EPMT keeps STEP with EADS

– We have been working with EPMT on data exchange for the Eurofighter programme since 1999. The STEP based exchange of design standards and configuration data between the four different PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems of the key companies involved in the Eurofighter project is one of the most sophisticated and complex data exchange projects in its class. EPMT’s competence and products have supported us in setting it up and operating it, says Drehmel.

He goes on to explain that this collaboration led to the MIMER project, in which EPMT and EADS became the first to devise a standardised method for quality assurance and record keeping of 3D CAD and PLM data for the aerospace industry. Drehmel also mentions EPMT’s vital assistance in helping EADS gain experience of model quality, which is a demanding task.

OPDIM

According to Drehmel, many suppliers claim to be able to deliver such an all in one system. But the reality is that in every system you will find isolated islands of information, where different technology, or even pen and paper, mean that part of the data has no contact with the rest of the information system. That means there is data which cannot be part of a coordinated whole, which is so vital to have for proper planning of the kind of complicated projects which are found in the aerospace industry.

Drehmel points out that it is quite normal to find old and varied technology in aerospace development, since the extended life cycles of the products mean that the technology which has been used for development and PLM cannot be changed very often. In some cases we are talking about products with a 50 year lifetime. Drehmel also points out that data structuring and exchange is particularly affected by the intricate legislation and regulations aimed at the aerospace industry, as well as by changes to these regulations.

This is what OPDIM is intended to solve and Drehmel says that the most important thing to solve is standardisation, which he believes is the most important thing lacking in the systems currently available. Only standards which are eventually followed by everybody can resolve the complexity of data exchange, structuring and organisation for engineers. EPMT has a lot of experience of open standards, particularly through its EXPRESS Data Manager™ product. A product which will also form part of the basis of the OPDIM project.

Wants to be responsible for new standard

– That’s why we have decided to develop, in our strategic collaboration with EPMT, a complete, standardised foundation of information which will bind together our most relevant data and information sources, says Drehmel.

He concludes by describing this as the way forward to a practically paperless office, in which all sources of data relevant to the project one is working on, at all levels, are gathered and structured in one place. If this is done correctly – and that is the whole point of OPDIM – we will gain a tool which shows the very heart of all the company’s processes.

Knowledge is power, said Sir Francis Bacon about 400 years ago. Information gives us knowledge, which in turn gives us power over our competitors and success for our customers. It will be fascinating to watch the OPDIM project develop.