References between parts and drawings

Oct 16, 2006 7 Replies

SW 2004 SP5



There are many times when I will create a new part (B) from an existing part (A) and later would like to create a part drawing (B) based upon part drawing (A). In this example the two shafts are alike with the exception of overall length. To accomplish this I opened part drawing (A), clicked on SAVEAS, assigned a new drawing filename to match part (B) filename, clicked on the REFERENCE button to associate part (B) under Edit Referenced File Location (New Path Column) with part drawing (B).



That seemed to work OK



The drawing and part geometry updated correctly.



I can open up part (B) from within part drawing (B). I CANNOT open part drawing (B) from within part (B) though. I opened part (B) and discovered there is no part drawing file references listed under New Path Column. So next I opened part (B) and attempted to assign part drawing (B) as a reference. The Edit Reference File Location dialogue will not accept any input.



Is there a way to make this work?



I know that I can start with an existing drawing, create a new drawing and part at the same time. However, it would be nice to be able to reverse the process and make the part first, then the drawing.



Kman


Opening a drawing from within a part only works if the filenames are identical (ignoring he suffix) and if they are in the same folder - the part actually knows nothing of the existence of the drawing.

John H

You hit the nail on the head. The drawing filename was missing the revision number. Added the missing digit and works as expected. Sometimes my condition is referred to as shelf blindness. I am sure there are many other colorful adjectives to describe this affliction.

If the part knows nothing of the drawing, what is the link between them that allows the drawing to be opened?

Thanks, Kman

"Kman" wrote

It's for the reason I've given - it just assumes the file names are identical.

John H

Hmm, a bad assumption is what started this thread.

Thanks, Kman

No one mentions SolidWorks Explorer? You can use it to change references.

I will have to try that! I don't use SW Explorer often, other than to change names and occasional where used.

Kman

It would be nice if the drawing and associated part did not have to reside in the same folder to be opened. SW shouldn't assume :-) everyone saves their drawings and parts in same folder.

Kman

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required