Updating AutoCAD Mechanical BOM Data Using Vault

Use Update Item Command to Synchronize Items with Associated Files

Update synchronizes items with the properties of the associated file versions in the vault. An item can be updated even if the associated file has not been changed so as to update any properties that have been globally added since the last update.

Updating an item linked to an assembly file creates a new item for each new file associated with it. If any drawing files that were originally associated with the CAD files are removed, their association with the item is also removed when the item is updated.

Write Back Item Properties

Use the Synchronize Properties command to write item and BOM properties back to the title blocks in AutoCAD Mechanical.

You can write back data such as the item number, the revision, or the description, amongst other properties.

Quickly Modify Multiple Title Block Properties with the Property Grid in Vault

A fast way to update title block properties in bulk is to use the Properties Grid. This workflow is especially useful if you have the drawing already open in AutoCAD Mechanical but want to quickly update all of the Title Block properties.

  1. Select the drawing in Vault for which you want to change the property values.
  2. Select the properties in the Properties Grid and click Edit.
  3. Enter your values for each property selected.
  4. Click OK.
  5. Return to the open drawing in AutoCAD Mechanical and click Refresh to get the latest values from Vault. The Title Block is automatically updated.

Add the Row Type Field to Your BOM View

Add the Row Type field to your BOM view so you can see if a row was manually created or created by CAD. This makes it easier to see the source of your data and determine which content will be overwritten from the CAD application during an update.

See Customize the BOM View for more information.

Adjust CAD Position Numbers in Item BOMs to Suit Process Needs

Add position numbers for manual BOM rows or modify existing CAD positions for greater control over your downstream processes.
Important: If the BOM row was imported from AutoCAD Mechanical or another CAD application, the position may be overwritten if the values change on the CAD side.

The Position Number field will turn yellow for any duplicate position numbers, making it easier for you to identify conflicts.

Parent topic: Best Practices: AutoCAD Mechanical and Vault (Items and BOMs)