Controlling text height with parameters

[jwhalin]

I'm trying to use a global parameters to control the text height of several text boxes in a common sketch.

I added the parameter "Text_Height" with a value in millimeters and can edit the text and select "Text_Height" in the height dimension window (of the EDIT TEXT window). The text changes to the dimension defined by the parameter, but shows the value NOT the label and is not parametric. Did I miss a step or is this feature not available?   

[jeff_strater · Accepted solution]

no, you did not miss a step here.  This capability is not currently available in Fusion.  You can, however, dimension the construction text box, and tie that dimension to a parameter.  Sorry, I had to attach the image as an an attachment, because the forum "insert photo" is not working currently.

[jwhalin]

Thanks, Your "work-around" works great, just a few extra steps in setup but
worth it.

It would be nice if this feature along with parametric FONT selection could
be added in a future update.

Jeff

[therealsamchaney]

@jeff_strater are there any plans to fix this and allow using parameters for the text height?

I've done some testing on this and here's what I've found

1. Like you said, if you're using the normal Text tool, you can make a dimension on the text box side and set it to a parameter to control the text height and this works most of the time, however I have seen on many occasions Fusion 360 just delete the dimension randomly and without warning
2. When using the Text On Path tool, you can actually use a parameter for the text height and it will actually stay dynamically linked to the parameter. When you change the parameter, the font height will change. However, if you click on the text object to edit it again, it will break the link right then and change it from the parameter to just the static value of what the parameter value was at the time. So, every time you edit the text you'll have to write the parameter name into the height field
   
   I use text a lot in my designs (dice, keyboard keycaps etc.) and it would be incredibly valuable for me to be able to reliably control the text with parameters. It would be even more amazing if I could have a parameter control the font and maybe even the content of the text.
   
   Thanks!
   -Sam

[therealsamchaney]

I want to add something to my response but of course the Autodesk forums have an asinine rule where you have a time limit on editing your own comments so I'm writing it in a new comment.

I've noticed that sometimes when you click on the Text On Path object and edit it, it will keep the parameter in the Height dialogue box without breaking the link. I still have not found any pattern to when it breaks the link and when it doesn't

[OceanHydroAU]

If you do find a pattern - remember to take details notes/steps/screencasts/etc and post here with the tag/subject "Bug Report" so the team finds the report and fixes the problem 🙂