Problem

This article goes over how to configure Smart Fasteners in the Toolbox. For Smart Fastener components added to Hole Wizard Holes, SOLIDWORKS uses the settings located in the Toolbox. The can user to specify the exact fastener they would like to be used for a given Hole Standard. This applies not only to the screw or bolt but also to any washers, nuts, etc. An administrator can restrict modifications to the Smart Fasteners data. Other users can view, but not modify, the restricted data without the administrative password.

For more information on other Toolbox topics, review this article: Comprehensive Toolbox Guide

Solution

Follow the steps below to access Smart Fastener settings in the Toolbox:

1. In Windows Search, type "Toolbox Settings" to bring up Toolbox Settings 20XX and open it

2. Once the toolbox is open, select "Configure Smart Fasteners" to enter Smart Fastener settings. The sections below will go over the different settings.

   

3. When you are done making changes, click the "Save" icon at the top left to save the Toolbox and close it.

   

Washer Sizes

Select from the options to limit the available washer types, depending on the size of the Smart Fastener. The washer will be matched to the diameter of the fastener because these measurements are not always identical; it’s suggested that a tolerance be used. The toolbox will not select a washer that is smaller than the fastener it is added with. There are three sizes:

• Exact match: Limits the available types to washers that exactly match the fastener size.
• Greater than tolerance: Limits the available types to washer’s hole diameter that match the fastener size within the tolerance you type. (i.e., the washer's hole diameter will always be a given percentage larger than the bolt or screw.)
• Unrestricted: All washer types are available.

Automatic Fastener Changes

These settings allow the top and bottom stack hardware sizes to be driven by the size of the screw or bolt associated with them.

• Change fastener length to ensure minimum thread engagement: Fastener length increases when you add additional stack hardware, and decreases to the specified thread distance or diameter multiple specified when you remove stack hardware. The first setting applies to bolts; the second applies to screws. Fastener length changes by standard increments and cannot be longer than the longest in the standard.
• Change stack components when fastener size is changed: Nut and washer sizes automatically change when the fastener size changes.

Fasteners to Use with Non-Hole Wizard holes

When you attempt to apply Smart Fasteners to a circular hole that was not created with the Hole Wizard, SOLIDWORKS will use the Hardware Standard specified in this path to add a fastener to the hole.

For additional support, existing customers can submit a ticket or new customers can contact Hawk Ridge Systems.