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Product Classification

AP 210 uses a classification system to categorize electronic products and their components.

Why Classification Matters

Product classification enables:

  • Data validation - Ensure the right data is captured for each product type

  • Query support - Find all products of a given type

  • Library organization - Structure component libraries by category

  • Manufacturing planning - Route products to appropriate processes

Classification Hierarchy

AP 210 supports a hierarchical classification scheme:

  • Top level - Generic product categories (assembly, part, material)

  • Mid level - Domain-specific categories (PCB, IC package, connector, passive component)

  • Detail level - Specific types (BGA package, QFP package, 0402 resistor)

Key Classification Concepts

Product Category

A product_category assigns a classification to a product:

  • Has a name (e.g., "printed circuit assembly", "integrated circuit")

  • Can be organized in a hierarchy via product_category_relationship

  • Products can belong to multiple categories

Product Context

A product_context identifies the discipline or life-cycle stage:

  • "electrical design"

  • "mechanical design"

  • "manufacturing planning"

Product Definition Context

A product_definition_context specifies the view of the product:

  • "design view" - As designed

  • "manufacturing view" - As manufactured

  • "functional view" - Functional requirements

Using Classification in Queries

Classification is often the starting point for navigating AP 210 data:

  1. Find the product category of interest

  2. Retrieve all products in that category

  3. Navigate to specific product definitions

  4. Access the geometric and non-geometric data for each definition