Securing product know-how by embedding IP-protection into the organisation

Product data contains one of the most important assets of a company - the intellectual property (IP). However, it is very easy to exchange information by electronic media. Especially parametric and feature-based 3D-CAD systems have been enhanced towards representing, processing and distributing knowledge to support KBE (Knowledge-Based Engineering). In the age of the globalism product data exchange between different parties in the value chain has become a frequent and basic form of business communication. So there is an enormous danger that the intellectual property could fall into the wrong hands. The contribution discussed this area of conflict and describes attempts from research and development as well as productive software solutions for intellectual property protection (IPP).