Apr 1, 2019
MBD is Growing Among OEMs & Suppliers Need to Adapt
Model-Based Definition (MBD) is being adopted by many Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) because of dramatic improvements in production cycle times and costs. One NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) study showed a 78% reduction in cycle times, while another Lifecycle Insights survey found that Model-Based Definition solutions resulted in a 39% reduction of scrap, a 49% reduction in non-conformances and a 41% reduction in engineering change orders for manufacturing companies.
Given these results, it is not surprising that 54% of manufacturers are moving towards utilizing MBD and its 3D digital product models, while another 12% have fully completed the transition already. Typically, OEMs are the first to move into MBD, followed by their suppliers, who must adopt it in order to continue doing business with the OEM. The challenge, however, is that many OEM suppliers do not have the software and processes needed to consume digital product models created with MBD, which leaves them without the ability to:
- Lost Business: Suppliers that cannot adapt cannot bid or quote work for the OEM.
- Bad Products: Suppliers that cannot adapt cannot properly manufacture parts for the OEM.
- No Quality Control: Suppliers that cannot adapt cannot accurately inspect finished parts to the design intent of the OEM.
Fortunately, suppliers can take cost-effective actions in order to thrive in the Model-Based Definition (MBD) world and win more business.
How OEMs Use Model-Based Definition
Using Model-Based Definition, the OEM's design engineering function creates a 3D digital product model which contains all requirements and specifications for product manufacturing, inspection and test applications. The 3D digital model also contains Product Manufacturing Information (PMI), including geometries, tolerances, material requirements, components, process requirements, and inspection specifications. The digital model and PMI are immediately usable by downstream applications and people. When compared to traditional document-based design, MBD is more efficient because:
- Single Source of Data: The data needed to design, build and test a product is created once.
- System Integration: PMI can be read by applications which enable automation.
- Accurate Information: Engineers receive comprehensive product information which reduces misunderstandings and defects.
When MBD Doesn't Work for OEM Suppliers
The OEM's MBD product model may be incompatible for the supplier. Often, the 3D digital product model is designed for an OEM’s internal processes, but it may be incompatible with the supplier’s software and processes. Therefore, the supplier typically cannot fully utilize the 3D digital product model and PMI, which causes the following problems:
- Inaccurate & "No Quote" Bids: Absent or misinterpreted data prevents precise quotes.
- Production Delays: The supplier or sub-supplier cannot efficiently parse the design to internal partners.
- Product Defects & Rework: Manufacturing and inspection processes might not fully consume the MBD, resulting in missed requirements.
In addition, Engineering Industries eXcellence’s analysis shows that even when an OEM converts their 3D product model to a neutral file format, the supplier still may not be able to utilize all the information contained in the definition.
Practical MBD Solutions for OEM Suppliers
OEM suppliers should convert Model-Based Definition product models into a usable format. Suppliers should convert 3D digital product models from OEMs to a format which is usable by their software and processes. This can be accomplished by:
1. Product Design Translation Process:
An effective product design translation process enables suppliers to convert MBD 3D product models into a format usable by the supplier’s existing Computer-Aided Design (CAD) system, through which the supplier usually receives the OEM design. To implement this process correctly, suppliers need a technology consultant who understands MBD, 3D digital product models, OEM and supplier design software and processes; to enable this conversion, suppliers require an off-the-shelf translation software application that can be configured to the supplier's needs.
Pros: This solution enables the supplier’s existing processes to be maintained, and the development cost is modest.
Cons: The translation application and process need to be updated every time the OEM’s 3D model is updated, and the supplier cannot participate in the benefits of MBD.
2. Compatible OEM & Supplier Software:
The supplier can implement new CAD software and processes that are compatible with and can correctly consume the OEM's MBD. To implement this solution correctly, this requires a technology consultant who understands the available software applications and can identify the right product for the supplier's specific needs.
Pros: This solution enables the supplier to achieve a Digital Thread, through which an OEM and Supplier can seamlessly exchange data. It also provides the supplier with the first step towards implementing MBD internally.
Cons: Implementing new CAD software can be disruptive to a supplier’s processes.
How Engineering Industries eXcellence can Help
Engineering Industries eXcellence's Design Automation Practice has over 20 years of experience in Model-Based Definition. Our experts work with suppliers to ensure that they can consume their OEM’s MBD product designs and continue to grow their businesses. We can help OEMs and suppliers evaluate their unique processes, co-develop cost-effective options and implement a complete solution with a Return on Investment (ROI) which is easy to approve. Engineering Industries eXcellence's Design Automation Practice is headquartered in Windsor Locks, CT, and is an expert team in engineering process automation and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software development. Their specialists focus on developing solutions for complex software configuration and integration, and they design applications for the Aerospace & Defense, Energy & Utilities, Consumer Packaged Goods, Automotive & Heavy Equipment, Medical Device and Government industries. 95% of our Design Automation customers recommend Engineering Industries eXcellence to others.
