Distributed Caching
An architectural pattern used in PLM systems to manage large-scale assemblies across distributed engineering sites. Local sites maintain cache copies of product structure data that synchronize with a central repository, reducing database load and improving response time for geographically dispersed teams.
Why it matters
Distributed caching became essential when PLM systems needed to support 10,000+ engineers across 20+ global sites (automotive/aerospace scale). Without it, all queries would be forced through a single database connection, causing bottlenecks. Teamcenter's D-IMAN architecture pioneered this pattern.
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External References
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Cite this definition
Finocchiaro, Michael. “Distributed Caching.” DemystifyingPLM PLM Glossary, 2026, https://www.demystifyingplm.com/glossary/distributed-caching