An automated model management method suitable for a three-dimensional collaborative design platform

Abstract

This invention discloses an automated model management method suitable for a 3D collaborative design platform, belonging to the fields of architectural design and software development. The 3D design platform includes a web interface, a Windows application interface, and a Revit interface. The method includes: managing and maintaining a professional template library; project planning and MBS (Model-Based Structure) decomposition; the platform, based on a PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) design task engine, categorizing platform users according to project roles; allowing users to jump to the Revit interface for collaborative model design by clicking on a design task in the Windows application interface; using an automated model management method to compare historical versions of submitted model files, enabling the submitting professional designers to quickly see the differences in modifications and model updates between versions; the platform synchronously uploads submitted models to the server, and after lightweighting the 3D model, it attaches it to the MBS decomposed model structure. This efficiently completes design task allocation and collaborative design work, improving design efficiency and quality.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of architectural design and software development technology, and more specifically, relates to an automated model management method suitable for a three-dimensional collaborative design platform. Background Technology

[0002] Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology digitizes various elements throughout the construction cycle, including not only three-dimensional geometric information but also a wealth of non-geometric information. Traditional two-dimensional design can no longer meet the demands of today's increasingly complex construction industry. Three-dimensional forward design combines BIM with assisted drafting, which is of great value in improving project quality.

[0003] Currently, the mainstream BIM design software is Autodesk's Revit, which uses two collaboration methods: central file and linked files. Considering factors such as project size, software capacity, and collaborative environment, the linked system mode is more flexible, secure, and better suited to designers' needs. However, the linked collaboration mode can lead to problems such as excessive file splitting, low standardization of design files, chaotic version control, and disorganized collaboration.

[0004] While various BIM secondary development tools are available on the market, most primarily assist designers in improving design efficiency; the entire design process still relies on manual coordination. From a management perspective, the workload for controlling the design process is enormous, making it difficult to monitor the specific execution details.

[0005] Currently, designers submit data via communication tools such as WeChat Work, sending relevant model drawings to work groups. This leads to problems such as insufficient data exchange, incomplete understanding, untimely information interaction, and compromised data security. Furthermore, it lacks cloud synchronization, hindering the integration and collaboration of details during the actual design and 3D modeling process. This severely reduces design efficiency and accuracy, significantly impacting project design quality. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In response to the above-mentioned deficiencies or improvement needs of existing technologies, this invention proposes an automated model management method suitable for 3D collaborative design platforms, which can efficiently complete design task allocation and collaborative design work, thereby improving design efficiency and design quality.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, according to one aspect of the present invention, an automated model management method suitable for a 3D collaborative design platform is provided, the 3D collaborative design platform comprising a web client, a Windows application client, and a Revit client, the method comprising:

[0008] S1: Manage and maintain the professional template library through the web interface, and perform operations such as adding, deleting and modifying templates for each profession;

[0009] S2: Receive project planning instructions from project managers via the web interface, perform project MBS decomposition, use template auxiliary tools to generate standardized design documents, decompose project sub-items into MBS and generate models, and save them on a private cloud server;

[0010] S3: Through the web-based PDCA design task engine, users are categorized according to their project roles, and various task assignments and design files are attached to the MBS-split model;

[0011] S4: Receives design task click commands from designers via the Windows application, jumps to the Revit client for collaborative model design, and the Revit client automatically downloads the corresponding design files and their linked reference files from the private cloud server, and automatically configures the link relationships.

[0012] S5: Back up model files during the design process via the web interface. When submitting data, back up the files and save the submission history files of each version. Compare the submitted model files with historical versions and display the differences in modifications and model updates between different versions.

[0013] S6: The data model is synchronously uploaded to the private cloud server via the web interface. After the 3D model is lightweighted, it is attached to the MBS split model structure so that managers can visually monitor the design process through the web interface.

[0014] In some optional implementations, in step S1, professional templates are added by receiving externally uploaded professional templates; professional templates are deleted online by logging into the web terminal, and the deleted professional templates are stored in the recycle bin and can be retrieved within a preset time.

[0015] Modifications to professional templates can be made via the web, including changes to internal design settings. Modifications must be re-uploaded, and corresponding explanations must be provided for the updated or modified content. The link relationships between different professions can also be modified directly on the web.

[0016] In some alternative implementations, in step S2, the MBS concept is explained as follows: Building Information Model Breakdown Structure (MBS) is a distributed database decomposition method for building information models, i.e., a way of splitting BIM models. It specifies the minimum deliverables of the three-dimensional model in the forward design process and is used to link design tasks.

[0017] In some alternative implementations, step S2 includes:

[0018] The system receives project planning instructions from project managers via a web interface and performs project MBS decomposition. The project planning instructions are based on the characteristics of the project and are performed by the project managers on the web interface for phased or sub-item division, schedule planning, and professional leader planning. The project managers then conduct an online comprehensive review, which should determine the resource contribution milestones, model collaboration modes, and designer allocation methods for each profession. Then, based on the planning content indicated by the project planning instructions, the system sets up the project MBS decomposition.

[0019] The template splitting tool allows for MBS splitting of project sub-items, including: No splitting: suitable for simpler sub-items that do not require model splitting; Quick splitting: suitable for more complex sub-items, allowing for quick splitting based on sub-item characteristics; splitting by floor and by above-ground / underground; setting standard floors; applicable to all disciplines, automatically generating link relationships between disciplines, so that when each discipline opens its own design file, it can automatically link to the design files of other disciplines on the same floor, eliminating the need for frequent manual operations and improving design efficiency; Manual splitting: allows for manual supplementation of model decomposition modes with special requirements; Viewing splitting results: view by discipline dimension and by split dimension.

[0020] Based on the MBS content breakdown, generate models and design documents. Use template breakdown assistance tools to quickly complete the project model breakdown configuration, automatically generate standardized blank design files under the detailed task breakdown mode of each discipline, and generate reference or link relationships between disciplines in the background, thereby improving the efficiency of project management and the standardization of design.

[0021] In some optional implementations, in step S3, the PDCA design task engine decomposes the MBS model files, forms a design file list according to sub-items, disciplines, etc., and then distinguishes user management permissions such as modification and read-only for model files according to project disciplines and role levels, implements forward design process data, and synchronizes it to the private cloud server in real time.

[0022] Among them, project managers in the project role are responsible for creating projects, planning projects, developing professional funding plans, and setting overall schedules.

[0023] The project manager is responsible for comprehensive review and MBS decomposition of projects created by project managers. The professional lead is responsible for planning and professional review by designers and reviewers. Based on the model structure, the lead manager collects and manages the summary of model documents and understands the completion status of deliverables, and manages the model documents in a macro-level overall manner.

[0024] Designers in the project role are the executors of specific design tasks, responsible for pushing model file design tasks, providing external information, receiving information, initiating review and approval, reviewing and modifying, producing drawings, and handling design changes.

[0025] The proofreading and reviewing personnel in the project are responsible for proofreading, reviewing, annotating, and viewing the results of the design documents submitted by the designers in read-only mode, through the PDCA task.

[0026] In some optional implementations, in step S4, the design file configuration is automatically completed according to the algorithm. All files in the function list are files stored on the private cloud server after the information submission and review process. Other professional models or certain categories in the model are selectively linked to the model of this profession according to the model file. The link relationship is only stored in the local cached model file and the link relationship of the main design file in the private cloud server is not updated. Alternatively, the link relationship is stored in the local cached model file. By updating the link relationship table, the link relationship of the main design file in the private cloud server is also updated. Even if the local cache file is cleared or the file is moved to another location, the link relationship of the main design file is also updated.

[0027] In some optional implementations, in step S5, the model is backed up by manually noting the file name and version number according to the modified version of the model file, storing it locally and synchronizing it to the private cloud server; or, the platform administrator can set up a backup reminder pop-up at time intervals to remind the designer whether the model file has been synchronized to the private cloud server.

[0028] Historical version management is automated, and the model is automatically embedded into the review process (preserving link relationships). After successful submission, the submitting professional receives a notification to update the link, stores it in the public area of ​​a private cloud server, and then downloads the central file from the server.

[0029] After a professional model receives funding, other professional models that also receive funding can download the central model from the server, automatically update in batches, and ensure that the model file version is up-to-date.

[0030] In some optional implementations, in step S6, the lightweight 3D model is uploaded to the platform via a Revit plug-in tool; model conversion parameters are configured via the Revit plug-in tool; the model background conversion service completes the model upload and conversion; the lightweight 3D model is viewed, and administrators can view the model version tree via a web page; they can freely choose to display models overlay in the model tree (multi-disciplinary, multi-version) and browse the lightweight model.

[0031] According to another aspect of the present invention, a computer-readable storage medium is provided having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of any of the methods described above.

[0032] In summary, compared with the prior art, the above-described technical solutions conceived by this invention can achieve the following beneficial effects:

[0033] (1) Through the automated model management method of the 3D collaborative design platform, the platform can automatically generate a complete set of blank design files based on a pre-defined design template and a simply configured model structure. The algorithm automatically completes the design file configuration and determines the reference or link relationships between different disciplines. Configuration parameters can be customized; discipline leaders can customize and edit them according to the actual situation of their discipline, or adopt the configuration methods of mature projects, effectively improving the efficiency of the team's 3D collaborative design and the standardization of the platform's automated model management.

[0034] (2) Through the automated model management method of the 3D collaborative design platform, the MBS model management system decomposes the model for subsequent task allocation and design file binding. Based on the specific model decomposition and organization method of different construction projects, the lightweight BIM model files are managed, improving the quality of automated model management for 3D collaborative design.

[0035] (3) Through the automated model management method of the 3D collaborative design platform, based on the PDCA process engine, the design management process is implemented in a procedural manner. The platform model data that different roles can view and the processes that can be initiated are different. The design model is organized and summarized at the same time as the design task is completed. This ensures the security of automated model management data and the standardization of the process during the design process.

[0036] (4) The automated model management method of the 3D collaborative design platform addresses the challenges of traditional 3D design, where model version management is difficult and prone to issues such as file loss and non-standard naming. The platform's design file backup function allows designers to fill in information such as version number and notes for the current model. Clicking "Back Up Now" saves the current model to a private cloud server, and a corresponding version entry is added to the software window. This enhances the platform's ability to automatically manage model versions. Attached Figure Description

[0037] Figure 1 This is a flowchart of an automated model management method for three-dimensional collaborative design provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the template maintenance function in step S1 provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a professional template management function in step S1 provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the MBS decomposition and sub-item splitting function in step S2 provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 5 This is a platform main role definition table for step S3 provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the link management function in step S4 provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a design file backup function in step S5 provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a lightweight management function for uploading a Revit BIM model in step S6 provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the Web-based BIM model progress display and management function in step S6 provided by an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0046] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the invention. Furthermore, the technical features involved in the various embodiments of this invention described below can be combined with each other as long as they do not conflict with each other.

[0047] like Figure 1 As shown, this embodiment of the invention provides an automated model management method suitable for a 3D collaborative design platform, comprising the following steps:

[0048] S1: As Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, administrators add project templates according to the nature and scale of the project and different specialties. The platform's professional template management library centrally stores design template files. Administrators can reuse template files, make minor adjustments, upload them, complete the configuration, and automatically generate a complete set of blank standardized design files.

[0049] S2: As Figure 4As shown, all stages of the 3D forward design are operated and managed on the platform. The Building Information Model Breakdown Structure (MBS) is used to break down the model into sub-items for different phases, generating different model files according to the corresponding breakdown rules and attaching them to design tasks. Based on the PDCA task engine, dynamic progress management, task push, and management visualization are achieved. Key quality management processes are created, tracked, and closed-loop during the design process to ensure that the data and files required for 3D model quality management originate from the actual design process.

[0050] S3: As Figure 5 As shown, this describes the tasks performed by different roles within the web platform. The platform system acquires information on all personnel within the enterprise to establish a human resources database, categorizing them by department, job level, and profession. It also differentiates login permissions for different roles, granting them management permissions such as modification and read-only access to model files, ensuring precise control over automated model management during collaborative design.

[0051] S4: As Figure 6 As shown, all files in the function list are stored on a private cloud server after undergoing a data submission and review process. This ensures both the timeliness of linked models and the completeness and standardization of submitted data. Designers can flexibly configure link relationships, linking all models within the same sub-item or models from other sub-items.

[0052] S5: As Figure 7 As shown, designers can store their models on a private cloud server and manage versions. While ensuring data security, designers can review the design process at any time, performing operations such as viewing, deleting, and replacing files. Designers can fill in information such as version number and notes for the current model, and clicking "Back Up Now" will save the current model to the private cloud server. Simultaneously, a new entry for the corresponding version will be added to the software window.

[0053] S6: As Figure 8 As shown, integrating the project's BIM model and conducting collaborative design work on the platform requires using the project model's MBS decomposition and organizational structure to ensure accurate spatial positioning. Based on different construction projects, the platform manages the lightweight BIM model files according to the project-specific model decomposition and organizational methods, and provides data synchronization functions to parse and store model components and attribute parameters in the database.

[0054] S6: As Figure 9As shown, the web-based model is primarily used for viewing and sharing project models. It allows for model sharing and viewing of sharing history. Furthermore, it provides real-time, intuitive understanding of the design progress through the 3D model. The lightweight model allows for easy browsing with just a regular web browser, eliminating the need for high-end computers and significantly improving the accessibility and convenience of BIM model applications. Simultaneously, access control ensures the confidentiality of model information.

[0055] It should be noted that, depending on the implementation needs, the various steps / components described in this application can be broken down into more steps / components, or two or more steps / components or parts of the operation of steps / components can be combined into new steps / components to achieve the purpose of this invention.

[0056] Those skilled in the art will readily understand that the above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. An automated model management method suitable for 3D collaborative design platforms, characterized in that, The 3D collaborative design platform includes a web client, a Windows application client, and a Revit client, and the method includes: S1: Manage and maintain the professional template library via the web interface. Add professional templates by receiving external uploads; delete professional templates online via the web interface. Deleted professional templates are stored in the recycle bin and can be retrieved within a preset time; modify professional templates via the web interface, including changes to internal design settings. Modifications require re-uploading, and corresponding explanations are provided for the updated or modified content. Modify the link relationships between various professions directly on the web interface. S2: Receive project planning instructions input by project managers via the web interface and perform project MBS decomposition. These instructions are based on project characteristics, and after project managers have divided the project into phases or sub-items, planned the schedule, and assigned professional leaders on the web interface, the project managers conduct an online comprehensive review. This review determines the milestone nodes for each specialty, the model collaboration mode, and the allocation of designers. Then, based on the planning content indicated by the project planning instructions, the project MBS decomposition is performed. A template decomposition tool is used to decompose project sub-items into MBS, including: No decomposition: applicable to the first target sub-item, requiring no model decomposition; Quick decomposition: applicable to the second target sub-item, allowing for quick decomposition according to sub-item characteristics, including decomposition by floor. The system can be divided into above-ground and underground sections, with standard layers set up for all disciplines. It can automatically generate links between disciplines, allowing each discipline to automatically link to other disciplines' design files on the same layer when opening its own design file. Manual division is available for the third target sub-item, allowing for manual supplementation. The division results can be viewed by discipline or by division dimension, with the complexity of the first, second, and third target sub-items increasing progressively. A template division auxiliary tool is used to generate models and design files based on the MBS division content, completing the project model division configuration, automatically generating standardized blank design files under the detailed task division mode of each discipline, and generating reference or link relationships between disciplines in the background, which are then saved in a private cloud server. S3: Through the web-based PDCA design task engine, users are categorized according to their project roles. The PDCA design task engine decomposes the MBS model files and forms a design file list according to sub-items and specialties. Then, it distinguishes the user's modification and read-only permissions for the model files according to the project specialty and role level, implements the forward design process data, and synchronizes it to the private cloud server in real time. It also attaches various task assignments and design files to the MBS decomposed model. S4: Receives design task click commands from designers via the Windows application, redirecting them to the Revit client for collaborative model design. The Revit client automatically downloads the required design files and their linked reference files corresponding to the click command from the private cloud server and automatically configures the link relationships. These link relationships are only stored in the local cached model files and do not update the link relationships in the main design file on the private cloud server; alternatively, the link relationships are stored in the local cached model files, and updating the link relationship table updates the link relationships in the main design file on the private cloud server as well. Even if the local cache files are cleared or the design is moved to another location, the link relationships in the main design file will still be updated. S5: Back up model files during the design process via the web interface. This involves manually noting filenames and version numbers according to the modified version of the model file, storing it locally, and simultaneously backing it up to a private cloud server. Alternatively, the platform administrator can set up backup reminder pop-ups at intervals to remind designers to synchronize model files to the private cloud server. During submission, files are backed up, and historical submission files of each version are saved. Historical versions of submitted model files are compared, and historical version management is automated. Models are automatically embedded into the review process, and links are maintained. After successful submission, the receiving profession updates the acceptance notification link, stores it in the public area of ​​the private cloud server, and then downloads the central file from the server. After the receiving profession submits its model, other professions can download the central model from the server, automatically updating in batches, ensuring the model file version is up-to-date, and displaying the differences between versions and the updated model content. S6: The model is synchronously uploaded to the private cloud server via the web interface, and uploaded to the platform via the Revit plug-in tool. The model conversion parameters are configured through the Revit plug-in tool, and the model conversion service in the background completes the model upload and conversion. After the 3D model is lightweighted, it is attached to the MBS split model. Administrators can view the model version tree through the web interface, freely select the model overlay display in the model tree, browse the lightweight model, and visually focus on the design process.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step S4, the design file configuration is completed automatically. All files in the design file list are files that have been saved on a private cloud server after the data submission and review process. Other professional models or certain categories in the model are selectively linked to the model of this profession according to the model file.

3. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 2.

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