The fischer Group of Companies launched its 11th Expert Forum from 6 to 7 February at its headquarters in Waldachtal. Around 100 guests discussed key topics in fastening technology and the construction industry, focusing on digitalisation, automation, AI and Building Information Modelling (BIM).
AI and Digitalisation
AI expert Dr. Feiyu Xu outlined how AI can enhance products, processes and promotion in construction.
Following the keynote, Professor Reinhard Wimmer from Karlsruhe University discussed BIM's role in digitalising and optimising construction processes. This method was introduced in Germany in 2015 with the "digital planning and construction step-by-step plan" and is mandatory for infrastructure projects above a certain volume.
However, only 30% of local companies fully utilise BIM. Wimmer encouraged wider adoption, noting that BIM can save time, reduce costs and improve quality with the right strategy, standards and model-based processes. He stressed the importance of standardised information management, fair compensation for BIM services and improved interoperability.
Timber System Construction
Thomas Meibert from Gropyus AG explored timber system construction, focusing on efficiency, sustainability and its future potential. He highlighted how Gropyus AG used digitalisation and automation to enhance sustainability and efficiency in construction.
Prof. Benjamin Kromoser from BOKU in Vienna introduced an innovative bonded wood-concrete composite ceiling system (HBV). This system improves efficiency, ecological balance and load-bearing capacity compared to mechanical connections.
Bonding in Construction
Professor Matthias Neuner from BOKU in Vienna discussed bonding in construction, emphasising numerical material mechanics to simulate and predict material behaviour in structures. This method helps understand complex mechanisms, such as adhesive bonds, and promises to predict and improve the durability of structures.
Structural Reinforcement and Load-Bearing
Dr. Máté Tóth, Head of Building Renovation at fischer, presented solutions for structural reinforcement and concrete repair, focusing on sustainable use of existing structures. He covered methods including carbon fibre reinforced polymers (CFRP), steel mesh and concrete repair systems. Prof. Jan Hofmann from the University of Stuttgart shared research on the load-bearing capacity of anchors with very shallow anchoring depths, crucial for new construction methods focused on CO₂ reduction.
fischer’s Services and Academy
Dr. Ronald Mihala, Deputy Managing Director of Development and Product Management at fischer, highlighted the company’s services in project management. fischer provides support from planning and execution to documentation and building monitoring. Their digital innovations include BIM services, advanced scanning for as-built documentation, automated construction with the BauBot robot and IoT-connected fastening products for efficient object monitoring.
Guests also toured fischer’s production facilities and got up close with the fischer BauBot construction robot, guided by Emil Kral, Managing Director of fischer BauBot Services GmbH. The demonstration included autonomous drilling, showcasing the robot’s benefits in the renovation of the Engelberg Tunnel near Leonberg.
