From design to production, aerospace technology has proven time and time again to be a complex, intricate, and increasing field of study, development, and deployment.
A technical data package, known as a TDP, is a consolidation of information used by designers and manufacturers to describe a product or a component.
In other words, a TDP is a technical description and collection of all the information needed to manufacture a component. With all the information that makes a TDP, it’s very difficult to organize and manage, especially to fit the unique specifications of different products, situations – and customers.
The importance of an accurate TDP
If a product has a flaw or malfunction – or a necessary change is observed in either the product design or the manufacturing process after production begins – all output created up to that point is rendered useless. The aerospace industry relies on the safety of every component of its tools, hardware, and equipment. The slightest production error could result in the malfunction of an individual part, which could in turn create a catastrophic chain of events. If a TDP – utilized as a component of the larger First Article Inspection (FAI) process – is not carefully completed, these flawed components could be installed in the end product.
As a result, the efficiency and precision of the technical data package process offer assurance that proper observation is implemented throughout the documentation process, and that precise manufacturing processes are executed according to design.
The three main sections of a TDP
The components of a technical data package combine to provide a comprehensive analysis of the product to be manufactured. Each element of the TDP process offers unique insights designed to aid the efficiency of the construction. By offering end-to-end visibility of the performance requirements associated with the required design components of a particular product, the workflow is able to be monitored by management and laborers alike.
The three components of a technical data package are drawings, specifications, and a bill of characteristics.
- Drawings show the images of the product being made, as well as its dimensions, revisions, and features. This applicable technical data allows complete insight into the creation process, from every possible angle, and with every element of the manufacturing process considered.
- Specifications deal with references, materials, processes, MIL standards, packaging details, and part documents.
- The bill of characteristics combines the information from the drawings and specifications to fit a format that can be exported to First Article Inspection forms as well other forms related to the AS9102 standard as required by the International Aerospace Quality Group.
Without a tool like DISCUS, creating a proper technical data package is often confusing, repetitive, and time-consuming. The automation of documentation processes – handled thanks to artificial intelligence (AI) solutions – supports increased efficiency and reduces the chance of human error. In addition to faster and more accurate TDP creation, the platform harnesses the learning capabilities of AI integration to continually enhance the processing tools of the software itself.
Create a smart TDP with DISCUS
Manufacturing and quality in the aviation, space, and defense industries are regulated by the AS9100 Quality Management System.
One portion of the AS9100 process inspection plan – AS9102 – plays an important role in describing the details of FAI requirements in the aerospace industry. Creating accurate TDP elements with the assistance of an automated AI platform can ensure you’re observing the manufacturing process with the precision and quality of care this critical stage demands, in accordance with strict architecture and verification parameters.
DISCUS is a tool that allows you to better assemble smart technical data packages, which means you do so in less time and with more efficiency. With DISCUS, you have the ability to collect data product drawings, manage specifications, and identify characteristic data at a detail level.
You can add balloons to your PDF and TIFF drawings without changing the original drawing. With balloons on the drawings themselves, you can professionally identify and track important features, characteristics and requirements that you need to show to your customers.
DISCUS does not require specialized data reformatting to get started, which means you can start effectively using it to enter spec information within an hour.
Finally, this tool (TDP software) helps you seamlessly export data to AS9102 spreadsheets, which greatly decreases the time spent creating these reports. DISCUS does this by “snapping” requirements from drawings and specifications, so you never have to re-enter information.
Now you can link from your bill of characteristics to the specific drawing and product documents from which you retrieved the data. Also, you can integrate your bill of characteristics with a variety of formats and systems, such as Excel, Net-inspect, and Adobe.
DISCUS gives you these advantages to help simplify data entry, while organizing data presentation. Customize your information to meet the needs of your customer without worrying about whether or not you will change its original properties.
Impress your employers and customers today with DISCUS. By deploying a DISCUS solution, you’ll not only gain access to our efficiency-boosting software, but you’ll also have access to a wealth of resources designed to facilitate your manufacturing processes. From technical information regarding the adequacy of your manufacturing efforts to the item performance capabilities that exceed supplier and customer needs, your models will allow the design and production of products that meet stringent standards.
Looking for a detailed “how to” in regards to removing a drawing from your TDP? Our complimentary tips archive provides valuable insight into processes designed to enhance the productivity of your workforce. From implementation to execution, your critical manufacturing outcomes are in good hands with a DISCUS solution.
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