topic Re: parts list with multiple subassemblies in Inventor Forum

parts list with multiple subassemblies

mattKKSX3 — Wed, 31 Mar 2021 14:28:08 GMT

I have a simple conveyor 16' long that is comprised of multiple assemblies. normally I start with the sides to get the length and width based on the belting which is assembly #1. from there I do a sketch of the leg frame for use in the frame generator to apply the correct height which is assembly #2. Next, comes the belt supports and shafts that dictate the actual belt lengths and pathing (2 shafts vs. 5 shafts typically) which is assembly #3. Then another assembly is the bearings, guards, and bolted connections in assembly #4. Finally, I have the final revisions such as additional guards, additional bolted connections, adjustable footpads for the legs, and any missed parts during the assembly process. the reason for creating sub-assemblies like this is because of the change process during design and layout. someone may want to change leg heights, wash hole locations or lengths, or shaft/bearing configuration.

It is kind of a pain to have to comprise one conveyor of multiple assemblies but going back and making a simple change to say the legs can mess up other components and the entire assembly if I do it as all one assembly. this creates a huge problem when it comes to the parts list as it only lists the final assembly parts and the last built assembly as its own part. I have gone into BOM and modified this so it shows all parts, however, when it comes to fabrication, most of the welders don't understand part # 1.1.1.1.2.5 in the layout drawing enough to actually assemble the conveyor.

I understand that the program has its limitations when it comes to parts lists and I can't / don't want to exactly call out every sub-assembly or make a manual parts list. Does anyone have any ideas on how to simplify this process at all?

The last one shows the initial sides assembly (assembly #1)

Re: parts list with multiple subassemblies

swalton — Wed, 31 Mar 2021 15:00:14 GMT

Here are some options:

Assign each component a part number and modify your balloon style and parts lists to display the p/n not the BOM index number.
Document each sub-assembly on a different sheet, each with its own index number for the sub-assembly components.
1. index numbers are only good in a specific assembly. If you want a number that is preserved across different assemblies, use a component iprop, like Part Number
Document each sub-assembly in a different drawing file
Restructure your design and modeling approach to match your production floor's documentation needs
Change the sub-assembly BOM settings from Normal to Phantom
1. This will push the sub-assembly childern up to the next higher Normal assembly in the Drawing Parts List
Use a Parts-Only parts list, not a structured parts list.

Re: parts list with multiple subassemblies

johnsonshiue — Wed, 31 Mar 2021 16:02:53 GMT

Hi! On top of what Steve has mentioned, if you have parts with the same Part Number merged into one row, you can do the following to have individual balloons but they are rolled up in one row in PartsList.

1) Go to BOM table in the assembly -> uncheck "Merge row on Part Number match."

2) Go to the PartsList -> enable Grouping -> group by Part Number.

Many thanks!