adesso implements a digital scaffolding solution using extended reality

Layher stands for innovation, safety and quality ‘made in Germany’ – and for a strong partnership with its customers. In this way, the family-run business has become the leading manufacturer of system scaffolding. Tried and tested, and continuously refined, Layher solutions are now the global standard in scaffolding: quick to erect and dismantle, safe to use and flexible in application.

This significantly reduces assembly times and substantially improves health and safety at work. This is also ensured by Layher’s comprehensive range of services – from expert advice and training courses to a high level of delivery reliability. Every day, over 2,700 employees make ‘more possible’ – whether at the highly automated headquarters in Güglingen-Eibensbach or at the sales subsidiaries in 50 countries worldwide.

As a leading manufacturer of scaffolding systems, Layher has developed the Layher SIM process for the scaffolding industry. This process shows scaffolding companies easy-to-implement ways of digitising work steps throughout the entire life cycle of a scaffolding project – from planning and logistics right through to execution on site. The aim is to support customers in tackling new challenges such as digitalisation.

In addition, Layher offers various digital services that provide practical support for the Layher SIM process. The SIM2Field digital service, for example, makes the surveying of scaffolding structures using a total station – based on 3D scaffolding planning – even easier and more precise. To also provide digital support for the subsequent construction of the scaffolding structures, Layher has developed the SIM2Field XR app in collaboration with adesso.

The aim is to further support assembly processes digitally and thus make them more efficient. One objective was to design a solution that provides on-site fitters with precise guidance on the positioning and assembly sequence of scaffolding. As part of an initial proof of concept, Layher worked with adesso on a digital assembly aid in the form of a mobile augmented reality app.

In this PoC, the focus was primarily on the technical feasibility of visualising scaffolding structures and their realistic positioning. Even at this early stage, it became apparent that the AR-supported visualisation of the scaffolding works very well in principle and offers fitters a new level of support. The visualisations were promising and enabled a clear and intuitive preview of the structures.

To implement the digital assembly aid, adesso has developed the SIM2FIELD XR app in collaboration with the experts at Layher. This is an innovative mobile application with augmented reality features, optimised for iOS and Android tablets. It enables complex scaffolding structures to be visualised realistically and in full scale directly on the construction site. This enables fitters to view planned scaffolding in three dimensions within their surroundings and to assess the structure precisely even before the actual erection begins.

For the technical implementation, Layher has worked with adesso to develop a specialised solution, including the integration of the LayPLAN CAD planning module. The 3D scaffolding structures are made available via the cloud, seamlessly imported and converted as required. This enables the digital scaffolding twins to be visually displayed in the app – including via augmented reality. Secure and high-performance processing of even large 3D data sets is guaranteed.

Furthermore, the Dortmund-based IT service provider established an end-to-end development process. Using CI/CD pipelines via GitLab, continuous testing, deployment and optimisation of the XR application were ensured. The result is an app that is technically innovative and meets the highest standards of precision, stability and user-friendliness.

With the launch of the SIM2FIELD XR app, Layher customers benefit from tangible advantages in their day-to-day work. The intuitive visualisation facilitates communication between planners, clients and fitters, thereby ensuring a shared, precise understanding of the planned structures. This not only significantly reduces sources of error but also noticeably shortens completion times.

Compared to the previously common practice of ‘erecting according to plans’, the so-called ‘erection according to model’ is not only significantly more accurate and less prone to errors, but also boosts efficiency on site. At the same time, workplace safety and the protection of passers-by are improved, as potential hazards are identified and avoided at an early stage. Overall, this forward-looking app delivers clear added value by making the planning and erection of scaffolding more modern, faster and safer.