Generative Design has been around for several years. It came on the scene as the product “Generative Components (GC)” from Bentley Systems, used in the group formed for the express purpose of exploring architectural design “what if” with advanced associative and parametric tools, Smart Geometry, that allows users to go far beyond the limitations of traditional CAD software.
The Francis Crick Institute HOK – PLP Architecture London, United Kingdom 2011 Be Inspired Award Winner – Innovation in Generative Design
Mark Reid, Vice President of Product Management at GeoSLAM Ltd talked about their recent announcement of the real-time upgrade option for the ZEB-REVO, their handheld mobile mapping system. Demonstrated for the first time at SPAR 3D 2017 in Houston, the optional upgrade includes a revised datalogger capable of undertaking SLAM registration in real-time. It has its own integrated Wi-Fi, with results that can be displayed live, as they are captured, on any web browser enabled device including tablets and smartphones.
Thornton Abbey Scan
AECCafe Voice: What are some indoor map applications for ZEB-REVO?
The ZEB-REVO handheld mobile mapping device employs a highly robust 3D Simultaneous Localisation And Mapping (SLAM) algorithm, which enables the rapid creation of a 3-dimensional model of any space.
Since it does not require a GPS signal, the ZEB-REVO is at its best in complex, enclosed, multi-level environments, without compromising on the accuracy of data collection.
User cam
ZEB-REVOs are regularly used by surveyors and non-experts alike in the construction and development sector, whether for the recording of heritage buildings in need of restoration, generating footprints of vast structures, real estate valuations or scan-to-BIM.
As the ZEB-REVO is non-invasive and easy to use (requiring minimal training for non-expert users), the device has also been lauded as an ideal scanning product for both dangerous and sensitive environments. This includes time-limited projects, such as in a precarious building prior to renovation or demolition, or occupied environments, such as colleges, nursing homes and hospitals.
Large building scan – Courtesy Geomeasure
AECCafe Voice: Can you describe your ‘modular approach?’
Structures with unusual layouts or complex networks are not a problem for the ZEB-REVO, thanks to both the modular and compact nature of the product. Unlike heavy single-function trolley-based SLAM systems, the lightweight, handheld device is ideal for adapting to difficult-to-access environments, whether that is down a narrow shaft while attached to a pulley system, or using a birds eye perspective when secured to a drone.
The ZEB-REVO can also be mounted to cars, boats, UAVs and other small-scale piloted and autonomous vehicles; making it ideal for surveying challenging indoor and outdoor multi-level environments. ZEB-CAM, which also is a modular add-on, can be quickly attached or detached depending upon the application and deployment method being used. This allows for an easy upgrade path that futureproofs the ZEB-REVO against the latest developments. (more…)
AECCafe Voice asked some users and vendors about their low cost conceptual design software to see what features are the most valuable to users in the workplace.
Tatiana Berger, associate professor, Graduate Architecture, of the NewSchool of Architecture and Design in San Diego, spoke recently at the Moscow Architecture School on the topic “Neuroscience in Architecture,” a relatively new science in the architecture field. Our interview with her encompasses some of the talking points of that presentation.
Carlo Scarpa. “The relationship between interior and exterior spaces and views to nature have a deep effect on how the brain perceives architectural settings.”
Marty Chobot, vice president of Marketing for Invicara spoke with AECCafe Voice about the latest BIM Assure 1.2 release.
Configurable report templates let users export model data to Excel for review or further analysis. Data slices and related element data reports help users get the right data for the right elements in a very familiar and easy-to-use format.
Recent advancements in reality modeling have made the technology, which was once limited to highly skilled, well-trained individuals and costly equipment, now accessible to everyone. Faraz Ravi, a Bentley fellow and project manager for reality modeling spoke with AECCafe Voice about Bentley’s new innovations in reality modeling technology which greatly simplify the process of capturing, processing, and using data to create engineering-ready 3D models.
A 3D engineering-ready reality mesh created in ContextCapture comparing (left to right) photogrammetry, LiDAR, and a hybrid input. (Image courtesy of Bentley Systems and City of Strasbourg)
The “new in January” Dell All-in-One desktop computer XPS 27 Windows 10 PC which sports a 27” screen with touch screen is one of the popular “All-in-One” computers that are offered by various hardware vendors today. Because of the computer’s ten speakers and great sound system, it may be extremely popular with those who want to hold a concert in their home.
IMSI® Design announced the release of TurboCAD Pro Platinum 2017 recently, the company’s premium 2D drafting and 3D Surface and Solid modeling application for Windows desktop PCs. Dave Taylor of TurboCAD, demoed the product and some of its notable features, which actually number close to 50.
In a world where we hear mostly about leading CAD design software programs, it’s refreshing to note that it’s possible to find low cost conceptual CAD design tools with file-level compatibility and a multitude of functions at a fraction of the price. The usual concerns of, “will this software integrate with the software I already have?” or “will I be able to execute this function on the cheaper software?” or, “will my intellectual property retain its integrity in the low cost software?” are all valid concerns for the cost-saving seeker.
