Support for Mathematical Expressions and Variables (Parametric Design)
planned
Luca Vincenti
I would like to propose a significant enhancement to the dimensioning system: the ability to use mathematical expressions directly within input fields and the implementation of Global Variables (Parameters).
1. Inline Calculations
Currently, dimensions require static numerical values. It would be highly efficient to allow basic arithmetic directly in the input field.
Example: Instead of manually calculating the outer diameter of a ring, I could type 34mm + 4 to get 38mm.
Benefit: This speeds up the workflow and reduces "mental math" errors, especially when working with offsets or wall thicknesses.
2. Global Variables & Parameters
The addition of a "Variables Manager" would be a game-changer for iterative design.
How it works: Users define a variable (e.g., Tolerance = 0.2mm). This variable can then be used in any dimension field instead of a fixed number.
Use Case (3D Printing): When designing parts that need to fit together, I could use the Tolerance variable for every gap. If the printed part is too tight, I simply update the variable value in one place, and the entire model adjusts automatically.
Why this is important
- Efficiency: Eliminates the need to manually hunt down and change dozens of dimensions when a single design requirement changes.
- Accuracy: Ensures consistency across the entire project (e.g., maintaining a uniform wall thickness).
- Professional Workflow: Moves the app closer to industry-standard parametric modeling, making it much more viable for technical engineering and 3D printing enthusiasts.
Part3D
marked this post as
planned
Part3D
Thank you both. This is indeed something I'll be working on shortly.
Chris Richard Delos Santos
This is a great concept idea for the app update. I was planning to give feedback about the missing negative symbol on the dimension pad. Right now, you have draw the negative line symbol (-) for the app to recognize a negative value. Then I saw this comment and thought it was a really good idea. That’s why I edited an image regarding this concept.
I use the calculator pad but of course thats just the reference image for this idea to work
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Luca Vincenti
Chris Richard Delos Santos
What do you mean about the computer?
All I need is the option to enter an invoice in the dimensions text box. As an example: 35mm - (2 * 0.1)
Preferably with the option to set global variables:
Global variable: tolerance = 0.1mm
Text field: 35 - (2 * tolerance)