A large-scale project whose final scope is not yet fully foreseeable. The idea originally arose from the desire to develop software capable of designing complex systems for the production of concrete blocks as a 3D application based on a modular concept. However, due to growing interest from other industries, the project was expanded. The software is designed so that components can be configured variably and flexibly, allowing in principle any type of production line as well as different combinations of individual components to be modeled and configured—even beyond the concrete industry.

To implement this, we needed to create an editable logic that allows users to easily link components together. This led us to develop what we call “anchor logic”—a freely definable link between components. Numerous tests showed that these connections, particularly in the context of interconnected systems, often have a direct relationship to material flow. We came to the conclusion that the 3D model is not the end of the development, but rather that its database serves as the starting point.

In this context, we have developed another application that focuses on material flow. Our goal was never to create a single, standalone software program, but rather a modular platform that makes it as easy as possible to define components and combine them in different applications, each with its own specific focus.

From the current perspective, converting 3D data into 2D data in the form of database entries presents one of the most complex challenges. In contrast, component-based option lists and the resulting descriptions are relatively straightforward to implement. The same applies to the preparation of information that can serve as the basis for databases in the field of artificial intelligence—for example, for spare parts, troubleshooting, or support systems.

We see the target audience for these applications not only among equipment manufacturers but also among end users. In addition to the resulting AI applications, targeted solutions can already save time during the sales process and create significant added value for the customer.