MBE 2012 Supplier Assessment

2012 Supplier Feedback on the 3D Technical Data Package

In 2012, Model Based Enterprise (MBE) stakeholders and partners conducted a study to gather feedback on the 3D Technical Data Package (3D TDP) from a sample of decision makers at companies within the Army supply chain. The key objectives of this study were to:

  1. Connect with individuals at supplier companies that are responsible for:
    • Receiving technical data and models
    • Handling quotes/estimation
    • Working with models related to design/production
  2. Drive target decision makers to view online demonstration/example of the 3D TDP and video instructions to describe key features and usage
  3. Gather feedback from the ARDEC supplier base after review and demonstration of the 3D TDP
  4. Identify which features of the 3D TDP are most useful and determine if there is anything important missing that is needed to make a part
  5. Learn how the 3D TDP will be used at supplier companies
  6. Prepare supplier base for roll-out of 3D TDP

Feedback on the 3D TDP was gathered from 46 different contacts.

Key Findings:
The contacts that were targeted for this study were those individuals that are most involved and knowledgeable about the usage of the 3D TDP and related processes at their company.

  • 87% are responsible for receiving technical data and models (n=40)
  • 83% are involved with handling quotes and estimation (n=38)
  • 80% work with models related to design (n=37)

89% of respondents said that the 3D TDP has all of the information that is needed to make a part.

Most useful features of the 3D TDP according to respondents:

  • Imbedded CAD and .STP files (91%)
  • Fully-annotated 3D viewable (87%)

89% of respondents feel that the 3D TDP is better or much better than 2D drawings for conveying design intent.

84% of respondents plan to use the 3D TDP in their manufacturing planning.

76% of respondents plan to use the 3D TDP to develop their CAM program.

74% of respondents plan to use the 3D TDP as an instrument to convey intent for shop floor.

In addition to these results, ARDEC also gathered a rich amount of supplemental feedback and comments that will be used to support continued development and improvement of 3D TDP.