Stacking Dynamic Dimensions

[mcobb]

I've been struggling with establishing an efficient workflow for generating parts for box-jointed wood models. Specifically, I don't know if the best practice involves the more graphic method of dimensioning one dimensioned element off another dimensioned element, or if I should embed all the dynamic variables less directly associated with a specific element directly off the origin of the model instead. While this latter method is not as graphically intuitive and usually requires me to build a more intuitive model that breaks first, it appears to increase the reliability of my model.

Here is a brief video I put together to provide an example of what I am dealing with. Any help is appreciated.

https://youtu.be/o8N9OM76wnE 

[davebYYPCU]

Couple of talking points, and my first impression from the video, 

You have resorted to sketching patterns (not recommended),

where using modelling tools should streamline a lot of the model for you with pattern and or mirror (a form of pattern). 

You need to think, if I am repeating a dimension, why can I not use Equals constraint.

Your sketch has 2 way symmetry, so you have 4 times the work needed.

I see you use parameters but are manufacturing formula for the demo dimension, and

not have a tab or slot parameter, that eliminates the ply + tol tediousness. 

(slot = ply + tol) would not work for you?

Assembly files should not have bodies in the top level.  (But I do it when needed)

Without the file for review, 

Might help....

[mcobb]

Thanks so much for your response. I'm honestly probably not appreciating all the applications of the equal constraints. In Revit, I would understand how to handle this, but in Fusion I am probably a prisoner of my previous learning. How can you use the equal constraint to apply to multiple dimensions between centerlines so they are evenly distributed? The fact you have mentioned patterns and the equal constraint tells me there is probably a functionality there that I don't sufficiently appreciate.  Every video I watched just shows two circles being made equal or two lines being made equal. As far as I can tell there is no way to make parallel centerlines equally spaced without using a variable that is a fraction of a larger distance and assigning that to each individual space. Saying this, I realize how dumb that method it sounds. Please enlighten me!

[mcobb]

Here's a link to the file. Warts and all...

https://a360.co/3PvdmEp

[davebYYPCU]

I realise this is WIP, 

What parameters are intended to change? Tolerance?

What happens to the tab and socket if the width changes? Say 24" cube.

Do you want the airgap, to make the tabs too long - will be when glued together.

Some clues?