Introduction
Biancalani is a Tuscan company that designs and manufactures fabric treatment machines, specializing in customized, high-tech solutions.
The problem
Despite the use of digital tools such as CAD software and spreadsheets, the company’s information flows were still highly fragmented. The lack of integration between systems and the manual management of codes, technical specifications, and revisions created redundancies, risks of error, and delays in development and approval processes.
This situation limited the company’s ability to have a unified and up-to-date view of product progress and technical information, in a context of increasing pressure for digital transformation.
The solution
The project introduced a PLM platform to create an integrated information ecosystem capable of centralizing, automating, and tracking all information related to the product lifecycle.
Structured approval flows (stage/gate), automated coding, bill of materials and attribute management, and integration with the CAD environment and the company’s ERP have been implemented. The system now allows for more accurate version control and smoother collaboration between departments.
Technologies
PTC Windchill PLM for product lifecycle management
Creo Parametric 10.0 for CAD design
SQL Server database for data management
Stage/gate workflow for structured processes
Integration with ERP BMS and Active Directory
Automated reporting tools and project scorecards
Impacts
The adoption of a PLM system allows Biancalani to monitor product maturity more granularly, support timely decisions, and improve operational efficiency. The project strengthens the company’s ability to respond agilely to market demands and regulatory requirements by integrating the tools already in use into a unified, robust, and scalable vision.
“Biancalani has successfully completed its corporate digitization project, fully achieving all the objectives set out in the feasibility study phase. This important milestone was made possible thanks to the fruitful collaboration with the MADE consortium and the technical partners involved, selected for their specialist expertise in the field of industrial process innovation. A result of this magnitude would have been difficult to achieve without the decisive contribution of qualified professionals and cutting-edge technological tools. Biancalani thus confirms its commitment to innovation and competitiveness, enhancing synergies between companies and research centers on the path towards Industry 4.0.”
Benefits for the company
Greater consistency and reliability of product data
Simplification in the management of revisions and changes
Automation of coding and documentation processes
Reduction in approval and technical release times
Greater visibility and traceability throughout the entire development cycle