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Leveraging Windchill PLM for Effective Parts Classification and Supplier Integration

Introduction

In this detailed demonstration, we will explore the capabilities of Windchill’s component management, specifically focusing on its parts classification system, part sourcing, and supplier integration features.

Exploring Parts Classification with Windchill

To begin, we can utilize the Classification Explorer within Windchill. This feature allows users to classify parts based on specific attributes to foster reuse and minimize inventory in the system. The left side of the interface displays the top-level classification categories. For example, if we are searching for a mechanical component, we can navigate to the 'Mechanical Components' category to view various types of classified components.

Say, for instance, you are looking for a rivet, but you don't have the part number or name. The Classification Explorer can assist in identifying whether the part exists in the system. By opening the rivets category under mechanical components, we can view an array of rivets currently available in Windchill. Each rivet has unique attributes, including material information, head type, and sourcing details.

If browsing through all rivets seems overwhelming, filtering options are available to streamline the search process. For example, one can filter rivets based on specific metrics such as mass, which benefits from an integration with Anis Granta to provide comprehensive material information. This usefulness translates into better decision-making for designers and engineers.

The platform allows users to check the sourcing status of the rivets as well. In this scenario, we find that only two rivets have a preferred supplier. By scrolling further, we can examine other relevant attributes like diameter, material thickness, and a breadcrumb trail linking back to the part classification.

Detailed View of a Specific Component

Let's delve deeper into the 'tough lock rivet.' The details page offers a wealth of information, beginning with data sourced from Granta, illustrating how Windchill’s open architecture facilitates access to rich, informative resources, thereby aiding designers in making more informed decisions.

Such data includes raw performance metrics for materials, which also extend into sustainability aspects—acknowledging that 80% of a product's environmental impact is determined during the design phase. Hence, having this information readily available is paramount for making responsible decisions.

Below the Granta information, we can find classification attributes and specifications for the rivet. Additionally, if we wish to procure these components, we can review the 'AML' (Approved Manufacturer List) and 'AVL' (Approved Vendor List) tab to locate suppliers. For instance, if sourcing from the Americas, we may procure from Acme Fasteners or McMaster Car, while Asian-Pacific regions would have only Acme as an option, and European users would source from Fenol.

Insights into Usage and Assemblies

Next, we can see if the rivet is part of any existing products or assemblies. For example, this rivet is used on a snowmobile assembly, specifically in various hood configurations. Upon exploring the hood assembly, we can see a combination of mechanical and electrical components, particularly those related to the infotainment system in the snowmobile. The assembly breakdown includes sourcing statuses and supplier information for each component.

Taking one of the components, like a capacitor that is utilized 128 times in this assembly, users can review its corresponding manufacturing and vendor details. The capacitor stands out as it has multiple suppliers available, enhancing procurement flexibility.

Beyond identifying suppliers, Windchill offers visibility into all parts sourced from these vendors. For instance, there might be nine different components sourced from Texas Instruments. This information streamlines the decision-making process when creating new products or finding replacements for existing components from reliable suppliers.

Evaluating Risk with Sourcing

To elevate the sourcing process further, Windchill integrates with Silicon Expert, allowing users to assess risks associated with components based on lifecycle, sourcing compliance, and inventory levels. Upon accessing the Silicon Expert report for a printed circuit board (PCB) bill of materials (BOM), users can analyze potential risks among the identified parts.

Among 40 components in the BOM, 31 are matched in the Silicon Expert database. The report includes data on risk levels categorized from low to high, which is crucial for strategic sourcing decisions. Moreover, users can assess pricing, availability trends, and even download comprehensive reports in PDF format for offline viewing.

Finally, the Research tab within the Silicon Expert interface allows users to execute comprehensive searches across the entire database to locate specific components swiftly.

The functionalities demonstrated in this article illustrate how Windchill's component management capabilities facilitate effective parts classification and efficient supplier integration, thus enabling better decision-making and streamlined procurement processes.

Keywords

  • Windchill
  • Parts Classification
  • Supplier Integration
  • Classification Explorer
  • Sourcing Status
  • Anis Granta
  • Approved Manufacturer List (AML)
  • Approved Vendor List (AVL)
  • Risk Evaluation
  • Silicon Expert
  • Environmental Impact
  • Bill of Materials (BOM)

FAQ

Q: What is Windchill used for?
A: Windchill is a Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) system that manages and integrates various data related to product development, including parts classification, sourcing, and supplier management.

Q: How does the Classification Explorer work?
A: The Classification Explorer in Windchill allows users to navigate through pre-defined categories of components, applying filters to locate specific parts based on attributes when the part number or name is unknown.

Q: What is the benefit of integrating Anis Granta with Windchill?
A: Integrating Anis Granta provides detailed material information, enabling users to make more informed decisions regarding the sustainability and performance of components during the design phase.

Q: What tools can help assess risks associated with components?
A: Windchill integrates with Silicon Expert, allowing for risk evaluation based on lifecycle, sourcing compliance, and inventory status for parts in a Bill of Materials.

Q: Can users download reports from Silicon Expert?
A: Yes, users can generate and download comprehensive PDF reports that summarize the Bill of Materials, including risk assessments and sourcing information.

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