Master computers 4.0: production control systems in the technological transition

Figure: Unitechnik

Coordinate, optimize, shorten cycle times – these are the major objectives in the control of production facilities

Figure: Unitechnik

Master computers are an important link between design and production

Figure: Unitechnik

Figure: RIB/SAA

All production processes are centrally controlled from the control room

Figure: RIB/SAA

Before production, the CAD geometric data must be verified, checked for consistency and prepared for production

Figure: RIB/SAA

Figure: Progress Software

When and where is each precast component? Which production areas will be free again and when? Tabular and graphical overviews provide answers

Figure: Progress Software

Figure: RIB/SAA

Diagrams help in the optimization of production processes and maintenance of a continuous overview

Figure: RIB/SAA

Figure: Unitechnik

Laser projectors controlled by the master computer speed up manual placement and alignment of components, increase precision and minimize errors

Figure: Unitechnik

Components can be viewed in detail, analyzed and examined for possible errors before production

Figure: Unitechnik

A digital control panel on the tablet provides a fast overview of the most important key production figures

Figure: Unitechnik

Figure: Progress Software

Zoomable plant visualization offers an overview and enables checks before start of production

Figure: Progress Software

The storage yard allocation can also be optimized in a way that prevents any unnecessary waiting times during shipping

Figure: Progress Software

As the central switching point in precast concrete component plants, master computers control complex facilities worldwide. They can be monitored on the smartphone or tablet. Production processes can be simulated and optimized. But there is still potential for development.

The degree of automation is more advanced in precast concrete component production than any other area of construction. As a rule, individual precast concrete components are manufactured on steel pallets that travel from one workstation to the next in pallet circulation systems. The pallets are automatically cleaned, formed, reinforced and provided with built-in parts. They are then concreted, compacted, smoothed, cured and taken off. The pallet circulation system, including the associated formwork robot, concrete spreader, turning device or storage and retrieval machine, are centrally managed...