Technical Data Packages (TDPs)
Modern TDPs have become so much more than just a set of blueprints. StraCon has mastered the process of creating governing engineering datasets for the downstream generation of essential derivatives such as fabrication drawings, technical manuals, or training materials.
CAD Modeling
At its core, the optimal TDP will be centered upon a 3D CAD solid model. This model should have PLM Product Lifecycle Management) and SM (Smart Manufacturing) best practices built in from the very outset—even if the model does not feed into a PLM system today, it probably will tomorrow. A well-executed CAD solid model serves as the basis for direct digital manufacturing, such as computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) and additive manufacturing (AM), or more traditional fabrication methods using 2D drawings. The model can then double as source data for illustrations within technical publications, such as operations or maintenance manuals, and also for training materials, such as 2D imagery or 3D interactive multimedia. The CAD model is the central element of the digital twin concept being spearheaded by the military aviation industry for long-term program support. StraCon has considerable CAD modeling experience for DoD programs using a variety of CAD platforms, and we optimize our models for PLM ingestion.
StraCon has comprehensive experience creating, assessing, manipulating, translating, and healing 3D models. From 2013 to the present, StraCon has reverse engineered and created engineering-grade 3D models using SolidWorks in support of a NAVAIR client. We received a four-component legacy CAD model in STEP/IGES format which we converted and grew to a fully indentured parametric assembly. Our finished product consisted of 3,769 total components organized into 850 subassemblies to a depth of 10 levels and delivered in CAD-native format. This data included older COTS and vanishing-vendor items that required reverse engineering. This data consisted of older COTS and vanishing-vendor items that required reverse engineering. StraCon engineers utilized physical measurements, maintenance manuals, and photos prior to architecting the 3D models. StraCon employs 3D modeling experts in CATIA, SolidWorks, Inventor, AutoCAD, and PTC Creo. This capability enables StraCon to receive any 3D model from a customer and perform whatever necessary translations or reverse engineering are required to facilitate animations and technical graphics. Our processing method greatly improves the quality of the end product and the efficiency with which it was created. Additionally, this approach enables training products to more closely match the real-life product while maintaining the virtualized digital thread.
Whether you need initial CAD design, assistance with legacy models, or the reverse engineering of a previously fielded systems, StraCon can help you develop long term sustainment capabilities.