Software for parametric design

In this project company produces air handling units (AHUs). Each unit is custom-made and varies in its design - depending on technical and constructional requirements and customer wishes. The partners (planners, representatives, etc.) can configure the air handling unit themselves from a commercial and technical point of view using selection software (WGK) programmed by Weger. When a production order is placed at Weger, the commercial and technical data of the project is transferred from the WGK to the Enterprise Resource Planning software. Before production begins, production drawings are generated by a 2D CAD program and, specifically for frame construction, software developed by Weger. Most production documents are generated by this software (frame construction). For this purpose, the AHU is drawn manually in a 2D CAD, then the unit is built manually in the software and the production documents are generated.

The main problem, however, is a segmentation into quotation processing and a separate technical inspection as well as design processing. These breaks result in time-consuming efforts and errors. A support of the business process by a software which automates these procedures more strongly is seen as necessary due to the various requirements on interfaces like the control of CAD systems and BIM data generation.

The emerging configuration software, can design any variants always up-to-date and automatically, and thereby:

• creates the complete documentation from the quotation to the dimensioned production drawing at the push of a button,
• exchanges data with other systems and
• automate the entire process, and can also be
• integration into websites is possible.

In the course of the innovative software project, digital networking is aimed at optimizing the value creation process. Previously separate processes are merged through digitization into an innovative process synthesis with synergy effects. Interfaces are optimized or newly generated, so that efficient information processing as well as rapid and above all relevant data and knowledge transfer are ensured. This is an important measure in the context of Industry 4.0, where subareas of the organization or individual production steps are networked through digitization and ultimately result in increased productivity, competitiveness and future viability.

Specifically, the digital information created is to be processed in real time in the subsequent manufacturing process and improve and accelerate the production process. The decisive factor here is the parameterization of the design department, i.e. algorithms and rules are integrated into innovative software. It is possible to process batch size 1 automatically and at the same time to maintain and optimize quality constantly. The basic parameters for the design process are generated by the WGK software, which in turn is BIM compatible. This creates a continuous digital process, which is unique in the industry and would generate a significant competitive advantage. The intended increase in quality and efficiency through information linkage thus ensures long-term company growth, provides jobs and positive economic development in the region.

The implementation of this project is to be preceded by a comprehensive analysis, conception and planning, so that the greatest possible innovation potential can be exploited, resources are used efficiently and measures are target-oriented. Together with an external consulting firm, data is collected and processes are analyzed. Our employees are particularly involved in this phase with their know-how, experience, opinions, ideas and suggestions. This is followed by joint implementation: goals are defined, concrete measures are implemented in the form of software and given priority. Defined key performance indicators are to provide information about the effect of the measures taken. The project is subject to a continuous improvement process, so that countermeasures are taken immediately in the event of failure. The management supports the project, defines responsibilities and provides the corresponding human and financial resources. Professional project management and clear allocation of roles and tasks ensure implementation and achievement of objectives. This includes regular team meetings with reviews of the action plans and regular reports to the management.