From designing intricate aircraft to managing global supply chains to complex national and international regulations, aerospace engineers grapple with a myriad of complexities every day. However, amidst these challenges lies an invaluable tool: Product Data Management (PDM).
Regulations
The aerospace industry operates within a labyrinth of regulations and standards imposed by regulatory bodies like the FAA and EASA. Compliance with these regulations is non-negotiable, yet staying abreast of ever-changing requirements can be daunting.
Complexity
A Boeing 747-8 aircraft comprises more than six million individual parts. Aircraft engines alone comprise anywhere between 20,000 and 40,000 individual parts. Tracking the design changes to these parts over the several years it takes to get to production requires a specialized force.
Supply Chain
With a sprawling network of suppliers spanning the globe, managing this intricate supply chain is essential for ensuring timely delivery of components and materials while maintaining stringent quality standards.
Safety
We have seen throughout history that minor defects or oversights can have catastrophic consequences, making thorough safety and risk management essential. PDM systems play a crucial role in this regard, providing tools for documenting, analyzing, and verifying product designs and by facilitating proactive maintenance programs to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Embracing the Long Journey
Aerospace products have lifecycles that span decades, from conception to retirement. Managing product data over such extended periods presents unique challenges, requiring meticulous documentation, configuration control, and maintenance records. PDM systems offer a comprehensive solution, serving as a digital vault for storing and managing product data throughout its lifecycle.
In conclusion, the aerospace industry is no stranger to challenges, but with the right tools at their disposal, employees can soar to new heights. Product Data Management is more than just a solution; it's a lifeline for aerospace companies navigating the complexities of modern engineering. By harnessing the power of PDM, aerospace companies can chart a course to success, ensuring compliance, enhancing efficiency, and driving innovation in the skies above.
References:
https://simpleflying.com/airliners-how-many-parts/
https://money.cnn.com/2013/01/18/news/companies/boeing-dreamliner-parts/index.html
https://www.inven.ai/company-lists/top-26-aerospace-parts-manufacturing-companies