Partsphysical

Partsphysical is a term used in engineering, manufacturing, and logistics to describe the tangible components of a system—the physical parts, assemblies, and hardware that constitute a product or infrastructure. It is typically contrasted with digital representations such as models, simulations, software, and virtual components. The term serves as a practical label for the hardware layer within discussions of system design, maintenance, and lifecycle management.

Although not a formal standard, partsphysical is found in industry conversations and internal documentation as a concise way to distinguish physical assets from digital ones. It covers elements such as the bill of materials, spare parts, serialized components, tooling, and equipment housings, along with storage locations, suppliers, and lead times.

In modern operations, partsphysical is closely linked to inventory management, procurement, and maintenance planning. Data about partsphysical enables traceability, warranty validation, and lifecycle analysis, and is often integrated with digital systems through digital twins or computer-aided design databases to support coordinated decision making.

Examples of use include maintaining a partsphysical catalog that records part numbers, descriptions, compatibility, and stock levels; planning maintenance activities by referencing partsphysical availability; and aligning physical inventories with digital models during product upgrades or repairs.

See also: bill of materials, physical inventory, serialization, spare-parts management, cyber-physical systems.