Mois : novembre 2023

In the realm of product development, the journey of a single part is a multifaceted expedition, marked by distinct stages and considerations. Let’s embark on a voyage through the various states of a part:

1. Specifications:
   • It all begins with an idea or a need. The part is identified and defined by a set of specifications, requirements, and sometimes intricate schematics. This initial phase sets the groundwork for what the part needs to achieve and how it should fit into the overall product.
2. Geometric Part:
   • As the concept takes shape, the part enters the realm of Computer-Aided Design (CAD). Here, its geometric form is meticulously crafted, defining its shape, size, and functionality. However, aspects like material and treatments remain open for further refinement.
     It is the stage of the CAD BOMof the product.
3. Physical Part FFF (Form, Fit, Function):
   • In this phase, the part transforms into a comprehensive entity where all its essential characteristics, excluding aesthetics, are precisely defined. It’s about ensuring that the part works seamlessly, fits perfectly, and serves its intended function.
     Generally, the initial EBOM is built at this stage of the part state
4. Physical Part FFFA (Form, Fit, Function, Aesthetic):
   • The final transformation occurs when aesthetics come into play. The part evolves into its complete form, with all characteristics, including color, texture, and appearance, meticulously defined. It becomes not just functional but also visually aligned with design requirements.
     This part is managed either in the enriched EBOM (often with Options/Variants), or in the product configurator
5. Manufacturer Reference:
   • For commercial parts or those sourced from various suppliers, a critical step is assigning a manufacturer reference. This reference is the exact code corresponding to the fully defined FFFA part, complete with specifications.
6. Manufacturer Reference in Storage (SAP’s « MATERIAL »):
   • In the domain of inventory and supply chain management, the manufacturer reference becomes crucial once more. It corresponds to the part’s identity in storage, a bridge between digital and physical realms, often managed within an ERP system like SAP.It is typically the part that appears in the MRP BOM.

These states are integral to efficient product management and supply chain coordination. However, it’s worth noting two important observations:

a) Vocabulary Gaps: Precise terminology to describe these states can sometimes be elusive, highlighting the complexity of managing parts.

b) Additional States: There are more states to explore, such as parametric parts and part families, often well-managed in CAD systems but posing intricate challenges in PLM.

As we navigate this complex landscape of part states, we appreciate that it’s not just about managing components but orchestrating a symphony of data, processes, and collaboration across PLM, ERP, and CAD systems. Join the conversation and share your insights into the evolving world of part management.

#ProductDevelopment #SupplyChain #PLM #ERP #Innovation

In the realm of consumer products, which constitute a significant portion of industrial production, aesthetics plays a crucial role in product design. The three components of aesthetics are:

• The shape of the object.
• Its materials and surface finishes (for non-functional visible surfaces).
• Its color(s), along with their characteristics (exact hue, glossiness, etc.).

The shapes of an object, typically defined by surfaces, are part of the basic product definition (FFF: Form, Fit, Function). Altering these surfaces directly impacts the physical characteristics of the object. However, this is not the case with surface finishes (for non-functional surfaces) and colors. Modifying them does not compromise the functional qualities of the object. For instance, mounting a green door on a red car might make it less aesthetically pleasing, but the car will still run just as well and remain just as reliable!

Therefore, we can assert that the « product » and its components can be viewed from two different perspectives in the vast majority of cases:

• The FFF perspective (Form Fit Function), independent of aesthetic characteristics, aims to create a perfectly functional product. This approach must be meticulous; for example, if a part is painted, the paint must be considered generically.
• The FFFA (Form Fit Function Aesthetic) perspective, in which the product and its components are represented in their various colors and finishes.

This distinction is significant, as it is relatively poorly managed by PLMs to date. Generally, the entire product study is conducted at the « FFF » stage, and its variation to the « FFFA » stage typically requires significant work in creating « real » references and product configurations.
There is even a lack of vocabulary to differenciate the parts at the 2 stages

Additionally, attention must be given to (very rare) cases where color can physically impact a component or product:

• Changes in the characteristics of a plastic material due to the addition of a specific dye, as in the case of mass-dyed parts.
• Physical changes due to color, such as increased absorption of solar rays causing greater heating when a part is black, for example.

In conclusion, recognizing and effectively managing these two perspectives, FFF and FFFA, is crucial for the holistic development and aesthetic customization of consumer products within the PLM framework.