Numerical representation of interface control documents (ICDs) for collaborative engineering

When designing a complex product in a collaborative engineering context, interface management is a major concern. An interface control document is the main means to avoid assembly errors, misinterpretations and problems in work package coordination. Therefore, in a collaborative engineering environment, the question that arises is: How can we facilitate the management of interfaces and improve the control of documents in a PLM context? This paper proposes a numerical representation of geometrical and functional constraints related to interface control documents. A template typology as well as the corresponding implementation methods for these templates in a CAD environment is suggested as the means to verify the constraints between two subsystems. This numerical format provides engineers with the necessary tools to manage interfaces. Interface control documents become clearer and easier to share with partners. Moreover, these new methods are compatible with designer's work habits. Keyword: Interface management; interface control document; computer aided; complex product.