How do I use the Bill of Materials (BoM) Quote interface in DesignSpark Mechanical?

1. The BoM list will be based on what is in the Structure Tree for the design.

Each component in the Structure Tree should contain some physical structure which is revealed when the ⊳ is clicked. If nothing is revealed (in the bucket) when the ⊳ is clicked, this is known as an empty component and it will appear on the BoM even though it is not in the model. The main way empty components are created is if a part is Triple click selected then deleted out of the design frame. It will disappear from the design but remain as an Empty Component in the Structure Tree. If you are unsure, before creating a BoM, right click on the design file name at the top of the structure tree and click Delete Empty Components (see below):

Items may be added to the structure tree (and appear on the BoM) without necessarily appearing in the model. For example, you may want to add cable ties or heat shrink shrouding as consumable items for the installation. To add items in this way right click on the design file name at the top of the Structure Tree and then click New Component.

The new item can then be named and will immediately appear in the BoM list but not in the model:

To add this component to your Bill of Materials, right-click on it and 'add to Bill of Materials'. You can enter/change any part data and description from the properties of the component.

2. BoM Formats

The BoM function is held within the Design tab and gives access to a choice of formats, including full line detail and parts only information. Below are some additional BoM templates that can be downloaded. You can import them by clicking 'Bill of Materials' and then 'Templates'.

You can also import your custom BoM templates and export the final BoM as a CSV file.

When you are ready to proceed you can order directly from RS Online using the 'BoM Quote' button within the Design tab.