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Bentley Systems has also demonstrated the use of aecXML to augment the "intelligence" of 2D MicroStation drawings. So-called "data mining," or "e-coding" interprets graphic elements and relationships and assigns data to those components according to specified rules. For example, arcs on an electrical floor plan might be assumed to represent cabling. These components can then be linked to analysis software, such as CostWorks or Primavera scheduling, and subjected to XML queries.

Such intelligence is already built into MicroStation TriForma models, but this retroactive data mining allows older drawings to be brought up to a higher level of functionality. When architects see the value of such capabilities in their 2D drawings, Bentley reasons, this will make the case for their moving to 3D modeling as a standard design practice. Bentley has also shown how aecXML can be used to easily import data about materials, costs, and so on, into TriForma.

Other Approaches to Internet-Based Interoperability

Graphisoft, maker of ArchiCAD, is taking a different route toward standardization. They have recently announced the Graphisoft Object Tool Kit, which promotes the adoption of Geometric Description Language (GDL) objects via the Internet. GDL provides a compact format for communicating 2D and 3D parameters of CAD objects. A plug-in gives ArchiCAD users browser access to hundreds of thousands of existing objects for downloading into their designs. The GDL Object Explorer will give users of other industry-standard CAD formats (DXF, DWG, DGN, and IFC) access to building product manufacturers' digital catalogs. To further their interest in serving building owners as well as designers, Graphisoft has acquired Drawbase, a leader in computer-aided facilities management. ArchiFM, due for release in the fall, is intended to enable architects to extend the services they can offer to owners.

Meanwhile, Bricsnet has chosen to standardize its applications on Visual Basic. This enables Bricsnet developers, and designers themselves, to customize intelligent 3D objects that encapsulate behavior and engineering rules. An example is an application that represents a stairway parametrically. When the floor-to-floor height changes, the size and number of risers changes appropriately and always within legal limitations.

This approach also supports integration of graphic and nongraphic data and the automation of such outputs as schedules and bill of materials. At the SYSTEMS Show, Bricsnet announced that they have acquired VISCOMM, which will help extend the parent company's services into facilities management. This is significant because 85% of a building's costs are incurred during operations, after design and construction are complete.

More 3D CAD News

DATACAD LLC showed off its new DataCAD Plus, augmenting its 3D modeling capabilities. DataCAD Plus features zone-based modeling, custom roof construction, a new, integrated OpenGL-based shader for fast rendering and hidden line removal, and integrated estimating.

One of the earliest architectural CAD systems, VersaCAD, is enjoying a rebirth. Between 1987 and 1999, it changed hands several times, suffering neglect in the process, but it has now returned to its original creators, Archway Systems, Inc. Archway continues to develop it for a loyal customer base, and has recently formed an alliance with VIDI, Inc., makers of 3D Joy. This pairing brings surface modeling, rendering, and animation to VersaCAD users. VersaCAD 2000 now runs on Windows 95, 98, NT, and 2000 and is compatible with all Windows input, output and screen devices. It also includes a two-way translator for AutoCAD.

Shootout Tones Down its Competitive Image

This year's SYSTEMS Show hosted the 5th Designers 3D CAD Shootout for architectural CADD systems. However, in contrast to past years, the event was less a competition than a showcase of what the participating systems can do. Shootout creator and host Geoffrey Moore Langdon explains that this gives the companies a better opportunity to show off diverse areas where their software excels. The contestants were required to design an Aspen ski lodge in a three-hour charrette and produce seven drawings, 14 renderings, and an animation.

Participating systems were: ArchiCAD, Arris, Chief Architect, form-Z, MicroStation TriForma, VectorWorks Architect, and VersaCAD/3D Joy.

B.J. Novitski is managing editor for ArchitectureWeek and author of Rendering Real and Imagined Buildings.

The GDL Object Center will give ArchiCAD users access to thousands of 3D parametric objects created in Graphisoft's Geometric Description Language. Image: Graphisoft, Inc. Connections between building elements, such as walls and floors, are maintained during modifications in the 3D modeler Bricsnet Architecturals. Image: Bricsnet VersaCAD and 3D Joy combined to create this intriguing though non-contextual entry in the 5th Designers 3D CAD Shootout in early June. Image: Archway Systems The Arris team designed and documented a relatively classical ski lodge during the three-hour CAD Shootout at the A/E/C SYSTEMS Show. Image: Sigma Design International This would-be ski lodge was the product of the VectorWorks Architect team at the CAD Shootout design charrette. Developer Diehl Graphsoft has recently been acquired by the large European CAD publisher Nemetschek. Image: Diehl Graphsoft/Nemetschek North America