Software keeps secure PDF records

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Feb 11, 2008

Revised drawings trigger revisions in MasterControl which pushes the metadata and drawing file from the PDMWorks solution to updated MasterControl InfoCards.

MasterControl has released a connector for MasterControl and the PDMWorks product data management solution from SolidWorks.

The interface with PDMWorks allows collaboration and red lining on PDF versions of SolidWorks drawings while insuring that the PDF copies in the MasterControl document control system stay in sync with the native files in the PDMWorks solution.

"The MasterControl PDMWorks connector facilitates the secure handling of complex CAD files and helps companies in regulated environments overcome common product data management challenges", said Matthew Lowe, MasterControl Product Manager, Medical Device Expert.

"The automated routing and approval made possible by MasterControl's interface improves workflow functionality and allows effective, seamless management of CAD files in conjunction with PDMWorks".

MasterControl's easy to use system manages and tracks the creation, modification and archiving of all information relating to a product.

The interface provides users with straightforward means of applying document control to CAD data without forcing designers to use a nonnative application for managing CAD files.

CAD files are maintained by the native PDMWorks software system while MasterControl creates PDF copies for official document control purposes such as routing, approval and production.

Users across an organisation - even those who lack detailed knowledge of the CAD package - can red line and collaborate on drawings using nothing more than Adobe Reader.

Collaboration leaders can make the necessary modifications using the native CAD application.

The MasterControl system then automatically publishes a new PDF file reflecting the changes made.

MasterControl provides continuous and automatic monitoring for new and revised released-state drawings in the PDMWorks solution.

The system publishes a PDF main file for each new drawing using the metadata from the PDMWorks solution.

Similarly, revised drawings trigger revisions in MasterControl which pushes the metadata and drawing file from the PDMWorks solution to updated MasterControl InfoCards.

InfoCards are created for each new and revised drawing at a user-defined state in the PDMWorks solution, automating the publishing process and allowing drawings to be routed for collaboration and approval.

The InfoCards also support custom field data that can be directly passed from the PDMWorks software system.

When the link between MasterControl and the PDMWorks software system is initialised, the system automatically synchronises packets of files until there are no more files requiring synchronisation.

The MasterControl system can also be manually synchronised and still identify and rectify any gaps that may exist.

If missing metadata in the PDM system causes the transfer process to fail, the MasterControl system automatically notifies assignable users.

MasterControl's PDMWorks connector fosters an effective communication environment and helps maintain regulatory compliance by ensuring that data is kept consistent between systems.

MasterControl also features electronic signature capabilities, time-stamped audit trails, dual passwords for document approval and password certification, expiration and encryption.

MasterControl's PDMWorks solution works seamlessly with MasterControl BOM to provide a cohesive organisational structure throughout the design and manufacturing processes.