[1] Modern 3D CAD applications allow for the insertion of engineering information such as dimensions, GD&T, notes and other product details within the 3D digital data set for components and assemblies.
MBD uses such capabilities to establish the 3D digital data set as the source of these specifications and design authority for the product.
The 3D digital data set may contain enough information to manufacture and inspect product without the need for engineering drawings.
[2] In many instances, use of some information from 3D digital data set (e.g., the solid model) allows for rapid prototyping of product via various processes, such as 3D printing.
In 2013, the United States Department of Defense released MIL-STD-31000 Revision A to codify the use of MBD as a requirement for technical data packages (TDP).