Managing position numbers (POS parameters) in large Creo Parametric assemblies can quickly become time-consuming and error-prone when done manually. The "POS" parameter is commonly used in Creo drawing BOM tables and Windchill-managed environments to define the balloon number that identifies each component in an assembly.
To simplify this workflow, I developed a lightweight browser-based utility called POS Manager (free to use). The tool runs directly inside the Creo browser panel and allows engineers to automatically assign, manage, and apply POS numbers to assembly components with full visual control.
This article introduces the tool and provides several short tutorials demonstrating how to use it effectively within Creo Parametric.
You can access the tool here: POS Manager Tool
What the POS Manager Tool Does
POS Manager reads the active assembly structure directly from the current Creo session and presents all first-level components in an interactive table. From a single interface, users can:
automatically generate sequential POS numbers
reorder components using drag-and-drop
exclude selected items from numbering
detect duplicate position numbers
write POS parameters back into the Creo models
export the assembly structure to CSV
This significantly reduces manual effort when preparing assemblies for drawing BOM tables or Windchill-managed product structures.
Tutorial Series
Below are four short tutorials demonstrating the key workflows when using the POS Manager tool.
1. Creating a Custom Position (POS) Parameter in Creo Assemblies
Before using the tool, the POS parameter must exist in the model structure. This tutorial explains how to create and configure the parameter so it can be used in assemblies and drawing tables.
2. Automatically Applying POS Parameters with the POS Manager Tool
This tutorial demonstrates how the tool automatically loads the active assembly, groups components, and assigns sequential POS numbers to all components in the structure.
3. Advanced Features and Additional Functionality
Learn how to use additional features such as drag-and-drop reordering, excluding components from numbering, duplicate detection, and displaying extra parameters from Creo models.
4. Displaying POS Numbers in Creo Drawing BOM Tables
The final tutorial shows how to use the POS parameter in Creo drawings with Repeat Regions and BOM balloons, allowing position numbers to appear automatically in drawing documentation.
Final Notes
The POS Manager tool is designed to simplify position numbering workflows for engineers working with complex assemblies in Creo Parametric and Windchill environments. By automating the creation and management of POS parameters, the tool helps reduce manual errors and improves productivity when preparing assembly drawings and BOM tables.
Feedback and suggestions from the community are welcome.
Best Regards,
Vladimir Palffy
