Official Launch of Cloud-Native Model-Based Definition (MBD)
Eliminate redundant 2D drawing conversions by embedding Product and Manufacturing Information directly into single-source 3D CAD models.
Single-Source Digital Definitions Across the Value Chain
Direct 3D PMI Semantic Integration
Modern production cycles struggle with divergence between 3D CAD geometry and detached 2D drafting sheets. Cloud-native Model-Based Definition (MBD) embeds Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T), surface finishes, datums, and bill of materials directly onto native 3D geometry.
Downstream suppliers, quality inspection departments, and fabrication technicians inspect models within browser-based environments without generating or interpreting separate drafting bundles.
Evaluate Your MBD Workflow Readiness
Audit your current drawing dependencies and define tailored review criteria for drawingless handoffs.
The Shift from Detached Drafting to Integrated Semantic Models
Traditional mechanical design workflows rely on separate drawing packages to convey manufacturing intent. When engineers modify part geometry, 2D drawings must be manually updated, cross-checked, and republished. This dual-asset maintenance introduces discrepancies where machinists fabricate parts against outdated prints while quality control inspects obsolete revision tags.
Cloud-native Model-Based Definition (MBD) resolves this fragmentation by turning the 3D model into the single authoritative record. Tolerances, thread definitions, weld symbols, and surface finishes attach directly to individual CAD faces and features.
“When PMI lives directly on 3D geometry in a shared cloud database, the entire concept of drawing desynchronization ceases to exist.”
— David Chen, Lead CAD Systems ArchitectBecause the cloud architecture maintains continuous version control, every reviewer across manufacturing, procurement, and inspection views identical semantic callouts in real time.
Five Perspective Checkpoints for Drawingless Reviews
Transitioning to MBD requires design teams to structure review questions around cross-functional manufacturing needs rather than generic sheet approvals:
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1. Mechanical CAD Lead Perspective Are all critical datums, geometric tolerances, and material callouts semantically associated with valid parametric features rather than floating text?
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2. CNC Machining & Tooling Perspective Can automated CAM engines directly query face tolerances and thread pitch specifications without manual technician re-entry?
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3. Quality Assurance & CMM Perspective Are inspection routines able to extract 3D GD&T datums automatically for coordinate measuring machine programming?
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4. Supply Chain & Vendor Perspective Do external fabrication suppliers have secure browser access to view, section, and measure native 3D geometry without proprietary software licenses?
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5. Program Operations Perspective Is the digital revision state locked against accidental mid-production edits during active machining batches?
Addressing these five targeted inquiries prevents release bottlenecks and ensures suppliers fabricate parts strictly according to validated engineering intent.
Operational Parameters & Review Criteria Matrix
Standardizing your design-to-manufacturing handoff requires defined technical specifications for model annotation integrity:
| Annotation Standard Compliance | ASME Y14.41 / ISO 16792 3D digital product definition standards |
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| Downstream Interoperability | Direct browser inspection, STEP AP242 semantic export, and automated QIF integration |
| Version Synchronization | Instantaneous multi-user cloud updates with zero local cache file conflicts |
| Review Access Protocol | Role-based permission windows with section analysis, callout isolation, and markup tools |
Request Review Case Consultation
Structure your internal engineering reviews with isolated perspectives and tailored inquiry protocols.