To install OpenBOM in Fusion 360, you need to download the official plugin from the Autodesk App Store and follow the installation prompts. This integration allows you to seamlessly manage Bill of Materials (BOMs) directly within your Fusion 360 workflow.
How to Install OpenBOM in Fusion 360
Installing the OpenBOM add-in for Autodesk Fusion 360 is a straightforward process that integrates powerful BOM and inventory management capabilities directly into your CAD environment. Follow these steps to get OpenBOM up and running:
Step 1: Access the Autodesk App Store
The primary method for installing OpenBOM is through the official Autodesk App Store, which hosts a wide range of plugins and add-ins for Autodesk products.
- Navigate to the Store: Open your web browser and go to the Autodesk App Store.
- Search for OpenBOM: Use the search bar on the App Store to look for "OpenBOM for Fusion 360" or simply "OpenBOM".
Step 2: Download the OpenBOM Add-in
Once you've located the OpenBOM for Fusion 360 listing, proceed with the download:
- Select Your OS: On the product page, identify the download button. If you are on a PC, you will typically click the Win 64 button to download the appropriate installer for your Windows 64-bit system.
- Initiate Download: Click the download button (often labeled "Download Trial" or "Download") to start downloading the installer file.
- Save the File: Choose a convenient location to save the installer, such as your desktop or a designated downloads folder, to easily find it later.
Step 3: Run the Installer
After the download is complete, you will run the executable file to install the add-in.
- Locate the Installer: Go to the folder where you saved the downloaded file. It will typically be an
.exefile. - Execute the Installer: Double-click the installer file to begin the installation process.
- Follow On-Screen Prompts:
- You may be prompted by your operating system's User Account Control (UAC) to allow the application to make changes to your device; click "Yes".
- Read and accept the license agreement.
- Choose the installation location (the default is usually fine).
- Click "Install" to start copying the necessary files.
- Once the installation is complete, click "Finish" or "Close".
Step 4: Launch Fusion 360 and Verify Installation
After installing the add-in, launch Fusion 360 to confirm that OpenBOM has been successfully integrated.
- Open Fusion 360: Start Fusion 360 as you normally would.
- Check for OpenBOM: Look for the OpenBOM tab or icons within the Fusion 360 interface. It typically appears in the Tools workspace or as a dedicated tab/panel.
- Sign In: You may need to sign in to your OpenBOM account from within Fusion 360 the first time you use it. If you don't have an account, you can usually create one through the add-in or on the OpenBOM website.
System Requirements (General)
While specific requirements can vary, here's a general overview to ensure a smooth installation and operation:
| Component | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 10 (64-bit) or macOS (latest versions) |
| Fusion 360 | Latest version or recent compatible release |
| Internet Access | Required for download, activation, and cloud services |
| Disk Space | Minimal (tens of MBs for the add-in) |
Benefits of OpenBOM Integration
Integrating OpenBOM with Fusion 360 provides several key advantages for product development and manufacturing:
- Automated BOM Creation: Quickly generate accurate Bill of Materials directly from your Fusion 360 designs.
- Real-time Collaboration: Share and collaborate on BOMs with team members and suppliers in real-time.
- Data Consistency: Ensure that your BOM data is always in sync with your design changes in Fusion 360.
- Cost Management: Track costs, manage vendors, and streamline purchasing processes.
- Lifecycle Management: Manage the entire product lifecycle from design to manufacturing.
Following these steps will enable you to leverage the full power of OpenBOM directly within your Fusion 360 environment, enhancing your design and manufacturing workflows.
