Autodesk Inventor

[#1]

We are trying to add reference lines to the idw drawing for a sub-assembly.  These lines represent centerlines of parts of the main assembly. The main assembly is not the reference file for the drawing.  However, the required dimension setting the centerlines is a User Parameter in the sub-assembly.  (The centerlines are represented by work planes in the sub-assembly file).  Using iLogic, we were able to populate the User Parameter from the sub-assembly into the idw file.  We can see it as a User Parameter in the idw file.  However, when we go into sketch mode the User Parameter is not an option.    In sketch mode, we pull a dimension between the two centerlines (d4).  When you look at the parameters d4 does not exist so we cannot set d4 equal to our User Parameter (and we've looked there are no filters on).      We need this dimension to be able to adjust as the length of the sub-assembly adjusts for different cases.  Each case is unique and done on a job by job basis. 

There are several places in our drawings where being able to place reference lines and set their relationship to the part would be very useful. 

1.  Why are the User Parameters not available for use in sketch mode on a drawing?

2.  Why can the dimension IDs (ex. d4) not be seen by looking at the parameters? 

3.  Does anybody have a suggestion of an alternative way of putting reference lines on a drawing? 

Molly

[#2 · Accepted solution]

Maybe you can show the work planes from the subassembly in the drawing, instead of creating reference lines?  Here's a screenshot that shows how to make work planes visible:

If that doesn't work, and you still need reference lines, it is possible to have a user parameter drive sketch dimensions in a drawing.  It can be done using API functions in an iLogic rule.  See the attached text file DriveDrawingSketchParam .txt.  This has a user parameter named SketchDriver0 and a sketch parameter named d0.  Change these names as necessary.  You may also have to change the names sheet and view names (Sheet:1 and DRAFT).  This rule assumes that you have only one sketch in the view.  It could be modified to access other sketches.

 As you found, the User Parameters in a drawing cannot be connected directly to the sketch parameters.  Unlike a part or assembly, there are no Model Parameters: each sketch exists by itself with its own parameters.  The User Parameters were added in Inventor 2011 for use in iLogic rules.  They are not connected to anything else in the drawing.

[#3]

Mike,

Thank you for the response.  We will try showing the work planes on the drawing.  I think that may work for our application.  However, in case it doesn't, could you attach the text file you mentioned in the previous post? 

Thanks,

Molly Wood

[#4]

Can .txt file code be modified for sketch symbols?