FEATURE CAD/SOFTWARE
MANUFACTURING IMPROVEMENTS WITH PLM
During the design and build process, unplanned events can increase cycle times and have a detrimental impact on the management of materials and working hours. There is now a demand for a system that provides real-time visual status and control, alongside product quality predictions. Enter, product lifecycle management (PLM). Here, Adam Bannaghan, technical director of Design Rule, discusses three ways that the digital continuity of PLM can help manufacturers deliver high-quality, innovative products with ease
P
LM is used by different sectors for various reasons. For manufacturers,
the virtual production element is used to improve the planning, management and optimisation of industrial operations. The software also allows users in multiple locations to work on projects simultaneously, tracking progress and inputting operational data. Manufacturers may not have as much paperwork to track or intellectual property to protect as other sectors, but there are three important reasons why they should invest in PLM software.
IMMEDIATE INSIGHT When used as part of a PLM system, virtual production software can visualise the build of a product before the assembly line is in place. This means engineering and manufacturing directors can identify possible constraints, and fix errors before the product reaches the manufacturing stage. Engineers can then evaluate ‘what-if’ scenarios, months before making the commitment to production. Having a 3D visualisation of how the product interacts in the real world means designers can make changes, optimise operations and facilitate higher quality innovation. For instance, misjudged timings are a
major cause of product delay and error. Having this software in place ensures all parties developing, or manufacturing a product, are in sync. This synchronisation is referred to as digital continuity, where all parties have access to the same design at every stage of the design and build process. This optimises the manufacturing process, bringing lead times forward, and helping those involved spot errors before they can have a serious impact.
SMOOTHER COLLABORATION Interconnectivity and the industrial internet have increased the complexity of PLM requirements, especially in
28 FEBRUARY 2017 | DESIGN SOLUTIONS
operations planning, management and optimisation. Many manufacturers now run their design and build operations across multiple locations. Distance, cultural differences, and diverse approaches to problem-solving, can sometimes result in costly production errors if seamless communication is not possible. By using software that bridges the gap between different locations, businesses can plan, manage and optimise industrial processes. A common problem when part
measurements and specifications are being sent overseas for production is that poor translations, or measurement system differences, can sometimes cause costly production errors. Engineering teams can easily fix these errors in the manufacturing process, but they still cause delay and cost money. By using 3D virtual production software, users can communicate instructions and measurements clearly, as well as alter specifications during the design stage.
The virtual production element of PLM is used to improve the planning, management and optimisation of industrial operations
OPTIMISED MANUFACTURING The more complex a product is, the more critical the assembly process becomes. Software that allows companies to properly plan, simulate and implement production lines, can benefit all departments from design, to engineering, sales and marketing. By implementing a digital continuity platform, all parties can start planning well in advance, bringing lead times forward and reducing the risk of missing deadlines. Whether your company is experiencing geographical expansion, requests for more complex products, or has a history of misjudged timings, implementing virtual production software such as Dassault Systèmes’ DELMIA, could prevent a nasty surprise during your next project. To find out more, contact Design Rule using the details below.
Design Rule T: 01604 491661
www.designrule.co.uk
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