• Parametric Modeling = Assigning values (dimension, quantity, etc.) to 2D & 3D geometry/features via Parameters, rather than directly 

  • Parameter = A variable, AKA something that is not constant (can change)

  • Direct Modeling (what you did in the previous module) is the opposite of this, where you directly input dimensions

• You can access the Parameter Table within Fusion 360 via the following path:

  • Design (Workspace) → Modify → Change Parameters

Why use Parametric Modeling?

• Parametric modeling is a method of creating models in which the dimensions and properties of the model are defined by a set of parameters that can be adjusted to change the model. The benefits of parametric modeling over direct modeling include:

  • Flexibility: Parametric models allow for easy modification of dimensions and properties, making it simple to make changes to the design without having to start over from scratch.

  • Automation: Parametric models can be set up to automatically update related parts or assemblies based on changes to other parts, which saves time and reduces the potential for errors.

  • Design Reuse: Parametric models can be used to create families of similar parts or assemblies, allowing for design reuse and increased efficiency.

  • Design Collaboration: Parametric models make it easy for multiple designers to work on the same model at the same time, and for changes to be tracked and undone if necessary.

  • Version Control: The ability to track changes in parametric models is a key feature for version control, as it allows to revert a design back to previous iterations if needed.

  • Cost Savings: By reusing designs, automating repetitive tasks, and reducing errors, parametric modeling can lead to significant cost savings in the design and manufacturing process.

• On the other hand, Direct Modeling allows users to modify models in a more freeform way, and it is not dependent on the history of the model, meaning it is less constrained, but also less predictable. For these reasons, direct modeling can be useful for more organic shapes created via surface/form modeling, and for cases where the designer wants to work more freely.

• The workflow for using parameters in parametric modeling can vary depending on the specific software and the complexity of the model, but generally, it follows these steps:

  1. Define the Parameters: The first step is to define the parameters that will be used to create the model. This includes deciding which dimensions and properties will be controlled by parameters and what the range of values for each parameter will be.

  2. Create the Model: Once the parameters have been defined, the model can be created using the parameters. This typically involves using the parameters to define the dimensions and properties of the model, such as the size, shape, and location of different parts or features.

  3. Link the Parameters: Once the model is created, the parameters can be linked to create relationships between different parts or assemblies. This allows for changes made to one part or assembly to automatically propagate to other parts or assemblies that are linked to it.

  4. Test the Model: After the model is complete and the parameters are linked, it is important to test the model to ensure that it works as intended and that all the parameters are behaving as expected.

  5. Make Adjustments: If necessary, adjustments can be made to the model by modifying the parameters. This allows for easy modification of the model without having to start over from scratch.

  6. Document the Model: Finally, it is important to document the model, including the parameters used, the relationships between the parameters, and any constraints or rules that have been applied. This will make it easier to understand and modify the model in the future.

• Parameter Linking is a feature in parametric modeling that allows for the linking of parameters between different parts or assemblies. This means that changes made to one part or assembly can automatically propagate to other parts or assemblies that are linked to it. This allows for the efficient modification of complex models and the automation of repetitive tasks, which saves time and reduces the potential for errors

  • For example, in an assembly of a car, the length of the car can be a parameter that can be linked to the size of the wheels, door, and other parts, so if the length of the car changes, all parts that are linked to it will change accordingly.

  • It is important because it allows for the creation of models that are not only flexible, but also self-consistent. This means that the model will always stay in a valid configuration, and it will not allow for any impossible or impractical configurations. This ensures that the model is always functional, and it will not require the designer to check it for consistency. Additionally, it allows for the design of models that can adapt to different scenarios, for example, to different manufacturing processes or different environments.

• Parameter linking is accomplished by the use of Parameter Formulas, which can incorporate many mathematical operations, constants, & functions, all available to reference via the following link, but also shown below: Reference Link to Fusion 360 Parameter Syntax