3D modeling
A 3D training environment simulated by Dassault Systèmes
Reuse me
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To extract real value from 3D modelling, manufacturers must maximise their reuse of information says Keith Nichols, senior consultant at industry technology analyst firm, Cambashi.
ong gone are the days when it would take several minutes to produce a full hidden line view of a relatively simple 3D model; when increasing the assembly size would only end in frustration and many believed that 3D modelling lacked practical value. Suppliers have invested heavily in enhancing their capabilities through inhouse development and, more recently, through acquisitions. Today, 3D modellers have the capability to handle over 30,000 parts for a complete automotive vehicle, and three million for aircraft projects. This ability to scale up both model size and complexity at an acceptable user performance level has increased use. Building a 3D model is unlikely to become faster than its former 2D approach. But once completed, a 3D model opens up a world of further activities which can lead to significant additional benefits. 3D design modification is fast and, where common parts and subassemblies already exist, 3D models can be easily reused, saving time. The same design information can also be reused in analysis, manufacture
IT in Manufacturing
planning, and workflow simulation, or in the preparation of maintenance manuals. All of this can happen long before a single part has been made. New applications can further extend information reuse. For example, automotive manufacturers are using 3D models to create a virtual reality (VR) experience for test drivers. They can sit in a virtual car and evaluate its ergonomics when subjected to different simulated conditions. This provides the opportunity to make thousands of small refinements to the vehicle’s design before the expensive and time consuming process of building a physical prototype begins. 3D models have been used to evaluate numerous features of vehicles from rear-window visibility through to determining the best size and shape of cup holders. Ford claims that, by exploiting technology at its Cave Virtual Reality facility in Cologne, Germany, it has shaved several months off its development cycle for new cars.
3D modelling comes of age
This reshaping of the underlying development approach is not limited to the automotive industry. It is now an established step in aircraft, farm equipment manufacture and other industries. In all cases, coupling 3D models with VR is transferring customer experience of the finished product to an earlier stage of the development process. One significant by-product of using 3D models with VR is the ability to provide staff with advanced training in the operation of a product or facility before it is built. Staff can virtually walk through a digital power plant, for instance, and become familiar with its operational and maintenance procedures as well as with controls and instrumentation. In short, the reuse of information from 3D models promotes right first time design and benefits all downstream activities in producing, delivering and supporting a product. The key to realising these benefits however, is the ability to reuse information in a controlled and consistent manner. FURTHER READING: For an extended version of this article go to: bit.ly/Reuseme
October 2013 | Issue 8 | Volume 16 | www.themanufacturer.com 73