Method for producing, controlling and / or monitoring at least one element for a supporting structure, element for a supporting structure, and supporting structure
Patent Information
- Application Number
- AE202602777
- Authority / Receiving Office
- AE · AE
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-02-23
- Filing Date
- 2025-02-21
Smart Images
Figure ABST_ABST
Abstract
Description
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Method for producing, checking and / or monitoring at least one element for a supporting structure, element for a supporting structure, and supporting structure--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The invention relates to a method for producing, checking and / or monitoring at least one element for a supporting structure according to the preamble of claim 1. The invention furthermore relates to an element for a supporting structure, which is preferably a structurally effective element, for example a façade node, as well as to a supporting structure assembled from a plurality of elements, which comprises at least one element according to the invention.Prior ArtIn the construction industry, the building constructions and projects to be created have for years become increasingly complex. In this connection, the individual building elements are also becoming ever more individual and must satisfy special requirements which depend on the individual case. Generative manufacturing methods, such as for example 3D printing, enable an industrially optimised manufacture of many individual building elements. These building elements are often visually similar, but differ with regard to their properties. Examples to be mentioned here are supporting structures which comprise nodes and bars, which - depending on their positioning - are exposed to different loads. In the case of incorrect positioning, this may have fatal consequences with regard to the structural stability of the supporting structure, so that the error tolerance is low and the requirements placed on the executing trades are high. In addition, information relevant to the installation of the building element is often not available on the building site, or is available only incompletely. Frequently, this information is also based on structural drawings and / or paper documents which - in particular in unfavourable weather - are difficult to handle on the building site.However, the increasing complexity of building constructions and projects does not only present challenges to the executing trades on the building site. The challenges already begin in the planning phase, in particular when several specialist planners are involved, and continue through the manufacture of the individual building elements, their delivery and installation, up to the checking and monitoring after installation has taken place. The checking serves to verify whether - in relation to the individual building element - this has been correctly installed. The monitoring is as a rule carried out permanently and is intended to prevent an impermissible deformation or even a failure of the building element, for example due to excessive loading and / or premature ageing. The monitoring of the individual building element makes it possible to recognise at an early stage whether effects on the entire supporting structure are to be feared, so that measures can be taken against this.Across all life phases of a building element, that is to say from planning through manufacture and installation up to demolition and the subsequent disposal, the availability and the exchange or sharing of information concerning the building element play an important role. Digitalisation provides relief here, since it makes information available quickly and to a large group of persons from diverse organisations. An essential step in the advancement of digitalisation is the comprehensive introduction of so-called Building Information Modeling (BIM). However, this concept, in which project-related information is brought together centrally, has hitherto been used primarily for project planning.According to a study from the year 2023 commissioned by the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport and carried out by the Fraunhofer IESE, a major hurdle lies in the fragmentation of the construction industry. This includes in particular the fragmentation into various trades and the partly complex and non-transparent distribution of the contracts to subcontractors within a trade. Owing to a lack of compatibility, it happens, on the one hand, that information and data are stored several times in various degrees of detail and formats, whereby their retrieval leads to contradictory planning states. On the other hand, the risk is great that essential information is lost. The loss of information, for its part, has effects on all life phases of a building element occurring later in time, so that after the handover of the building only a fraction of the information which is actually present is available to the client, which information would be of great use for monitoring and, if applicable, repair work.The present invention is concerned with the object of simplifying, technically and administratively, the production, checking and / or monitoring of at least one element of a complex construction, in particular of a supporting structure. To achieve the object, the method having the features of claim 1 is proposed. Advantageous developments of the invention are to be found in the subclaims. Furthermore, an element for a supporting structure as well as a supporting structure having at least one element according to the invention are specified.Disclosure of the InventionProposed is a method for producing, checking and / or monitoring at least one element for a supporting structure which is assembled from a plurality of elements differing with regard to their configuration and / or functionality, wherein the at least one element is produced in a generative manufacturing method, in particular in a 3D printing method. According to the invention, data concerning its individual configuration and / or functionality are assigned to the at least one element, and at least a part of the data and / or at least one identifier linked with the data for identifying the element within the supporting structure is or are introduced into the element as machine-readable information.With the aid of the proposed method, information relevant to the production, checking and / or monitoring of the at least one element can be made available directly or indirectly. A direct availability is given, for example, if the machine-readable information is at least a part of the data assigned to the element. The data themselves are then the information which can be read out by machine directly at the element. The direct access to the data has the advantage that a connection to an information-technology network or an external database is unnecessary, since the data can be held and retrieved locally. A direct availability is likewise given if the machine-readable information is an identifier, since this enables an identification of the element within the supporting structure. In addition, relevant information can be made available indirectly via the at least one identifier, since this is linked with the data assigned to the element. The indirect access to the data has the advantage that these can be managed externally or centrally and continuously updated as required.The data concerning the individual configuration and / or functionality of the at least one element may be installation information, for example the installation position in the supporting structure, material information and / or physical load limits. Furthermore, the data may contain the manufacturer's name, the date of manufacture, a serial or batch number and / or CAD model data, up to and including complete assembly instructions.In order to introduce data and / or at least one identifier into the element as machine-readable information, a form of representation must be selected which enables a machine read-out. Digital formats in particular come into consideration. These can be stored on a storage medium, for example a flash memory or magnetic carrier, which is subsequently introduced into the element. However, a written or pictorial representation of the information also comes into consideration, for example in the form of an embossing or relief mark, if applicable in coded form.By introducing at least a part of the data assigned to the element and / or the at least one identifier linked with the data into the element, it is ensured that information relevant to the production, checking and / or monitoring of the element is not lost and thus is available at any time and to everyone. The group of persons may in this connection also be restricted to those who are specially authorised, for example to planners, construction trades and / or users. In this way, access to the information necessary for this purpose can be granted to everyone who is concerned with the production, checking and / or monitoring of at least one element of a supporting structure, and indeed directly, that is to say without delay. It is also possible to derive from the assigned data any statutory requirements, which are generally available only in analogue form, and to make them available.The field of application of the present invention is not restricted to the construction field, but also includes other technical fields, such as for example mechanical engineering. A supporting structure within the meaning of the present invention is therefore to be understood as any technical artefact which has a supporting, in particular load-transferring, function. The data assigned to the at least one element of the supporting structure are preferably parameter values, in particular physical, mechanical and / or chemical parameter values.According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one element which is produced, checked and / or monitored according to the method is a structurally effective element, for example a façade node. In the case of a structurally effective element, the error tolerance is particularly low, so that here the advantages of the proposed method come to light particularly clearly. If a structurally effective element, such as for example a façade node, is not installed at the intended position, this can endanger the structural stability of the entire supporting structure. After installation has taken place, it must moreover be ensured that a predetermined load limit of the structurally effective element is not exceeded. If, for example, a conversion of the supporting structure occurs, this can lead to an increased load and thus to an exceeding of the load limit of the structurally effective element. By checking and / or monitoring the structurally effective element, this can be prevented. In this connection, not only sensors, simulations and / or calculations can be helpful, but also the data assigned to the element.Preferably, the data assigned to the at least one element comprise- data relevant to the production of the element, in particular design, material and / or manufacturing data,- data relevant to the assembly of the element, in particular position and / or connection data within the supporting structure,- data relevant to the checking and / or monitoring of the element, in particular physical parameters and / or load limits, and / or- data relevant to the disposal of the element, in particular data on environmental compatibility.Data relevant to the production of the element, in particular manufacturing data, may, in addition to manufacturer, place of manufacture and / or date of manufacture, also comprise the manufacturing method employed and / or specific manufacturing techniques employed, various manufacturing parameters as well as materials used including their formulation. As a rule, these data remain with the manufacturer, so that at a later point in time they are difficult or even impossible to obtain. If, for example, the inspection of the element shows that this must be replaced, the data relevant to the production of the element can be used for the renewed production or manufacture.Data relevant to the assembly of the element may, in addition to data for identification, contain data for the positioning of the element within the supporting structure, in particular in relation to the installation location and the orientation of the element in relation to adjacent elements and / or in relation to a superordinate coordinate system, for example in relation to a horizontal and / or vertical axis. Data relevant to the checking and / or monitoring of the element may comprise the compressive and / or tensile strength, the flexural rigidity, the density, the weight, the corrosion resistance, the maximum temperature and / or moisture loading as physical parameters and / or load limits of the element. On the basis of these data, a situation assessment can be carried out within the scope of the checking or monitoring, which helps to uncover and to deal with safety-relevant deficiencies. They enable investigation of causes and empower the respective responsible person to make an informed decision.Data relevant to the disposal of the element are required in particular in the case of conversion and / or dismantling of the supporting structure. The point in time of the use of these data can accordingly be a long way from the point in time of the deposition of the data. Over this time interval, information can be lost for many reasons, for example through insolvency of a participating company, and is finally no longer available at the relevant point in time. This leads to a blurred situational picture in the planning of a conversion and / or dismantling, if applicable with the consequence of higher costs. With the aid of the proposed method, by contrast, the data remain available and can be taken into account in the disposal of the element while complying with the statutory requirements. This applies analogously if recycling of the element takes the place of disposal.Preferably, at least a part of the data assigned to the at least one element is stored as a digital command and / or documentation data set. This is then introduced into the element as machine-readable information and / or linked with the at least one identifier introduced into the element as machine-readable information. The digital command and / or documentation data set can then be read out or retrieved by machine either directly or indirectly via the at least one identifier. The indirect reading out or retrieval enables access to a large quantity of data, since these can be stored in an internal and / or external database. Access to these data merely requires a link with this database.Alternatively or additionally, it is therefore proposed that at least a part of the data assigned to the element and / or the at least one identifier is or are linked with an internal and / or external database. An "internal database" is here understood to mean a database of a participating engineering office or manufacturer of the element or of the supporting structure. An "external database" is here understood to mean a database which centrally collects and stores relevant data from various data sources, as for example in the case of Building Information Modeling (BIM). The use of such an external database may even be prescribed by law. The situation is similar with an external database for creating a CO2 passport or another pass or certificate. By means of the proposed linking of the data assigned to the element and / or of the at least one identifier with such an external database, access to the information stored in the database can be granted to all parties involved. In addition, the information can be managed centrally. This ensures a high topicality of the data, since these can be continued and / or supplemented.Preferably, at least a part of the data assigned to the element and / or the at least one identifier is or are introduced into the at least one element in coded form. The coding enables a reduction of the data volume to be introduced into the element and thus of the required storage space. The introduction of the data is thereby facilitated. Furthermore, by selecting a suitable coding, the machine read-out of the data can be simplified. The same applies with regard to the at least one identifier, which - alternatively or additionally - is introduced into the element in coded form. In this connection, no limits are set to the specific form of coding. It may, for example, be present as a bar code or QR code, in binary or hexadecimal form, as an electromagnetic coding or in a file format customary in computer-aided processing.Furthermore, it is proposed that at least a part of the data assigned to the element and / or the at least one identifier are introduced into the at least one element in the form of- a material change and / or a material addition,- a three-dimensional structure, for example an embossing or relief mark,- a geometric configuration,- a manipulation of the microstructural properties of the material,- an electronic identifier and / or- a storage medium which contains the data or the identifier in digital form.The proposed types of introduction are particularly advantageous because, on the one hand, they enable a machine read-out and, on the other hand, they can be implemented easily in a generative manufacturing method, so that the data or the at least one identifier can already be introduced into the element as machine-readable information during the production of the element. Which type of introduction is decided upon depends, inter alia, on the manner in which the information introduced into the element is later to be read out by machine.If the introduction takes place in the form of a material change, a material may be used which has particular physical properties, for example reflector properties or a particularly good thermal conductivity. In this connection, recourse is had to differences in the properties of the materials used which are of the highest value, in order to achieve the greatest contrast. In the case of reflector properties, the material can be irradiated for the machine read-out of the information. The irradiation may in this connection take place in a particular electromagnetic spectrum, for example in the visible, infrared and / or ultraviolet spectrum. When introducing the material into the element, an individual pattern for coding the information can be selected, so that little space is required. A similar result can be achieved by a change of a material property, for example of the microstructure.If the introduction takes place in the form of a three-dimensional structure, for example in the form of an embossing or relief mark, a structure can be selected which, if applicable, is already detectable with the naked eye and thus enables a distinction of the element from other elements of the same type or an identification of the element. The machine read-out of the information is correspondingly simple to implement. The situation is similar if a particular geometric configuration is used as identifier. This may be the geometric configuration of the entire element or of a particular region of the element.If the introduction is to take place in the form of an electronic identifier, recourse can be had for example to RFID technology.The introduction in the form of a storage medium is particularly advantageous, since a large quantity of data can be stored on this and deposited directly in the element. Flash memories in particular come into consideration as storage media. As a further example - following the concept of compact discs originating from computer technology - the introduction of a storage medium is mentioned which has, in a surface, a data track that can be read out with a laser. The storage medium may in particular consist of polycarbonate. Also possible, furthermore, is a data storage based on magnetisation, as known from magnetic tapes, magnetic stripe cards or from hard-disk technology. The storage medium may also be introduced into the element subsequently. For this purpose, the element may have a corresponding recess or opening.The various types of introduction of the data or of the at least one identifier may be employed in each case individually or in different combinations. In the case of a combination of different types of introduction, the type of machine read-out of the data or of the identifier may, if applicable, also differ.Preferably, the data introduced into the element and / or the at least one identifier introduced into the element are read out with the aid of a mobile electronic device, for example with the aid of- a camera, in particular a thermal camera,- a scanner, in particular a 3D scanner or a CT scanner, and / or- an active transmitter / receiver system, preferably in the radio-frequency range.A camera is nowadays integrated into every mobile telephone, so that the reading out can be made possible for a large group of persons. The function of a thermal camera is obtainable as an application for mobile devices, such as for example a smartphone or tablet, and can be downloaded easily. The same applies with regard to the function of a scanner. Transmitter / receiver systems, in particular in the radio-frequency range, are likewise known and obtainable in electronics specialist shops.Advantageously, a mobile electronic device in the form of a handheld or of VR glasses is used for the reading out. These devices are simple and comfortable to operate. Furthermore, they can be carried along from building site to building site without difficulty, so that they can be used in a versatile manner. Particularly advantageous are devices which do not have to be held in the hand, so that the hands are free in order to carry out work on the building site, for example to position and fasten the element in the supporting structure. Comfort and occupational safety are thereby increased.Furthermore, it is proposed that, for the checking and / or monitoring of the at least one element, a desired state is retrieved via the data introduced into the element and / or the at least one identifier introduced into the element and is compared with an actual state. By means of the comparison, an error, for example an incorrect positioning and / or orientation of the element in the supporting structure, can be detected. In order to avoid damage to the supporting structure, the error can then be corrected promptly. The correction may, for example, consist in that the installation position and / or the orientation of the element is changed, or an excessive loading of the element, for example by carried loads, temperature and / or moisture, is reduced. The actual state is preferably detected optically and / or by sensors. For example, the actual state can be detected by means of visual inspection or with the aid of an imaging method. If the actual state is defined by at least one parameter, this can be detected with the aid of suitable sensor means arranged on the element or supporting structure. For example, an elongation of the element can be detected via a built-in elongation sensor. In this case, within the scope of the checking and / or monitoring of the element, a measured value made available by the elongation sensor can be compared with a maximum permissible elongation value assigned to the element, which is readable out or retrievable directly or indirectly via the at least one introduced identifier. In this way, variable or dynamic actual states can also be detected and subjected to the checking and / or inspection.In a development of the invention, it is proposed that, in the event of a deviation of the actual state from the desired state, an optical, acoustic and / or haptic warning message is generated. The warning message ensures that the deviation is not overlooked but is reliably recognised. The detected error can thus be remedied quickly in order to avoid consequential damage. The warning message is preferably generated with the aid of the mobile electronic device which is used for reading out the data and / or the at least one identifier. The checking and / or monitoring of the element in this case requires only this one mobile electronic device.The checking and / or monitoring of the at least one element may reveal that a replacement of the element is required. As a further developing measure it is therefore proposed that, in the event of a replacement of the at least one element, at least a part of the data assigned to the element is or are read out or retrieved directly and / or indirectly via the at least one identifier introduced into the element and used for producing a replacement element. The data may accordingly in particular be data relevant to the production of the element, in particular design, material and / or manufacturing data, such as for example the manufacturing method employed and / or specific manufacturing techniques employed. It is thereby ensured that the replacement element has the same properties as the original element. In addition, the element can be reproduced in any desired number with the aid of the data. Preferably, the replacement element is - analogously to the original element - produced in a generative manufacturing method, in particular in a 3D printing method. The read-out or retrieved data can in this case be used directly as manufacturing data, which significantly reduces the data-technical and administrative effort between the determination of a required replacement and the completion of the replacement element. Particularly in additive manufacturing, the specific manufacturing method as well as specific manufacturing parameters associated therewith play a decisive role for achieving the desired properties and configuration. Thanks to the proposed method, this information remains permanently available or retrievable.Furthermore, an element, in particular a structurally effective element, for a supporting structure is proposed, which has been produced in a generative manufacturing method, in particular in a 3D printing method. The element may, for example, be a façade node. According to the invention, data concerning its individual configuration and / or functionality are assigned to the element, and at least a part of these data and / or at least one identifier linked with the data for identifying the element within the supporting structure is or are introduced into the element as machine-readable information. In accordance with the previously described method according to the invention, the element can be produced, checked and / or monitored with the aid of the data or of the at least one identifier. The data required for this purpose can be read out or retrieved either directly or indirectly via the at least one identifier. For the reading out or retrieval, a mobile electronic device may be used, for example a camera, in particular a thermal camera, a scanner, in particular a 3D scanner or a CT scanner, and / or a transmitter / receiver system, preferably in the radio-frequency range.Preferably, the data assigned to the element comprise- data relevant to the production of the element, in particular design, material and / or manufacturing data,- data relevant to the assembly of the element, in particular position and / or connection data within the supporting structure,- data relevant to the checking and / or monitoring of the element, in particular physical parameters and / or load limits,- data relevant to the disposal of the element, in particular data on environmental compatibility, and / or- data relevant to the re-production of the element.These data may be present in the form of at least one command and / or documentation data set which is introduced into the element and / or is linked with at least one identifier introduced into the element. In both cases, access to these data exists at the element itself, in order to produce, check and / or monitor the element or a replacement element with the aid of these data.The reading out or retrieval of the data can be carried out before, during or after the installation of the element in the supporting structure, so that a checking and / or inspection of the element is possible at any time. For example, the correct installation position can be retrieved before installation. After installation, it can then be checked whether the element has been installed correctly. The checking or the inspection can be carried out directly on site at the element or at the supporting structure. Access to the data is also still possible long after installation of the element has taken place, so that an inspection can take place over the entire lifetime of the element. The checking or inspection preferably takes place according to one of the previously described methods according to the invention.The identification function can moreover be used for other construction and / or administrative processes. For example, by retrieving data which are linked with the at least one identifier, it can be determined immediately whether the assembly of the element requires further connection works, for example the attachment of lines and / or cables. Furthermore, the data linked with the at least one identifier can be used for orientation on the building site, for example in order to find out the floor, the section and / or the sector on or in which the installation location is situated. This is of advantage in particular in the case of particularly complex construction projects or buildings.Preferably, at least a part of the data assigned to the element and / or the at least one identifier is or are introduced into the at least one element in coded form. By means of the coding, space can be saved when introducing the data or the at least one identifier.Further preferably, at least a part of the data assigned to the element and / or the at least one identifier is or are introduced into the at least one element in the form of- a material change and / or a material addition,- a three-dimensional structure, for example an embossing or relief mark,- a geometric configuration,- a manipulation of the microstructural properties of the material,- an electronic identifier and / or- a storage medium which contains the data or the identifier in digital form.The introduction may in this connection take place according to one of the previously described methods according to the invention, for example simultaneously with the production of the element. Alternatively or additionally, at least a part of the data and / or the at least one identifier may also be introduced into the element subsequently, so that existing elements can be upgraded to an element according to the invention.Furthermore, it is proposed that at least a part of the data assigned to the element and / or the at least one identifier is or are linked with an externally stored command and / or documentation data set and / or a database. The database may be both an internal and an external database. The proposed linking ensures access to a very large quantity of data, since this can be outsourced. This means that the machine-readable information introduced into the element can be restricted to a single identifier which is linked with the externally stored data in order to grant access to these data. An externally stored command and / or documentation data set and / or an external database moreover has or have the advantage that they can be managed centrally and continuously updated. This may become necessary if, for example, the requirements placed on the element change on account of a conversion of the supporting structure.In addition, a supporting structure is proposed which is assembled from a plurality of elements differing with regard to their configuration and / or functionality and comprises at least one element according to the invention. With the aid of the at least one element according to the invention, a checking and / or inspection of the supporting structure can also be carried out. This applies in particular if the at least one element is a structurally effective element, for example a façade node. For in this case, for example, an incorrect installation position of the element can have effects on the structural stability of the supporting structure. The checking and / or inspection carried out with the aid of the at least one element thus increases safety during the erection of the supporting structure as well as in the time thereafter.The invention and its advantages are explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These show:Fig. 1 a perspective representation of a supporting structure, supporting structure which is assembled from a plurality of elements differing with regard to their configuration and / or functionality, of which at least one element is embodied according to the invention,Fig. 2 a perspective representation of an element according to the invention for a supporting structure, this being a façade node,Fig. 3 a possible form of representation of an identifier which can be introduced into an element according to the invention as machine-readable information,Fig. 4 a block diagram for illustrating the possible links of an identifier introduced into an element according to the invention with various data sources or databases andFig. 5 a block diagram for illustrating the sequence of a method according to the invention for checking an element according to the invention within a supporting structure.Detailed Description of the DrawingsA supporting structure 7 which is assembled from various elements 1, 2 can be gathered from Figure 1. The supporting structure 7 is a façade construction which comprises façade nodes as first elements 1 as well as struts connected with the façade nodes as further elements 2. Since the supporting structure 7 is constructed irregularly, the façade nodes differ with regard to their individual configuration. In particular, the number of struts which are connected with a façade node may vary. This has effects on the shape and the loading of the respective façade node. For each façade node forms a structurally effective element 1 within the supporting structure 7. In order to save material and thus weight, each façade node can thus be designed individually with regard to its load limit. It is therefore of enormous importance that each façade node is installed at the correct position, in order not to endanger the structural stability of the supporting structure 7.Which is the correct installation position is, however, not always apparent, in particular if no information in this respect is available on site at the building site or such information is only difficult to obtain. In the absence of corresponding information, it is then as a rule also not possible, after the erection of the supporting structure, to check whether the correct installation position has been selected. In order to improve the availability of information, an element 1 for a supporting structure 7, such as for example a façade node, can be embodied according to the invention. For this purpose, data concerning its individual configuration and / or functionality are assigned to the element 1, and at least a part of these data and / or at least one identifier is or are introduced into the element 1 as machine-readable information 3.As represented by way of example in Figure 2, the machine-readable information 3 can be introduced into the element 1 by a material change. This means that a material 4 is introduced into the element 1 which differs from a further material 5 from which, for example, the element 1 is manufactured. The material 4 may, for example, be a metal and the material 5 a plastic, or vice versa. Other material combinations are likewise conceivable. The material 4 may in this connection - as represented in Figure 2 - be introduced over an area, so that the material change is scarcely visually significant. In this case, the specific shape of the area serves as an additional identifier. The element 1 represented in Figure 2, this likewise being a façade node, has three connection geometries 6 for the connection of struts, which can be changed neither with regard to their shape nor with regard to their material. In order to carry out the material change, only the surface lying therebetween is accordingly suitable. Since this as a rule remains visible even after the installation of the element 1, the information introduced by the material change can be read out by machine at any time.A material 4 serving as identifier can also be introduced into the element 1 in an individual pattern, analogously to a QR code or the like. An example of such a pattern is represented by way of example in Figure 3. With the aid of such a pattern, a coding of the information can moreover be carried out, so that the accommodation of the pattern or of the machine-readable information on the element 1 requires less space. In this connection, any desired basic geometric shapes may be used, which in turn can be assembled in numerous variants.For introducing the machine-readable information 3, a material 4 may also be used which has particular properties, such as for example reflector properties. In this case, by irradiating the material 4, the individual pattern can be recognised and the information 3 read out. The material 4 can, for example, be irradiated with the aid of thermal radiation (IR radiation) or electromagnetic radiation (EM waves). As reading device, for example, a thermal camera or a scanner, in particular a 3D scanner or CT scanner, may be used.The machine-readable information 3 may contain at least a part of the data assigned to the element 1 and / or be linked with the data via an identifier. The data can in this case be stored outside the element 1, for example in an internal and / or external database 10, 11. Via the identifier, the element 1 can moreover be identified.An identification of an element 1 according to the invention can also be generated generally via the recognition of particular contrast patterns from the visible spectrum. In this connection, for example, the individual manifestation of a topology-optimised geometry may be helpful. Furthermore, density variations at non-concealed surfaces of the element 1 are conceivable. In principle, every type of geometry and / or microstructure change can be employed for the identification of the element 1.A corresponding identifier can be introduced into the element 1 already during the production thereof, wherein the element 1 is produced in a generative manufacturing method. The data required for this purpose can likewise be introduced into the element 1, for example as a command and / or documentation data set, or be linked with an identifier introduced into the element 1. If, at a later point in time, the element 1 has to be replaced, the data can be used for producing a replacement element.In the case of present-day façade constructions, particular mechanical-physical parameters are frequently derived for each individual façade node with the aid of parametric topology optimisation, such as for example the dimensions as well as physical properties, such as compressive and tensile strength and / or flexural rigidity. These parameters can be introduced into the façade node as data, so that they are available locally. Alternatively, a link to these data can be established via at least one identifier, so that these can be stored outside the element 1. The identifier enables access to these data at any time.The data assigned to the façade node may moreover contain a digital model of the façade construction, from which the target position of the façade node emerges. After the completion of the façade construction, this can be scanned with a suitable electronic device 15 and compared with the digital model. If the comparison reveals a deviation, this can be displayed on the device 15, for example by highlighting the at least one façade node which has been installed in an incorrect position.On the basis of the block diagram of Figure 4, the possible links of an identifier introduced into an element 1 according to the invention with various data sources or databases 10, 11 are shown below. The identifier is in this connection introduced as machine-readable information 3 into a structurally effective element 1 of a supporting structure 7. The supporting structure 7 is a constituent part of a construction project 8 which can be assigned to a particular construction industry 9. Via the identifier, the element 1 is linked with a first database 10 on a server 12, which is an internal database 10. For this database 10 is assigned to this one construction project 8. In the database 10, in particular manufacturing data D1 made available by an element manufacturer 14 and / or data D2, D3, D4 which are provided by an engineering office 13 which is involved in the construction project 8, can. The data D2 may, for example, be assembly data. They supply the on-site executing company, which is concerned with the erection of the supporting structure 7, with the information required for this purpose, for example with regard to the specific installation location and / or the orientation of the element 1 within the supporting structure 7. The further data may be checking data D3 and / or monitoring data D4. With the aid of the checking data, the correct position / orientation of the element 1 can be checked after installation has taken place. With the aid of the monitoring data, it can be monitored over the entire life cycle 16 of the element 1 whether, for example, a predetermined load limit of the element 1 is complied with. At the end of the life cycle 16 of the element 1, the dismantling and the disposal of the element 1 can be prescribed with the aid of further data, in particular disposal data D5. If the element 1 has to be replaced at the end of its life cycle 16, a replacement element can be produced with the aid of the manufacturing data D1, which replacement element, on account of the use of the same data D1, is identical to the element 1. The manufacturing data D1 may accordingly also be restoration data. As furthermore emerges from Figure 4, required data can be passed on from the internal database 10 to (often legally prescribed) external databases 11. Conversely, data from external databases 11 can also be imported into the internal database 10 and stored and used for further processing.A further diagram can be gathered from Figure 5, on the basis of which the sequence of a checking of an element 1 according to the invention installed in a supporting structure 7 is illustrated by way of example. For this operation, a device 15 is required, with the aid of which the information 3 introduced into the element 1 can first be read out by machine. This may in particular be a mobile device 15, for example a handheld or VR glasses. The machine-readable information 3 introduced into the element 1 is linked with data assigned to the element 1, which data concern the individual configuration and / or functionality of the element 1. Via the device 15, access to these data is obtained. In the represented example, the data are stored in an internal database 10 on a server 12. Via a further data source, the server 12 has access to checking data D3 which can be compared with the data of the internal database 10. If the data agree, the result of the checking is positive and there is no need for action. If the data do not agree, this indicates an error. This can be displayed optically and / or acoustically via the device 15 by a corresponding warning signal.As already mentioned, the invention is not restricted to supporting structures in the construction field, but also includes other supporting structures, for example supporting structures of vehicles and / or aircraft as well as supporting structures of ships.List of Reference Signs1 Element2 Element3 machine-readable information4 Material5 Material6 Connection geometry7 Supporting structure8 Construction project9 Construction industry10 Internal database11 External database12 Server13 Engineering office14 Element manufacturer15 Device16 Life cycle
Claims
1. Method for producing, checking and / or monitoring at least one element (1) for a supporting structure (7) which is assembled from a plurality of elements (1, 2) differing with regard to their configuration and / or functionality, wherein the at least one element (1) is produced in a generative manufacturing method, in particular in a 3D printing method,characterised in that data concerning its individual configuration and / or functionality are assigned to the at least one element (1), and at least a part of the data and / or at least one identifier linked with the data for identifying the element (1) within the supporting structure (7) is or are introduced into the element (1) as machine-readable information (3).
2. Method according to claim 1,characterised in that the at least one element (1) which is produced, checked and / or monitored according to the method is a structurally effective element (1), for example a façade node.
3. Method according to claim 1 or 2,characterised in that the data assigned to the at least one element (1) comprise- data relevant to the production of the element (1), in particular design, material and / or manufacturing data,- data relevant to the assembly of the element (1), in particular position and / or connection data within the supporting structure (7),- data relevant to the checking and / or monitoring of the element (1), in particular physical parameters and / or load limits, and / or- data relevant to the disposal of the element (1), in particular data on environmental compatibility.
4. Method according to one of the preceding claims,characterised in that at least a part of the data assigned to the at least one element (1) is stored as a digital command and / or documentation data set which is introduced into the element (1) as machine-readable information (3) and / or is linked with the at least one identifier introduced into the element (1) as machine-readable information (3).
5. Method according to one of the preceding claims,characterised in that at least a part of the data assigned to the element (1) and / or the at least one identifier is or are linked with an internal and / or external database (10, 11), for example a Building Information Modeling database.
6. Method according to one of the preceding claims,characterised in that at least a part of the data assigned to the element (1) and / or the at least one identifier is or are introduced into the at least one element (1) in coded form.
7. Method according to one of the preceding claims,characterised in that at least a part of the data assigned to the element (1) and / or the at least one identifier are introduced into the at least one element (1) in the form of- a material change and / or a material addition,- a three-dimensional structure, for example an embossing or relief mark,- a geometric configuration,- a manipulation of the microstructural properties of the material,- an electronic identifier and / or- a storage medium which contains the data or the identifier in digital form.
8. Method according to one of the preceding claims,characterised in that the data introduced into the element (1) and / or the at least one identifier introduced into the element (1) are read out with the aid of a mobile electronic device (15), for example with the aid of- a camera, in particular a thermal camera,- a scanner, in particular a 3D scanner or a CT scanner, and / or- an active transmitter / receiver system, preferably in the radio-frequency range,wherein preferably a mobile electronic device (15) in the form of a handheld or of VR glasses is used.
9. Method according to one of the preceding claims,characterised in that, for the checking and / or monitoring of the at least one element (1), a desired state is retrieved via the data introduced into the element (1) and / or the at least one identifier introduced into the element (1) and is compared with an actual state, which is preferably detected optically and / or by sensors.
10. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that, in the event of a replacement of the at least one element (1), at least a part of the data assigned to the element (1) is or are read out or retrieved directly and / or indirectly via the at least one identifier introduced into the element (1) and used for producing a replacement element, wherein preferably the replacement element is produced in a generative manufacturing method, in particular in a 3D printing method.
11. Element (1), in particular structurally effective element (1), for a supporting structure (7), which has been produced in a generative manufacturing method, in particular in a 3D printing method,characterised in that data concerning its individual configuration and / or functionality are assigned to the element (1), and at least a part of these data and / or at least one identifier linked with the data for identifying the element (1) within the supporting structure is or are introduced into the element (1) as machine-readable information (3).
12. Element (1) according to claim 11,characterised in that the data assigned to the element (1) comprise- data relevant to the production of the element (1), in particular design, material and / or manufacturing data,- data relevant to the assembly of the element (1), in particular position and / or connection data within the supporting structure,- data relevant to the checking and / or monitoring of the element (1), in particular physical parameters and / or load limits, and / or- data relevant to the disposal of the element (1), in particular data on environmental compatibility, and / or- data relevant to the re-production of the element.
13. Element (1) according to claim 11 or 12,characterised in that at least a part of the data assigned to the element (1) and / or the at least one identifier is or are introduced into the at least one element (1) in coded form.
14. Element (1) according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterised in that at least a part of the data assigned to the element (1) and / or the at least one identifier is or are introduced into the at least one element (1) in the form of- a material change and / or a material addition,- a three-dimensional structure, for example an embossing or relief mark,- a geometric configuration,- a manipulation of the microstructural properties of the material,- an electronic identifier and / or- a storage medium which contains the data or the identifier in digital form.
15. Supporting structure which is assembled from a plurality of elements (1, 2) differing with regard to their configuration and / or functionality and comprises at least one element (1) according to one of claims 11 to 14.