Using the Note Feature to Combine Drawing Dimensions

Let’s examine the process of combining dimensions into notes using the SOLIDWORKS Note feature:

When working in a SOLIDWORKS and using the command INSERT > ANNOTATIONS > NOTE, you have the ability to add 1 or more dimensions to this note text. This dimension text will then appear as part of the note, and any changes you make to the original dimension will automatically update the note, as the 2 will be linked together.

To accomplish this in SOLIDWORKS, simply open a drawing and add some dimensions to your drawing views. These dimensions may either be DRIVING DIMENSIONS (from the model) or DRIVEN DIMENSIONS (newly created in the drawing).

Next create a new note (INSERT > ANNOTATIONS > NOTES) and begin typing some text.

When you are ready to add the DIMENSION info to the NOTE text, move your mouse out onto the screen and single left click the desired dimension. You should see your dimension text added to your note.

This functionality works for both DRIVING and DRIVEN dimensions, and any changes you make to the original dimension (for example, adding a bi-lateral tolerance to the driving dimension) will be automatically propagated to the NOTE, via the linked text.

Once the dimensions are combined into the note with the desired display, you may (optionally) utilize the command VIEW > HIDE/SHOW ANNOTATIONS. This command will allow you to single click on any visible dimension in your drawing, changing it a very light grey. Once you choose the command VIEW > HIDE/SHOW ANNOTATIONS again, you will exit the command, and all the dimensions you selected will be hidden completely.

To view these hidden dimensions launch VIEW > HIDE/SHOW ANNOTATIONS once again and single click on any hidden dimensions. Upon exiting the command these hidden dimensions will return to their previous state (visible).