Andrew Doyle/LONDON
New software developed by Computervision to enable manufacturers to "visualise" the database information, which defines their products could dramatically reduce the cost of aircraft development, according to the UK computer company.
The firm's Optegra Explorer has been developed with Rolls-Royce and Shorts, along with Airbus Industrie partners Aerospatiale, British Aerospace, Casa and Daimler-Benz Aerospace. All three companies are now implementing the software.
The Explorer is claimed to be unique because it can produce a so-called product-data management (PDM) model, using not only geometric computer-aided design/ manufacture (CAD/CAM) data, but also numerous "attributes" such as component weight, cost, delivery schedule, test results and maintenance procedures. The information can be integrated into the model from sources, which include spreadsheets, word-processed documents, video clips and analysis data.
"It is a tool which enables a user with minimal computing skills to gain a complete understanding of a product and the information that defines its function, fit and form," says Jim Smith, Computervision product-development consultant.
The package allows a product to be split into "zones" which can be developed separately, but which are updated according to changes made to parts with which it is interfaced. It can also be used to detect "clashes" between parts which, could occur during construction or their removal for maintenance.
All of the relevant attributes of a part can be listed in a single report, or the software can used to interrogate the PDM data to highlight parts, which meet user-defined criteria. "Multiple rules can be used, such as 'show me every part of the product from supplier "X" that is behind schedule, over weight and costs above £50 [$75] per unit'," says Computervision.
BAe Airbus is using the Explorer to help it to eliminate all detailed engineering drawings on paper, while R-R has installed terminals on its factory floor, to run video clips showing employees how to install aero-engine parts. Australian flag carrier Qantas has bought the software to store and interrogate aircraft-maintenance manuals.
Source: Flight International
