LayoutBuilder for Visual Components: Layout planning and factory simulation from Excel, flowcharts, or value streams
From planning data to an executable simulation – in just a few clicks, without deep simulation expertise
Features and benefits at a glance
Your benefits with LayoutBuilder
- Structured workflow for creating simulations from Excel data or flowcharts
- Fast and intuitive entry into 3D factory simulation with Visual Components
- Reliable basis for initial analyses and early-stage decision-making
- Suitable for both new and experienced Visual Components users
- Effective support for layout planning of complex processes and high product variety
Why LayoutBuilder is unique
No complex modeling – short time to results
Many Excel‑based or process simulation solutions rely on simplified calculations or disconnected tools. LayoutBuilder seamlessly integrates familiar planning environments such as Excel and draw.io with Visual Components.
The result is a fully functional, dynamic simulation model with:
- automatic layout generation
- integrated line balancing
- detailed performance evaluation
all within one consistent workflow.
Fast and easy entry into simulation
Ideal for early project phases and sales support
As an extension to Visual Components, LayoutBuilder lowers the entry barrier to simulation projects – whether in early concept development or pre‑sales. Manufacturing concepts can be visualized quickly, and initial performance analyses can be carried out with minimal effort. Simulation results can be integrated directly into proposals and presentations, helping teams communicate concepts clearly and support decisions with data. Generated layouts – abstract or geometry‑based – can later be further refined seamlessly in Visual Components.
Also suitable for advanced users
Efficiency for process modeling and scenario analysis
Experienced Visual Components users benefit from structured, table‑based model maintenance in Excel. Production plans, product data, and sequences can be transferred to simulation models with just a few clicks.
This approach significantly reduces modeling effort, especially when evaluating multiple scenarios with different parameters, product mixes, or sequences – combining the flexibility of Excel with the precision of dynamic simulation.
Excel‑based layout planning and factory simulation with Visual Components
Use your existing Excel data to create simulation models quickly and reliably. LayoutBuilder automatically imports process information and generates an executable model in Visual Components – including automatic layout creation, integrated line balancing, and comprehensive statistical evaluation for early bottleneck identification.
Benefits of Excel‑based layout planning
- Automated generation of simulation models from Excel – no manual modeling required
- Integrated line balancing to identify capacity issues early
- Immediate adjustments and further optimization directly in the simulation
- Reusable layouts based on modern standards such as Unified Process Modeling
- Advanced analysis via the DUALIS Statistics Module for robust KPIs and scenario comparisons
Workflow: 4 steps to Excel‑based factory simulation
LayoutBuilder follows a clearly structured workflow. Based on your existing planning data from Excel, a simulation model is created step by step in Visual Components. This enables early analyses, scenario evaluation, and continuous refinement of your planning.
- Definition of all parameters (products, machines, processes, etc.) in Excel
- Static throughput validation using line balancing
- Automatic generation of the simulation layout in Visual Components
- Evaluation of simulation results using the DUALIS Statistics Module
Further possibilities with LayoutBuilder
Also suitable for flowcharts
LayoutBuilder supports graphical process representations such as flowcharts, for example created in tools like draw.io. This allows lean methods and established process visualizations to be transferred directly into simulation – without additional manual modeling.
Existing diagrams can be imported, parameters enriched, and automatic layout generation started immediately. Material flows, process steps, and resources are translated from a familiar visual representation into a dynamic 3D simulation model.
The result: the clarity of flowcharts combined with the analytical power of event‑based simulation.
Open for extensions, including value stream data
Are you using another tool to plan your manufacturing concepts and wondering whether LayoutBuilder can use this data as well? LayoutBuilder is designed as an open solution, allowing additional external data sources to be integrated beyond Excel and draw.io. For example, data derived from value stream analyses can be reused for layout creation, simulation, and evaluation.
In a non‑binding consultation, we assess your requirements and clarify how your data can be integrated – ensuring that LayoutBuilder fits seamlessly into your workflow.
FAQs about DUALIS LayoutBuilder
Can I use existing Excel planning data?
Yes. Existing Excel spreadsheets can be reviewed and, if required, integrated.
The predefined LayoutBuilder template is prepared so that it can be read directly by Visual Components.
How long does it take to learn how to use the Excel template?
Getting started is quick. In most cases, it takes around 3-4 hours to become familiar with the workflow. The Excel template includes guidance, column descriptions, and drop‑down menus that make data entry easier and help avoid errors.
What data do I need to provide in Excel?
You define products, machines, processes, material flows, resources, and load carriers. Mandatory fields are clearly marked, and guidance texts support correct data entry.
Which versions of Visual Components are supported?
LayoutBuilder is compatible with the common Visual Components editions, including Essentials, Professional, and Premium. Details on supported versions are available in the technical requirements.
Do I need programming skills to use LayoutBuilder?
No. The workflow is fully guided. No programming skills are required – only a basic understanding of your production processes.
Can I further refine the generated layouts later on?
Yes. Automatically generated layouts can be extended and refined in Visual Components at any time, up to highly detailed simulation models and virtual commissioning.
Does LayoutBuilder support flowcharts or value stream diagrams?
Yes. In addition to Excel data, graphical process representations such as flowcharts (for example created with draw.io) can be used. A structured workflow is available for these representations.
An existing value stream analysis cannot currently be converted into a simulation model fully automatically. However, the information contained in value stream analyses – such as process steps, throughput times, or material flows – can be reused as input for the LayoutBuilder and incorporated into the simulation workflow.
Is the statistics module integrated into LayoutBuilder?
No. The statistics module is a separate add‑on for Visual Components. We recommend using it to compare scenarios and further enhance Excel‑based planning with detailed performance data.
