Integration of Downstream Actors in the Design Process Using a Dedicated Expert CAD Tool for Forged Parts

This paper presents a new approach for integrating downstream activities of forged part design in a concurrent engineering con text. We show how a CAD application, integrating specific know-how, can enable co-design between the different actors involved. We develop two dimensions of activity, i.e., a technical aspect and a human aspect. On the technical side, we present the application structure and the un derlying mechanical models. On the human side we draw mainly from our industrial experience in the field of forging. This led us to build two models of the design phase. These models are illustrated by two typical case studies. We then show how the design of closed die parts can be distributed among three main actors. These actors are: the design actor, the manufacturing actor and the forging actor. They can be lo cated in the same company, or in different departments or located in distant companies. From this model, using two scenarios, we show how our tool can improve the design process and facilitate the exchanges between the different actors. We then show how a specific forging ori ented CAD application can function as a coordination tool in the design process of forged parts. It is a mediator of this activity, carrying spe cific information and allowing different actors to access specific knowledge and impose their own constraints on the product.