvements can be made easier and doesn't slow down the momentum.

An embedded metric add-in would be incredible. Not only to keep track of your things, but also keep track of learning curves. You would think SolidWorks would like to know some of this info also. Thanks Bruce.

Re: SolidWorks Feature Tip to Improve Design

Bruce Buck — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 22:39:54 -0000

Also, if you work in a multi-user environment, where multiple people will touch the models, use the Comments on the features as well. I've had trickly variable pitch helix springs that would do screwy (or should I say springy) things when trying to add configurations to it; they would blow up. I added comments to the features to let other engineers know the procedure for adding a configuration and making the spring longer/shorter/different diameter without having it blow up. Could use the design journal I guess, but the comments will pop up as you hover over the feature so it grabs their attention better.

I used to use the "Name feature on creation" but found it cumbersome when concepting and fleshing out a new part. Since I do alot of that now, I simply turn it off, and once the part is about to be released along with its drawing I'll go and put in the feature names.

Oooh, ooh, and here's one. If you ever have to work with a really crappy part model (that someone else made) and your boss is asking why it's taking so long, you can RMB on any feature and see who created that sloppy feature or that undefined sketch.

Now if only SolidWorks could track how much time is spent working a model/assembly/drawing, I wouldn't have to use a 3rd party like MetriQ

Great tip to start off the new year, Josh!

Re: SolidWorks Feature Tip to Improve Design

Josh — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 13:37:29 -0000

Hey John. That Professor knows what is uP.

I was hoping someone would mention the option for this. It a great reminder to add a name and really doesn't take that much time. Right on.

Re: SolidWorks Feature Tip to Improve Design

John — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 09:59:34 -0000

My instructor would take points off of our models if we didn't name out features(also would for under-defined sketches). That gets you trained on naming them quickly. In the past at my company, depending on who modeled the part, the features may not have been named. With sheet metal part containing up to 1000 holes it is very nice to have them named. Currently everyone names the features.

I have "Name feature on creation" system option checked. Helps me follow the same process on all the models.