BIM technology innovator 3D Repo has announced the release of the first web-based, real-time change detection software for 3D construction models.
The cloud-based solution provides a fast and reliable way to detect all changes in underlying 3D models, in real time, via an encrypted web browser.
The patent pending innovation is a first for the industry as it operates on any 3D models, regardless of their file type, software used to produce them, or file size.
Called 3D Diff, the solution also allows users to share visualisations with project partners and stakeholders irrespective of location or time zone.
“The uniqueness of our change detection algorithm means that users can mix and match models from different modelling tools and pipelines and still be able to spot exactly what has changed over time between any two revisions,” said Dr Jozef Dobos, CEO of 3D Repo.
“This becomes invaluable, not only during the design coordination stages, but also throughout construction when contractors introduce as-built models. It is also important for litigation when the proof of who did what and when may result in legal liability and financial claim.”
By comparing the actual geometry of a model rather than underlying, software-specific object IDs or labels, 3D Diff can detect changes between models from different sources. For instance, a user may pass 3D models from PDMS to Navisworks as well as to Tekla due to project specific requirements.
Without 3D Diff, there is no way of verifying what data has been lost in translation from one package to the next. 3D Diff also runs in real time, regardless of the model file size, so even the largest and most complex projects can be instantly differenced.
In addition to offering a fast, effective, software-independent solution for change and clash detection, 3D Diff requires no installation of desktop software. Data is fully encrypted and project privileges, such as view only or edit, can be assigned to individual project partners.
The 3D Diff digital solution builds on 3D Repo’s award-winning cloud-based BIM platform that allows users to access, via the web, the latest 3D models and make real time changes and informed decisions.
Often described as an online knowledge base, the 3D Repo platform is different from other collaboration tools as it uses a component-based database – meaning that information is live, useful and accessible throughout the entire project lifecycle.
You can use 3D Diff for free at https://www.3drepo.io
The uniqueness of our change detection algorithm means that users can mix and match models from different modelling tools and pipelines and still be able to spot exactly what has changed over time between any two revisions.– Dr Jozef Dobos, 3D Repo
