When a multinational filtration solutions provider recognized the need for automating, streamlining, and expediting the preparation process of their Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) solution proposals, they sought a reliable vendor to entrust the project. Owing to the solid expertise in creating top-notch cross-platform web applications and the ability to combine it with unique domain-specific knowledge, the client found a perfect partner in AMC Bridge.

To streamline and digitalize their sales pipeline, the client envisioned an application enabling sales engineers to quickly convert 2D floor plans into 3D scenes, arrange HVAC equipment, and validate project choices using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. On the contrary, their current process was time-consuming, involving manual measurements at the client's site, conducting simulations in-house, and multiple iterations for equipment setup validation and proposal finalization.

As a result, AMC Bridge provided the client with the service of developing from scratch a progressive web solution that is custom-tailored to work both online and offline across various devices, including mobile and desktop. The project was aimed at developing an intuitive, user-friendly editor that enables creating and editing 3D models of facilities based on 2D floor plans and drawings. Additionally, users were given the ability to add various components from a built-in product catalog and upload their own custom assets.

Let's delve into the story of this fascinating collaboration.

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD): Enhancing HVAC design efficiency and accuracy

CFD simulations are a branch of fluid mechanics that uses numerical analysis and algorithms to analyze and solve problems involving fluid flows. These simulations are used to predict the impact of fluid flows on given physical phenomena.

CFD simulations play a crucial role in the successful creation of HVAC solution proposals. They are computational technology that uses numerical algorithms to solve and analyze problems that involve fluid flows, including air, in this context.

For HVAC systems, CFD simulations can model the airflow, heat transfer, and contaminant distribution in a particular space, whether it’s a room, an entire building, or even a larger environment. With these simulations, it’s possible to accurately predict and understand how the proposed HVAC system will perform in the given environment.

By utilizing CFD simulations, HVAC solution providers can ensure their systems are efficient, effective, and optimized for the specific conditions of a building or area. This process can save time, reduce costs, increase energy efficiency, and contribute to the overall comfort and health conditions within the space. As a result, proposals become more accurate and attractive to potential customers. Additionally, it helps avoid costly post-installation changes or modifications by ensuring the system is designed correctly from the outset.

Cross-platform solution in detail

Successfully fulfilling the presented requirements, AMC Bridge offered the client a comprehensive software solution, developed from scratch, that included:

• Front end: A robust web application equipped with 2D and 3D editing capabilities, compatible with both tablet and desktop devices, featuring an offline mode, and integrated into the client’s cloud environment.
• Back end: An HVAC simulation cluster rooted in a CFD simulation core, functioning on a cloud platform, and adhering to rigorous security protocols.

This solution empowers the client’s sales engineers to independently:

• Create 3D scenes based on the corresponding 2D floor plans.
• Incorporate chosen models of filtration equipment into the 3D scenes.
• Initiate CFD simulations for the 3D scenes with the positioned equipment.
• Rapidly access simulation results, equipment placement layouts, and estimations.
• Conveniently modify the scenes and equipment setup based on the simulation outcomes and reinitiate the simulation.
• Operate offline.

From analysis to security: Tackling project challenges by AMC Bridge

Firstly, our team had to thoroughly analyze the technical requirements to deliver a valuable solution. After a comprehensive study of the cloud technologies used by the client and their technical requirements list, the team was able to prepare an in-depth project specification that encompassed all aspects, including architecture design, technology stack, and infrastructure.

Secondly, the team had to establish the HVAC CFD simulation core on the back end. Even though it was the AMC Bridge’s first time dealing with such a complex simulation core, the engineers successfully mastered its API. They did so by leveraging their extensive experience with other simulation cores, reinforcing AMC Bridge’s ability to perform tasks related to similar software products and having no prior experience with specific APIs.

Lastly, the AMC Bridge team was tasked with aligning the solution with the client’s security policy. As a globally recognized enterprise, the client prioritizes safety and adheres to rigorous security policies. Hence, the team meticulously reviewed these policies and subsequently developed and configured the project infrastructure in line with those guidelines.

The resulting solution delivered by AMC Bridge proved to be highly effective and brought the following benefits to the client:

• The sales staff excelled in completing tasks related to preparing proposals, equipment placement schemes, and CFD simulation reports independently.
• The time to prepare proposals was reduced because of the capability to create and revise proposals on-site during sales staff visits to production facilities.

The client acknowledged AMC Bridge as a trustworthy partner and initiated a second implementation phase.