From the bill of materials to the 3D product model – in a fully automated way
Belimo introduced a bottom-up approach to automate the creation of CAD models directly from the bill of materials (BOM). The solution reduces manual effort, improves data quality and provides a scalable foundation for future developments.
- Founded in 1975 and listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange since 1995
- Global leader in HVAC field device solutions, headquartered in Hinwil, Switzerland
- More than 2,400 employees worldwide
- Presence in over 80 countries
Project Objective
Unlocking the full potential of 3D models
Automated 3D models are becoming a key asset for companies, as they support a wide range of future applications. These include:
- Model-based definition (MBD), embedding all relevant information directly in the CAD model and enabling reliable downstream processes such as simulation, production, logistics, and quality assurance.
- Sales processes, where representative CAD models of selected or configured products are essential in both B2B and B2C contexts.
- Additional applications such as BIM models and work instructions.
This enables companies to build not only individual products but entire systems more efficiently and with higher precision without relying on 2D drawings or supplementary information.
Belimo ensures precise control of heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems in buildings worldwide. The company offers both configure-to-order (CTO) and make-to-stock (MTS) products. Since many stakeholders rely on accurate 3D models, Belimo engaged Intelliact to develop a concept for automated model generation directly from the BOM.
Project challenges
Automated CAD generation based on assemblies and component models
The key question was how to generate an accurate CAD model automatically from an existing bill of materials. Furthermore, the model had to be usable directly for applications such as marketing material, installation drawings, assembly and service instructions, as well as Building Information Modeling (BIM).
Previously, Belimo created this content manually or used generic representative models. However, this approach was limited in terms of efficiency, consistency and accuracy.
Whether the BOM originates from existing assemblies, configuration outputs or manual inputs: generating CAD models directly from the BOM creates clear advantages. Assemblies and components already exist in precise CAD representations. Providing predefined CAD guidelines, a complete model can be generated and stored automatically.
As a core part of the concept the ruleset covered questions such as:
- Which assemblies or components can be combined?
- Where do they connect?
- How must they be oriented?
Implemented by Intelliact
Developing the concept, defining and harmonising processes
Intelliact developed the holistic concept using a bottom-up approach and supported Belimo in aligning the related processes. This included CAD guidelines within engineering, release and change processes, and workflows for automated model generation.
A crucial element was establishing a clear information flow between roles, systems and tools. Together with Belimo, Intelliact defined which product data must be available at which stage.
A proof of concept with a functional prototype enabled rapid validation of the approach within a few days.
Benefits for Belimo Industries and for the customer
Efficiency gains, improved data quality and scalable processes
Belimo can now generate 3D models from any type of bill of materials. Automating CAD creation across tens of thousands of configuration options results in significant efficiency gains and cost savings. Customers receive accurate and configuration-specific models within very short lead times.
As a consistent data foundation for documentation in production, marketing, assembly and service, the models strengthen quality and continuity across processes. The bottom-up approach also ensures high scalability, allowing new assemblies or components to be integrated quickly.
If you require support in BOM structures, automation or process optimisation, we will gladly support you from concept to implementation.