What are the best ways to implement APQP in aerospace development?

2 Phase 2: Product Design and Development

The second phase of APQP is to design and develop the new product or process, using tools such as CAD, FMEA, QFD, and DFMA. You should ensure that the design meets the customer requirements and expectations, as well as the regulatory and industry standards. You should also verify and validate the design, using methods such as testing, simulation, prototyping, and peer review. You should document the design outputs, such as drawings, specifications, and test results, and update the risk assessment and quality plan accordingly.

3 Phase 3: Process Design and Development

The third phase of APQP is to design and develop the process that will produce the new product or process, using tools such as process flow charts, PFMEA, control plans, and SPC. You should ensure that the process is capable, efficient, reliable, and safe, and that it meets the quality and performance criteria. You should also verify and validate the process, using methods such as pilot runs, audits, inspections, and measurements. You should document the process outputs, such as procedures, instructions, and records, and update the risk assessment and quality plan accordingly.

5 Phase 5: Feedback, Assessment, and Corrective Action

The fifth phase of APQP is to obtain feedback, assess the results, and take corrective action if needed. You should solicit feedback from customers, suppliers, engineers, and managers using surveys, reviews, complaints, and warranty claims. Additionally, you should evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of the product and process with KPIs, benchmarks, and audits. It is important to document the feedback and assessment outputs such as lessons learned, best practices, and improvement opportunities. The risk assessment and quality plan should also be updated accordingly. To address any issues or non-conformities that arise, you should implement corrective action using PDCA, 8D, and CAPA.

The aerospace sector poses some challenges for APQP such as the high complexity and variability of products and processes which require more rigorous design and validation activities. Furthermore, there is a high cost and risk associated with aerospace products and processes which requires more careful planning and risk management activities. Additionally, there are high regulatory and industry standards for aerospace products and processes which necessitate more strict compliance and verification activities. Moreover, customer expectations for aerospace products are high which necessitates effective communication and feedback activities. Finally, there is a high potential for innovation in aerospace products requiring creative problem-solving and corrective action activities. By following the best practices of APQP you can successfully overcome these challenges to achieve quality excellence in aerospace development.