Additional security of investment: thanks to the use of 3D software the KHS Group now provides a timely virtual overview of all newly procured technologies at the offer stage. With it, the systems provider can illustrate in detail and in advance how a client’s potential new line or single machine can be integrated into the production environment, taking all prevalent conditions on site into account. By making a full switch to the three-dimensional planning method, KHS is successively expanding its portfolio of reliable services.
“Depicting machinery in 3D helps customers to pinpoint any geometric interference during the early offer phase. This improves planning security, as any spatial conflicts in the production shop are recognized and corrected right from the start,” says Patrick Bürger, head of Plant Design at KHS. Unnecessary loops in the planning process – and consequently additional costs – are thus avoided early on. “We show customers how the line or machine fits into their existing environment. If required, we include the operators in the advance planning process and show them how they can later move around between the machines. Their feedback is of great value to us and enables us to devise an optimum layout,” he continues.
3D planning also shows machine heights
New software is used to this effect that speeds up the entire 3D planning process as it is easy to use. At the same time the system depicts the relevant machines and conveyor elements in greater detail than in the previous 2D variants. This means that production environments spread out across several floors or located in extremely confined spaces can be simply and clearly visualized. 3D line design can be applied to all machines in the KHS portfolio – regardless of the container or beverage segment.
To further improve planning security KHS offers laser scans that can be easily integrated using the new software. Here, a 360° camera set up on a tripod creates a realistic, practically consistent photographic image of the relevant production environment. “These individual images are then superimposed. This creates what’s known as a scatterplot that takes all geometries into account. Interferences and disruptive elements are reliably detected,” Bürger explains. This is particularly advantageous when integrating new systems into parts of buildings that already contain machinery as it prevents possible collisions with existing equipment.
