More than straightforward design and execution

Innovation in custom interior design: faster and more efficient design and production

At interior builder Rouwhorst & Taken, known for custom kitchens and furniture, innovation takes center stage. By using the CAD/CAM software TopSolid and advanced machinery, they are taking a big step in optimizing their work process. The result: time savings, fewer errors and a tighter workflow. The parties involved explain exactly how this cooperation between Rouwhorst & Taken, software supplier TopSolid and Molendijk Houtbewerkingsmachines works.

Rouwhorst & Taken works a lot with private clients who have high demands and want to see quick results. Thanks to an optimized workflow, this is possible. "Working with TopSolid has completely changed our way of designing," says work planner Maikel Grave.

From 2D to 3D: a new way of designing

Whereas previously the team worked in 2D and every adjustment had to be made manually, it now works entirely in 3D. "Thanks to the TopSolid software, we can realize the entire design even before the dimensions are known to the millimeter. This is because we can easily make necessary changes - such as a different panel thickness or a thicker plaster layer - throughout the design as well as in the machine files," Grave explains. This means that a design is quickly ready for production, even if adjustments are required after measuring. This is essential for custom furniture.

The use of library elements - supplied or self-designed - and the automatic generation of an import file with CNC components also saves time and guarantees error-free production. These NC files take into account the machines, tools and materials used and can be adjusted in detail if necessary. "The big advantage is that what we design in TopSolid fits seamlessly with our machines," says Grave. "What can be done in CAM can also be done on the machine." As a result, even challenging designs can be realized quickly and efficiently.

Machines and software: a seamless collaboration

According to Nico Onderwater of TopSolid, the strength of the software lies in its integration and flexibility: "From design to production, everything is aligned. This not only ensures better results, but also reduces errors and waste." The selection of new CNC machines, including a HolzHer Dynestic and a Power-Pin 7605, required custom software implementation. Diana Molendijk of Molendijk Woodworking Machinery emphasizes, "Cooperation between all parties is crucial. We know the capabilities of the machines, the customer knows how he wants to work, and TopSolid translates this into an efficient workflow."

Rouwhorst & Taken works with a unique set-up in which one NC file controls both the HolzHer Dynestic and the Power-Pin 7605. This setup, which allows operations from one file without additional steps, is a new and efficient approach for the company. The Dynestic processes nested parts and performs milling and drilling operations at the top and bottom, while the Power-Pin picks up horizontal drilling, dowel placements and gluing operations. "We encountered this situation for the first time," says Onderwater. "We developed a solution through collaboration that allows the operations to be performed seamlessly on both machines. I think we are going to see this at more companies, because it maximizes the specific capabilities of each machine."

In the future, the interior builder may automate even further by labeling the sheet material to indicate, among other things, the position of edge banding and other panel information. "For now, we are already very satisfied with the current automations," Grave said.