Introduction

The SOLIDWORKS Property Tab Builder is a powerful tool that streamlines the creation and management of custom properties, making it easier to track and update information such as file approval status, client associations, and finishing standards. Moreover, by using this tool, you can automate the process of adding these properties to SOLIDWORKS files, which improves accuracy and saves time.

How to Access the SOLIDWORKS Property Tab Builder

You can easily access the SOLIDWORKS Property Tab Builder using two methods:

1. First, by clicking the “Create Now…” button in the Custom Properties tab within the SOLIDWORKS Task Pane.

2. Alternatively, you can launch the tool directly from the Windows Start Menu under Property Tab Builder 20.

Creating Custom Property Templates

To create a property template for different file types using the SOLIDWORKS Property Tab Builder, follow these simple steps. First, select the file type you wish to create a custom property template for. SOLIDWORKS associates each template with a specific file type:

1. Select the File Type

• In the Type dropdown list, select the SOLIDWORKS file type for which you want to create a custom property template.
• SOLIDWORKS associates each template with a specific file type:
  • .PRTPRP for Parts
  • .ASMPRP for Assemblies
  • .DRWPRP for Drawings
  • .WLDPRP for Weldments
  • The property dialog type is determined by modifying the Type in the Control Attributes.

2. Add Special Instructions

The Property Tab Builder application window will open with a blank template containing three columns:

• Left Column: Displays a list of attribute types that can be used.
• Middle Column: Represents the template view that will be displayed in the Custom Properties tab within SOLIDWORKS.
• Right Column: Shows the configurable Control Parameters for each attribute.

3. Understanding the Property Tab Builder Interface:

The application window consists of three columns:

• The left column lists available attribute types.
• The middle column displays the template view as it will appear in the SOLIDWORKS Custom Properties tab.
• The right column shows configurable Control Settings for each attribute.

4. Drag and Drop Required Attributes

• Drag and drop necessary attributes from the left column to the middle column.
• You can group property types under specific categories for better organization.

5. Enter Descriptive Labels

Add labels to define each property for users.

6. Set Property Attributes

Define the property name and assign a default value, if needed.

7. Choose the Property Display Mode

Specify whether the property should appear under the Custom or Configuration tab.

8. Save the Template

Save the completed template under a specific name in a designated location for custom property templates.

9. Update SOLIDWORKS File Locations

• In SOLIDWORKS, go to:
  Tools > Options > System Options > File Locations > Custom Property Files
• Update the location to match the newly saved template file.

Using the Custom Property Template

1. Open an existing SOLIDWORKS file or create a new one.
2. Enter custom property values in the Task Pane without navigating the traditional Properties dialog.
3. Click Apply to automatically generate the properties.
4. The custom properties defined in the template will now be stored in the Properties Tab (accessible via File > Properties).
5. Updating the template values will automatically update the corresponding custom properties and vice versa.

By using the Property Tab Builder, you minimize errors when entering custom properties manually. Instead of inputting each property separately, simply click on the Custom Properties tab in the Task Pane and enter the required information. Additionally, saved values appear automatically whenever you open the part.

Key Resources:

For a more detailed overview of the SOLIDWORKS Property Tab Builder, check out the SOLIDWORKS Property Tab Builder Overview on the official SOLIDWORKS help site.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the SOLIDWORKS Property Tab Builder offers significant advantages. By using this tool, you can save time and effort while ensuring improved consistency and accuracy. Furthermore, the ability to create custom property templates for different file types enhances flexibility and allows for better organization within your SOLIDWORKS files. Therefore, by leveraging the Property Tab Builder, you can streamline your workflow, reduce manual entry errors, and ensure that your files are efficiently managed.