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Digital Construction
to tackle data overload in 3D models
Researchers at Loughborough University have developed a new plug-in for Autodesk’s Revit design software that allows architects and civil engineers to search the 3D model for detailed information, including external documents or web li
The 3D Information Retrieval app for Autodesk Revit allows the user to search the model using specific keywords or specifying a 2D area, 3D volume, or a set of 3D components.
Search results are displayed either as a list or are superimposed on to the 3D model itself. Relationships between 3D objects are also used to rank search results.
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3DIR exploits 3D visualisations and 3D data when running search queries, delivering more tailored and visual results than those produced by a conventional search.
Watch a video explaining how the app works below.
The app is based on the research by a team of academics from the School of Civil and Building Engineering at Loughborough and partners from the former Information Science department. Funding came from the Royal Society and the University’s Higher Education Innovation Fund.
Dr Peter Demian, senior lecturer in the School of Civil and Building Engineering, said: “BIM is very important in the construction industry, and more information is being crammed into 3D BIM models, making the hunt for relevant information even more challenging.
“Our research shows that when faced with a situation of information overload such as this, the 3DIR app is a lot more effective in engaging the brain than text-based systems such as web search engines. This is largely due to the fact that the app is picture-led and links together graphical and non-graphical information in an easy-to-read format.”
Our research shows that when faced with a situation of information overload such as this, the 3DIR app is a lot more effective in engaging the brain than text-based systems such as web search engines.– Dr Peter Demian, Loughborough University
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