Real‑time 3D robotics configurator with BOM, CAD, and pricing

Case overview

A real-time 3D robotics configurator with BOM, CAD, and pricing renders the product as you choose options and instantly outputs parts, drawings, and a quote.

I built one for a robotics manufacturer that assembles modular arms and end effectors. Sales wanted instant quotes and engineering wanted outputs they could trust.

Industry and problem

The product used modules that could connect in many ways. BOM means bill of materials, a complete parts list. CAD means computer aided design used to make drawings and models. Quotes often stalled because each option affected fit, wiring, and control limits.

Constraints

Only valid combinations were allowed and safety rules had to be enforced. The tool had to keep the company price book, SKU names, and drawing templates intact. It also had to run in a browser for reps on the road.

My approach

• Mapped every option, rule, and dependency in plain language so sales and engineering could review it.
• Built a browser 3D viewer that updates as options change and grays out invalid choices before they are picked.
• Generated the BOM from the same rules, including small hardware, cables, and brackets, so nothing was missed.
• Tied prices to parts and options, then rolled totals into a quote with terms, lead items, and notes.
• Produced CAD outputs from parameterized templates, so drawings matched the chosen parts every time.
• Logged each configuration with a revision code to support audits and change control.

What I learned

• Trust grows when the configurator will not allow an invalid build and when names match the engineering source of truth.
• Put warnings near the choice, not at the end. People fix issues faster.
• Keep a test catalog so engineering can try new rules without slowing quotes.

When to use a configurator

• Your product follows clear rules and options, yet drawings and parts change for each order.
• Sales needs speed, and engineering needs accurate BOM and CAD tied to pricing.
• Every quote today needs an engineer to review it before it goes out.

Quick way to try quoting

Use my Website quote configurator to see live configuration in action. Pick features, integrations, and tiers, see an instant quote, and save or share it. That page lists 91 options.

I build configurators under Custom Development > Applications, Business Systems & Portals, and Custom Software Portals. I can begin under Engineering Retainers or Features & Add-ons, and my Website quote configurator and AppWT Analytics show the approach.