Variables

Variables are named values that drive parametric dimensions in Print CAD. Instead of entering a fixed number into a distance constraint, you assign a variable name like W, L, or D. When you change the variable's value, every constraint that references it updates simultaneously — the entire dieline recalculates to the new dimensions.

Variables are what make the transition from a static dieline to a parametric standard possible. The same variables you define in Print CAD become the Parameters that storefront customers adjust to order custom-sized packaging.

Creating Variables

1. Open the Property Browser panel.
2. Navigate to the variables section.
3. Click to add a new variable with a name and value.
4. The variable is now available for use in any dimensional constraint or expression.

Naming Conventions

Choose short, meaningful names that reflect the physical dimension:

Variable names are case-sensitive and must be unique within the file.

Using Variables in Constraints

Click any dimensional constraint annotation (distance, angle, diameter) and type the variable name or an expression using variables:

• W — Sets the dimension to the value of W
• W + A — Width plus allowance
• D / 2 — Half the depth
• W * 0.75 — 75% of the width

See Expression System for the full syntax including functions like min(), max(), clamp(), and step().

Variables and the Parametric Pipeline

When a .pcad file is uploaded to the Custom Libraries admin, the variables defined in Print CAD are extracted and displayed in the Parameters tab. From there, administrators configure:

• Min/Max ranges — The bounds customers can choose from
• Step increment — The precision of customer input
• Default value — The initial value shown on the product page
• Published/Static — Whether the variable is visible to customers or used only in calculations

The variable name in Print CAD becomes the Variable column in the Parameters grid. The variable's current value in the .pcad file is used as the default until the admin overrides it.

Live Updates

When you change a variable value in the property browser, the constraint solver recalculates all geometry immediately. This lets you test your dieline across the full range of expected dimensions directly in Print CAD before uploading to the admin.

Check that:

• The geometry remains valid at minimum and maximum values
• No lines overlap or cross at extreme dimensions
• Glue flaps and tabs maintain sufficient area at all sizes
• Bleed boundaries extend correctly at all dimensions

Related Pages

• Expression System — Build formulas that combine variables with arithmetic and functions
• Constraints — Assign variables to distance, angle, and diameter constraints
• Parameters — Expose variables to storefront customers with min/max ranges
• Sandbox — Test variable values across their full range with live SVG preview