Following on from its first-to-market approach to BIM with the introduction of 12 key families in Revit last year, Metsä Wood is now launching an installation app for contractors installing its Finnframe flooring system.
Accessible from any smartphone or tablet (Windows, Android or Apple-based), the app provides static drawings of design details and animated sequences demonstrating the correct installation procedure.
The Finnframe Installation App works in conjunction with the Finnframe specification provided by Metsä Wood for its housebuilder customers. Detailed design drawings will identify specific details by code – M3 for a masonry hanger, for example – and the contractor will simply cross-reference the code with the app on their phone to download the explanatory video.
This information is currently provided in the form of technical drawings on the reverse of detailed site plans. This guidance may not be readily to hand for all contractors, so the app provides immediate on-the-spot information.
Following extensive research with customers and construction site staff, the app was developed in order to eliminate errors in the installation process. Eliminating the need to visit sites that are held up because of incorrect installation or handling of a product was cited as a real concern by customers.
"We have listened to our customers who all recognise that remedial action is expensive and time-consuming, so any tool that can help get the job done right first time, every time, will ensure the build process is more efficient and will help both contractor and client," said Kevin Riley, Mets? Wood UK vice-president for the construction industry.
"It is not the case of having an ‘app for an app’s sake’, it is intended to drive through improvement in building practice on site by eliminating errors," Mr Riley continued. "Our aim is that downloading the app becomes standard site practice and will be included in tool box talks on all sites using the Finnframe system."
The app is being developed in two stages. The first, available now, gives information on the installation of the Finnjoist I-beam. Stage two will provide a calculator tool advising on the positioning and size of service holes in the I-beam.
On-site trials have proved successful and the initiative has been welcomed by Metsä Wood’s housebuilder customers.
To find the app, simply search for Finnframe Installation App from the usual app stores or go to the Mets? Wood UK website for the link.
