New in SolidWorks 2014: Fixed Length Spline

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In SolidWorks 2014, you can set a dimension to fix the length of a spline. You can reference this dimension in custom properties, configurations, equations, and tables, including design tables and BOMs. Previously, you could not dimension splines to a fixed length.

To set a fixed length:

  1. Open install_dir\samples\whatsnew\sketching\fixed_length.sldprt.sketch_fixed_length
  2. Click Smart Dimension Smart Dim Toolbar Icon (Dimensions/Relations toolbar) or Tools > Dimensions > Smart Dimensions.
  3. Click anywhere on the spline to place the dimension and click PM_OK.gif to close the Dimension PropertyManager. A radial style dimension appears and is attached to the spline.Sketch Fixed Length 2
  4. Drag an endpoint of the spline. The length remains the same when you drag endpoints or change the shape of the spline.
  5. To change the spline’s length, double-click the dimension and enter a new value in the Modify dialog box.
Be sure to check out our new SolidWorks 2014 website to see everything else that’s new with this release.

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Matthew West

SolidWorks alumnus. I like plate reverb, Rat pedals, Thai curry, New Weird fiction, my kids, Vespas, Jazzmasters, my wife & Raiders of the Lost Ark. Not necessarily in that order.