PLMXML Export/Import in Teamcenter
Overview
PLMXML is a format used in Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems for exchanging
data. It's an XML-based format designed by Siemens to facilitate the sharing of product
information among different systems and organizations. In Teamcenter, a widely used PLM
software by Siemens, PLMXML is employed for exporting and importing data, enabling
seamless integration and data exchange.
What is PLMXML?
PLMXML stands for Product Lifecycle Management eXtensible Markup Language. It is a
schema designed to represent complex product data and metadata, including parts,
assemblies, documents, and relationships. PLMXML files are structured in a way that allows
them to capture and convey detailed product information in a standardized format.
Key Components of PLMXML
1. Part Definitions: Represent the individual components or assemblies in the product
structure.
2. Relationships: Define how parts and assemblies are connected.
3. Metadata: Includes attributes such as part numbers, descriptions, and lifecycle status.
4. Documents: Attachments or references to files associated with parts or assemblies.
Use Cases of PLMXML in Teamcenter
1. Data Exchange Between Systems: Exporting product data from Teamcenter to be
imported into another PLM system or CAD software.
2. Migration: Moving data from one Teamcenter instance to another, such as during
upgrades or organizational changes.
3. Backup and Restore: Exporting data as a backup and importing it when needed.
4. Collaboration: Sharing product information with suppliers, partners, or customers
who use different systems.
Exporting PLMXML in Teamcenter
Steps:
1. Select the Data: Identify the items, assemblies, or documents you want to export.
This can be done through the Teamcenter user interface.
2. Initiate Export: Use the export functionality in Teamcenter to generate a PLMXML
file. This typically involves choosing the export option from a menu and selecting
PLMXML as the format.
3. Configure Export Options: Set parameters such as the scope of the export (e.g.,
include linked documents, exclude certain attributes).
4. Generate PLMXML File: Teamcenter processes the selected data and creates the
PLMXML file, which can be saved to a specified location.
Example:
Suppose a company needs to share a complex assembly structure with a supplier. The steps
would be:
Navigate to the assembly in Teamcenter.
Select the assembly and any associated parts or documents.
Choose the export option and select PLMXML as the format.
Configure options to include all necessary metadata and relationships.
Save the generated PLMXML file and send it to the supplier.
Importing PLMXML in Teamcenter
Steps:
1. Prepare the PLMXML File: Obtain the PLMXML file from an external source,
ensuring it contains the necessary product data.
2. Initiate Import: Use the import functionality in Teamcenter, selecting PLMXML as
the format.
3. Configure Import Options: Specify how the data should be mapped to Teamcenter’s
data model, including handling of duplicates, missing attributes, and relationships.
4. Import Data: Teamcenter reads the PLMXML file and integrates the data into the
system, creating or updating parts, assemblies, and documents as needed.
Example:
A company receives a PLMXML file from a partner containing a new product design. The
steps to import this design would be:
Obtain the PLMXML file and ensure it’s correctly formatted.
Navigate to the import option in Teamcenter and select PLMXML.
Configure options to map the incoming data to the existing data model, addressing
potential conflicts or missing attributes.
Complete the import, resulting in the new product design being available within
Teamcenter.
Detailed Example: Exporting and Importing an Assembly
Scenario
A manufacturing company, ACME Corp., wants to export an assembly from their Teamcenter
system and share it with a supplier who will import it into their own Teamcenter instance.
Assembly Structure:
Assembly: Engine
o Part 1: Piston
o Part 2: Cylinder
o Document: Assembly Instructions
Export Process
1. Select the Assembly: The user navigates to the "Engine" assembly in Teamcenter.
2. Initiate Export: The user selects the export option and chooses PLMXML as the
format.
3. Configure Options: The user ensures that all parts (Piston, Cylinder) and associated
documents (Assembly Instructions) are included.
4. Generate PLMXML File: Teamcenter processes the request and creates a PLMXML
file named Engine_Assembly.plmxml.
Import Process
1. Prepare the PLMXML File: The supplier receives the Engine_Assembly.plmxml file
from ACME Corp.
2. Initiate Import: The supplier navigates to the import option in their Teamcenter
system and selects PLMXML.
3. Configure Options: The supplier maps the data from the PLMXML file to their
Teamcenter data model, ensuring that parts and documents are correctly integrated.
4. Import Data: Teamcenter reads the PLMXML file and creates the "Engine"
assembly, along with its parts and documents, in the supplier’s Teamcenter instance.
Benefits of PLMXML in Teamcenter
Interoperability: Facilitates data exchange between different systems, enhancing
collaboration.
Standardization: Ensures consistent representation of product data across platforms.
Efficiency: Reduces the time and effort required for data migration, backup, and
sharing.
Data Integrity: Maintains the relationships and attributes of product data during
export and import processes.
Conclusion
PLMXML export and import in Teamcenter enable efficient and standardized data exchange,
crucial for collaboration, migration, and integration in modern manufacturing environments.
By leveraging PLMXML, organizations can ensure seamless interoperability, maintain data
integrity, and streamline their product lifecycle management processes.
