Tech Tip: How to Parametrically Control Embossed Text Using Onshape Configurations and Variables

Summary: Engravings and embossings are useful in identifying physical parts in the field, such as forgings. In this Tech Tip, let’s learn how to control the engraved or embossed texts with Onshape’s configurations and variables.

Configure the Text Directly

After creating a configuration, a new option “Configure text” appears in the bottom-right corner of the Text dialog box, allowing you to link the content to the Configuration panel input. You can directly update the text through the Configuration panel.

Convert the Text to an Expression

In certain situations where you are creating multiple textboxes with the same wording, you can create a variable to control those text features at the same time.

There are two steps to do this: In the Variable dialog, specify Any as the variable type, and use double quotes for your text input. This makes the variable recognize the text input as a string.

Next, in the Text dialog box, right-click on the text field and choose “Convert to expression.” This allows you to input the variable.

In this scenario, configure the variable instead of the text if you want to create variations.

Even when not using variable features, you can use the new line syntax “\n” to break the line in a text expression, as indicated by the double quotes.

Create a Reusable Version

If you intend to use the engravings beyond one Part Studio, consider storing the Text feature in its own Part Studio or a separate document.

Use Derive to reference the Text feature in other Part Studios. The only thing you need here is to create an explicit mate connector before that to mark the text location, then you can configure the derived text to the appropriate configuration.

This Tech Tip helped you explore Onshape’s configuration capabilities and how you can easily create variations of engraved or embossed text for a range of product listings.

Watch the video below for more:

For additional learning materials, explore our training courses and videos about using Configurations and Variables in Advanced Part Configurations and Variables and Expressions.