FR: User parameters in direct modelling (please read before dismissing as stupid)

[Scoox]

I would like the ability to define user parameters in direct modelling mode.  Of course, in direct modelling mode if the value of the parameter is changed, the change won't propagate to the model, but it is easier remember LeverLength than the actual lever length in mm 157.5 mm. With user params you can just type "lever" and the software brings up a list of matches, then you just pick the one you want, without having to remember the value and also eliminating the possibility of mistyping a value.

BTW I have no idea where I'm supposed to post FRs since the IdeaStation was archived.

[TrippyLighting]

I am pretty convinced that the architecture of Fusion 360 does not allow this!

The initial tool set of Fusion 360 looks very similar to Ansys Spaceclaim. That similarity is no coincidence. However, I believe the part that would allow parametric direct modeling was not implemented.

I am sure @jeff_strater has more feedback on this.

[jeff_strater]

This was just a design choice that we made:  No parameters in Direct Modeling.  I agree, @Scoox , that the workflow you describe would be useful, even in Direct Modeling.  Even if the parameter system disallowed equations between parameters, just using them as a kind of shortcut for a value would be useful.  It's not impossible at all, just would require work that would then prevent some other stuff from getting done.  Surprisingly, this is the first request for this that I've heard.

[Scoox]

@jeff_strater Sure. I leave my request there in case at some point time becomes available for a small but potentially useful improvement.

[Scoox]

@TrippyLightingAre you referring to some kind of hybrid mode where direct and parametric can coexist? I've always wished Fusion 360 could have self-contained sub-assemblies, each with its own timeline, and therefore the ability to have both parametric sub-assemblies and direct-modeled sub-assemblies within the same project, instead of the current approach that involves external references to other models, a method that has proven nothing but slow and clunky. Is there any 3D modelling software that can do this? I only have experience in Fusion 360, so as far as my experience goes it's the best 3D modelling application I've ever used 😅

[TrippyLighting]

---

@Scoox wrote:

@TrippyLighting ..., instead of the current approach that involves external references to other models, a method that has proven nothing but slow and clunky ...

---

Can you elaborate on that?

I find working with external assemblies and parts often significantly improves performance.

You might not have fully utilized all the functionalities available when working with external assemblies/components.

[jeff_strater]

this "hybrid mode" does exist, even within a single design.  Use "Base Feature" to create an "island of direct modeling" in a parametric design.

But, I do agree with @TrippyLighting that external references are also a good way to combine parametric and direct models into one top-level model.  I, personally, have not found external components to be difficult to work with, but each person has their own experiences.

[Scoox]

Yes, a fellow user who saw this thread was kind enough to PM me and showed me how to use base features, which I wasn't aware of. It woks BUT I don't understand why, if user defined parameters are accessible within the base feature, the "Fx" toolbar button is not available whilst editing the base feature. Why not just leave it there? Extra code to conceal a feature that works anyway. It forces users to hop into and out of base feature editing just to add a parameter. Likewise, why not in direct modelling mode if the functionality already works in base features? I can't comprehend these  design decisions, but I'm happy there is a workaround.

External references are clunky works but it's implemented in such a way that it encourages me to actively avoid using external references most of the time. If I need to edit the referred model, I have to first find it in the browser, open the model, make the necessary changes, save it, go back to the design that uses it and 'get the latest version' of the referenced component. Add to that the 10 editable documents limitation and this quickly becomes an inconvenient way to work. I use external references exclusively for parts that never change, for example, fasteners such as bolts, nuts, washers, etc.

I think the main drag here is having to use the browser, because the Fusion 360 browser feels like painting a house through the keyhole. Sorry but it's just painful to use. one big problem is that it's too narrow and the file path quickly fills up the available width, and then instead of seeing the path you see "> ... > Screws", then it all becomes extra steps to get to where you want. Too much clicking.