3D graphics and animations convey information more efficiently than traditional “flat” drawings. Details, such as lighting, shadows, reflections, and realistic textures, make more sense to the user – especially when working with complex technical concepts.

Dayton T. Brown, Inc.’s technical illustrators are experienced with 3D models and know the best methods by which to integrate them into technical documentation. We have invested in advanced 3D computer systems and software in order to enable us to efficiently and effectively work with virtually any 3D models.

Our team and systems can support a wide range of 3D models and formats to meet your unique requirements. Information systems that utilize 3D models and data greatly reduce product time-to-market and Life Cycle Costs (LCCs).

Interactive Electronic Technical Manuals/Interactive Electronic Technical Publications (IETMs/IETPs)

IETM/IETP technology puts information where it’s needed – faster, better, and more accessible. Interactive information, such as on-demand electronic manuals, is the most efficient, cost-effective method by which to control, deliver, and maintain data.

There are many advantages to using 3D models, including a significant increase in the effectiveness of technical documentation. 3D tools enable companies to consolidate design methods and provide for cross-collaboration. These benefits translate into fewer design and manufacturing errors, as well as the elimination of information bottlenecks and redundant efforts.

Perhaps, the most noticeable and compelling reason to embrace these technologies is the impact on reducing time-to-completion and time-to-market. Measurable studies have shown that the reuse of information throughout the engineering process workflow reduces wasted time and expense – while improving communication and collaboration. The move to advanced information dissemination is driven by business pressures on time-to-market, product Life Cycle Costs (LCCs), and Return on Investment (ROI).

3D models benefit organizations during design and technical content development. Our authors use 3D models when writing your procedures – allowing them to understand and communicate the associations between parts, assemblies, and the corresponding procedures. Models also give our authors the ability to map the path to each part and identify obstructing assemblies that require removal.

Whenever possible, end users appreciate 3D models because they provide valuable context, minimize confusion, and reduce maintenance turnaround time. DTB can demonstrate how the use of 3D modeling can benefit your support stream throughout manufacturing, technical publications, and the complete product life cycle.

• 3D Interactive Maintenance Instructions
• 3D Assembly Instructions
• 3D Interactive Parts Catalogs and Ordering Solutions
• 3D Interactive Training Aids
• Single Source Engineering

MBE – Model-Based Enterprise

The MBE environment distributes complete data electronically. Every detail can be extracted and seamlessly transitioned to manufacturing, as well as further downstream, to support various operations within the enterprise – while also supporting maintenance functions.

DTB can enable highly connected and collaborative Defense Manufacturing Enterprise (DME) operations. We can also perform a thorough audit of your process and determine the steps needed to achieve MBE.

• Standards-based Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) engineering data management
• ISO 10303 PLCS/S1000D bi-directional linkage between Logistics Support Analysis (LSA) Database and Common Source Database (CSDB)
• Configuration-controlled generation of required information for total life cycle management
• Delivery of 3D Technical Data Packages (TDPs)
• Legacy Data & Conversion to leverage standards and avoid obsolescence
• Real-time access to fully annotated 3D models for Performance-Based Logistics (PBL)

How do we achieve MBE?

We work with our clients to understand their requirements and offer solutions based on industry best practices. The key to our success is partnership and collaboration with our clients.

There are many benefits that encourage companies to make the change to MBE:

• Save money while streamlining processes
• Gain a substantial competitive edge in your market
• Satisfy contractual obligations

Evolution and interoperability of engineering within an enterprise is depicted to the left.

MBE Capability Index

MBE and the bicycle: S1000D introduced a bicycle in order to even out the playing field to communicate how any platform, commercial or military, can use the specification. Similarly, all Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) – regardless of the vertical – have a need to develop, design, and use 3D modeling. The maturity of the 3D models is based on MBE principles.

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Department of Defense (DoD) developed an MBE Capability Index in order to define MBE maturity levels within organizations – using engineering models as the guideline.

The seven MBE categories range from 2D drawings to sophisticated Digital Product Data Packages, commonly known as Technical Data Packages (TDPs).

Where does your organization fit? DTB can help you move up the index and advance your long-term MBE objectives.