Swiss-based isotec uses Siemen PLM Software’s NX CAD software and Teamcenter software for product data management. The company is collaborating with scientists on the ETurn spine implant, a replacement for damaged spinal discs.
After creating the first designs in NX and preparing static-mechanical calculations with the ANSYS Workbench platform using STL file format data, icotec delivered prototypes using the laser sintering method for an evaluation by a surgical team. Concurrently, surgical operating tools were designed. According to Ramon Huppi, icotec project manager, “Due to the synchronous technology of NX, we have more possibilities to move surfaces and define manufacturing-ready roundings.” For example, different sizes and modifications for the cervical spine resulted in a large project family. The tool design team compensates for this variety using an efficient inlay technique. Huppi added, “For tool manufacturing, we send a Parasolid file to our service provider who uses it as a starting point for the programming.”
Once the first genuine samples are made using one of icotec’s CFM machines, the approval tests can be conducted. Static and dynamic tests as well as studies under compression, torsion, or shear are performed by external labs in up to five million cycles. Changes are done quickly using synchronous technology.
Teamcenter handles all aspects of part management. This includes controlled check-in and check-out directly in the CAD system and searching for precursors, revision status, and handling a comprehensive and daily drawing management process for the development team.
In the future, the company plans to use special Teamcenter capabilities to support the approval processes for the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In addition, the company plans to start leveraging the powerful data organization functionality to streamline the management of more than 30 years of aircraft spare part inventories and warranty obligations.
Siemens PLM Software
