Linking notes to dimensions in Solidworks Drawing is a crucial step in creating comprehensive and accurate technical drawings. By establishing these links, you ensure that notes remain associated with their respective dimensions, even when changes are made to the model. This eliminates the risk of notes becoming outdated or misaligned, ensuring that the drawing accurately conveys the design intent. Furthermore, linking notes to dimensions enhances the readability and clarity of the drawing, as users can easily identify the dimensions that each note pertains to.
The process of linking notes to dimensions is straightforward and can be accomplished in a few simple steps. First, select the note that you want to link. Next, click on the “Link to Dimension” button on the toolbar. Solidworks will then prompt you to select the dimension that you want to link the note to. Once you have selected the dimension, the note will be automatically linked and will appear anchored to the dimension. You can verify the link by hovering over the note; a tooltip will appear, displaying the dimension that the note is linked to. Furthermore, you can manually adjust the position of the note by dragging and dropping it to a new location while maintaining the link to the dimension.
Linking notes to dimensions offers several advantages. Firstly, it streamlines the drawing process by eliminating the need to manually reposition notes whenever changes are made to the model. Secondly, it ensures that notes are always accurate and up-to-date, as they are automatically updated when the associated dimension changes. Thirdly, it enhances the clarity and readability of the drawing by helping users quickly identify the dimensions that each note pertains to. Overall, linking notes to dimensions is a valuable technique that can significantly improve the quality and efficiency of your Solidworks Drawings.
Creating Custom Notes in SolidWorks Drawings
Creating Custom Notes in SolidWorks Drawings, Part I
Custom notes provide a flexible way of adding text and other elements to drawings. They are not tied to a specific dimension or view, so they can be placed anywhere in the drawing. Custom notes can be created using the Note tool in the Annotations tab.
To create a custom note, click on the Note tool and then click on the drawing area. A text box will appear, and you can enter the text of your note. You can also use the formatting options in the Note Properties dialog box to change the font, size, and color of the text.
Using Custom Properties in Custom Notes
Custom properties are a powerful way of adding additional information to your drawings. They can be used to store things like part numbers, revision dates, and other data. You can use custom properties in custom notes by using the $PRP() function.
To use the $PRP() function, type the following into the text box of your custom note:
“`
$PRP(“Property Name”)
“`
where “Property Name” is the name of the custom property you want to use. For example, the following code would use the “Part Number” custom property:
“`
$PRP(“Part Number”)
“`
When you update the custom property, the custom note will automatically update to reflect the new value.
Understanding Dimensions and Notes Relationships
Dimensions and notes are two essential elements of any technical drawing. Dimensions provide precise measurements of the object being drawn, while notes add additional information, such as tolerances, surface finishes, or assembly instructions. Understanding the relationship between dimensions and notes is crucial for creating clear and accurate drawings.
Linking Notes to Dimensions
Solidworks provides several methods for linking notes to dimensions:
- Automatic Linking: Solidworks automatically links notes to dimensions when certain conditions are met. For example, if a note is placed directly next to a dimension, they will be automatically linked.
- Manual Linking: You can also manually link notes to dimensions using the “Note Link” tool. To do this, select the note and then click on the “Note Link” icon in the “Annotations” toolbar. Then, select the dimension you want to link the note to.
The following table summarizes the different methods for linking notes to dimensions in Solidworks:
| Method | How to Link |
|—|—|
| Automatic Linking | Notes are automatically linked to dimensions when certain conditions are met. |
| Manual Linking | Use the “Note Link” tool to manually link notes to dimensions. |
Benefits of Linking Notes to Dimensions
Linking notes to dimensions has several benefits:
- Improved Accuracy: Linked notes are always associated with the correct dimension, which helps to prevent errors.
- Enhanced Clarity: Linking notes to dimensions makes it easier to understand the relationship between the two.
- Simplified Modification: If a dimension is changed, the linked note will automatically update to reflect the change.
Linking Notes to Dimensions Using the Note Linking Tool
The Note Link Tool in SolidWorks Drawings allows you to associate a note to a specific dimension. This can be useful for providing additional information or context about the dimension, such as its tolerance or its relationship to other dimensions.
Using the Note Link Tool
To link a note to a dimension:
- Select the dimension you want to link the note to.
- Click the "Note" tab on the Ribbon.
- Click the "Link Note" tool in the "Notes" group.
- Select the note you want to link to the dimension.
The note will now be linked to the dimension and will move or update with it. You can also modify the link between the note and the dimension using the "Note Link Tool" in the "Notes" group on the Ribbon.
Full Explanation of Step 3: Customizing Link Options
When you click the "Link Note" tool in Step 3, you will see a dialog box with several options:
- **Link Type:** This option allows you to choose how the note is linked to the dimension. You can choose to link the note to the dimension’s value, to the dimension’s text, or to both the value and the text.
- **Offset:** This option allows you to specify an offset between the note and the dimension. You can use this to position the note at a specific distance from the dimension.
- **Break Link:** This option allows you to break the link between the note and the dimension. You can use this if you no longer want the note to be associated with the dimension.
By customizing these options, you can create a note linking system that meets your specific needs.
Using Mathematical Expressions in Linked Notes
Linked notes can be used to display mathematical expressions based on dimension values. This allows you to create notes that automatically update when the dimensions change. To create a linked note with a mathematical expression, follow these steps:
1. Create a new note in the drawing.
2. In the Note dialog box, click the “Link to Dimension” button.
3. Select the dimension that you want to link to.
4. In the “Expression” field, enter the mathematical expression that you want to use. The expression can include any of the following operators: +, -, *, /, ^, and %.
5. Click “OK”.
The note will now display the value of the mathematical expression. If the dimension value changes, the note will automatically update.
Here is an example of how to use a linked note with a mathematical expression:
| Expression | Result |
|—|—|
| `[Width] + [Height]` | Sum of the width and height dimensions |
| `[Length] * [Width]` | Product of the length and width dimensions |
| `[Diameter] / 2` | Half of the diameter dimension |
| `[Angle] * (180 / PI())` | Angle dimension converted to degrees |
| `[Mass] / [Volume]` | Density (mass divided by volume) |
Linking Notes to Dimensions
To link a note to a dimension, select the dimension, right-click, and choose “Link Note”. The note will be automatically placed next to the dimension and will update if the dimension changes.
Editing Linked Notes
To edit a linked note, double-click on it. The note will open in the “Notes” dialog box, where you can make changes to the text, font, and appearance.
Formatting Linked Notes
You can format linked notes using the same methods as other notes in SolidWorks. To change the font, select the text and choose a new font from the “Font” drop-down menu. To change the size, select the text and type a new size in the “Size” box.
Automating Linked Notes
You can use the “Document Properties” dialog box to create a table that will automatically generate linked notes for specific dimensions. To do this, follow these steps:
- Open the “Document Properties” dialog box.
- Click on the “Custom Properties” tab.
- Click on the “New” button.
- Enter a name for the custom property, such as “Linked Note”.
- Enter the value for the custom property, such as the text of the linked note.
Creating a Linked Note Table
Once you have created the custom property, you can create a linked note table by following these steps:
- Insert a table into the drawing.
- Select the table and right-click.
- Choose “Insert > Linked Note”.
- Select the dimension that you want to link the note to.
- Select the custom property that contains the text of the linked note.
The table will now automatically generate linked notes for the selected dimensions. You can update the notes by changing the values in the custom property.
Displaying Linked Notes on Different Sheet Formats
When you have a drawing with multiple sheet formats, you may want to display different linked notes on each sheet. This can be useful for providing specific information to viewers of each sheet. For example, you could include a note on the “Assembly” sheet that provides assembly instructions, while including a note on the “Detail” sheet that provides detailed information about a specific component.
To display different linked notes on different sheet formats, follow these steps:
- Open the drawing in SolidWorks.
- Click the “Sheet Format” tab in the CommandManager.
- Select the sheet format that you want to modify.
- Click the “Linked Notes” icon in the CommandManager.
- In the “Linked Notes” dialog box, select the notes that you want to display on the selected sheet format.
- Click “OK” to close the dialog box.
The selected notes will now be displayed on the specified sheet format. You can repeat these steps for each sheet format in the drawing.
| Sheet Format | Linked Notes |
|---|---|
| Assembly | Assembly Instructions |
| Detail | Component Information |
By displaying different linked notes on different sheet formats, you can provide viewers with the specific information they need, making your drawings more informative and useful.
Custom Properties
Ensure that the custom properties used for linking are defined correctly in the model file. Check the spelling and capitalization of the property names. If the properties are not defined, create them in the model file.
Dimension Expressions
Verify that the dimension expressions are valid and refer to the correct custom properties. Ensure that the expressions use the correct syntax and that the property names are enclosed in double quotes.
Linked Dimensions
Confirm that the dimensions selected for linking are correct. Check if the dimensions are associated with the appropriate features or entities in the model.
Note Placement
Ensure that the notes are placed in a way that allows them to be linked to the dimensions. The notes should be placed close to the dimensions they are referencing to minimize the risk of misalignment.
Dimension Visibility
Verify that the dimensions are visible on the drawing. If the dimensions are hidden or suppressed, the notes will not be able to link to them. Ensure that the dimensions are set to visible in the drawing properties.
Model Updates
Check if the model has been updated since the notes were linked. If the model has changed, the notes may need to be relinked to the updated dimensions.
Troubleshooting Common Note Linking Issues
If notes are not linking to dimensions correctly, there are several common issues to consider:
- Custom Properties Not Defined: Ensure that the custom properties used for linking are defined in the model file with the correct spelling and capitalization.
- Invalid Dimension Expressions: Verify that the dimension expressions are valid and refer to the correct custom properties using the correct syntax.
- Incorrect Dimension Selection: Confirm that the dimensions selected for linking are associated with the appropriate features or entities in the model.
- Note Placement: Check if the notes are placed in a way that allows them to be linked to the dimensions, close to the referenced dimensions.
- Dimension Visibility: Ensure that the dimensions are visible on the drawing. Hidden or suppressed dimensions will prevent notes from linking to them.
- Model Updates: Check if the model has been updated since the notes were linked. If the model has changed, the notes may need to be relinked.
- Dimension Update: Right-click on the dimension and select Update. This will ensure that the dimension is linked to the most recent value.
Subsection Title
Content
Automating Note Linking with Macros
Macros in SolidWorks Drawings allow you to automate repetitive tasks, including the process of linking notes to dimensions. By creating a macro that automatically links notes to the nearest dimension, you can save significant time and effort, especially when working with complex drawings with multiple dimensions.
Creating a Linking Macro
To create a macro for linking notes to dimensions, follow these steps:
- Open the VBA Editor by clicking “Tools” > “Macros” > “Visual Basic Editor”.
- In the VBA Editor, create a new module by clicking “Insert” > “Module”.
- Copy the following code into the module:
- Save and close the VBA Editor.
- Run the macro by clicking “Tools” > “Macros” > “Run Macro”.
Sub LinkNotesToDimensions()
Dim swApp As SldWorks.SldWorks
Dim swModel As SldWorks.ModelDoc2
Dim swDraw As SldWorks.DrawingDoc
Dim swDim As SldWorks.Dimension
Dim swLNote As SldWorks.Note
Dim i As Integer, j As Integer, k As Integer
swApp = Application.SldWorks
swModel = swApp.ActiveDoc
swDraw = swModel.GetFirstChild As SldWorks.DrawingDoc
For i = 0 To swDraw.GetSheetCount - 1
swDraw.ActivateSheet swDraw.GetSheet(i)
For j = 0 To swDraw.GetDimensionCount - 1
Set swDim = swDraw.GetDimension(j)
For k = 0 To swDraw.GetNoteCount - 1
Set swLNote = swDraw.GetNote(k)
If swDim.GetLocation = swLNote.GetLocation Then
swLNote.LinkToDim swDim
End If
Next
Next
Next
End Sub
Once the macro has run, all notes in the drawing will be linked to the nearest dimension with the same location. This automation can significantly streamline your workflow and reduce errors associated with manual linking.
Best Practices for Effective Note Linking
To ensure effective note linking, follow these best practices:
1. Use Clear and Concise Notes
Notes should provide specific information and be easy to understand.
2. Link Notes to Specific Features
Select the exact geometric entities or dimensions that the note relates to.
3. Use Meaningful Note Labels
Choose labels that clearly describe the purpose of the note.
4. Organize Notes Logically
Group related notes together and arrange them in a logical order.
5. Use Note Balloons Wisely
Keep note balloons near the linked features while ensuring visibility and readability.
6. Avoid Excessive Note Linking
Link only essential information to dimensions to prevent clutter and confusion.
7. Use Detail Views for Complex Notes
Separate complex or extensive notes into detail views to provide clarity.
8. Use Leader Lines for Accuracy
Add leader lines to connect notes directly to dimensions, ensuring precise linking.
9. Dimension Tables for Multiple Note Linking:
When linking multiple notes to a single dimension, consider creating a dimension table.
| Benefit | How to |
|---|---|
| Organized and clear presentation | Create a table with rows for notes and columns for dimensions |
| Easy linking | Select the table cell corresponding to the note and dimension |
| Flexibility | Add, remove, or rearrange rows and columns as needed |
Advanced Note Linking Techniques
Dimensioning Notes
Linking notes to dimensions provides clear and concise annotations. To link a note to a dimension, select the note and use the “Linked Dimension” command in the “Note” toolbar. This feature allows precise placement and updates if the dimension changes.
Associative Notes
Associative notes automatically update based on model changes. To create an associative note, insert a note and select the “Associative” option. This feature ensures that notes remain accurate, even after design modifications.
Custom Notes
Custom notes provide the flexibility to create notes that are not directly linked to model geometry. To create a custom note, select the “Custom Note” command in the “Annotation” toolbar. You can position and format the note according to your requirements.
Relative Notes
Relative notes move and rotate with the associated model element. To create a relative note, select the note and use the “Relative” command in the “Note” toolbar. This feature ensures that the note maintains its connection to the model, regardless of changes.
Aligned Notes
Aligned notes automatically align with the selected model element. To create an aligned note, select the note and use the “Align” command in the “Note” toolbar. This feature provides a consistent and organized appearance.
Tabulated Notes
Tabulated notes display multiple values in a table format. To create a tabulated note, select the “Tabulated Note” command in the “Annotation” toolbar. You can then add rows and columns to organize the data.
Equation Notes
Equation notes allow you to perform mathematical calculations and display the results. To create an equation note, select the “Equation Note” command in the “Annotation” toolbar. You can enter formulas and operators to generate dynamic values.
Sketch Notes
Sketch notes provide a convenient way to add handwritten or sketched annotations. To create a sketch note, select the “Sketch Note” command in the “Sketch” toolbar. You can then use the sketching tools to draw or write on the drawing.
Notes Table
The notes table provides a comprehensive overview of all notes in the drawing. To access the notes table, click on the “Notes Table” icon in the “Annotation” toolbar. This table lists the properties, such as the note text, linked geometry, and note style, for each note.
How To Link Notes To Dimensions In Solidworks Drawing
In Solidworks drawings, notes can be linked to dimensions to provide additional information or instructions. This can be useful for clarifying the purpose of a dimension or providing more detail about how a feature should be manufactured. To link a note to a dimension, simply select the dimension and then click the “Note” button on the “Dimensions/Relations” toolbar. A note balloon will appear next to the dimension, and you can then enter your desired text. The note will be automatically updated if the dimension is changed.
People Also Ask
How do I create a note in Solidworks Drawing?
To create a note in Solidworks Drawing, simply click on the “Note” button on the “Dimensions/Relations” toolbar. A note balloon will appear on the drawing, and you can then enter your desired text.
How do I edit a note in Solidworks Drawing?
To edit a note in Solidworks Drawing, simply double-click on the note balloon. The “Note Properties” dialog box will appear, and you can then make any desired changes to the text.
How do I delete a note in Solidworks Drawing?
To delete a note in Solidworks Drawing, simply select the note balloon and then press the “Delete” key.
