How complex is a Boeing 747 Airplane ?
• In this post, I propose a very simple ballpark estimate of the complexity of a Boeing 747 airliner. • I am interested in your thoughts, your input and constructive criticism. First-pass lower-bound complexity estimate (Boeing 747 airliner) • A Boeing 747 has 6 million parts (source: Boeing Corp.). • Assume that all of the parts are simple objects that are interchangeable, but which need to be placed in specific x-y-z coordinate positions, with specific angular theta-x theta-y theta-z values (with respect to a uniform airplane-construction frame-of-reference). • So, each part has 6 degrees of freedom (6 independent parameters). • How many bits of information do I need to specify, in order to place the 6 million parts in correct positions (x,y,z, theta-x, theta-y, theta-z) to assemble a 747 airliner? • Now, each part needs to be placed in position with a specific accuracy (which depends on the part, and its function in the plane). These specific-accuracy values will be different for di
