BIM Interoperability via Cloud-Based 2D to 3D Model Conversion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current BIM software faces issues with interoperability, difficulty in extending existing 3D modeling programs, compatibility of new 3D models across different programs, and proprietary file formats, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs in creating and utilizing 3D models for building information modeling.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that allows the creation of new 2D, 3D, and higher dimensional models for existing 3D modeling programs like AUTODESK REVIT, AUTOCAD, and VECTORWORKS, enabling these models to be used for enhancing existing programs and directly creating physical objects using robots and 3D printers, through a cloud-based system that converts 2D data into compatible formats.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If proprietary 3D modeling program formats are used, then software functionality is maintained, but interoperability between different programs deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesoftware functionalityVSAvoidinteroperability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary conversion system that translates between proprietary 3D modeling program formats and standardized representations. This mediator enables interoperability without compromising the functionality of individual programs, as each program can convert to and from the standard format while maintaining its native capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates a universal data exchange framework that allows 3D models to be used across multiple different modeling programs. By establishing a common standardized format that can represent various 3D objects and their properties, the system enables one model to serve multiple functions across different software platforms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If existing 3D modeling programs are extended for new products, then functionality is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctionality extensionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the extension process into modular components: a core conversion engine, format-specific adapters, and a standardized representation layer. This segmentation allows new product support to be added by creating separate conversion modules without complicating the core system, as each adapter handles only its specific format independently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If 3D models are created in proprietary formats, then program compatibility is maintained, but data storage requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprogram compatibilityVSAvoiddata storage requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The system creates lightweight standardized copies of 3D model data that contain only the essential geometric and property information needed for interoperability. These simplified representations require less storage space than full proprietary formats while maintaining sufficient fidelity for exchange between programs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS9817922B2Method and system for creating 3D models from 2D data for building information modeling (BIM)
Publication Date: 2017.11.14 ANGULERIS TECHNOLOGIES LLC
  • US9817922B2 patent drawing
  • US9817922B2 patent drawing
  • US9817922B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and system for creating three dimensional (3D) models from two dimensional (2D) data for building information modeling (BIM). The method and system allow new, 2D, 3D and higher dimensional models to be created for existing 3D modeling programs (e.g., AUTODESK REVIT, AUTOCAD, VECTORWORKS, MICROSTATION, ARCHICAD, etc.). The new models are used to enhance and extend existing 3D modeling programs. The new models can also be used to directly create physical objects (e.g., windows, doors, etc.) represented by the new models with robots, 3D printers and manufacturing machines.