Automation and digitization in precast concrete production: From ad hoc solutions to integrated processes

Work on the construction site is increasingly evolving from stacking bricks to assembling precast elements quickly and efficiently. This has led to the automation of various production processes to meet the rising demand for precast concrete. 

Still work to be done

The individual automation of certain processes in itself is far from sufficient. The intelligent flow of data and the integration of all preparatory, production and logistics processes only makes the difference. We talked about this with Rony Verlee, manager of i-Theses. The software company from Lokeren is the developer of the PreCastOffice software for the design of elements in reinforced and prestressed concrete and for the automation of the associated business processes. PreCastOffice streamlines the exchange of vital data within companies. Meanwhile, its BIM, CAD and Planning solutions are applied in more than 20 countries.

First the study and planning service

Verlee: "Future-proofing" of a precast concrete plant should actually start at the study and planning department. After all, this is where data is generated that is used later in the process for production, quality control, stock management, logistics and administrative handling. Using our PreCastOffice integrated software solution, these data are made available without additional workload in the planning department. PreCastOffice supports Unitechnik, XML/PXML, HPGL, ... up to very specific exchange formats."

Enter data only once

"Many concrete manufacturing companies still too often use separate software packages focused solely and specifically on design, production or administration. As a result, many tasks and data have to be entered repeatedly. This is a time-consuming and error-prone activity. The great merit of our PreCastOffice software lies in the fact that everything is accommodated in a single flow," said Verlee.

Since the advent of BIM, the need for intelligent management as well as the smooth flow of data has become even more apparent. Data allow clear communication between the various construction partners. The fact that each party involved can use the same data, including via the Cloud, greatly reduces the chance of error.

The many benefits of a digital and automated approach

Verlee: "Our integrated software allows precast concrete companies to manage and plan their projects. The entire process from sales over design, engineering, production planning, control of machines, logistics, delivery and invoicing is automated without the need for manual data entry. This for floors, stairs, beams as well as columns and soon also for walls...." The advantages of such an approach on a broader front are therefore not amiss: greater speed of work, fewer mistakes, less manpower, the avoidance of potentially error-prone manual tasks, the saving of raw materials due to less waste thanks to thorough automation in production, the reduction of CO2 emissions, on-time and correct delivery, ....

"Even during the pandemic, resulting in numerous quarantines and home-based work, our customers were able to perpetuate their production by keeping a finger on the pulse from home," Verlee said. "For example, through our Web-based PlanDesk modules and our Internet-based licensing model, which allowed our customers to maintain their production levels."