2-5-2019 20.12.

5 Adding and editing parameters

20.12.5 Adding and editing parameters

Parameters are constraints that have variable names. They can have either numerical values or values based on
the result of mathematical expressions involving other parameters—parametric equations. Parameters can be
associated with dimensions in the current sketch, or they can be numerical constants and expressions
independent of the sketch. The value of parameters associated with dimensions directly affect the sketch,
whereas independent parameters affect the sketch only if you use them to create expressions for parameters
that are in the sketch.

You add and edit parameters using the Parameter Manager. You can use the Dimension button to create new
parameters by selecting dimensions, or you can add independent parameters by typing them in blank lines in
the manager.

To add or edit a parameter:

1. From the tools in the Sketcher toolbox, select the Parameter Manager tool . For a diagram of the
tools in the Sketcher toolbox, see “The Sketcher tools,” Section 20.4.1.

The Parameter Manager appears.

Tip: You can also open the Parameter Manager by selecting Edit Parameter
Manager from the main menu bar or by using the f(x) button in the Edit Dimension
dialog box.

2. Click Dimension, and select dimensions from the sketch to associate them with new parameters.

Abaqus/CAE adds the new parameters to the Parameter Manager using default names of the form
dimension_x.

3. Click on a cell in the Name column to edit an existing name, or add a new parameter name by editing a
blank cell.

If the selected parameter is associated with a dimension, Abaqus/CAE highlights the parameter in the
sketch.

4. Click on a cell in the Expression column to edit it directly in the cell or to select it for editing with the
Expression Builder.

You must define all the parameters that you want to use in an expression prior to defining the
expression.

Tip: Use the buttons on the right side of the manager to insert, rearrange, or delete rows.

5. If desired, use the Expression Builder to edit the expression. For detailed instructions, see “Creating
parametric equations,” Section 20.12.6.

6. Click Apply in the Parameter Manager to implement your changes in the sketch.

Abaqus/CAE updates the sketch with any new expression values and, if Show parameter names is
toggled on in the Sketcher Options, displays the revised parameter names.

For information on related topics, click any of the following items:

“Specifying precise geometry,” Section 20.6

“Modifying objects by changing dimensions or adding parameters,” Section 20.8.2

“Using parameters to control sketch geometry,” Section 20.7.3

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2-5-2019 20.12.5 Adding and editing parameters

“Editing dimensions,” Section 20.13

“Customizing the format and use of dimensions in the Sketcher,” Section 20.9.9

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