Digital Mockup (DMU)

Digital Mockup (DMU) is the logical capability of assembling a complete virtual representation of a product — geometry, product structure, and metadata — for visualization, fit/clash review, packaging studies, ergonomics, and assembly/disassembly verification, before physical prototypes are built. CIMdata defines it as “computer systems that allow users to view and manipulate three-dimensional representations of product models for the purpose of verifying product design accuracy and integrity.”

DMU variants (Pinquié et al. 2015)

The academic literature carefully distinguishes flavors that this KB tracks under the same logical concept:

• Classic DMU — geometry + product structure + metadata; static review for fit, packaging, clearance.
• FDMU (Functional DMU) — DMU enriched with behavioural simulation (kinematics, hydraulics, control). Equivalent to “virtual prototype” in many vendor docs.
• iDMU (Industrial DMU) — DMU integrating product, processes, and resources into one master used for collaborative engineering — heavily used at Airbus and other aerospace OEMs.
• MBD (Model-Based Definition) — separate concept; embeds 3D PMI/GD&T into the geometry rather than adding behavior. See MBD.

DMU vs Digital Twin (load-bearing)

DMU is design-time — pre-physical, not yet linked to a specific real-world unit. The Digital Twin is operational — bound to a serial-number or asset and synchronized with live telemetry. The two share modeling stack but answer different questions.

Relationships (see sidebar)

• Depends on CAD 3D Design and CAD Assembly.
• Supports Detailed Design, Prototyping and Validation, and CAM Manufacturing Planning (the iDMU especially).
• Implemented by NX, CATIA (where the V5/V6 DMU workbench is canonical), 3DEXPERIENCE, and Teamcenter (Lifecycle Visualization).