scope:

Introduction

The use of Computer Aided systems in the product development process has grown enormously in recent years. The increase in computer performance due to improved hardware and software means that the use of CAx systems (CAD, CAM, CAE, CAQ, EDA etc.) can be cost-justified for many applications. As a result, large volumes of data are created, and the management of this data becomes more and more important.

Engineering Data Management or Product Data Management systems (EDM/PDM systems) are the technical database and communication systems used to manage this data. They are used to store and manage information about products and their related processes throughout their lifecycles, and to provide access to this data from all parts of the enterprise. They represent an integration platform for the different data producer systems (e.g. CAx systems) which are used during the entire product development process. EDM/PDM systems are a building block for the overall technical information infrastructure of an enterprise and must be integrated with other enterprise IT systems (e.g. ERP software).