PLM GLOSSARY

Relational Design

Relational design is a product development methodology based on the relationships (links) that are built either automatically or manually as product definition progresses. The technology behind PPR (the PPR hub) is the primary enabler for implementing relational design. In its most advanced form in CATIA, relational design can propagate changes automatically from business goals to object definitions.

For instance, an aircraft mission specification (maximum flight time) could be linked to the design specification (fuel capacity), which itself is related to the wing dimension. A change in flight time or fuel capacity could update the wingspan dimension and in turn the number of wing ribs and stringers and their geometry.