3DEXPERIENCE: How to Figure Out PLM Attributes

June 6, 2024 Iouri Apanovitch

3DEXPERIENCE platform stores all of its data in the PLM database. Each PLM object is identified by a set of attributes, such as name, revision, description, etc., which are used when locating the data. Although 3DEXPERIENCE offers a handy set of attributes out of the box, some organizations introduce company-specific custom attributes.

It is often important to know the names and the values of the PLM attributes, specifically when using VB macros to search for and open the content. In this article, I will describe two methods for how to obtain the names and values of all the PLM attributes.

The first method involves using the   (B.I. Essentials) tool. Start the tool, scroll down to the end of the pull-down list, and select Check BI Essentials Customization.


Figure 1

Once the BI Essentials Checker dialog box opens, click the Check an item type button and select an item in your model, such as 3D Part or Physical Product.

Figure 2

The BI Essentials Checker dialog box now displays the item type, as well as the names of all of its attributes.

Figure 3

The above method is quick and easy, and is available in every app. However, it does not show you the attribute values.

The second method is more convoluted because it involves using the Formula functionality.

Double-click to activate any 3D Shape in your product, which should activate the Part Design app.

Figure 4

Select  (Formula) tool. In the Formulas dialog box that opens, click Create External Parameter.

Figure 5

In the next dialog box, click  and select a component in your product.

Figure 6

Now the dialog box displays not just the names, but also the values and types of the PLM attributes defined on the selected object.

Figure 7

Because we’re not really creating any parameters or formulas here, just close all the dialog boxes when done.

If you have any questions or would like to explore more 3DEXPERIENCE features, feel free to contact us at training@rand.com.

About the Author

Iouri Apanovitch

Senior Technical Training Engineer<br><br>As a senior member of the Rand 3D team with a doctorate degree in Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and over 35 years of experience, Iouri provides design, consulting, and training services to those in the aerospace, automotive, electronics, and consumer goods industries. Iouri is a seasoned pro in 3D parametric design and prototyping using knowledge-based engineering methods, and has worked on a wide range of projects including BOM automation, CMM points generation, automated 3D annotation creation, and die tooling automation design. He is also a sought-after instructor and holds the designations of both CATIA Certified Professional (Expert level) and CATIA Certified Instructor.

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