Commissioned by Daimler AG the feasibility of the Interconnection Based Product and Process Documentation theory (IBPPD) (Groll, 2008) within a PLM system is evaluated. The goal was to find problems in the application of this theory into practice within a interdisciplinary PLM system for complex products with a high variance. Of course, the research resulted into recommandations according to the theory application.

 

The project has been split up into three disciplines: sales, engineering, and manufacturing. As Engineering team, we focused mainly on the implementation of the IBD theory within the product coding and the composition of product variances. 

 

The IBPPD is a theoretically described format to document complex and highly customizable products. In this study, the theory is applied to an existing product, to investigate the theory’s feasibility and to formulate recommendations. A LEGO model of the Mercedes-Benz Unimog truck is used as practical test case.

The theory is implemented through a proposed database structure which describes each part, interconnection position and variant and their characteristics. Documentation procedures are developed and used to thoroughly elaborate two assemblies and their interconnections to other parts of the model. Data visualization methods are explored and used to graphically represent the network structure. Future visions for data visualization and usage are discussed. The essential conclusions of this study are captured in our recommendations regarding the IBPPD theory, most notably with respect to the implementation and visualization.

 

Performed together with Thijs Baltes, Bas Brilman, Ruud Brinkhuis, Frank Brussel, Tjibbe van der Laan, Franke Meijers, Joska Sesink, Harrie Waasdorp, Marlou van de Walle and Christel Wolters

Result: 8