Using library components in manufacturing environments

Many CAD applications today include vast arrays of library parts that can be used on the fly, but there are some serious points to consider before these should be used. Whereas document management should enforce control over documents, many of these CAD applications are inadvertently providing ways to bypass standards and allow users to select from an unlimited array of component types and sizes.

From a standards management point of view, it would be preferable to disable (that is, not install) the libraries for most users, and only install them on the computer of the persons responsible for creating and maintaining company standards. This person would then create all company-standard models, and store them in the correct vault location for general users to access. In this way, users may only select the standard, approved components that are stored in the Meridian vault.

Using this methodology realizes the following advantages:

• Company standards are enforced.
• Meridian references displaying the assembly structure and where components are used accurately reflect all components used in assemblies.
• Models of raw material items, such as tubing and beams, can be derived to individual models to reflect the correct cut length for that instance.
• Standard items are approved once and simply reused in projects rather than creating duplicate components for each project.

We recognize that these libraries are often a selling point for the CAD applications and that the initial creation of the standard library models and drawings may require significant effort. However, document control, standards, and stock levels are also very important issues for the end-user company. Manufacturing companies simply cannot afford to keep the infinite varieties of stock that would be required to allow designers to use any hardware type available.