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Virtual vs. Dummy parts

Virtual vs. Dummy parts

Virtual vs. Dummy parts

(OP)
I'm updating old drawings that don't have a model based bom, instead they just use blocks or a general table. Aggravating and error prone to sort and revise. 8-|/|

I've used virtual parts in the BOM, (right click, insert new part) to get the P/N, qty etc in the BOM, but you have to enter that each time that you use it.

I thought about making dummy parts of solvent, packaging, labels that have these properties, so I can just include them in the assy and hide them. Has anybody worked with one or the other?  

RE: Virtual vs. Dummy parts

I have used "dummy parts" in the past and they work out well.  I have not used "virtual parts" for this task... but definitely see the issue with having to "create" them in each new assembly.

I vote dummy part.

-Dustin
Professional Engineer
Pretty good with SolidWorks

RE: Virtual vs. Dummy parts

I've done both.  Virtual components have come a long way in the last few releases.  They hardly ever disappear any more.  I'd say if you want to avoid confusion of references, then use dummies.

Dan

www.eltronresearch.com
Dan's Blog

RE: Virtual vs. Dummy parts

Before VCs were introduced, using dummy parts was the only alternative. They are still a good alternative.

FYI ... In SW2011, dummy parts (or any other parts) can be converted to virtual if required, but I don't think that will help in this case.

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