Keywords
lifecycle management
MBSE
PLM
CAD/CAE
Digital Thread
Digital Twin
variant and configuration management
How to Cite
Abstract
The seamless integration of CAD, PDM, and AI-based system-of-systems lifecycle management for digital processes is one of the biggest challenges in modern product development. While the vision of a continuous digital development process from the concept phase to the disposal of a product is appealing, practice shows that technical and organizational integration is far more complex than expected. Attempting to link CAD systems with product data management (PDM) and AI-based lifecycle management systems often
leads to challenges, as each of these systems speaks different languages, data structures, and models. This integration process requires not only a technical solution, but also a consistent definition of information models, responsibilities, and governance. The key to successful integration lies in a common understanding of the data and its meaning across all disciplines. This means that not only must fields and attribute values be aligned, but there must also be semantic clarity so that all parties involved have the same
understanding and responsibility for the same data objects. Pilot projects that focus on specific value-adding processes are the more pragmatic approach to gradually building trust and understanding for larger integration measures. Furthermore, the literature shows that successful integrations of CAD, PDM and AI-based lifecycle management systems are not just a technical solution but require cultural and organizational change. Without clear governance, defined responsibilities, and systematic control of data flows, integration
cannot be successful. The use of technologies such as digital twins and blockchain can significantly improve the quality and traceability of data and help to realize the ‘end-to-end’ concept. The path to functional integration is not a quick technological ‘grand slam’, but requires focused, step-by-step progress based on a clearly defined model and vision. This paper provides a realistic overview of the necessary steps and practical solutions to bridge
the gap between theory and practice in seamless digital integration.
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