3D visualizations of in-process products based on machine tool input

A method comprising:

• generating a three dimensional (3D) scene depicting ongoing assembly of a product by a machine tool, wherein the scene includes a 3D model of the product and a 3D model of the machine tool, and the 3D models are placed within the scene based on a location of the product and a location of the machine tool;
• receiving an update from the machine tool indicating a 3D placement of a part that has been attached by the machine tool to the product;
• acquiring a 3D model of the part;
• inserting the 3D model of the part within the scene based on the 3D placement of the part;
• and
• providing the scene for display to a user.

An apparatus comprising:

• a machine tool configured to assemble a product by attaching parts to the product, wherein the machine tool comprises:
• a controller configured to detect 3D placements of parts that have been attached to the product by the machine tool, and to generate updates that each include a detected 3D placement of a part attached to the product by the machine tool;
• and
• an interface configured to transmit the updates to an external device.