With »StoPanelizer« facade planning becomes faster, easier, and more resource-efficient, supporting professionals reliably in cost estimation and tender preparation for prefabricated facade elements.
Client
Sto Building Solutions GmbH
Project duration
2020 - today
Technologies
Figma, Unity 3D, Java, C++, React, OpenCV
1
Initial Situation
Sto is one of the leading manufacturers of external wall insulation systems and innovative facade solutions. In the North American market, Sto offers, among other products, StoPanel – prefabricated facade panels that provide planning reliability and efficiency in implementation.
To calculate these panels accurately within projects, planners have so far mostly relied on PDF files as their primary reference. Based on these two-dimensional plans, they estimate how many panels might be required. However, this approach is neither cost-efficient nor resource-friendly: in case of uncertainty, too many panels are often prefabricated, leading to unnecessary material consumption and higher costs.
In addition, producing a reliable cost estimate typically takes around two weeks on average — a significant time investment that delays planning and decision-making processes considerably.
The challenge
Since many projects involve existing buildings, planners usually only have PDF files available. However, an accurate and reliable planning process for facade panels requires a 3D model.
The key question, therefore, was: how can we generate a 3D model from two-dimensional PDF elevations and floor plans that can serve as a precise basis for cost estimation?This is exactly where the StoPanelizer comes in.
With just a few simple steps, PDF files can be converted into a 3D building model that serves directly as a planning foundation.
2
First step: proof of concept
Before a functional application could be developed, one central question had to be answered: Can reliable 3D models for planning actually be generated from traditional 2D PDF plans? To explore this, a two-part proof of concept was implemented:
From 2D plans to 3D model
PDF files initially provide only pixel-based graphics, not vectorized data as used in CAD systems. The main challenge, therefore, was to derive geometric structures from these images. By logically linking floor plans and elevations, it was possible for the first time to generate a consistent 3D building model that serves as the foundation for panel planning.
Image recognition for windows and openings
Window areas and other openings also had to be detected from pure pixel data. Using image processing algorithms, these elements were automatically identified and integrated directly into the geometry of the 3D model.
The proof of concept demonstrated that a reliable 3D model can be created from two-dimensional pixel graphics in just a few steps, allowing precise geometries to be derived. This provides the foundation for accurate and resource-efficient panel planning.
3
From prototype to MVP
After the successful proof of concepts and initial technical prototypes, the next crucial step followed with the implementation of an interface design: the transition from a feasibility study to a minimum viable product.
The first MVP initially ran on desktop but already included all key features required to produce reliable cost estimates. This enabled Sto to use the application early in real projects, gather feedback, and lay the foundation for future development.
4
Area optimization – efficient, reliable, economical
The intelligent surface optimization in StoPanelizer enables an automated arrangement of panels that minimizes material waste and conserves resources.
The resulting consistent joint pattern and the ability to quickly test different variants empower planners to make reliable decisions even in the early project stages.
This turns result reliability into true planning certainty — and ultimately leads to cost reduction.
5
From a small user group to a cloud product for everyone.
Following the initial desktop MVP, the next development milestone marked the transition of StoPanelizer to the cloud, expanding its functionality many times over. At the same time, a significantly refined user interface was created, making the application even more intuitive to use.
In addition, testing scenarios were developed to continuously improve the software, and training sessions were held to ensure planners could use StoPanelizer efficiently.
In close collaboration with the affiliates, we presented the solution, gathered feedback, and gradually established it in the market.
6
Next evolution of StoPanelizer
For the planned Europe-wide rollout, we restructured the architecture of StoPanelizer: while the visualization continues to be implemented with Unity3D, the interface is now built with React.
This allows for leaner implementation, higher performance, and greater speed in use.At the same time, we modernized the interface design — cleaner, more focused, and perfectly aligned with the requirements of a full-scale software solution. The colors and visual language of Sto were retained yet further developed to consistently reflect the Sto brand, elevating the Panelizer both visually and functionally to a new level.
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