Digital thread and model-based definition (MBD) role in the industrial machine industry

Modern product development relies on a foundation of digitization, and it begins with digital thread software.

Digital thread software connects engineering, procurement, manufacturing, and quality with different digital thread components.

Some of these components create what’s called a model-based definition (MBD), a replacement for the engineering drawing.

Download this ebook to find out how forward-thinking machine builders and equipment manufacturers are embracing digital thread software and using the model-based definition (MBD).

Digital thread components and digital thread technologies

Digital thread technologies help to organize and arrange digital thread components originating from every part of the company.

It starts in engineering with designs for parts, assemblies, systems, and products.

Digital thread software documents the forms fit, and functions in drawings, specifications, models, and simulations.

All those definitions then become digital thread components in procurement contracts, specifications for manufacturing, the basis for service procedures, and more.

Build a network of interdependent digital deliverables with a digital thread

Every department within a company takes the digital work of others and builds on it, enhances it, and adds value to it.

This creates a network of interdependent digital deliverables called the digital thread.

A model-based definition (MBD) within the digital thread provides a single definition of a design’s geometry and non-geometric information like annotations, tolerances, surface finishes, and more.

This allows different departments to use the single definition throughout the development process.

Digital thread industrial machine engineering

Machine builders and equipment manufacturers can use the digital thread and MBD throughout their processes, including:

• Procurement provides and MBD to suppliers for the RFQ process
• Tooling leverages an MBD to create the details of molds, dies, and other tools
• Machining uses an MBD to generate tool paths
• Illustrators use MBD information to produce instructions including illustrations and animations
• Quality uses an MBD to compare results for manufacturing conformance

Read this ebook to discover why industrial machine engineering should embrace MBD and all the other deliverables found within a digital thread.