Laser projectors have been used in the industry for many years already. However, laser projection systems have mostly been organisational and technology island solutions in the precast concrete component plant to date. Unitechnik has developed a laser projection system based on proven standard components, which can be fully integrated into the automation system of a circulation plant. Our success speaks for itself Unitechnik has installed 65 laser projectors in the last 6 years.
Laser projection can be used in various production applications. Usually the laser is used to position parts on a pallet. These range from formwork profiles to formwork add-ons and mounting parts such as electrical boxes or window frames. Collision control for double-walled production is another field of application for lasers. Before the first shell is cast, the laser projects the formwork girders of the first shell and a mirror image of the mounting parts of the second shell onto the first shell. This allows the worker to identify possible collisions of the components before casting. Finally, the laser also finds its place in quality assurance. All dimensions can be checked for a final time with laser projection before casting: Formwork, mounting parts and reinforcement. After casting and compaction, laser projection can also be used to verify whether all of the formwork remains in its original position. Every error that is found in the course of production eliminates costly complaints.
Unlike other laser projection systems, UniLaser is an integral part of the automation system in a circulation plant. The laser projector itself is a brand-name device of high quality purchased by Unitechnik. However, the laser projector is controlled by the UniCAM master production computer. This eliminates the PC normally used to control the projectors. But the greatest advantage by far results from the close integration of production control and laser projection. This link permits the projection of information that is tailored to the current state of production. In addition to the technical arguments, the integration of laser projectors offers organisational advantages as well. Project planning, installation and putting into operation are performed by Unitechnik employees with experience in the industry. They consistently maintain an overview of the entire system and the production process. The laser is no longer a foreign object in the plant. Unitechnik’s proven Service department is of course available for all questions related to laser projection as well.
We are currently implementing laser projection for Dako, Zero Energy, PNK and Mischek. In fact we are installing 12 projectors at 6 stations for Mischek at their Gerasdorf plant.
Conclusion
A laser projection system is a useful addition in precast concrete component production and can be easily retrofitted. Circulation plants with an Unitechnik automation system are predestined for the implementation of UniLaser. This is where the benefits of the integrated approach are greatest. Naturally the UniLaser can also be retrofitted on production lines, workbenches and other third-party systems. In addition to the classic positioning aid, the UniLaser is increasingly being used for quality assurance.
UniLaser: The Renaissance of Laser Projection
