Part-DB
automatic stock refill
Is your feature request related to a problem? Please describe. No, it is a missing feature
Describe the solution you'd like
In the part data record, you can enter a minimum quantity, and in the stock section, there is a “needs refill” option. But... you have to manually check the box in "needs refill". Then you can use a filter to create a list of parts that need to be restocked. You can set this as a shortcut on the start page. But why manually? I would like the check mark in “needs refill” to be set automatically when the current stock is below the minimum stock level. That way, I can instantly see what parts are need to reorder. Maybe this could be set in the settings. Oh, and of course, the check mark should be automatically removed when the stock has been increased and is above the minimum stock level.
The minimum quantity refers to the part, whereas the needs refill refers to a part lot.
The refill option allows you to balance stocks between multiple lots, e.g. a reel and an SMD bin for manual board population.
The filter less than desired does what you expect, namely listing parts that must be restocked (compare #938).
I think you actually shouldn't (ab)use the refill feature for that purpose.
Yes, I know your answer in #938 That's why I filter it the same way. Okay, but I understand the problem. For me, it makes no difference whether I have a cut tape or a reel. What matters to me is the total number of items I have available. But it's true that this makes the problem more complex. I hadn't thought about that. But in the end, I still have a desire for an automatic system that allows me to list components that need to be reordered. I won't have to enter anything manually, but when the minimum value is reached, the parts will be marked for reordering. And when the ordered parts have arrived, the mark will be removed. This makes development a little more complex, but it's still manageable and it is usefull because it saves time. Right?
As I've read here, @jbtronics plans to implement an order system for exactly this purpose.
However, things can take quite some time, especially in non-publicly-/non-corporate-funded open-source projects (even if they're done competently).
I still think marking the part for reordering is redundant, as this is exactly the job the filter does. But this is just a detail.
The klugde for the actual order status I'm currently using this to add the tag ordered to components I ordered and remove it when they arrive.
I did exactly the same as you. The tag sounds interesting, a good idea. It's good to hear that at least something is planned for the future.