The purpose of this paper is to show with figures the potentialities of knowledge-based engineering (KBE) methods in newproduct development (NPD). It estimates the business value generated by a tool which integrates the handoff between engineering groups of a large aerospace company. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is based on three years of observation and interviews at a leading Italian firm. A process-based approach is used for assessing business value. Findings – The KBE application automated the preparation of data transferred to computer-aided engineering engineers for analysis by computer-aided design engineers and reduced the time required by more than 90 percent. This allowed time savings which contributed to enhance product quality. Research limitations/implications – The paper is based on a single case, though its findings are consistent with prior studies. Future research will implement like applications in other contexts at the subject firm and other firms. Practical implications – The paper helpsmanagers to understand the uses and potential value ofKBE applications, enhancing the awareness of NPD practitioners in a field which is still partially untapped. Originality/value – The paper combines discussion of the technical aspects of implementing a KBE tool with estimates of performance improvement achieved. It can be a useful illustration of a good practice and a proof-of-concept for further implementations in complex engineering settings.
Enhancing Product Development through Knowledge Based Engineering (KBE): A Case Study in the Aerospace Industry
CORALLO, Angelo;MARGHERITA, ALESSANDRO;
2009-01-01
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to show with figures the potentialities of knowledge-based engineering (KBE) methods in newproduct development (NPD). It estimates the business value generated by a tool which integrates the handoff between engineering groups of a large aerospace company. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is based on three years of observation and interviews at a leading Italian firm. A process-based approach is used for assessing business value. Findings – The KBE application automated the preparation of data transferred to computer-aided engineering engineers for analysis by computer-aided design engineers and reduced the time required by more than 90 percent. This allowed time savings which contributed to enhance product quality. Research limitations/implications – The paper is based on a single case, though its findings are consistent with prior studies. Future research will implement like applications in other contexts at the subject firm and other firms. Practical implications – The paper helpsmanagers to understand the uses and potential value ofKBE applications, enhancing the awareness of NPD practitioners in a field which is still partially untapped. Originality/value – The paper combines discussion of the technical aspects of implementing a KBE tool with estimates of performance improvement achieved. It can be a useful illustration of a good practice and a proof-of-concept for further implementations in complex engineering settings.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
