Troy, Michigan, April 23, 2002, Dimensional Control Systems (DCS) announces the release of a new DCS-DFC Datum Flow Chain tolerance analysis software solution. Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company Fort Worth Texas division has selected Dimensional Control Systems to develop this new technology stemming from their existing DCS 1-D linear tolerance analysis capabilities.

A Datum Flow Chain, DFC, graph defines the relationships between assembled parts, assembly fixtures, tooling and equipment. Unlike typical 1-D analysis solutions a DFC analyzes multiple assembly measurements within one report. The software allows for complete assembly modeling in all 6 degrees of freedom within one model and analysis along any selected 1-D path. DCS-DFC also allows the user to link feature tolerances to more than one specification or measurement. An intuitive graphical user interface with point & click operations and dialog boxes are used to identify piece part datums, locating features, and control tolerances for each of the components within the assembly. A DFC uses this input information to predict the variation for each of the defined measurement specifications. The software generates a variety of reports in graphical output formats including variation analysis and statistical reports.

"What excites us about developing DCS-DFC Datum Flow Chain for our design and manufacturing customers is giving them the ability to achieve quality objectives in a cost effective manner." says John Mathieson, COO of Dimensional Control Systems. "Now with the pressures of 'fast-to-market' and shortening product development cycles, our customers are telling us they need to collaborate early in the design process. Their need for strategic planning of the relationships among parts, assemblies, fixtures, tooling and equipment is answered in DCS-DFC's system wide variation analysis.

This kind of easy-to-use schematic-based modeling for 3-D assemblies, allows users to link the tolerances on individual features to multiple specifications or measurements and will definitely help our customers optimize piece part tolerances before many significant costs are locked in. With fast results, customizable user layouts and automatic reporting, including Database capabilities, DCS-DFC Datum Flow Chain is the organized presentation tool that our customers have been searching for."

For additional information about DCS-DFC, visit http://www.3dcs.com/ or call Dimensional Control Systems at 1-248-269-9777 and ask for Richard Rots.

About Dimensional Control Systems
Dimensional Control Systems Inc. ( http://www.3dcs.com/) is a world-class provider of Dimensional Engineering Consulting Services and Software Solutions. DCS, established in December of 1994, a privately held company, by Robert A. Kaphengst, President and CEO, and John H. Mathieson, Executive Vice-President and COO. The company has grown over 300% in the past 7 years through product development and continued customer support in all Dimensional Engineering aspects. DCS proves organizations worldwide with full service "turnkey" Dimensional Quality Solutions. 1DCS, DCS-DFC, 3DCS, GDM-3D, 3DCS-UG, 3DCS CAA V5 Based, and DataGrabber are all trademarks of Dimensional Control Systems, Inc.

About Lockheed Martin Corporation
Lockheed Martin is developing the JSF in conjunction with its principal partners, Northrop Grumman and BAE SYSTEMS. Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company is a leader in the design, development, systems integration, production and support of advanced military aircraft and related technologies. Its customers include the military services of the United States and allied countries throughout the world. Products include the F-16, F-22, F-35 JSF, F-117, C-5, C-27J, C-130, P-3 and U-2. For more information, please visit www.lmaeronautics.com