How to Change Part Numbers in SOLIDWORKS

You can change or assign a part number in SOLIDWORKS by accessing specific properties, often in the context of managing components within an assembly or drawing, then adding or modifying the Part Number entry.

Managing part numbers is crucial for identification, Bill of Materials (BOMs), and overall data consistency in SOLIDWORKS projects. While part numbers can sometimes be derived from filenames or managed through custom properties, the method described in the reference involves a specific process often associated with item properties or BOM management.

Here's how to change or assign a part number using the method outlined in the provided steps:

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Part Numbers

This process typically takes place within a property manager or dialog box related to component or item properties, potentially when working with drawings, assemblies, or PDM systems.

1. Set properties.
   • Begin by accessing the properties interface relevant to the component or item whose part number you wish to change. The exact location varies depending on whether you are in an assembly, drawing, or using a PDM system, but the core action is to bring up the properties dialog.
2. Under Part Numbers, click Part Number Unassigned and click Add.
   • Within the properties interface, look for a section specifically designated for "Part Numbers." If the component doesn't currently have a part number assigned using this method, you will likely see an option indicating it's "Unassigned." Click this option, and then click the Add button to create a new part number entry.
3. In the Part Number dialog box, enter a part number or type a description.
   • A dialog box will appear, prompting you to define the part number. You can enter the precise part number code (e.g., 12345-001, ASSY-BOLT-01) or type a relevant description depending on your company's standards and the specific field's purpose.
4. Click OK.
   • Once you have entered the desired part number or description, click OK to confirm the entry and close the dialog box.

This process assigns the specified value as the part number for the selected component within that specific context.

Understanding Where This Applies

The phrase "Part Number Unassigned" and the "Add" functionality suggest this method is often used to define item or configuration-specific part numbers, particularly for use in Bill of Materials (BOMs) within SOLIDWORKS drawings or potentially within a SOLIDWORKS PDM environment for managing item metadata.

• Not always the filename: This method is distinct from simply changing the SOLIDWORKS file name.
• Different from standard custom properties: While you can also define a 'Part Number' custom property via File > Properties, the referenced steps point to a different interface, likely related to BOM control or PDM item properties.

Other Ways to Manage Part Numbers

While the above steps describe one specific method, SOLIDWORKS offers other ways to handle part numbers:

• Custom Properties: Define a custom property named "Part Number" under File > Properties. This is a common method for associating a part number directly with the SOLIDWORKS file itself.
• SOLIDWORKS PDM: Product Data Management systems like SOLIDWORKS PDM provide robust tools for managing part numbers automatically, linking them to files, and ensuring uniqueness and consistency across the organization.
• Configuration Properties: Part numbers can also be assigned specifically to different configurations of a part or assembly.

Choosing the best method depends on your company's needs, size, and whether you utilize PDM or rely solely on standard SOLIDWORKS functionalities.