DataLabs Inc. Partners with Singapore-Based Construction-Related Service Provider RATEC Asia to Enter ASEAN Market

  

DataLabs Inc. has entered a partnership with RATEC Asia Pte Ltd. and will begin providing its 3D rebar inspection system "Modely" to construction companies in Singapore and the ASEAN region.

DataLabs Inc. has entered a partnership with RATEC Asia Pte Ltd. and will begin providing its 3D rebar inspection system "Modely" to construction companies in Singapore and the ASEAN region. DataLabs is a startup that provides products utilizing automated 3D modeling (Scan to BIM) technology, and RATEC Asia is a provider of sales and implementation support for specialized equipment and solutions in the construction industry in Asia.

1. Background and Purpose

Challenges in Singapore’s Construction Sites and Expectations for "Modely"

Today’s construction industry emphasizes sustainability and efficiency. The precast construction method, where building components are prepared in factories and assembled on-site, is gaining importance from the perspective of quality control and time reduction.

The demand for construction in Singapore has been on the rise in recent years, and the precast construction method has become more prevalent and widely used for various applications. However, this has also highlighted certain challenges. In particular, the current situation requires thorough inspections by specialized inspectors after the completion of rebar work. This often leads to inefficiencies in the inspection process, causing delays that frequently affect project timelines.

"Modely" is a system expected to address these challenges. It utilizes 3D data to capture comprehensive information and is the only 3D rebar inspection system capable of automatically registering design values using rebar BIM and conducting automated inspections by comparing with the as-built model. It will support thorough inspections and BIM utilization in Singapore and allow for remote inspections of rebar arrangements to ensure they meet design specifications without requiring inspectors to be on-site, resulting in benefits such as reduced timelines and improved quality.

2. Background and Purpose

Expansion of "Modely" in Singapore and the ASEAN Region

The construction industry in Singapore has been actively promoting digital transformation (DX) through collaboration with the government. The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) has made the use of BIM mandatory for design and delivery, indicating a strong foundation for the utilization of rebar BIM. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the BCA has also been promoting remote inspections, and expectations for "Modely" have heightened toward achieving further digital transformation.

"Modely" received the Startup Encouragement Award at the 2023 Infrastructure DX Awards and has been adopted by over 100 companies, establishing a strong track record in Japan. Through its partnership with RATEC and collaboration with the BCA, the company aims to further accelerate the deployment of "Modely" across ASEAN countries. The company is working to register and standardize the system as a remote inspection tool for rebar inspections, with the goal of expanding not only within Singapore but also throughout the ASEAN region.

3. About RATEC

RATEC Asia Pte Ltd. was established in 2017 as a private limited company headquartered in Singapore. It is a member of the globally recognized RATEC Group, known for its magnetic formwork technology and other advanced precast concrete production solutions. The company has a strong foundation in wholesale and distribution of innovative solutions for the precast concrete industry and operates across numerous Asian countries. It offers various products and services that contribute to digital transformation (DX) in the construction industry.

4. Comment from RATEC CEO Raymond

When we first encountered Modely at CSPI 2024, it immediately stood out from other solutions we’ve seen. The ability to create precise 3D models simply by scanning with an iPad is incredibly appealing.

Experiencing Modely’s capability to accurately measure and document rebar spacing, we quickly recognized its potential as an invaluable tool for enhancing remote inspection and supervision, which could elevate these processes to new heights in Southeast Asia's Built Environment.

While Modely is still in its development and optimization phase in Southeast Asia, we’re confident that the team at DataLabs Inc. will continue to refine it, improving the user experience over time. This progress will be driven by end-user feedback, ensuring that together, we make Modely even better for everyone.

5. Comment from DataLabs CEO Tajiri

From the moment we met, RATEC understood Modely's values and spoke enthusiastically about our partnership in the ASEAN region. Through our multiple web and in-person meetings and discussions, we were able to build a strong relationship of trust in a short period of time. They are willing to work with us to develop the product by getting a variety of feedback, and I believe that we share the same mindset.

We are very excited to be partnering with RATEC, who are professionals in the construction industry and have established relationships with key stakeholders in the ASEAN region, and we look forward to further developing this partnership in the future.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES