L'archivage à long terme de la maquette numérique 3D annotée

Abstract

The use of engineering drawings in the development of mechanical products, including the exchange of engineering data as well as for archiving, is common industry practice. Traditionally, paper has been the mean to deliver those needs. However, thèse practices have evolved in faveur of computerized tools and methods for the creation, diffusion and preservation of data involved in the process of developing aeronautical products characterized by life cycles that can exceed 70 years. Therefore, it is necessary to redefine how to maintain this data in a context whereby engineering drawings are being replaced by the 3D annotated digital mock-up. This thesis addresses the issue of long-term archiving of 3D annotated digital mock-ups, which includes géométrie and dimensional tolérances, as well as other notes and spécifications, in compliance with the requirements formulated by the aviation industry including regulatory and légal requirements. First, we review the requirements imposed by the aviation industry in the context of longterm archiving of 3D annotated digital mock-ups. We then consider alternative solutions. We begin by identifying the theoretical approach behind the choice of a conceptual model for digital long-term archiving. Then we evaluate, among the proposed alternatives, an archiving format that will guarantee the préservation of the integrity of the 3D annotated model(geometry, tolérances and other metadata) and its sustainability. The évaluation of 3D PDF PRC as a potential archiving format is carried eut on a sample of 185 3D CATIA V5 models (parts and assemblies) provided by industrial partners. This évaluation is guided by a set of criteria including the transfer of geometry, 3D annotations, views, captures and parts positioning in assembly. The results indicate that maintaining the exact geometry is donc successfully when transferring CATIA V5 models to 3D PDF PRC. Concerning the transfer of 3D annotations, we observed dégradation associated with their display on the 3D model. This problem can, however, be solved by performing the conversion of the native model to STEP first, and then to 3D PDF PRC. In view of carrent tools, PDF 3D PRC is considered as a potential solution for long-term archiving of 3D annotated models for individual parts. However, this solution is currently net deemed adequate for archiving assemblies. The practice of 2D drawing will thus remain, in the short term, for assemblies.

Date	25 Nov 2010
Original language	French
Awarding Institution	École de technologie supérieure
Supervisor	Louis Rivest (Supervisor) & Clément Fortin (Co-supervisor)