Using 3D machine visualization models to maximize After-Sales performance

October 20, 2024
Dr.-Ing. Simon Spelzhausen

Imagine you're looking to take your aftersales performance to the next level, but the usual strategies just aren't cutting it anymore. What if the key lies not in what you're selling, but in how you're showcasing it? Enter the world of 3D machine visualization models—a strategy you might not have considered yet.

What you'll uncover in this article:

  • The Power of 3D Machine Visualization Models: Improve your aftersales strategy with cutting-edge technology.
  • Benefits of 3D machine assets: How visual tools transform user interaction and satisfaction.
  • Creating custom 3D designs: Tips for crafting visuals that captivate and convince.
  • Strategies for implementation: Seamless integration tips for immediate impact.
  • Leveraging 3D Spare Part shop: Boost revenue and create new revenue streams. 

P.S., if you're wondering how to seamlessly integrate these strategies into your workflow, Makula might just be what you're looking for. Establish your aftersales service and wow your customers by using 3D visualization to your advantage.

According to Deloitte, organizations interested in the industrial metaverse are investing in 3D models to transition toward smart technologies (Deloitte, 2024). In aftersales, 3D Machine Visualization Models are a game-changer for OEMs and machine manufacturers, offering an advanced way to support and enhance the customer experience. This technology enables clients to delve into the mechanics of their purchased machinery virtually, allowing for a deeper understanding, more efficient troubleshooting, and streamlined maintenance processes.

1. Benefits of 3D visualization models in After-Sales scenarios

When it comes to after-sales support, 3D machine visualization models are a game-changer with the 3D visualization market expected to grow at a CAGR of 30.6% till 2030 (Grand View Research, 2022). By providing a detailed, interactive look at the machinery, these models help troubleshoot issues, plan maintenance, and guide repairs without having to wade through complex manuals or wait for expert help. 

Immediate access and understanding

3D visualization gives customers a crystal-clear view of complex machinery parts, making it super easy to pinpoint and understand exactly what they need. It's like having X-ray vision: users can zoom in, rotate, and explore 3D machine components for customers in detail, which is especially handy when dealing with intricate systems. This directly impacts customer experience which can lead to an increase in revenue by 2 to 7 percent (McKinsey, 2022).

Personalized experience

These models don't just show the machinery; they tailor it to fit the customer's exact setup. Imagine being able to see your specific machine configuration, with all its unique parts and pieces, in custom 3D machinery design assets. This personalized view lets customers understand how different components fit together in their machinery, providing a clearer understanding of the system as a whole. By using such advanced technologies, organizations can offer a more personalized experience to their customers (Boston Consulting Group, 2023).  This level of customization helps in accurately identifying needed parts but also empowers users to make informed decisions about upgrades and replacements, enhancing the overall user experience.

Reduced downtime

For businesses, time is money, and downtime is the enemy. Quick and accurate identification of parts through 3D visualization significantly cuts down on the wait times associated with repairs and maintenance. When customers can find and order the right part without hassle, machinery gets fixed faster, reducing downtime and keeping operations smooth. This efficiency is crucial for businesses that rely on continuous operation to maintain productivity and profitability. By minimizing disruptions, 3D machine visualization models play a key role in maintaining operational continuity and customer satisfaction.

2. Importance of intuitive navigation and visualization in industrial 3D models

3D capabilities come with several benefits including mass customization, improved part characteristics, and decreased system complexity (Deloitte, 2023). The development of intuitive interfaces within these environments has opened up the world of detailed machinery models to everyone, not just those with technical backgrounds. This means that whether you're a seasoned engineer or a new operator, getting to grips with the inner workings of a machine is straightforward and stress-free.

User-friendly interfaces

User-friendly interfaces in 3D visualization tools are designed with simplicity in mind, allowing users to navigate complex 3D models without needing a degree in engineering. This ease of use means that anyone can quickly learn to maneuver through different views of a machine, making the technology accessible to a broader audience. Such interfaces often include intuitive controls and clear, simple instructions, ensuring that users can find the information they need with minimal fuss. The result? A smoother, more engaging experience that boosts confidence and understanding across all levels of technical skill.

Zoom, rotate, and explore

The ability to zoom, rotate, and explore a model in a 3D space is like having a virtual machine right in front of you. Users can get up close to see the finest details or pull back for a full view of the machine. Rotating the model provides perspectives from every angle, ensuring no part is hidden or overlooked. This custom 3D machinery design asset functionality is key for thoroughly understanding how different parts are positioned and how they work together. It's especially useful for diagnosing problems, planning maintenance, or just getting a better grasp of the machine's design and capabilities.

Parts selection and information

With just a click, users can select any part within a 3D model to access a wealth of information. This might include the part's number, specific dimensions, material specifications, and compatibility with other components. This feature transforms the 3D machine components for customers into an interactive manual, where detailed data is readily available. It's a huge leap forward in making technical information accessible and understandable, helping users make informed decisions about maintenance, replacements, and upgrades without needing to consult a professional or sift through dense documentation. Makula’s customer portal facilitates the reordering of parts with precise 3D visualizations and delivers step-by-step instructions in a visually engaging manner, thus improving overall customer service and satisfaction.

3. Using a 3D spare part shop to boost revenue

The introduction of a 3D Spare Part Shop offers transformative benefits, revolutionizing how businesses handle aftersales services and customer engagement. This innovative approach not only enhances the customer experience but also streamlines inventory management and unlocks new business opportunities.

Enhanced Customer Experience

By utilizing a 3D Spare Part Shop, you provide customers with an interactive and immersive way to identify and purchase the parts they need. This direct, hands-on approach reduces confusion and ensures accuracy, making the buying process both engaging and efficient. Imagine being able to visually navigate through complex machinery to pinpoint exactly what you need, enhancing your understanding and confidence in your purchase.

Increase upsell revenue

Integrating a 3D Spare Part Shop into your sales process increases customer engagement and decision-making. Offer customers the opportunity to explore these models independently or lead them through an interactive guided tour during a sales call. Following the session, provide customers with a copy of the 3D sales interaction, allowing them to revisit and review the details at their leisure. This approach enhances the customer's understanding and appreciation of your machinery and personalizes their experience.

New business opportunities

The 3D Spare Part Shop improves existing processes and opens doors to new business opportunities. By showcasing your capability to provide an innovative, customer-focused shopping experience, you attract a broader audience and set the stage for cross-selling and upselling. It also prevents customers from ordering from third parties and gaining trust in your after-sales services. This platform also provides valuable insights into customer behavior and preferences, allowing you to tailor your offerings and marketing strategies to match evolving demands, further expanding your market reach and potential for growth.

4. Role of 3D Technology in technical documentation and support

3D visualization technologies are improving the way technical documentation and support are delivered. By making complex information more interactive and engaging, these industrial 3D models are enhancing the user experience and improving the efficiency of technical support. 

Improved documentation

3D visualization technologies are transforming technical documentation from static, hard-to-follow guides into dynamic, engaging experiences. By introducing interactive 3D models, users can now explore complex machinery or processes in a virtual environment. This not only makes the information more engaging but also significantly enhances the user's ability to grasp sophisticated concepts quickly and thoroughly. By utilizing Makula, manufacturers can streamline the creation and updating of technical documentation. This efficiency is achieved through templates and automated processes that replace manual, time-consuming methods, significantly cutting down on effort and resource expenditure. 

Improved accessibility and comprehension

The integration of visual and interactive elements in technical documentation drastically improves its accessibility and comprehension. Users can manipulate 3D models to see machinery from all angles, zoom in on specific components, and even simulate operations, making it much easier to understand complex systems and processes. This custom 3D machinery design assets approach caters to a broader audience, accommodating different learning styles and reducing the cognitive load often associated with traditional manuals.

Enhanced support efficiency

3D visualization has a profound impact on support efficiency. Clearer, more intuitive documentation leads to quicker problem identification and resolution, significantly reducing the frequency and duration of support calls. When users have access to interactive guides that visually demonstrate solutions, they're more likely to solve issues independently, lowering the demand for direct support and enhancing overall customer satisfaction.

5. Benefits of in-browser 3D machine assets

In-browser 3D machine assets are transforming the way stakeholders interact with complex machinery and parts. These industrial 3D models bring the power of 3D visualization directly to your web browser, eliminating the need for specialized software or powerful hardware. 

Real-time collaboration features

In-browser 3D machine assets are packed with features designed for real-time collaboration. Imagine being able to highlight a specific part of a machine, add a comment for your team to see instantly, or share your screen to guide others through a complex assembly process. These capabilities allow team members to discuss, analyze, and make decisions quickly, no matter where they are in the world. With Makula’s high-quality 3D visuals, customers can better understand and apply the information, leading to quicker problem-solving and a reduction in miscommunication.

Improved transparency

These collaborative industrial 3D models create a transparent platform where doubts are clarified, and decisions are made with confidence. By providing a shared space where every part's functionality can be explored and discussed, stakeholders can gain a deep understanding of the machinery, fostering an environment of trust. This transparency is crucial when making informed decisions, as it ensures that all parties have a clear picture of the situation and the impact of their choices. 

Strengthened relationships between stakeholders

Effective collaboration in a 3D environment goes beyond improving project outcomes—it also strengthens relationships between manufacturers, customers, and suppliers. By fostering a sense of partnership and mutual understanding, these tools help break down barriers and build a solid foundation of trust. When everyone involved can contribute their expertise and insights in a transparent, collaborative setting, it enhances the sense of commitment to a shared goal. This partnership approach not only leads to better results but also cultivates lasting relationships that are based on trust, respect, and a shared vision for success.

6. Game-changing use cases for 3D machine models

3D machine models go beyond traditional product visualization, providing immersive experiences that significantly enhance understanding and interaction. These models open up new dimensions in how machinery and its components are presented, sold, and utilized, streamlining processes across various facets of manufacturing and sales.

You can use the 3D Shopfloor Builder to design and optimize your clients' manufacturing spaces virtually. This powerful tool enables you to simulate various layout configurations, ensuring optimal workflow, space utilization, and operational efficiency without the need for physical alterations. Demonstrating potential improvements visually and interactively can help your clients make informed decisions about their facility layout, leading to enhanced productivity and minimized operational disruptions. You can also allow customers to easily assess if your machine fits on the shop floor and create more sales opportunities with existing customers. 

3D Instructions

Replace traditional, cumbersome manuals with user-friendly 3D instructions, offering your clients an intuitive way to perform maintenance or assembly tasks. By providing interactive, step-by-step visual guides, you can ensure that complex procedures are executed accurately and efficiently, significantly reducing downtime and the risk of errors.  This approach enhances the operational effectiveness of your client's facilities and also serves as an innovative tool for training their staff, fostering a deeper understanding of their machinery and processes. With Makula’s latest Gen-Ai Technology + 3D-Instructions, safeguard your operations by systematically capturing and retrieving maintenance knowledge. 

Multi-user 3D sessions

Collaboration takes on a new form with Multi-User 3D Sessions. This feature enables teams, regardless of their physical location, to interact within a 3D model simultaneously. Whether you’re conducting a virtual training session, discussing potential modifications, or troubleshooting in real-time, this collaborative approach enhances communication and decision-making. You can also leave annotations within the 3D file in your live sessions and increase efficiency when working with 3D CAD files in the cloud. By allowing multiple users to view and discuss the same model from different perspectives, you can ensure a comprehensive understanding and alignment among all stakeholders, streamlining project completion and enhancing teamwork efficiency.

7. 3D machine visualization models: case studies and success stories

Several interesting case studies highlight the benefits organizations reaped after embracing 3D visualizations in aftersales services. Two prominent ones are mentioned below highlighting the problem, solution, and results. 

KUKA's Success with 3D visualization in After-Sales Service

  • The problem: KUKA faced challenges in efficiently diagnosing and resolving customer issues with their robotics and automation systems. The complexity of these systems made it difficult for customers to identify problems and communicate them effectively, leading to increased downtime and frustration.
  • The solution: KUKA integrated 3D machine visualization models into their aftersales service offerings. This allowed customers and service teams to interact with virtual models of the robotic systems, making it much easier to pinpoint issues, understand how systems work, and identify the correct parts for repair or replacement.
  • The results: The implementation of 3D machine visualization models led to a significant improvement in customer support experience. It enabled quicker, more accurate problem identification, reducing machinery downtime and enhancing customer satisfaction. KUKA's innovative approach not only streamlined its service process but also reinforced its position as a leader in customer service within the automation industry.

Virtual manufacturing's success with 3D visualizations

  • The problem: Virtual Manufacturing identified a gap in effectively demonstrating the value of their lean manufacturing products to potential clients, hindering sales and customer understanding.
  • The solution: They leveraged 3D manufacturing simulation software to create immersive, detailed simulations of their products in action. This approach allowed clients to visualize the efficiency and effectiveness of lean manufacturing solutions in a virtual environment.
  • The results: The use of 3D simulations led to a significant increase in sales. Clients could easily grasp the benefits, leading to quicker decision-making and increased satisfaction with the proposed solutions.

Here's a quick recap

Using 3D visualization models in aftersales is a leap into the future of customer support and product interaction. In this blog, we established:

  • 3D visualization models deepen customer engagement and understanding.
  • Custom 3D designs offer personalized experiences that resonate.
  • Seamless integration of 3D assets reduces downtime and boosts satisfaction.
  • Intuitive navigation and detailed insights empower users across all technical levels.

Makula’s innovative approach ties back seamlessly to our exploration of 3D visualization models, showcasing how vital such tools are for OEMs and manufacturers aiming to elevate their aftersales servic

Dr.-Ing. Simon Spelzhausen
Co Founder & Chief Product Officer

Simon Spelzhausen, an engineering expert with a proven track record of driving business growth through innovative solutions, honed through his experience at Volkswagen.