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Abstract
The National Shipbuilding Strategy set out a radical change in the way in which warships will be acquired and built in the UK. Simultaneously, technology has evolved rapidly especially in the fields of CAD/CAM, manufacturing automation, personal electronics and data processing techniques. These drivers, both political and technology, have led to the Type 31 Frigate programme - the Inspiration Class - being the pathfinder programme for modern world class shipbuilding in the UK.
These new technologies have significant impact across the construction value chain from design, engineering, manufacturing, assembly and commissioning, as well as lasting benefits that improve support through the platform's lifetime. The guiding vision for Babcock's digital transformation is to empower close collaboration between all disciplines by integrating processes and assuring continuity by sharing data between teams and systems. A single source of truth that permits effective re-use of digital data wherever it is needed unlocks efficiencies, increases productivity and secures profitability via data-driven processes and decision-making. To enable this, investment has been made in equipment, including robotics and automated panel and pace lines; in people to deliver digital manufacturing techniques and in systems to seamlessly delivery design information to the shop floor. This is the start of the Digital Thread and enables a strong digital foundation that follows the physical asset’s life into operation and support.
This paper will cover Babcock's experiences over the last 18 months, outlining the challenges and successes as well as the underlying philosophy in the development and implementation of the Digital Thread with a focus on Design & Build. The approach taken falls under these four headline categories: Skills and Engagement; System Architecture; Workflow and Data; and Process Automation.