Model-Based Definition (MBD): Is It Time to Ditch the 2D Drawing?

For decades, 2D drawings have been the backbone of manufacturing documentation. They’ve guided engineers, machinists, and quality teams through countless product builds. But in today’s fast-paced, digitally connected manufacturing environments, those flat, static drawings are starting to show their age. Enter Model-Based Definition (MBD)—a modern approach that embeds dimensions, tolerances, and annotations directly into 3D CAD models. As more companies explore ways to streamline communication, reduce errors, and support Industry 4.0 initiatives, one big question is emerging: is it finally time to say goodbye to the 2D drawing?

In MBD, 3D CAD models serve as the single source of truth for product specifications. So when access to the model is democratized, so is the most critical information about the product that you’re building.

But is it realistic that everyone at a company, including less technical audiences, have daily incentives that compel them to review 3D CAD?

Highly unlikely.

That’s why access to CAD and CAD metadata needs to be integrated into everyone’s existing workflows - meeting them where they already communicate. Documentation is an excellent way to do this.

Why MBD Is Significant in Manufacturing Documentation

When documentation contains live CAD data, it is completely transformed into a reliable medium to transfer knowledge. We’ve outlined the top benefits:

1. Improved Communication

Everyone—from design to production to quality control—references the same annotated 3D model, reducing misinterpretation and ambiguity.

2. Enhanced Efficiency

Engineers and manufacturers spend less time creating, updating, and interpreting documentation.

3. Creation of a Digital Thread

MBD supports digital thread and digital twin initiatives by connecting design to downstream processes. It also provides a reliable history of change.

4. Cost Reduction

MBD cuts the time and expense of creating and maintaining 2D drawings, which in turn reduces errors and rework due to miscommunication or outdated documents.

5. Empowered workforce

Your less technical colleagues deserve access to more information. Empowering your workforce with the information they need to do their job well not only improves their work quality, but creates a healthy team environment. 

Why Should I Care?

Are 2D drawings going away forever? Probably not. They still have their place with machinists and particular use cases. But if you want to be on the cutting edge of production technology, consider alternatives.

Companies today who adopt MBD are seeing amazing effects, such as shortened lead times and a reduction of error rates.

Quarter20 is not a traditional MBD tool, but we think that’s a good thing. Following the principles of MBD, but in a more accessible way, means the benefits of MBD can permeate an entire organization, not just engineering.

Curious to learn more about our approach? Reach out today!

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