Digital Thread for Non-Conformities in Aerospace Product Manufacturing Lifecycle
Introduction
Aircraft manufacturing involves a complex ecosystem where quality, traceability, and compliance are paramount. Our digital thread framework addresses these challenges by connecting data across sourcing, materials, engineering, and production. This approach ensures early detection of issues in sourcing materials, and design through integration of various systems like PLM, MES, ERP, QMS, and supplier systems. Structured workflows are established for evaluating and approving deviations before production begins, handling material substitutions, and managing concessions during inspection or final assembly. AI-driven anomaly detection and digital traceability play a crucial role in identifying and resolving deviations efficiently.
Pre-Manufacturing Non-Conformity Management
In the pre-manufacturing phase, our framework focuses on early detection of issues through integration of multiple systems. This includes handling material substitutions and structured workflows for evaluating and approving deviations before production begins. By leveraging digital tools, we ensure that any discrepancies are addressed promptly, preventing costly downstream rework or scrap.
Post-Manufacturing Non-Conformity Management
Post-manufacturing, the system extends to managing concessions during inspection or final assembly. AI-driven anomaly detection and digital traceability help identify deviations early, allowing for collaborative assessment and resolution. This process involves cross-functional technical reviews to ensure compliance with airworthiness standards and regulatory requirements.
Benefits of Digital Thread
Implementing a digital thread enhances traceability from design to delivery, ensuring compliance and audit readiness. It reduces delays and rework, fosters continuous improvement, and improves collaboration across engineering, quality, and OEM stakeholders. By analyzing patterns in historical non-conformities, the framework supports design optimization and process robustness, leading to a more resilient, compliant, and efficient aircraft manufacturing process.
The digital thread framework transforms aerospace manufacturing by improving decision-making, reducing rework, and enhancing regulatory compliance. To learn more about how this framework can revolutionize aerospace manufacturing, download our white paper.
