Version Control: Vault & PDM Integration

In professional engineering, data loss or outdated revisions are catastrophic. Edelweis utilizes a PDM Vault system to act as the "Single Source of Truth," enforcing a strict check-in/check-out environment where every byte of Intellectual Property is versioned and secured.

1. The "Vault" Architecture

Our PDM is a secure database managing relationships between complex CAD files and associated metadata:

Check-In/Out
Files are locked when an engineer is working on them, preventing overwriting conflicts.
Auto Versioning
Every Save creates a minor version; every Approval creates a major revision for instant roll-back.
Metadata Sync
Part numbers and material specs are automatically pushed from CAD to the BOM Structure.

2. Workflow State Management

State Permissions Engineering Goal
In-Work Lead Engineer (Write) Active design and FEA/CFD simulation.
Pending Review Reviewer (Read Only) Verification against Drawing Standards.
Released Locked (Read Only) Finalized data for Vendor Communication.
Obsolete Archived Preserving history while preventing shop floor use.

3. Change Traceability (The Audit Trail)

Every modification is recorded with a permanent "Digital Fingerprint":

  • Engineering Change Orders (ECO): Formal documentation of the who, why, and how of every revision to released parts.
  • Where-Used Tracking: Automated identification of every assembly using a specific component to prevent ripple effects.
  • Electronic Signatures: Permanent record of accountability for every member and role in the pipeline.

4. Secure External Collaboration

  • Automated TDP Export: Vault-triggered generation of TDP packages (PDF, STEP, DXF) upon reaching "Released" state.
  • Permissioned Portals: Giving clients view-only access to 3D models and QC Checklists without exposing raw source files.

Technical Directives

Directive Protocol
Zero Local Saving Saving files to local desktops is strictly prohibited; all work occurs in the Vault.
Mandatory Comments Every Check-In must include a summary of changes (e.g., "Updated per DFM feedback").
Reference Health The Vault must perform a "Broken Link" audit daily to ensure Master Modeling integrity.