parameo is a freely accessible online tool for generating parametric designs and production data for CNC machines and laser cutters. The project was initiated by René Watral and Fynn Schmid and funded by the Profi-Impuls program of the Hamburg Ministry of Economics and Innovation.

Configure products easily and produce them sustainably.

In addition to the individual configuration of products, the tool’s central functions include the automated calculation of material requirements, CO2 emissions and material costs as well as the provision of a “build or buy” option for local production.

PROJECT BACKGROUND

Individuality has its price.

Custom-made products often pose an economic challenge for smaller craft businesses: customers’ price expectations often do not match the actual costs of designing and producing individual pieces. Individuality has its price, production must be profitable. More and more people are becoming interested in building their own furniture. The DIY sector is booming. Nowadays, almost everything can be learned via video tutorials and knowledge platforms. However, getting started with digital machine production in the craft sector is difficult or impossible for most private individuals.

In order to develop the production data for computer-controlled machine tools from a product idea, experience with materials, the control software as well as design and CAD skills are required. The demand for learning craftsmanship know-how and how to use digital tools is increasing, and interest in local manufacturers is also growing.

Digital assistant from DIY to CAD to CNC.

That’s why regenholz has developed “parameo”. The configurator can be used to customize panel products according to individual dimensions. The self-configured model file can be downloaded and processed in CAD programs or used directly as finished machine code for production with computer-controlled machine tools. Consumers thus have the choice between manufacturing with their own machines, using a fab lab or makerspace or commissioning a local producer. The workflow can be used to gain practical experience with data-based collaboration between consumers, designers, craftspeople and manufacturers in the Hamburg metropolitan region.

parameo raises awareness for sustainability.

The way in which a product is manufactured has an impact on climate change. With parameo, we want to help raise awareness of these effects. As a first step, the configurator displays impact indicators. The long-term goal is to establish the circularity of products and to win consumers over to increased local value creation and sustainable production through personal involvement in the manufacturing process.

Open software for developers, designers and manufacturers

What if we could not only develop new products, but also new behaviors? Are you a designer, developer, involved in open source topics and decentralized manufacturing? Then be part of the solution! - Network and make a contribution! Are you a maker, craftsman or manufacturer? Parameo is for you!

Project partners