aeronautics

SECTORS
EXPERTISE		AERONAUTICS	AUTOMOTIVE	CONSUMER GOODS
	Product Engineering	Aerodynamic parts design, structural simulation, performance optimization	Automotive parts design, production line optimization, design change management	Consumer product design, product ergonomics improvement, product model development
	3D metrology	Measurement of complex parts (composites, structures), quality control of assemblies, measurement in demanding environments	Measurement of metal and plastic parts, quality control, inspection of large parts	Prototype measurement, consumer product control, production deviation analysis
	PLM Solutions	Aerospace product lifecycle management, change and traceability management, team collaboration for design and production	Vehicle lifecycle management, supply chain management, version and production management	Product version management, consumer product lifecycle management, integration of design and production tools

Use Story 01

Collaboration between PLM Systems and EUROCAST Tunisia in the Aeronautics field thanks to 3D Metrology equipment (TIGO, GLOBAL, Measuring arm, DMIS PC licenses)

Context

EUROCAST Tunisia, a subsidiary of the EUROCAST group, is a key player in the production of high-precision metal parts for the aerospace industry. The company specializes in manufacturing parts for major players in the aviation sector such as Airbus and Boeing. To ensure the quality and precision of the parts it produces, EUROCAST Tunisia uses advanced metrology technologies to inspect and validate its products throughout their manufacturing cycle.

In this context, PLM Systems, a strategic partner of the company, has introduced advanced 3D metrology equipment supplied by HexagonMetrology, including TIGO Machines, GLOBAL, and Measuring Arms, as well as PC DMIS Licenses, to ensure the precision and traceability of the parts produced.

The challenge

Before the integration of 3D metrology equipment and software solutions, EUROCAST Tunisia faced several challenges in managing the quality of the parts produced:

Limited measurement precision: The complex metal parts used in aerospace require extreme precision. Traditional control methods struggled to meet these requirements.
Excessive inspection time: Inspecting parts using manual methods took considerable time, which slowed down production and increased costs.
Traceability issues: Without a centralized solution, it was difficult to track the different inspection stages and ensure the traceability of measurement results for each part produced.

The solution: Integration of 3D Metrology equipment with PLM Systems

To address these challenges, PLM Systems proposed a complete solution for EUROCAST Tunisia by integrating advanced 3D metrology equipment as well as software licenses for data analysis. Here are the different steps of the solution implemented:

Installation of TIGO and GLOBAL measuring machines:

- TIGO and GLOBAL Machines from HexagonMetrology were installed to perform high-precision inspections. These machines allow for the measurement of large metal parts with micrometric precision and are ideal for the complex components used in the aerospace sector.
- Result: Thanks to these machines, EUROCAST Tunisia was able to significantly reduce inspection time while increasing measurement precision. These machines enabled fast and reliable 3D inspections.

Using portable measuring arms:

- The portable measuring arms were deployed for measuring small and medium-sized parts. These arms are used for checking the dimensions and alignment of parts directly on the production floor. They provide the necessary flexibility to perform inspections at different stages of manufacturing.
- Result: The teams at EUROCAST Tunisia were able to easily measure complex parts in their production environment, thus reducing inspection times and enabling real-time adjustments.

Implementation of the DMIS PC software solution for the analysis of measurement data:

- PLM Systems provided the PC DMIS Licenses, the measurement data management software, to analyze and process the results of inspections conducted with the 3D equipment.
- PC DMIS enabled EUROCAST Tunisia to:
  - Record the measurement results for each inspected part.
  - Perform tolerance analyses and automatically generate compliance reports.
  - Create a centralized database to track the quality of parts at each stage of their manufacturing cycle.
- Result: The software solution improved traceability and data management, providing EUROCAST Tunisia with full control over part quality, while simplifying the management of measurement reports and quality controls.

Training and technical support by PLM Systems:

- PLM Systems also provided specialized training for the staff at EUROCAST Tunisia to ensure optimal use of the equipment and software.
- Technical support was set up to ensure the maintenance and proper functioning of the machines, as well as to quickly resolve any technical issues.

Results obtained:

Improvement in measurement precision: Thanks to the integration of TIGO and GLOBAL machines and measuring arms, EUROCAST Tunisia was able to achieve levels of precision that were previously inaccessible with manual methods. Aerospace parts, often complex and of varying dimensions, are now measured with micrometric precision.
Significant reduction in inspection cycle times: The new equipment significantly reduced the time required for part inspections. The automation of inspections and the speed of the machines allowed EUROCAST Tunisia to gain efficiency and meet tighter production deadlines.
Improved traceability and quality management: The implementation of PC DMIS facilitated the management of measurement data and allowed EUROCAST Tunisia to ensure complete traceability of parts, which is essential in the aerospace industry where compliance is crucial. Every inspection step, as well as the associated results, are now recorded and easily accessible.
Reduction in production costs: By reducing inspection time and eliminating human errors, EUROCAST Tunisia saw a decrease in production costs, as the inspection process is now faster and more reliable. This also helped reduce the risks related to non-compliance of parts and avoid rework or scrap costs.
Improved customer satisfaction: Thanks to the improved quality and precision of the parts produced, EUROCAST Tunisia strengthened its position as a trusted supplier for its aerospace clients. Production deadlines were met, and part compliance was ensured, which positively impacted customer satisfaction.

Conclusion

The collaboration between PLM Systems and EUROCAST Tunisia in the field of 3D metrology allowed the company to transform its quality control process by using advanced equipment such as the TIGO, GLOBAL machines, and measuring arms from HexagonMetrology, as well as the PC DMIS software for measuring data analysis. This ensured precision, optimized inspection processes, and improved traceability and quality management of the aerospace parts produced, thus strengthening EUROCAST Tunisia’s competitiveness in the global aerospace market.

Use Story 02

Collaboration between PLM Systems and Airbus Atlantic Tunisia in the Aeronautics field for HexagonMetrology Portable Solutions, mainly Trackers

Context :

Airbus Atlantic Tunisia, a subsidiary of Airbus, specializes in the manufacture of components and assemblies for the aerospace industry. It supplies essential structural parts for the construction of commercial and military aircraft. In an industry where precision and dimensional compliance are crucial, Airbus Atlantic Tunisia uses high-precision metrology solutions to verify the quality of its parts and ensure they meet the strict standards of the aerospace sector. To measure complex parts and ensure error-free production, the company uses Hexagon portable metrology solutions, including portable 3D trackers. These devices allow precise measurements on-site, without the need to move the parts, a significant advantage in highly dynamic production environments.

However, to fully leverage these technologies, Airbus Atlantic Tunisia decided to collaborate with PLM Systems, which provided integration solutions, training, and optimization for the use of the Hexagon portable trackers.

The challenge:

Before the collaboration with PLM Systems, Airbus Atlantic Tunisia faced several challenges when using Hexagon portable trackers for precision measurements in its production facilities:

Complexity
of integration

Hexagon's portable trackers, while effective, required complex integration into the existing production workflow, with challenges related to data management and automation of measurement processes.

Suboptimal use of equipment

Using portable trackers required advanced technical expertise, which was not always the case across all teams. This led to some underutilization of the equipment's capabilities.

Data coordination and traceability

Data from wearable trackers was not always properly centralized and integrated into the overall quality management system, which complicated the traceability of measurements and their analysis in production processes.

The solution: PLM Systems services to optimize the use of Hexagon Portable Trackers

To address these challenges, PLM Systems implemented a series of services and solutions, drawing on its expertise in integrating measurement tools into industrial processes.

Team training on Hexagon Portable Trackers

One of the first areas of collaboration was the training of the teams at Airbus Atlantic Tunisia to ensure optimal use of the Hexagon portable trackers. The goal was to reduce errors caused by improper use and increase measurement efficiency.

- - In-depth training: PLM Systems organized training sessions on the use of portable trackers and the basics of three-dimensional metrology. The focus was on managing complex measurements and interpreting results.
  - Field practices: Practical sessions allowed operators to gain hands-on experience in using portable trackers to measure different geometries and configure the equipment based on the parts to be inspected.

Optimizing the integration of Trackers into the production flow

One of the objectives of PLM Systems was to facilitate the integration of Hexagon portable trackers into existing production processes. This involved directly linking measurement data to quality management and production systems.

- - Automation of data flows: PLM Systems implemented a solution to automate the transfer of measurement data from the portable trackers to the production management system. This simplified the management of results and reduced the need for manual entry, thus minimizing the risk of errors.
  - Data centralization: The data collected on-site was centralized into a single database, accessible in real-time by the quality and production teams, which improved traceability and facilitated the analysis of results.

Improved measurement accuracy with advanced Hexagon solutions

PLM Systems worked closely with Airbus Atlantic Tunisia to optimize the use of Hexagon portable trackers in various production environments, ensuring precise and reliable measurements.

- - Optimization of measurement parameters: PLM Systems experts helped Airbus Atlantic Tunisia adjust the parameters of the portable trackers according to the specific needs of each project, ensuring faster and more accurate measurement results.
  - Complex on-site measurements: The use of portable trackers allowed measurements to be taken directly on the production site without having to move the parts, accelerating quality control processes and reducing the risk of component damage.

Monitoring and maintenance of measuring equipment

Another key aspect of the collaboration was the management of the maintenance of Hexagon portable trackers to ensure their long-term precision. PLM Systems offered follow-up and maintenance services for the metrology equipment.

- - Preventive maintenance plan: A preventive maintenance program was established to ensure that the portable trackers were always in optimal working condition, minimizing the risk of breakdowns and ensuring consistent measurement accuracy.
  - Equipment verification: PLM Systems implemented regular checks of the equipment to guarantee their calibration and compliance with the quality standards required by the aerospace industry.

Results obtained:

Increased accuracy and reliability of measurements

By optimizing the use of Hexagon portable trackers, Airbus Atlantic Tunisia has succeeded in improving the accuracy of its complex part measurements, which has reduced errors and ensured that parts meet strict aerospace specifications.

Improved productivity

The integration of portable trackers into the production process has enabled Airbus Atlantic Tunisia to significantly reduce measurement time while ensuring high precision, thus accelerating quality control and increasing productivity.

Reduction of human errors

Automating data recording has significantly reduced human error and enabled better traceability of measurements, facilitating analysis and interpretation of results in real time.

Reduced maintenance costs

The preventive maintenance program implemented by PLM Systems has enabled Airbus Atlantic Tunisia to reduce costs associated with unplanned breakdowns and extend the lifespan of portable trackers, ensuring continuous use of the equipment.

Improving quality management

Integrating measurement data into the quality management system has improved real-time decision-making and enabled faster detection of anomalies in production processes, ensuring better quality control and compliant production.

Conclusion

The collaboration between PLM Systems and Airbus Atlantic Tunisia fully leveraged the Hexagon portable trackers by optimizing their use to precisely measure complex parts, improving the management of measurement data, and ensuring seamless integration into the production process. Thanks to this collaboration, Airbus Atlantic Tunisia not only optimized its quality control processes but also improved productivity, reduced errors, and increased the reliability of its metrology equipment.

This use story illustrates how PLM Systems supported Airbus Atlantic Tunisia in optimizing the use of Hexagon portable solutions to maximize precision, efficiency, and quality in the measurement processes within the aerospace industry.

Use Story 03

Collaboration between PLM Systems and FIGEAC AERO Tunisia in the Aeronautics sector thanks to Dassault Systèmes' PLM solutions

Context

FIGEAC AERO, a major player in the manufacturing of parts and assemblies for the aerospace industry, has several production sites worldwide, including one in Tunisia. The company provides high-precision solutions for major aircraft manufacturers such as Airbus, Boeing, and other industry players. In such a demanding sector, FIGEAC AERO Tunisia faces constant challenges related to optimizing production processes, managing project complexity, improving quality, and integrating data throughout the value chain.

To address these challenges and improve the efficiency of its design, manufacturing, and quality management processes, FIGEAC AERO Tunisia has chosen to collaborate with PLM Systems, a company specialized in implementing PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) solutions from Dassault Systèmes, such as ENOVIA, CATIA, and DELMIA. These tools aim to integrate and optimize the different stages of the aerospace value chain, from design to manufacturing.

The challenge:

Before the implementation of the Dassault Systèmes PLM solutions with the support of PLM Systems, FIGEAC AERO Tunisia faced several challenges in managing its industrial processes, including:

Data fragmentation: Project-related information was spread across different systems, making real-time data access difficult and causing inconsistencies in the information shared between design, production, and quality management teams.
Difficulties in managing complex projects: The increasing complexity of aerospace parts, combined with tight deadlines, made project management more challenging. The lack of an integrated system to track the different project stages and changes led to delays and errors.
Communication and collaboration issues: The teams at FIGEAC AERO Tunisia and their external partners struggled to collaborate effectively due to a lack of visibility into the progress of projects. This slowed decision-making and increased the risk of errors in production.

The solution: Implementation of Dassault Systèmes PLM solutions by PLM Systems

To address these challenges, PLM Systems deployed a series of Dassault Systèmes PLM solutions that allowed FIGEAC AERO Tunisia to centralize its information and optimize its industrial processes:

Data centralization and product lifecycle management with ENOVIA

PLM Systems introduced ENOVIA, the Dassault Systèmes PLM platform, to centralize all project-related data. This allowed the creation of a single database accessible to all stakeholders in the company, whether on the Tunisian site or remotely, thus ensuring better visibility and faster decision-making.

- - Document management: All technical information, drawings, design revisions, and product specifications were integrated into ENOVIA, allowing for better tracking of design changes and ensuring full traceability of products.
  - Real-time collaboration: Design, production, and quality teams now have access to the same information in real-time, significantly improving collaboration between departments.

Optimizing design and manufacturing processes with CATIA

PLM Systems also deployed CATIA, the 3D design solution from Dassault Systèmes, to improve the efficiency of the design teams in creating complex aerospace parts and assemblies.

- - Advanced 3D modeling: The engineers at FIGEAC AERO Tunisia were able to use CATIA to design more complex parts with 3D visualizations, allowing them to detect potential issues before production and reduce manufacturing errors.
  - Real-time design collaboration: Thanks to the integration of CATIA with ENOVIA, all team members were able to work on the same models in real-time, thereby improving collaboration and managing changes throughout the project.

Production simulation and planning with DELMIA

PLM Systems proposed DELMIA, a production planning and simulation solution, to optimize manufacturing processes and improve production flow management at FIGEAC AERO Tunisia.

- - Simulation of manufacturing processes: DELMIA enabled the simulation of production stages before their implementation, thus reducing the risks of errors and inconsistencies in the manufacturing process.
  - Optimization of production flows: The solution allowed for the optimization of resource allocation, management of manufacturing deadlines, and ensured better efficiency throughout the production chain.

Improved quality management and performance monitoring

With the implementation of ENOVIA, PLM Systems helped FIGEAC AERO Tunisia improve the quality management of the aerospace parts produced.

- - Compliance tracking: ENOVIA enabled the tracking of parts’ compliance throughout their lifecycle, with a clear management of non-conformities and corrective actions.
  - Data traceability: Each design modification, every manufacturing stage, and each quality control step are now recorded in the system, providing full traceability for each produced part.

Results obtained:

Reduction of errors and production delays

Thanks to the centralization of data and improved collaboration between teams, FIGEAC AERO Tunisia was able to significantly reduce design and production errors, thereby accelerating the manufacturing timelines of parts and assemblies.

Improving project management

The integration of Dassault Systèmes PLM solutions allowed FIGEAC AERO Tunisia to better track the progress of each project, manage changes in real-time, and make decisions more quickly. This led to better management of the complexity of aerospace projects.

Improving internal and external collaboration

The ENOVIA platform enabled better collaboration between the design, production, and quality management teams. External partners and subcontractors also had easier access to relevant information, which improved communication and requirement management.

Improved quality monitoring

The tracking of parts and assemblies, as well as the management of non-conformities, has ensured that all parts meet the quality standards required by the aerospace industry.

Reduction of production costs

The optimization of manufacturing processes, the simulation of processes before implementation, and more efficient resource management allowed FIGEAC AERO Tunisia to reduce production costs and improve its operational efficiency.

Conclusion : The collaboration between PLM Systems and FIGEAC AERO Tunisia has transformed the company’s industrial processes through the implementation of Dassault Systèmes PLM solutions. From design to production, the integration of CATIA, ENOVIA, and DELMIA has optimized quality management, collaboration between teams, and management of complex projects, while ensuring more efficient manufacturing processes and a reduction in errors. FIGEAC AERO Tunisia has thus strengthened its position as a strategic supplier for the aerospace industry.

This use story illustrates the impact of the implementation of Dassault Systèmes PLM solutions for FIGEAC AERO Tunisia, aimed at improving project management, production, and quality in an increasingly competitive aerospace sector.

PLM Systems

Airbus Atlantic Tunisia

Hexagon portable solutions

AERONAUTICS

EUROCAST Tunisia

TIGO machines

PC DMIS Licenses

Measuring arm