What is a parametric design tool?
A parametric design tool takes a small set of inputs (length, load, diameter, number of bays, options) and generates the full CAD geometry, including dependent features, standard components and properties. It goes beyond the native parameters in CAD by adding your engineering logic, standard sizes and validation.
Products that suit parametric tools
- Frames, racks, platforms, stairs and handrails.
- Tanks, vessels, ducts, hoppers and chutes.
- Conveyors, rollers, shafts and gear components.
- Moulds, dies, fixtures and jigs based on standard plates.
- Enclosures, panels and sheet metal cabinets.
Three approaches
| Approach | How it works | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Master model driving | A well-built template model whose parameters are set by code | Families with fixed topology |
| Component assembly | Code inserts and positions library parts based on rules | Modular products |
| Geometry from scratch | Code creates sketches and features directly via the API | Highly variable shapes |
Most real tools combine these approaches.
Capturing design rules
Rules are the heart of the tool. Typical examples:
IF span > 6000 mm THEN add a middle support
beam_size = next standard size where deflection < span / 250
number_of_bolts = ceiling(load / bolt_capacity), minimum 4
plate_thickness from standard list [6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 20]Keep rules in a readable form (code library, Excel table or rules file) and have engineers approve them.
Platform options
- Inventor: iLogic for rules inside models, plus API add-ins for complex tools.
- SOLIDWORKS: design tables and configurations, driven by API add-ins.
- Creo: family tables, relations and TOOLKIT / J-Link applications.
- Fusion: user parameters driven by Python add-ins.
- AutoCAD: dynamic blocks and .NET code generating 2D or 3D geometry.
Outputs beyond the model
The best parametric tools also create drawings, BOMs, cut lists, DXF files and price estimates, so one set of inputs produces a complete manufacturing package.
A parametric tool is only as good as its template models. Invest in robust, well-constrained templates first.
Build your parametric tool
ENGIMANDI builds parametric design tools for SolidWorks, Inventor, Creo, Fusion 360 and AutoCAD.