VDA Simplified CAD Drawing

Supersedes VDA 4953 Part 1: 1999-12 and Part 2: 2002-12
“CAD/CAM” Working Party

VDA “Drawing-free Product Documentation in Automotive Industry” Working Group 4953
Simplified CAD Drawing
This recommendation describes the transition from conventional to simplified drawings. It provides
a means of transferring informational content which is traditionally contained in drawings to the 3D
CAD model or to external files or databases.
Product descriptions found in modern drawings are reduced to a minimum. The totality of the
master data found in the drawings consisting of automotive-industry-typical product descriptions is
divided into an industry-recommended master data sheet and company-defined master data. It
describes how this information removed from the drawing can be standardised and structured in a
master data sheet to enable clear access and data transfer. Comments are also included on the
usability of suitable data formats, and recommendations on various applications are made using
examples.
The main purpose of this guideline is to ensure that text descriptions which are currently
presented via the medium of drawings are made available to product data management systems
as electronically processible content. Technical directives, test specifications, normative
references and descriptions of technical revisions over the product life cycle are also dealt with.
By defining the master data sheet, this recommendation has created a basic structure which will
better enable the automotive industry to meet the constantly growing requirements with regard to
statutory regulations and product liability in future through the use of product data management
systems. Furthermore, it will be possible to minimise the extra input required for the parallel
maintenance of product information in drawings and in the product data management system and
to improve data consistency.
The recommendation deals with the following subject areas:
• Structuring of product data in master data sheet, simplified drawing and 3D model
• Minimum content of 3D CAD model, simplified drawing and master data sheet
• Extent of dimensioning on simplified drawings.
• Treatment of technical directives, specifications, normative references
• Company-defined master data
• Possibility of maintaining master data for several companies simultaneously
• Descriptions of revisions
• Dealing with multilingual master data
• Conformity of master data sheet to STEP AP 214
• Handling of existing standards and archiving
VDA “CAD/CAM” Working Party: Audi, Becker Group, Behr, BMW, Bosch, Brose, Continental, Continental Teves, DaimlerChrysler,
Delphi Deutschland GmbH, Flachglas, Ford, Freudenberg, Hella, Iveco, Johnson Controls, Karmann, Keiper, Mahle Filtersysteme,
Kostal, Krupp Bilstein, Küster, Lucas, MAN, Mannesmann- Sachs, Mannesmann- VDO, Opel, Pierburg, Porsche, Sekurit, Siemens,
Volkswagen, Wabco, Webasto, ZF Friedrichshafen
Published by: Copyright:
German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) Reproduction, in whole or in part, is only
Westendstrasse 61 permitted with the prior approval of the
Postfach 17 05 63 publisher.
D-60079 Frankfurt / M., Germany
Tel. +49 (0)69/97507-283
Fax +49 (0)69/97507-300
VDA Recommendation 4953 -2-
1 Foreword _______________________________________________________ 3
2 Scope __________________________________________________________ 3
3 General _________________________________________________________ 3
4 Product presentation via 3D CAD model, simplified drawing and master data
sheet ______________________________________________________________ 5
5 Minimum content and execution ____________________________________ 7
5.1 Execution of 3D CAD model __________________________________________ 7
5.2 Minimum content of master data sheet _________________________________ 8
5.3 Minimum content and execution of simplified CAD drawing _______________ 8
6 Definition of master data attributes to VDA 4953 _______________________ 9
6.1 Definition of generally applicable attributes _____________________________ 9
6.2 Definition of company-defined attributes ______________________________ 15
7 Structure of the master data sheet _________________________________ 15
7.1 Content of the master data sheet _____________________________________ 16
7.2 Multiple occurrences of keywords ____________________________________ 17
7.3 Revision description _______________________________________________ 18
8 Use of master data sheet _________________________________________ 19
8.1 Output options and data exchange ___________________________________ 19
8.2 Handling of existing standards and archiving __________________________ 19
9 XML syntax of master data sheet to VDA 4953________________________ 20
9.1 Elements of an XML master data sheet ________________________________ 21
9.2 Examples of entries in XML file ______________________________________ 23
9.3 Revision descriptions in master data sheet ____________________________ 24
9.3.1 Description of revision of master data sheet ___________________________________24
9.3.2 Revisions of simplified drawing in master data sheet_____________________________25
9.3.3 Description of revision of 3D CAD model in master data sheet _____________________26
10 Example of drawing simplification in accordance with VDA 4953 ______ 27
11 Comparison of VDA 4953 XML format with STEP____________________ 37
12 Conclusion and prospects ______________________________________ 37
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1 Foreword
Different versions of reduced or simplified drawing records are currently in everyday use in the
industry. This recommendation describes the transition from conventional to simplified
drawings taking account of the points listed.
It provides a means of transferring informational content which is traditionally contained in
drawings to the 3D CAD model or to external files or databases.
PDM (product data management) systems are becoming increasingly popular in the industry.
However, a wealth of information (e.g. texts) without any direct reference to geometry is still
being managed in drawings and therefore entails a relatively large amount of work if it is to be
transferred to other computer systems. It is recommended that organisational master data and
design features relating to the part as a whole be moved to separate files, databases or
product management systems, meaning they are no longer an integral part of the 3D model
and drawing. The points listed in this guideline should be observed. The management of this
product data in any PDM systems used and system-neutral data exchange are guaranteed as
a result.
If no PDM system is yet in use in the companies, switching to VDA 4953 is a suitable means of
paving the way for the future introduction of a PDM system.
The more complex the part geometry, the more beneficial a 3D CAD model is. Drawing
geometry is derived solely from the 3D CAD model. This data has to be retrieved from the 3D
model. All main and functional dimensions, dimensions with a stated tolerance and data with
reference to part geometry are presented as hitherto in a drawing.
This recommendation has been drawn up by the ‘Drawing-free Product Documentation in
Automotive Industry’ working group of the VDA CAD/CAM working party.
2 Scope
This recommendation applies where 3D CAD models are used for documenting parts from
which drawings are derived and if text information, unlike in a conventional drawing, is
removed, separately managed and exchanged in order to document parts.
Parts within the meaning of this recommendation include individual parts and assemblies.
This recommendation deals with drawings for production parts, not drawings describing tooling
or production processes.
3 General
By contrast with traditional technical drawings the simplified drawing alone does not fully
describe the part.
The product description in accordance with this recommendation consists of:
• 3D CAD model
• Simplified drawing according to VDA 4953
• Master data sheet according to VDA 4953
The dimensioning in the simplified drawing should be “production- and testing-compliant”. NC
planning systems now use the 3D CAD model as the basis for programming. Consequently,
the fully dimensioned description of the part shape and design in the drawing is no longer
appropriate. It is more or less impossible with free-form geometry.
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The simplified drawing, therefore, contains no general dimensioning of the geometry. On

specific parts it is acceptable to deviate from this rule for the process chain with the agreement
of all relevant departments.
The simplified drawing now only contains the text information which is necessary to permit
general understanding and identification of the part. All other text information is managed in a
master data sheet.
The term “master data” is used to mean all non-geometric data which relates to the overall part
and is of a design or organisational nature.
The master data sheet can be managed in a separate file or database system and viewed
using a suitable viewer. It refers to the relevant 3D CAD model and the associated simplified
drawing. It can contain the revision description and complete revision history. If required, the
relevant data can be output in hardcopy form.
Since the master data sheet can be specified by version, all the documents forming part of the
product description can be clearly identified at any time. It is possible to define company-
specific master data, manage master data multilingually and present it in parallel for different
companies.
The complete description of the part which is binding for release purposes requires the
combination of the simplified drawing with the relevant three-dimensional data record (3D CAD
model) and the master data sheet, see Fig. 3-1.
The procedure described with a master data sheet can also be applied in principle without the
presence of a 3D model.
Master data
sheet 3D CAD
model
• Viewing
Simplified
File/database • Data exchange
CAD drawing
• Data processing
• Archiving
PDM system
Fig. 3-1: Presentation of product data by combining the simplified drawing with the relevant
three-dimensional data record (3D CAD model) and the master data sheet
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4 Product presentation via 3D CAD model, simplified drawing and

master data sheet
Within the process chain from creation to completion the 3D CAD model is the guiding
geometric description (digital master), while the master data sheet is the guiding description of
non-geometric data.
The simplified drawing retains the information with a direct reference to the part geometry (e.g.
dimensions with a special tolerance or features which describe only partial areas of the part
geometry).
The 3D CAD model is modelled completely as a surface or solid model.
It must be ensured that the master data sheet, the 3D CAD model and the simplified drawing
can be exchanged, viewed and consistently maintained with regard to all revisions throughout
the process chain. This includes the possibility of conversions.
All valid drawing and release guidelines, standards and CAD standards must be observed in
the creation, revision, documentation and release of the simplified drawing, the 3D CAD
models and the master data sheet.
Redundant information must be avoided. Where this is not possible, the information contained
in the 3D CAD model, simplified drawing and master data sheet must be identical.
In the case of a change of hardware or software it is essential to ensure that the existing
product data is still fully readable and can be analysed. Archiving must comply with the
requirements of DIN 6789-6.
The table below, based on DIN 6789, shows the changes compared to conventional drawings
with respect to the characteristics of the part to be described (Table 4-1).
It is possible to exchange this data – also separately from the CAD model – irrespective of the
system used via the VDA 4953 XML format (see section 9).
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Terms from DIN Conventional drawing VDA 4953

6789, Simplified drawing, 3D CAD model and
Part 2 master data sheet
Part characteristics -------------------------------------------------------->
Form/shape Description of Views, sections, details (possibly Fully modelled in 3D CAD model (solid or
geometry, views, obtained from 3D CAD model) surface model), dimensionally accurate to
sections, details nominal dimensions. 3D CAD model is
guiding geometric description.
Views, sections, details derived solely

from 3D CAD model. Transparent mode,
if appropriate. Fixed view layout.
Uses increasingly spatial views.
Position Position of items Presentation of assembly drawing using = conventional drawing
projected views, sections, details (if nec.,
in co-ordinate system / vehicle grid) 3D assembly drawing, DMU
Dimensions Dimension line, Part completely described using In drawing: main/functional dimensions
subsidiary line, dimensioned presentations in views, and dimensions which have to be
dimension figure sections, details specifically tolerated.
Tolerances Geometric Information using projected views, = conventional drawing
dimensioning and sections, details, if nec. dimension figure
tolerancing
General tolerances In title block Separate file/database*
Organisational Company, copyright In title block / frame of drawing Separate file/database*
master data notice,
document number, Note referring to current 3D data record.
release status, date Note “Simplified drawing to VDA 4953”
of issue, created by,
checked by, data
processing key, ID
number, name, title
Design master data Unit, weight, quantity, In title block / frame of drawing Separate file/database*
relating to overall material, hardness,
part tempering, material
treatment, semi-
finished product,
surface treatment,
coating,
aftertreatment,
surface finish
Revisions: Revision index Revision index on geometry in views, = conventional drawing;
identification on sections, details also indication of 3D co-ordinates
geometry
Revisions: Revision index Revision table in title block or separately, Separate file/database*
description reference via revision index
Notes and Technical As text in drawing Separate file/database*
instructions relating specification, supply
to part specification,
technical directives,
company standard
Characteristics, Material, hardness, As text with reference to geometry in = conventional drawing
notes and technical tempering, material projected views, sections, details
directives relating treatment, surface
to geometry treatment, coating,
aftertreatment,
surface finish,
technical
specification,
company standard,
parts identification,
technical directives
Table 4-1: Overview of drawing simplification in accordance with VDA 4953
* ) Note:
“Separate file/database“ also includes the option for storing this data in the CAD model or in a
PDM system.
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5 Minimum content and execution
5.1 Execution of 3D CAD model

Models are to be created in the form of solid or surface models.
In general, wire frame models are not a suitable means of providing complete documentation.
VDA guideline 4955 must be met in respect of data quality.
It is possible to reduce the geometry of required connecting or assembly faces to the mating
surfaces.
The part is presented complete and dimensionally accurate (nominal dimensions). That means
all shaped elements such as angled surfaces, fillets, holes and ribs must be shown. Threads
and teeth are not produced in the model but are shown in the simplified drawing.
In the case of thin-walled parts of even thickness, e.g. parts made of sheet metal, it is
sufficient to show one side as a surface model. In this case, the material side must be
identified in the 3D CAD model, e.g. by showing a line with length = 100 x material thickness
perpendicular to the surface (Fig. 5-1) or by an offset curve at a distance from the surface
equivalent to the material thickness (Fig. 5-2).
Fig. 5-1: Line of length = 100 x material thickness
Fig. 5-2: Offset curve
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5.2 Minimum content of master data sheet

The master data sheet must contain at least the following data. The keywords are described in
paragraph 6.1 below:
• Owner (company name) / company: OWNER
• ID number of master data sheet: MASTER_DATA_SHEET_ID_NUMBER
• Revision level of master data sheet: MASTER_DATA_SHEET_REVISION _LEVEL
• Created by: MASTER_DATA_SHEET_CREATED_BY
• Date of issue: MASTER_DATA_SHEET_DATE_OF_ISSUE
• Responsible person: MASTER_DATA_ SHEET_APPROVED_BY
• Part number: PART_NUMBER
• Name / part: PART_NAME
• Part revision level: PART_REVISION_LEVEL
• Tolerancing principle: TOLERANCING_PRINCIPLE
• Unit system used: UNIT_SYSTEM
• ID number of 3D CAD model MODEL_3D_ID_NUMBER
• Revision level of 3D CAD model MODEL_3D_REVISION_LEVEL
• ID number of simplified drawing: SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_ID_NUMBER
• Revision level of simplified drawing: SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_REVISION_LEVEL
• Language: LANGUAGE, in event of multilingual sheet
5.3 Minimum content and execution of simplified CAD drawing

The simplified drawing to VDA 4953 must contain at least the following data, where this is
required to enable the part to be understood:
• One view, isometric if necessary
• Further projected views and sections, if required
• Drawing frame with title block
• Main dimensions, functional dimensions and toleranced dimensions
• Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing
• Owner (company name) / company
• Date of issue
• ID number of simplified drawing
• ID number of master data sheet or reference to master data sheet with same number
• Note “Simplified drawing according to VDA 4953” (translated, if necessary)
• Revision level of simplified drawing
The simplified drawing must be produced in accordance with the following requirements:
• The geometry of the drawing is completely derived from the 3D CAD model.
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• The drawing is prepared in accordance with ISO standards.

• The simplified drawing has a drawing frame and a title block which is reduced when
compared with a conventional drawing.
• The content of the drawing shall allow an assessment in principle of the part by showing
toleranced main and functional dimensions and, if appropriate, the position of the part in
the system of co-ordinates.
• Apart from the above, only those dimensions should be marked which are a specific
tolerance requirement for the part.
• Stepped sections should be avoided (section drawings only in one plane).
• All geometric revisions shall be carried out in the 3D CAD model.
6 Definition of master data attributes according to VDA 4953
6.1 Definition of generally applicable attributes

Table 6-1 below contains the definitions of the attributes which could be found as texts in
drawings to date and which will in future be shown in the master data sheet and may be
exchanged. DIN 6789-2, ISO 7200-1 and 2 standards and company-specific documents of
collaborating companies were used to select the attributes.
Unique English keywords are assigned to the attributes in Table 6-1. The importance of
machine readability was stressed.
Table 6-1 has been divided into the following sections to ensure clarity:
• Organisational attributes
• Part attributes
• 3D CAD model attributes
• Simplified drawing attributes
• Revision order attributes
The ability to identify the part, 3D CAD model, master data sheet and drawing by means of
different ID numbers and revision levels ensures that documents which belong together can be
managed irrespective of the numbering and data storage systems.
The “Title block” and “Master data sheet” columns describe where the master data is
displayed. These columns show whether the entries in the master record sheet or the title
block of the simplified drawing are
• mandatory (m) or
• optional (op) or
• not (- = not) listed
The “Occurrences per company” column contains information on whether an attribute within a
master data sheet relating to a company can occur
• once (1)
• never (0) or
• any number of times (n)
(see paragraph 7.2).
Irrespective of this, even an attribute which may only occur once in the master data sheet may
occur translated into multiple languages.
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VDA Recommendation 4953 - 10 -
The “Multilingual” column marks the attributes whose content may be multilingual.
Occurrences per company

Attribute Keyword Definition
Bold = attributes which are mandatory
in the master data sheet or simplified
Master data sheet

drawing
Multilingual
Title block
Organisational attributes
Owner (company name) / OWNER m m 1 - Name of organisation which owns
company document (simplified drawing, 3D CAD
model and master data sheet)
Also indicates what is binding in event of
entries for several companies in cases of
doubt
Copyright notice COPYRIGHT op op 1 op Description of type of copyright
protection.
Project PROJECT - op 1 op Project identification in accordance with
owner’s specification
Work order number WORK_ORDER_NUMBER - op 1 - Number of design order in accordance
with owner’s specification
Language LANGUAGE - m 1 - Mandatory attribute with multilingual
content in master data sheet. Identifies
binding language in cases of doubt.
ID number of master data MASTER_DATA_SHEET_ m m 1 - Clear identification of master data sheet
sheet ID_NUMBER *) in accordance with owner’s coding
system
*) Only mandatory in text block if different
ID numbers are used for simplified
drawing and master data sheet
Revision level of master data MASTER_DATA_SHEET_ op m 1 - Clear identification of revision level of
sheet REVISION_LEVEL master data sheet in accordance with
owner’s coding system
Created by MASTER_DATA_SHEET_ - m 1 - Name of person who created master data

CREATED_BY sheet (must be specified for each
company)
Date of issue MASTER_DATA_SHEET_ - m 1 - Date on which master data sheet was
DATE_OF_ISSUE issued (must be specified for each
company). It is recommended that date
on which product data was first defined in
master data sheet be specified.
Replaces MASTER_DATA_SHEET_ - op 1 - ID number of master data sheet replaced
REPLACES by this one (in accordance with owner’s
specification)
Replaced by MASTER_DATA_SHEET_ - op 1 - ID number of master data sheet by which
REPLACED_BY this one was replaced (in accordance with
owner’s specification)
Department MASTER_DATA_SHEET_ - op 1 - Department in which master data sheet
CREATED_BY_DEPARTMENT was created
Responsible person MASTER_DATA_SHEET_ - m 1 - Name of person responsible for content
APPROVED_BY and updating of master data sheet
Responsible MASTER_DATA_SHEET_ - op 1 - Name of department responsible for
APPROVED_BY_DEPARTMENT content and updating of master data
department/department in sheet
control
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Master data sheet

drawing
Multilingual
Title block
Release status MASTER_DATA_SHEET_ - op 1 op Release status in conjunction with
RELEASED_STATUS (revision) level of specified master data
sheet
Released by MASTER_DATA_SHEET_ - op 1 - Name of person releasing master data
RELEASED_BY sheet
Release date MASTER_DATA_SHEET_ - op 1 - Date on which master data sheet was
RELEASED_DATE released
Checked by MASTER_DATA_SHEET_ - op 1 - Name of person(s) who checked content
CHECKED_BY and updating of master data sheet (must
be specified for each company)
Part attributes
Part number PART_NUMBER op m 1 - Clear identification of part in accordance
with owner’s coding system
Name / part PART_NAME op m 1 op Part name in one or more words
Part revision level PART_REVISION_LEVEL op m 1 - Clear identification of revision level of

physical part in accordance with owner’s
coding system
Tolerancing principle TOLERANCING_PRINCIPLE - m 1 - Principle of relationship between
dimensional tolerances (linear and
angular dimensions) and geometric
dimensioning and tolerancing
General tolerances GENERAL_TOLERANCES - op 1 - Value of general tolerances which have to
be used if no tolerances are specified with
dimensions
Treatment TREATMENT - op n op “Treatment” covers heat treatment,
paintwork, etching, tempering, hardness,
material treatment, surface treatment,
colour, pattern, coating, aftertreatment
etc.
Surface protection SURFACE_PROTECTION - op 1 op Identification of surface protection used
Calculated weight (g) WEIGHT_CALCULATED - op 1 - Value and unit of weight (mass) of object
shown, determined by calculating volume,
multiplied by density of material of which
object is made
Measured production weight (g) WEIGHT_FINAL - op 1 - Value and unit of weight (mass) of object
shown for production status, determined
in weighing trials
Measured prototype weight (g) WEIGHT_PROTOTYPE - op 1 - Weight determined in weighing trials of
prototype parts (not yet production status)
Semi-finished product SEMI_FINISHED_PRODUCT - op 1 op Semi-finished product specification. Semi-
finished products are: rolled, forged,
drawn, pressed or otherwise
manufactured profile sections, bars, rods,
tubes, wires, sheets, plates, panels, coils,
strips, foils and similar product forms
Unit system used UNIT_SYSTEM - m 1 - Indication of unit system applicable to
design, e.g. SI
Surface PAINT_SURFACE - op 1 - Size (figure and unit) of surface area of
part shown intended to be painted (End-
of-Life Vehicles Order).
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Master data sheet

drawing
Multilingual
Title block
Technical directive TECHNICAL_DIRECTIVE - op n op Technical directive relating to handling,
production, assembly, testing, transport,
use etc. of product
Technical specification TECHNICAL_SPECIFICATION - op n op Details of specified product properties
e.g. embodiments, test properties,
permitted and non-permitted product
constituents etc.
Reference REFERENCE - op n - Reference to other
standards/specifications, e.g.
ISO/DIN/ANSI standards, company
standards, test requirements etc.
Material MATERIAL - op 1 op Identification of material from which object
shown is manufactured
Material number ID_NUMBER_MATERIAL - op 1 - ID number of stated material
General surface roughness SURFACE_ROUGHNESS op op 1 op Values of surface roughness if no other

values are stated
*) *)
*) Character set for presenting roughness
symbols unavailable at present! Instead,
use word-based description, e.g. Rz 10,
no machining permissible. Consequently,
multilingual also
3D CAD model attributes

ID number of 3D CAD model MODEL_3D_ID_NUMBER op M 1 - Clear identification of 3D CAD model in
accordance with owner’s coding system
Revision level of 3D CAD MODEL_3D_REVISION_LEVEL op M 1 - Clear identification of revision level of 3D
model CAD model in accordance with owner’s
coding system
Created by MODEL_3D_CREATED_BY - op 1 - Name of person who created 3D CAD
model (must be specified for each
company)
Date of issue MODEL_3D_DATE_OF_ISSUE - op 1 - Date on which 3D CAD model was issued
(must be specified for each company).
Replaces MODEL_3D_REPLACES - op 1 - ID number of 3D CAD model replaced by
this one (in accordance with owner’s
specification)
Replaced by MODEL_3D_REPLACED_BY - op 1 - ID number of 3D CAD model by which
this one was replaced (in accordance with
Department MODEL_3D_ - op 1 - Department in which 3D CAD model was
CREATED_BY_DEPARTMENT created
Responsible person MODEL_3D_APPROVED_BY - op 1 - Name of person responsible for content
and updating of 3D CAD model
Responsible MODEL_3D_ - op 1 - Name of department responsible for
APPROVED_BY_DEPARTMENT content and updating of 3D CAD model
department/department in
control
Release status MODEL_3D_RELEASED_STATUS - op 1 op Release status in conjunction with
(revision) level of specified 3D CAD
model
Released by MODEL_3D_RELEASED_BY - op 1 - Name of person releasing 3D CAD model
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Master data sheet

drawing
Multilingual
Title block
Release date MODEL_3D_RELEASED_DATE - op 1 - Date on which 3D CAD model was
released
Checked by MODEL_3D_CHECKED_BY - op 1 - Name of person(s) who checked content
and updating of 3D CAD model (must be
specified for each company)
Name and version of CAD MODEL_3D_CAD_SYSTEM - op 1 - Details of (CAD) system with relevant
system version used to create 3D CAD model
Simplified drawing attributes

ID number of simplified SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_ m m 1 - Clear identification of simplified drawing in
drawing ID_NUMBER accordance with owner’s coding system
Revision level of simplified SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_ m m 1 - Clear identification of revision level of
drawing REVISION_LEVEL simplified drawing in accordance with
owner’s coding system
Created by SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_ op op 1 - Name of person who created simplified
CREATED_BY drawing (must be specified for each
company)
Date of issue SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_ m op 1 - Date on which simplified drawing was
DATE_OF_ISSUE issued (must be specified for each
company)
Replaces SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_ - op 1 - ID number of simplified drawing (e.g. old,
REPLACES conventional drawing) which was
replaced by this one (in accordance with
Replaced by SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_ - op 1 - ID number of simplified drawing by which
REPLACED_BY this one was replaced (in accordance with
Department SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_ - op 1 - Department in which simplified drawing
CREATED_BY_DEPARTMENT was created
Responsible person SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_ op op 1 - Name of person responsible for content
APPROVED_BY and updating of simplified drawing
Responsible SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_ - op 1 - Name of department responsible for
APPROVED_BY_DEPARTMENT content and updating of simplified
department/department in drawing
control
Release status SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_ op op 1 op Release status in conjunction with
RELEASED_STATUS (revision) level of specified simplified
drawing
Released by SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_ - op 1 - Name of person releasing simplified
REPLACED_BY drawing
Release date SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_ - op 1 - Date on which simplified drawing was
RELEASED_DATE released
Checked by SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_ - op 1 - Name of person(s) who checked content
CHECKED_BY and updating of simplified drawing (must
be specified for each company)
Name and version of CAD SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_ - op 1 - Details of (CAD) system with relevant
system CAD_SYSTEM version used to create simplified drawing
Number of sheets SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_ op op 1 - Total number of sheets of which simplified
NUMBER_OF_SHEETS drawing is composed
Sheet number op - 0 - Identification of sheet in drawing
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Master data sheet

drawing
Multilingual
Title block
Scale m - 0 - Ratio of linear dimensions of object
shown to object’s actual linear
dimensions. DIN ISO 5455
Projection method op - 0 - Rules for deriving two-dimensional view
of three-dimensional object
Drawing format op - 0 - Format of relevant sheet size
Revision order attributes

Revision of master data sheet MASTER_DATA_SHEET_REVISION - op n op Describes revision of organisational
attributes or part attributes
Revision of 3D CAD model MODEL_3D_REVISION - op n op Describes revision of 3D CAD model
Revision of simplified drawing SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_REVISION - op n op Describes revision of simplified drawing
Table 6-1: Definition and use of master data attributes and their keywords
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6.2 Definition of company-defined attributes

It is desirable, though not essential, for the companies to adopt the attributes defined in Table
6-1 “as is”. What was considered more important, however, was to convert the attributes used
to date within the companies to keywords in accordance with VDA 4953, provided conversion
is possible while retaining the meaning. This conversion is carried out before the master data
sheet is forwarded to a development partner. Conversely, the keywords contained in a master
data sheet are converted back into in-house attributes on receipt of the sheet. Conversion
tables are established at the participating companies which specify which in-house attributes
are converted into which keywords to VDA 4953 and vice versa (Fig. 6-1).
Company A Company B
conversion into
A´s Master data sheet conversion into B´s
keywords according to
inhouse terms according B´s inhouse terms inhouse terms
VDA 4953
VDA 4953
A´s B´s
conversion table conversion table
Fig. 6-1: Conversion of VDA 4953 attributes to in-house attributes

If it is not possible to convert an in-house attribute and retain the meaning, this can be listed in
the master data sheet as a company-defined keyword. The originator must ensure that the
meaning of the keyword is defined in accordance with Table 6-1. Keywords for company-
defined attributes start with an underscore “_”.
English keywords should be assigned to company-defined attributes.
Companies exchanging a master data sheet should agree whether and how
• company-defined keywords
• translations of content and
• optional VDA 4953 keywords which are only used in one of the companies involved
should be further processed and returned, if appropriate.
If two in-house terms should in theory be converted into the same VDA attribute, it is
recommended that company-defined keywords be used here (e.g. to distinguish heat
treatment from paintwork).
If mandatory entries are not available at an early stage of the development process, this can
be indicated in the master data sheet by using a “-” (dash) in the “Content” field (see
paragraph 7.1).
7 Structure of the master data sheet

This section describes the content structure of a master data sheet. This is not a statement of
the actual structure of a master data sheet in a specified data format.
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The master data sheet contains the master data of a design which is independent of geometry.
Account is taken of the procedures which are carried out within companies:
• Copying copyrighted drawing content from development partners unchanged into their own
drawing frame
• Writing multilingual drawing content
• Using company-defined attributes
• Maintaining one drawing for several customers
7.1 Content of the master data sheet

Each of these master data items with the exception of the revision descriptions is listed in the
master data sheet with
• Keyword
• Name (company)
• ID
• Language
• Content
The keyword identifies which general attribute from Table 6-1 or which company-defined
attribute (see paragraph 6.2) is involved. Company-defined keywords (see paragraph 7.3)
must be identified with an underscore “_”.
The name contains the name of the company responsible for the content. It must be entered
for each keyword used. If a keyword has multiple entries with different content for different
companies, e.g. ID numbers for suppliers and customers, the respective company name must
be entered in the Name field. In the case of company-defined keywords the originator of the
keyword should be entered under Name. The owner specifies how the entry under Name is
formed.
The ID is used to number all master data entries. In the case of a multilingual sheet, the same
content has the same ID in all the languages. This enables master data for different
companies to be maintained multilingually in parallel.
The language code in accordance with DIN 2335 (corresponding to ISO 639) is entered under
Language. This indicates the language in which the entry under ‘Content’ was written.
Examples:
de German
en English
es Spanish
fr French
Table 7-1 : Language codes
The master data values are entered under Content. It is assumed that there is no limit to the
length of the entries in ‘Content’.
An example of a possible structure for a master data sheet in tabular form is shown below:
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Copyright VDA
Keyword Name ID Language Content
Table 7-2 : Tabular form of the master data sheet
7.2 Multiple occurrences of keywords

The attribute ‘Owner’ (keyword ‘OWNER’) may only occur once in a master data sheet.
In the case of the following attributes or keywords multiple entries (distinguished via ‘ID’) may
be made for each company (distinguished via ‘Name’) within a master data sheet:
• Treatment (TREATMENT)
• Technical directive (TECHNICAL_DIRECTIVE)
• Technical specification (TECHNICAL_SPECIFICATION)
• Reference (REFERENCE)
All attributes are numbered serially via the ID. Attributes which describe information for
different companies or in different languages under the same keyword have the same ID. This
ensures that attributes which belong together for a number of companies and in a number of
languages can be identified. The content of the attribute assigned to the owner is binding in
the event of any doubt. Each of the other attributes defined in Table 6-1 may occur once in
each language (distinguished via ‘Language’) for each company (distinguished via ‘Name’)
within a master data sheet.
The following are the attributes which are translated into multiple languages:
• Copyright notice (COPYRIGHT)
• Treatment (TREATMENT)
• Surface protection (SURFACE_PROTECTION)
• Technical directive (TECHNICAL_DIRECTIVE)
• Technical specification (TECHNICAL_SPECIFICATION)
• Release status (MASTER_DATA_SHEET_RELEASED_STATUS)
• Release status (MODEL_3D_RELEASED_STATUS)
• Release status (SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_RELEASED_STATUS)
• Project (PROJECT)
• Part name (PART_NAME)
• Semi-finished product (SEMI_FINISHED_PRODUCT)
• Material (MATERIAL)
• General surface roughness (SURFACE_ROUGHNESS)
• Revision text
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7.3 Revision description

Revisions are listed in the master data sheet with
• Keyword
• Name
• ID
• Order number of revision (number of design order for completed revision)
• Date of revision order (date on which revision order was issued)
• Revision level (revision level of master data sheet, simplified drawing or 3D CAD model to which revision text relates,
in accordance with owner’s definition)
• Position (identification of link between revision text and position of revision in master data sheet, simplified drawing or 3D
CAD model)
• Revised by (name of person carrying out revision)

• Revision date (date on which revision was made)
• Language (language in which revision text was written)
• Revision text (brief description of revision)
Keywords for revisions should be entered in accordance with the definition in Table 6-1.
The keyword is
• MASTER_DATA_SHEET_REVISION for revisions of organisational attributes or part attributes
• MODEL_3D_REVISION for revisions of the 3D CAD model and
• SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_REVISION for revisions of the simplified drawing
Multiple revision-related keywords may be used for a company within a master data sheet.
The revision text is input under Revision text. It is assumed that there is no limit to the length
of the entries in ‘Text’.
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8 Use of master data sheet
8.1 Output options and data exchange

The master data sheet can be output in the following formats:
• XML (recommended by VDA 4953 working group, see section 9)
• STEP AP 214 (see section 11)
The appropriate standardised methods are used for exchanging files (e.g. ENGDAT).
8.2 Handling of existing standards and archiving

• The relevant standards for the documentation of product data in the companies should
continue to be used, and the statutory international specifications relating to this should
also be observed, see section 4.
• The information contained in section 3 should be noted. The establishment of a level which
cannot be falsified and the joint archiving of the 3D CAD data, simplified drawing and
master data sheet must be ensured.
• Careful handling of the attributes to permit identification of documents which belong
together must be ensured.
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9 XML syntax of master data sheet to VDA 4953

This section describes how a master data sheet to VDA 4953 can be handled as an XML file.
The XML format is recommended because of the following features:
• The XML format is an easy-to-understand, structured format.
• It is permanently archivable because XML is a readable format (ASCII/UNICODE).
• It can be reformatted or converted to other formats, e.g. HTML, EXCEL/CSV, TEXT and
STEP, with relatively little effort.
• It can be printed out directly or generated as a PDF file.
• Mapping in a different XML syntax is straightforward.
• The format described here can be expanded at will because no keyword-specific XML
tags1 have been defined. Expandable for VDA and company terms.
• Suitable for holding information for several companies on the same part.
• Multilingual content can be shown within the title blocks.
• The revision history of the master data sheet, simplified drawing and 3D CAD model can
be displayed.
• Uniform system for master data content and revisions
• Company-specific information relating to the same subject is collated in an <ATTR> block.
• There are many ways of generating XML files (e.g. editors, database output, browsers).
See also Fig. 10-6.
The XML syntax for creating the master data sheet is shown in Fig. 9-1. Application examples
are discussed below.
The first step is to mark the version of the master data attributes in accordance with VDA
4953. Then the attributes are defined in blocks.
The company name and the content, with the latter in multiple languages, if necessary, are
entered for each block. The revision order attributes can be placed before the content.
1
Tags are the XML elements notated in angle brackets
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<?xml version=„1.0“ encoding=„ISO-8859-1“?>

<VDA4953 version=„VDA4953-XML-Definition“>
<ATTR id=„no.“ key=„keyword“ [defined=“defining company“]* * >
<COMP name =„company“>
<CONT [lang=„code“][workorder=„order“]* [wo_date=„date“]* [rev_level=„index“]*
1…k [position=„position“]* [person=„person“]* [rev_date=„date“]* >
1…j
1…i
text containing the content
</ CONT>
</ COMP>
</ ATTR>
</ VDA4953>
[…] = optional
* = only if key = „XXX_Revision“
* * = only for company-defined keywords
Fig. 9-1: XML syntax to create the master data sheet

Note: “XXX_REVISION” covers “MASTER_DATA_SHEET_REVISION”, “MODEL_3D_REVISION” and
“SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_REVISION”.
9.1 Elements of an XML master data sheet

Table 9-1 explains the elements of an XML master data sheet to VDA 4953.
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="ISO-8859-1"?> Start of the file, XML processing instruction

<VDA4953> XML root element for VDA 4953 files
Attributes of <VDA4953> version Mandatory
Contains the version of the VDA 4953 XML definition. In this case version=“1.0“.
<ATTR> Start of an attribute in the master data sheet
Repetitions within a section from <VDA4953> to </VDA4953> are possible for each
keyword (name) used.
Attributes of <ATTR> id Mandatory
A serial number is entered under id to which reference can be made in the event of
revisions. The id is retained when revisions are made to the content.
key Mandatory
The keyword identifies the attribute involved. Please refer to Table 6-1 for details of the
keywords defined in VDA 4953. Company-defined keywords (see para. 6.2) should be
indicated with an underscore “_”.
An attribute entry must start with a letter or underscore (_), and the subsequent
characters may consist of letters, numbers, underscores, dots or dashes, but not
spaces.
Defined Mandatory for company-specific keywords
In the case of a company-specific keyword (starts with “_”) contains the name of the
defining company. The owner specifies what text is entered under ‘defined’.
spaces.
<COMP> Start of the content for a company
Repetitions within a section from <ATTR> to </ATTR> are possible for each company
(name) used. This enables master data for different companies to be maintained in
parallel. Only entries describing the same content in different languages may be made
within a <COMP name=“Autofirma_XY”> block.
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Attributes of <COMP> name Mandatory

“name” contains the name of the company responsible for the content. The company
must be entered for each keyword used. If a keyword has multiple entries with different
content for different companies, e.g. ID numbers for suppliers and customers, the
respective company name must be entered in the “name” field. The owner specifies
what text is entered as the name. The content of the attribute assigned to the owner is
binding in the event of any doubt.
spaces.
<CONT> Start of a content text
Repetitions within a section from <COMP name=“Autofirma_XY”> to </COMP> are
possible for each language (lang) used.
Attributes of <CONT> lang Indicates the language in which the content is written. Language codes in accordance
with ISO 639.
Examples:
de = German
en = English
es = Spanish
fr = French
Optional. If no entry is present, the language of the content text is assumed to be as in
the entry under the keyword “LANGUAGE”.
workorder Number of the design/revision order
1
Optional. Is only used for key=“XXX_REVISION”.
wo_date Date on which revision order was issued

1
rev_level Revision level of master data sheet, simplified drawing or 3D CAD model to which
revision text relates (in accordance with owner’s definition)
1
position Identification of link between revision text and position of revision in drawing and/or 3D
CAD model. If revisions are made to the master data sheet, ‘position’ can contain the
ATTR-id to which the revision relates.
1
person Name of person carrying out revision
1
rev_date Date on which revision was made
1
Content text Content text
The master data values are entered here. It is assumed that there is no limit to the
length of the entries in ‘Content’.
</CONT> End of a content text
</COMP> End of the content for a company
</ATTR> End of an attribute
</VDA 4953> End of the file
Table 9-1: Elements of an XML master data sheet to VDA 4953
1
See note under Fig. 9-1
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9.2 Examples of entries in XML file

Table 9-2 contains a few examples of entries in an XML file to VDA 4953. Section 10 contains
a detailed example.
Example Explanation
<ATTR id=“3“ key="OWNER"> The GOODCAR AG company is the owner of the document.
<COMP name=„ GOODCAR_AG“>
<CONT>GOODCAR AG Germany</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id=“2“ key="PART_NUMBER"> The part number of the part described in this document is
<CONT>XY1.522.044.00</CONT> XY1.522.044.00 at GOODCAR_AG
</COMP> and
<COMP name="JEWELPARTS_GMBH"> ZY1.555.001 at JEWELPARTS_GMBH
<CONT>ZY1.555.001</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id=“4“ key="PART_NAME"> The name of the part described in the document is as follows
at GOODCAR_AG
German: Traeger fuer Verlaengerung,
<CONT lang="de">
English: AS Extension
Traeger fuer Verlaengerung
</CONT>
<CONT lang="en">
AS Extension
</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id=“5“ key="_AUX_PART_NAME" GOODCAR_AG uses the company-defined attribute
defined="GOODCAR_AG"> “_AUX_PART_NAME”.
<CONT lang="de">Sitzkissen</CONT> The content is described in German and English.
<CONT lang="en">Seat cushion</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
Table 9-2: Examples of entries in the XML file
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9.3 Revision descriptions in master data sheet

There are various ways of carrying out and combining the description of revisions in
accordance with the XML syntax presented, some of which are shown below as examples.
The methods to be used are specified separately by each company.
9.3.1 Description of revision of master data sheet

In this method it is possible to list the entire revision history of the master data sheet in the
master data sheet.
(1) In the event of revisions to content in the master data sheet the previous content is
replaced by the new content. (2) An <ATTR key=“MASTER_DATA_SHEET_REVISION“> block describing
the revision is inserted. (3) The revision order (workorder), person making the revision
(person) and the revision reference can optionally be added to the <CONT> tag. (4) The revision
date (rev_date) must be inserted in the <CONT> tag. (5) The master data sheet revision level
(MASTER_DATA_SHEET_REVISION_LEVEL) is increased.
Table 9-3 shows examples.
Before revision <ATTR id=“7“ key=“MASTER_DATA_SHEET_REVISION_LEVEL“>

<COMP name=„GOODCAR_AG“><CONT> 1 </CONT></COMP></ATTR>
<ATTR id=“16“ key=“WEIGHT_CALCULATED“>
<COMP name=„GOODCAR_AG“>
<CONT>0.141 Kg</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
After revision <ATTR id=“7“ key=“MASTER_DATA_SHEET_REVISION_LEVEL“>
(5) <COMP name=„GOODCAR_AG“><CONT> 2 </CONT></COMP></ATTR>
<ATTR id=“16“ key=“WEIGHT_CALCULATED“>
(1) <CONT>0.135 Kg</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
(2) <ATTR id=“98“ key=“ MASTER_DATA_SHEET_REVISION“>

(3),(4) <CONT workorder=“AE032511“ position=“16“ person=“Wiegerle“ rev_date=“06.09.2002“ >
Calculated weight revised, was 0.141 kg
</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
Table 9-3: Description of revision of the master data sheet (example)
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9.3.2 Revisions of simplified drawing in master data sheet

All revisions of the drawing are described in the master data sheet. The revision level of the
drawing (1) and the (2) master data sheet must be described in the master data sheet. (3) An
<ATTR key=“SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_REVISION“> block describing the revision is inserted. The revision
order (workorder) (4), position (5) and the person making the revision (person) (6) can
optionally be added to the <CONT> tag. (7) The revision date (rev_date) must be inserted in the
<CONT> tag.

<ATTR id=“12“ key=“SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_REVISION_LEVEL“>


(2) <CONT> 2 </CONT>
</COMP></ATTR>
<ATTR id=“12“ key=“SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_REVISION_LEVEL“>

(1) <CONT> 2 </CONT>
</COMP></ATTR>
(3) <ATTR id=“45“ key=“ SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_REVISION“>

(4),(5),(6),(7) <CONT workorder=“AE032514“ position=“B3“ person=“Drawler“ rev_date=“06.09.2002“ >
View Z added
</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
Table 9-4: Description of revision of simplified drawing (example)
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9.3.3 Description of revision of 3D CAD model in master data sheet
If all the revisions of the 3D CAD model are described in the master data sheet, the procedure
is analogous to the description of revisions of the simplified drawing.

<ATTR id=“29“ key=“MODEL_3D_REVISION_LEVEL“>


<ATTR id=“29“ key=“MODEL_3D_REVISION_LEVEL“>

<ATTR id=“45“ key=“MODEL_3D_REVISION“>

<CONT workorder=“AE032517“ person=“Spaceler“ position=”112.,1045.,312.” rev_date=“06.09.2002“>
Hole added
</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
Table 9-5: Description of revision of 3D model (example)
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10 Example of drawing simplification in accordance with VDA 4953

The notes and simplifications proposed in this recommendation are presented below taking
the example of an “AS Extension Seat Cushion”.
The drawing shown in Fig. 10-1 contains a wealth of data in text form. e.g. a comprehensive
title block, details of weight, surface roughness, free size tolerances, material, check notes and
company-specific details. Fig. 10-2 shows enlargements of the title block and revision field.
In the simplified drawing to VDA 4953, Fig. 10-3, these details have been removed. The title
block now only contains the minimum content, as explained in para. 5.2 (shown in enlarged
form in Fig. 10-4). Since the ID numbers for the drawing and the master data sheet are
identical in the example, the title block merely contains a number, termed “Basic No.” by m/s
XY. The remaining details in the text block are optional (scale, projection method, drawing
document size and sheet number).
Fig. 10-5 shows the master data sheet which belongs to the example as an XML file. In this
the master data is listed with its respective keywords, in accordance with the definition from
section 6 and with content in accordance with para. 7.1.
How the user sees the master data sheet depends on his table editor. It is recommended, as
described in para. 6.2, that appropriate conversion tables and viewing filters be set which
show the user the master data with the terms and in the language standardised in the
respective company.
Fig. 10-6 shows an option for outputting a printable version of a master data sheet. This route
is intended as an exception for departments which are not given computer-assisted access to
the master data sheet.
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Fig. 10-1: Conventional drawing
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Copyright VDA
Fig. 10-2: Conventional drawing (enlargement of detail)
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Copyright VDA
Fig. 10-3: Simplified drawing to VDA 4953
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Copyright VDA
Fig. 10-4: Simplified drawing to VDA 4953 (enlargement of detail)
Master data sheet as XML file:
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="ISO-8859-1"?>
<VDA4953 version="1.0">
<ATTR id="1" key="OWNER">

<COMP name="GOODCAR_AG">
<CONT>GOODCAR AG</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="2" key="COPYRIGHT">

<CONT lang=“de“> Bei Uebermittlung schutzfaehiger Informationen behaelt sich die GOODCAR AG alle Rechte fuer den Fall der
Patenterteilung vor. Jede Verfuegungsbefugnis incl. Kopier- und Weitergaberecht bei uns.</CONT>
<CONT lang=“en“> In case of communicating patentable information all rights arising in the event of a patent grant remain with
GOODCAR AG. All rights of disposition particularly for copying or distributing are reserved.</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="3" key="PART_NUMBER">

<CONT>XY1.522.044.00</CONT>
</COMP>
<COMP name="JEWELPARTS">
<CONT>ZY1.555.001</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="4" key="PART_NAME">

<CONT lang="de">Traeger fuer Verlaengerung</CONT>
<CONT lang="en">AS Extension</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="5" key="_AUX_PART_NAME" defined="GOODCAR_AG">

<CONT lang="de">Sitzkissen</CONT>
<CONT lang="en">Seat cushion</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="6" key="MODEL_3D_ID_NUMBER">

<CONT>XY1.522.044.00</CONT>
</COMP>
<CONT>ZY1.3D.555.001</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
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Copyright VDA
<ATTR id="7" key="MASTER_DATA_SHEET_ID_NUMBER ">

<CONT>XY1.522.044.00</CONT>
</COMP>
<CONT>ZY1.ST001.555.001</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="8" key="SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_ID_NUMBER ">

<CONT>XY1.522.044.00</CONT>
</COMP>
<CONT>ZY1.555.001.Z</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="9" key="PART_REVISION_LEVEL">

<CONT>003</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="10" key="MASTER_DATA_SHEET_REVISION_LEVEL ">

<CONT>003</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="11" key="MODEL_3D_REVISION_LEVEL">

<CONT>003</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="12" key="SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_REVISION_LEVEL ">

<CONT>003</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="13" key=" MASTER_DATA_SHEET_CREATED_BY">

<CONT>Schulz</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="14" key=" MASTER_DATA_SHEET_DATE_OF_ISSUE">

<CONT>22.11.1999</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="15" key=" MASTER_DATA_SHEET_APPROVED_BY">

<CONT>Maier</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="16" key=" MASTER_DATA_SHEET_RELEASED_BY">

<CONT>Mueller</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="17" key=" MODEL_3D_ CAD_SYSTEM">

<CONT>CATIA Version 4.2.4</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="18" key=" SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_ CAD_SYSTEM">

<CONT>CATIA Version 4.2.4</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="19" key="LANGUAGE">
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<CONT>de</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="20" key="_DEPARTMENT_TELEFON" defined="GOODCAR_AG">

<CONT>XYZ / 5501-234</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="21" key="_DESCRIPTION_OF_VERSION" defined="GOODCAR_AG">

<CONT>Kabrio, Japan</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="22" key="TOLERANCING_PRINCIPLE">

<CONT>DIN 7167</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="23" key="UNIT_SYSTEM">

<CONT>SI</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="24" key="_GENERAL_TOLERANCE_RAW" defined="GOODCAR_AG">

<CONT>DIN 47-11</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="25" key="_GENERAL_TOLERANCE_FINISHED" defined="GOODCAR_AG">

<CONT>ISO 2768 mk</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="26" key="MATERIAL">

<CONT>ABS</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="27" key="_INTERNAL_MATERIAL_NO1" defined="GOODCAR_AG">

<CONT>4711-01-A123</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="28" key="_RATE_MATERIAL1" defined="GOODCAR_AG">

<CONT>20</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>

<CONT>4712-02-B123</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>

<CONT>30</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>

<CONT>4712-03-C123</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>

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Copyright VDA
<CONT>45</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="33" key="SURFACE_PROTECTION">

<CONT>OFL-1</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="34" key="WEIGHT_CALCULATED">

<CONT>0,135 Kg</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="35" key="_SAFETY_DOC" defined="GOODCAR_AG">

<CONT>NR-101-K</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="36" key="_CHECKED" defined="GOODCAR_AG">

<CONT>S</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="37" key="SURFACE_ROUGHNESS">

<CONT>ISO 1302</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="38" key="_EDGE_FINISH" defined="GOODCAR_AG">

<CONT>DIN 6784</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="39" key="REFERENCE">

<CONT>NORM 101/102</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>

<CONT>NORM PVK-12</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>

<CONT>TLX 201-A</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="42" key="TECHNICAL_DIRECTIVE">

<CONT lang="de">Form nach CAD- Datensatz</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="43" key="TECHNICAL_SPECIFICATION">

<CONT lang="de">Allgemeine Wanddicke: 2,5 mm</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>

<CONT lang="de">Zur Herstellung des Bauteils darf kein FCKW verwendet werden (siehe TL-22)</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>

<CONT lang="de">Werkstoff muss frei von CADMIUM-Zusaetzen sein (siehe TL-24)</CONT>
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</COMP>
</ATTR>

<CONT lang="de">Teil schwer brennbar nach TLX-789</CONT>
</COMP>
<CONT lang="de">Teil schwer brennbar nach ZY-789</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>

<CONT lang="de">Teil geprueft nach TLP-7886</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>

<CONT lang="de">Geruchstest nach TLX-334</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="49" key="SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_NUMBER_OF_SHEETS">

<CONT>1</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="50" key="SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_REVISION">

<CONT lang="de" workorder="A6-2170/0" position="G10-11" person="Schulz" rev_date="25.05.2000">
Rand verlängert
</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="51" key="SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_REVISION">

<CONT lang="de" workorder="A6-2170/0" position="C8" person="Maier" rev_date="27.05.2000">
3 Löcher hinzu
</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="52" key="MASTER_DATA_SHEET_REVISION">

<CONT lang="de" workorder="A6-2170/1" position="34" person="Frank" rev_date="18.10.2000">
Gewicht von 0,145Kg in 0,135 Kg geaendert
</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="53" key="SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_REVISION ">

<CONT lang="de" workorder="A6-2170/2" position="C8" person="Roitsch" rev_date="2.1.2001">
3 Löcher entfallen
</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
<ATTR id="54" key="SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_REVISION ">

<COMP name=" BESTCAR ">
<CONT lang="de" workorder="4713" position="C7" person="Roitsch" rev_date="2.1.2001">
3 Löcher entfallen
</CONT>
</COMP>
</ATTR>
</VDA4953>
Fig. 10-5: Master data sheet as XML file
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Copyright VDA
Master data sheet – version

GOODCAR AG XY1.522.044.00 - 003
Bei Uebermittlung schutzfaehiger Informationen behaelt sich die GOODCAR AG alle Rechte fuer den Fall der Patenterteilung vor.
Jede Verfuegungsbefugnis incl. Kopier- und Weitergaberecht bei uns.
In case of communicating patentable information all rights arising in the event of a patent grant remain with GOODCAR AG. All
rights of disposition particularly for copying or distributing are reserved.
3D model - version Simplified drawing - version Part number – version
XY1.522.044.00 - 003 XY1.522.044.00 -003 XY1.522.044.00-003
CAD system CAD system
CATIA version 4.2.4 CATIA version 4.2.4
Sheet no.
1
Name1 Name2
Traeger fuer Verlaengerung Sitzkissen

AS Extension Seat cushion
Version
Cabrio, Japan
Created by Dept./Tel. Date
Schulz XYZ / 5501-234 22.11.1999
Approved by Released by
Maier Mueller
Tolerancing principle General tolerances raw General tolerances finished
DIN 7167 DIN 47-11 ISO 2768 mk
Material Mat. no. 1 / proportion Mat. no. 2 / proportion Mat. no. 3 / proportion Mat. No. 4 / proportion
ABS [%] [%] [%] [%]
4711-01-A123 / 20 4712-02-B123 / 30 4711-03-C123 / 45
Surface protection Surface roughness
OFL-1 ISO 1302
Edge finish Calculated weight
DIN 6784 0.135 kg
References
NORM 101/102
NORM PVK-12
TLX 201-A
Instructions
Form as per CAD record
Special features
General wall thickness: 2.5 mm
No CFCs may be used in the manufacture of this part (see TL-22)
Material must not contain any cadmium additives (see TL-24)
Part flame-retardant to TLX-789
Part tested to TLP-7886
Odour test to TLX-334
Revision Rev. order Position Name Date Rev. text

Drawing A6-2170/0 G10-11 Schulz 25.05.200 Edge extended
0
Drawing A6-2170/0 C8 Maier 27.05.200 3 holes added
0
Master data A6-2170/1 Frank 18.10.200 Weight changed from 0.145
0 kg to 0.135 kg
Drawing A6-2170/2 C8 Roitsch 2.1.2001 3 holes omitted
Fig. 10-6: Example of a check output
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Copyright VDA
11 Comparison of VDA 4953 XML format with STEP
As exhaustive investigations have shown, the master data defined in VDA 4953 can be
displayed on corresponding constructs in accordance with STEP AP214. AP214 offers an
internationally standardised, semantic data model (modelled in EXPRESS) with an object-
oriented structure that is used beyond industry and application boundaries (CAD, PDM. etc.).
However, the generic approach necessitates a certain size and complexity in the objects to be
instanced. Data which conforms to this data model can be displayed both in the “traditional”
ASCII format defined in STEP Part 21 and also in various XML representations, as defined in
STEP Part 28. Unlike the XML format which is specific to VDA 4953, the STEP-specific XML
format is based on the EXPRESS model of the object structures to be defined (no such model
is defined for the VDA 4953 data structures) and can be derived from this, i.e. it also contains
its generic and complex structure.
Both the multilingual option which is intensively used in VDA 4953 and the parallel description
of the master data to be displayed in different company contexts can therefore be used in
STEP (with the corresponding complexity of the object structures to be instanced), but are not
generally supported by the current generation of processors.
It is therefore recommended that the attribute-oriented structure of the VDA 4953 XML format
be preferred for data exchange and archiving as this has been optimised with regard to its
multilingual capability and the parallel encoding of the master data in accordance with its
company context.
12 Conclusion and prospects

It must be stated in conclusion that it has only been possible in this recommendation to deal
with some of the ideas and suggestions relating to the simplified CAD drawing which were up
for discussion when this working group was set up. The reasons for this are outlined briefly
below.
This system is based on the assumption of a multi-system environment as actually
encountered in the participating companies. In a recommendation which is intended to apply to
the entire German automotive industry, the exchangeability of product information across
corporate and system boundaries must take precedence over single-system solutions.
All currently available commercial CAD systems offer the capability to attach the information
which is still on the simplified drawing in accordance with this recommendation to the 3D CAD
model and to display it. This relates to dimensions and tolerances just as much as to
properties, notes and technical directives relating to geometry or revision identifications. Seen
in this light, dispensing completely with the technical drawing would certainly be conceivable.
However, the neutral CAD interfaces are not currently capable of transferring the additional 3D
information referred to above fully and correctly. Although, therefore, these techniques can be
profitably employed in a single-system landscape, the recommendation that they be used
across the industry is a non-starter.
Work is continuing both nationally and internationally in various standardising bodies on
uniform procedures to use these techniques. To date, however, there is unfortunately a lack of
reliable results. There appears little point, however, in a parallel study of these issues.
It must continue to be borne in mind that displaying the design intention also requires that prior
consideration be given to views of the part or assembly and the information contained.
However, the procedures introduced to create a drawing layout have reached such a level of
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Copyright VDA
development with regard to application and data exchange that no benefits can currently be
seen in a purely 3D approach.
One future alternative to CAD data exchange could consist of exchanging 3D design
information via viewing formats across system and corporate boundaries. International
activities for a system-neutral viewing format are leading in this direction. The benefits lie in
the greater protection for in-house design expertise and in system independence.
Work will continue on the refinement of VDA 4953 while monitoring all the national and
international work in this sector.
__________________________________________________________________________
Copyright VDA

VDA Simplified CAD Drawing

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Supersedes VDA 4953 Part 1: 1999-12 and Part 2: 2002-12

“CAD/CAM” Working Party

The simplified drawing, therefore, contains no general dimensioning of the geometry. On

4 Product presentation via 3D CAD model, simplified drawing and

Terms from DIN Conventional drawing VDA 4953

Views, sections, details derived solely

Table 4-1: Overview of drawing simplification in accordance with VDA 4953

5 Minimum content and execution

5.1 Execution of 3D CAD model

Fig. 5-1: Line of length = 100 x material thickness

Fig. 5-2: Offset curve

5.2 Minimum content of master data sheet

5.3 Minimum content and execution of simplified CAD drawing

• The drawing is prepared in accordance with ISO standards.

6 Definition of master data attributes according to VDA 4953

6.1 Definition of generally applicable attributes

Occurrences per company

Master data sheet

Created by MASTER_DATA_SHEET_ - m 1 - Name of person who created master data

Occurrences per company

Master data sheet

Part revision level PART_REVISION_LEVEL op m 1 - Clear identification of revision level of

Occurrences per company

Master data sheet

General surface roughness SURFACE_ROUGHNESS op op 1 op Values of surface roughness if no other

3D CAD model attributes

Occurrences per company

Master data sheet

Simplified drawing attributes

Occurrences per company

Master data sheet

Revision order attributes

Revision of simplified drawing SIMPLIFIED_DRAWING_REVISION - op n op Describes revision of simplified drawing

6.2 Definition of company-defined attributes

Fig. 6-1: Conversion of VDA 4953 attributes to in-house attributes

7 Structure of the master data sheet

7.1 Content of the master data sheet

Keyword Name ID Language Content

Table 7-2 : Tabular form of the master data sheet

7.2 Multiple occurrences of keywords

7.3 Revision description

• Revised by (name of person carrying out revision)

8 Use of master data sheet

8.1 Output options and data exchange

8.2 Handling of existing standards and archiving

9 XML syntax of master data sheet to VDA 4953

<?xml version=„1.0“ encoding=„ISO-8859-1“?>

text containing the content

Fig. 9-1: XML syntax to create the master data sheet

9.1 Elements of an XML master data sheet

<?xml version="1.0" encoding="ISO-8859-1"?> Start of the file, XML processing instruction

Attributes of <COMP> name Mandatory

wo_date Date on which revision order was issued

Table 9-1: Elements of an XML master data sheet to VDA 4953

9.2 Examples of entries in XML file

Table 9-2: Examples of entries in the XML file

9.3 Revision descriptions in master data sheet

9.3.1 Description of revision of master data sheet

Table 9-3 shows examples.

Before revision <ATTR id=“7“ key=“MASTER_DATA_SHEET_REVISION_LEVEL“>

(2) <ATTR id=“98“ key=“ MASTER_DATA_SHEET_REVISION“>

Table 9-3: Description of revision of the master data sheet (example)

9.3.2 Revisions of simplified drawing in master data sheet

Table 9-4 shows examples.