Ford Builds the Mclaren MP4-12

[Xcentric]

^^^ They did build a full size clay/foam model to make sure it looked right.

 

[nota4re]

I'd like to know what kind of compute complex they have since eventually all of these models have to come together in one huge model.

We've been systematically tackling this "large model" problem since working together with Mulally (then Boeing) when together we took the challenge to do the entire Boeing 777 digitally (approximately 1991.) Every commercial aircraft from Boeing (and Airbus) have been done using our software since that time. The 05/06 GT was the first car program Ford took with CATIA. Having been a success, all new Ford vehicle programs since the GT are also using CATIA for design authoring. In the video preceding the announcement - there were several quick screenshots of the new GT in CATIA. We brought the 787 Dreamliner together into a single unified model...... no problem for the comparatively simpler Ford GT!

 

[texas mongrel]

I worked with a Chinese shipyard that used CATIA to design and build an offshore oil rig. The program allows a single model to be used for design, material lists, construction drawings, global analysis, CFD etc etc. I think Toyota was the first auto company to employ it? all very clever until you try and input other software(e.g. When some of the work has been subcontracted out), then it falls over. Probably Ford does everything in-house so this glitch didn't show up.