Why 3D designs are crucial from the quotation phase
Automating production processes is a complex task, where an error in the initial phase can have significant consequences. Yet, the importance of a 3D design during the quotation phase is often underestimated. Some companies believe a sketch or verbal explanation is sufficient.
But did you know that a well-crafted 3D design can prevent misunderstandings, speed up implementation, and even save costs from the very beginning? At Promation, we believe that a 3D design is not just useful—it’s an absolute necessity.
What is a 3D design?
A 3D design is a detailed visual representation of how an installation or machine will look and function within a production environment. It is far more than a beautiful drawing; it is a powerful tool that allows you to:
- Get a clear visual image of the result.
- Detect problems at an early stage.
- Ensure efficient communication with all stakeholders.
In the quotation phase, this is critical. These projects often involve significant investments, and a misinterpretation of a sketch or explanation can lead to misunderstandings that become costly later. A 3D design minimizes these risks!
Why choose a 3D design? Discover 5 benefits
Benefit 1: Avoid misunderstandings with a clear overview
In an automation project, clarity is everything. A sketch or simple explanation rarely provides a complete picture of what the installation will look like or how it will fit into the existing production environment. This can lead to unrealistic expectations.
Example: Imagine a client needs a new palletizing machine, such as our Costacker. Without a 3D design, it may be unclear how large the machine really is or exactly where it will be located. This could later cause issues with available space or production flow.
With a 3D design, the client can immediately see how the machine fits into their production environment. This avoids misunderstandings and ensures that all stakeholders are on the same page from the start.
Find out how to choose the right robot for your production process!
Benefit 2: Optimize your space and layout
A production environment is often a busy space where every square meter counts. By creating a 3D design and integrating it into the client’s existing layout, you can determine in the quotation phase whether everything will fit as intended.
Here are some key questions a 3D design answers:
- Is there enough clearance for forklifts and pallets?
- Can operators easily access other machines?
- Is there enough space to place pallets or products next to the machine?
- Does the machine's output align with the production flow in the facility?
Example: When placing a Cofeeder, sufficient space must be available to continuously feed material without disrupting other processes. A 3D design simulates this, allowing you to spot and address bottlenecks early on.
Benefit 3: Identify and solve bottlenecks
One major advantage of a 3D design is the ability to detect potential bottlenecks early in the process. For instance:
- Machines placed too close together, making it difficult for operators to access them.
- Insufficient space for storage or material flow.
- Inefficient routing of products or pallets.
Practical Example: When a client wanted to implement our Cofiller, the 3D design revealed that the machine’s output was oriented in the wrong direction. This would have forced employees to constantly walk around the machine to load packages. By identifying this issue during the quotation phase, we were able to adjust the design and optimize the workflow.
Benefit 4: Effective communication with stakeholders
Automation projects often involve multiple stakeholders, such as production managers, engineers, and suppliers. A 3D design makes it easier to communicate the concept and gain approval from all parties involved.
Clients, for example, can use the design internally to present the idea to their management or other stakeholders. A visual design is far more compelling than a technical explanation or a list of specifications.
Benefit 5: Save costs by preventing errors
Every change made during the implementation phase costs money—sometimes a lot of money. By creating a 3D design during the quotation phase, you can prevent many of these costly mistakes. The design serves as a blueprint to anticipate and resolve potential issues in advance.
Example: Imagine discovering after installation that a forklift can no longer pass by a machine. This would require a complete reconfiguration of the layout, with all the associated costs and delays. A 3D design helps you avoid such scenarios.
Written by Stijn Provoost
Founder of Promation. Passionate about programming and new technologies. With Promation, Stijn has one major goal: to improve production processes through industrial automation, robotics, and vision systems.
The importance of 3D designs at Promation
At Promation, we create 3D designs as a standard practice during the quotation phase. Why? Because we know that this not only provides our clients with a clear vision of the result but also helps save time and money. It prevents misunderstandings, optimizes space, and simplifies communication with stakeholders.
