The Digital Fabric of Data-Driven Shipbuilding – 3D CAD data exchange in shipbuilding projects
The digital fabric of shipbuilding consists of data threads that originate from various specialized applications. There are commonly numerous different software solutions involved in a shipbuilding project, hundreds of engineers and designers, several companies located in different countries and continents, and even several building sites.
The data related to the project is often based on a model-centric approach and serves all stages of the life cycle: from initial design to production, MRO, and operations. An incrementally built digital twin can be used for a wide range of purposes. One of the most difficult questions in handling complex shipbuilding projects in the design stage concerns the CAD data format and level of interoperability. The challenges faced by shipbuilders include highly specialized data that is stored in various locations, applications, and databases that come with restricted access and a lack of universally accepted data exchange formats.
From a design perspective of possible 3D data types in shipbuilding, the CAD systems include 3D models, reference data, MCAD models, interoperability with various calculation software, simulation and other CAD systems, laser-scanned data, and data for AR/VR metaverse use. Data exchange scenarios for production, MRO, and operation fallinto the category of PLM system integration. In this white paper, we present and discuss the leading causes of data migration and outline the approach CADMATIC recommends to our customers based on our experience in the shipbuilding industry and countless customer and partner projects, as well as the possibilities offered by current technology solutions.