A document of visual and textual material serves to identify components of a product or assembly. It typically presents exploded diagrams or illustrations, each element labeled with a corresponding part number and description. This allows users to quickly locate and understand the relationship between individual pieces within the larger system. For example, a technician repairing a complex machine might consult this resource to pinpoint a faulty component, verify its identification, and locate its placement relative to other parts.
The value of such documentation lies in its ability to simplify maintenance, repair, and ordering processes. It reduces ambiguity in component identification, ensuring accurate part procurement and minimizing downtime. Historically, these catalogs were printed and distributed as physical documents; however, digital formats are increasingly common, offering enhanced search capabilities and ease of distribution. Their importance to various industriesmanufacturing, aerospace, automotivecannot be understated, as they provide a critical link between design, operation, and service.