Columns in your SOLIDWORKS Bill of Materials (BOM) can be used for more than reporting model values, quantity counts and custom properties. One of the options is to add a SOLIDWORKS BOM Equation column to calculate and show a result based upon custom properties or other columns in the BOM. This can come in handy when you are searching for a quick method to get a total value that takes into account the quantity of each of the components in an assembly.
How to add Equations to your BOM
Let’s take a look at how to go about creating an equation within the BOM.
- Create a new (blank) column in your BOM.
- Double-click on the column header to reveal the selection for the column properties.
- Choose “Equation” as the property type.
- Click on the Sigma Symbol to reveal the equation entry dialog.
BOM with Equation Column
- Enter the custom properties or column items to be used as values in the equations.
- Add operators, precision, or units as desired.
- Click “OK” checkmark to close the dialog
Entering Equations
- The calculated value should now show up in the new column.
- The Sigma Symbol will be shown in the column header to confirm that the column is driven by an equation.
Equation Entered
There are a vast number of combinations of operators, custom properties, & column values, that can be used to make your BOM far more useful and have it provide additional reporting. Don’t forget to save your changes as a BOM template for later use in other drawings or assemblies.
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