Dassault Systemes > Case Studies > Branch Technology: Achieving 100% Accuracy in Modeling with 3DEXPERIENCE Cloud Platform

Branch Technology: Achieving 100% Accuracy in Modeling with 3DEXPERIENCE Cloud Platform

Technology Category

Networks & Connectivity - Cellular
Platform as a Service (PaaS) - Application Development Platforms

Applicable Industries

Chemicals
Telecommunications

Use Cases

Additive Manufacturing
Rapid Prototyping

Services

Cloud Planning, Design & Implementation Services
Training

The Customer

Branch Technology

About The Customer

Branch Technology is a Tennessee-based company that designs and manufactures commercial facade systems, including rainscreens and mega panel systems that offer articulated surfaces. The company is inspired by nature’s efficient cellular structures and has developed a unique construction-scale, freeform 3D-printing technique and direct digital manufacturing approach called cellular fabrication (C-Fab®). This approach enables architects, designers, and innovators to imagine, compose, and construct complex design structures. Branch Technology is committed to pushing the boundaries of design and manufacturing, and is always in search of innovative solutions that can enhance their processes and outcomes.

The Challenge

Branch Technology, a Tennessee-based company that designs and manufactures commercial facade systems, was in need of a software solution that could process complex geometries to produce a multitude of components for various digital fabrication methods. The company was inspired by nature's efficient cellular structures and had developed a construction-scale, freeform 3D-printing technique and direct digital manufacturing approach called cellular fabrication (C-Fab®). However, they were facing challenges in implementing a digital process that could eliminate digital fabrication bottlenecks, be easily updated, and yield high fidelity parts. The company was in search of a solution that could help them imagine, compose, and construct complex design structures with ease and precision.

The Solution

Branch Technology turned to Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE® Cloud platform to address their challenges. They created a digital model of an intelligent template that included fabrication instructions, quality control metrics, cut files, and digital production elements. This template was used in a project in Alabama, where a model consisting of 102 panels, each with around 70 custom elements, was generated within the platform during the digital production phase. The template, created in CATIA, housed geometric configurations and components as logic. This solution provided a comprehensive and efficient approach to managing complex geometries and digital fabrication processes.

Operational Impact

The implementation of the 3DEXPERIENCE Cloud platform has brought about significant operational improvements for Branch Technology. The company has been able to eliminate digital fabrication bottlenecks, making their processes more efficient. The platform's ability to be easily updated has ensured that the company can keep up with evolving needs and requirements. The high fidelity parts produced as a result of using the platform have improved the quality of the company's products. Furthermore, the support and training provided by Dassault Systèmes, along with the opportunity to be part of a user community with other experts in the field, has enriched the company's knowledge and expertise in digital fabrication.

Quantitative Benefit

Achieved 100% accuracy in modeling information using the 3DEXPERIENCE Cloud platform.
Every panel is manufactured correctly, ensuring high-quality outcomes.
Improved costing through accurate bill of materials (BOMs) for manufacturing.