On Thursday, November 27, over 30 curious engineers from various ICD companies gathered in Drachten for an inspiring knowledge circle on Model Based Definition (MBD). The subject is very much alive within the region: at least seven companies within the ICD network are actively working on the transition to full 3D working in the engineering chain. No surprise then that the room was buzzing with practical questions and recognizable challenges.
Why Model Based Definition is so important now
More and more companies in the Northern Netherlands are investigating how to use 3D models as a central source of information. The step from 2D drawings to a fully digital working method provides great benefits, but also requires clear agreements in the chain.
Therefore, two experienced speakers stood up during this knowledge circle: Haiko Jaasma (Viventris) and Fred de Graaf (Dassault Systèmes).
Practical approach of Viventris
Haiko Jaasma kicked off with a recognizable situation.
For companies that design and build many one-off systems, fully working out 2D drawings simply does not pay off. Every drawing hour saved immediately means more room for valuable work.
Viventris therefore developed a smart process in which:
- seven main statements on the drawing cover all generic dimensional and shape tolerances;
- exceptions are named when special requirements apply;
- engineers spend less time on documentation and more on design quality.
A concrete and immediately applicable approach that clearly evoked recognition in the audience.
Hi Value vs. Low Value: insights from Dassault Systèmes
The second speaker, Fred de Graaf, emphasized the distinction between Hi Value and Low Value work.
Hi Value is in the design process itself; Low Value in the manual transfer to 2D data.
In doing so, he gave some striking figures and benefits of full 3D working:
- 80% faster connection to machines;
- no unnecessary drawing hours;
- No loss of information due to conversion from 3D to 2D;
- Shocking but true: at 60% of the 2D drawings, the basic information from the 3D model is no longer correct;
- simpler change management for design changes.
These examples underscored why many organizations are making the move to Model Based Definition.
Chain communication remains the biggest challenge
Yet one question remains central: How do you properly share 3D data with suppliers?
After all, not everyone works with the same systems.
The export options are diverse:
- 3DX for suppliers working in the same environment;
- 3D PDF, 3D STEP files or a 3DX link for parties without 3DX.
A lively discussion ensued in the room on this very subject. Engineers shared experiences, asked critical questions and exchanged practical tips. Exactly the kind of dynamic for which the ICDrachten knowledge circles are intended.
Conclusion: a knowledge circle with impact
The meeting clearly showed that Model Based Definition is a current and important topic for companies in the Drachten region and the Northern Netherlands. With two strong speakers, lots of energy and open exchange of knowledge, this was a meeting that adds immediate value to practice.
The ICD continues to actively monitor and support these topics, with new knowledge circles, knowledge sharing and collaboration between companies.
