Not lost in translation – detecting BIM changes

A new package from 3D Repo offers effective real-time BIM change detection. This cloud-based change detection software can be used for 3D construction models to avert BIM issues from unregistered changes. This solution is said to provide a fast and reliable way to detect changes in underlying 3D models, using an encrypted web browser. The patent pending innovation operates on any 3D models, regardless of their file type, software used to produce them or file size. Called 3D Diff, the 3D Repo solution also a
May 22, 2018 Read time: 2 mins
A new package from 3D Repo offers effective real-time BIM change detection. This cloud-based change detection software can be used for 3D construction models to avert BIM issues from unregistered changes. This solution is said to provide a fast and reliable way to detect changes in underlying 3D models, using an encrypted web browser. The patent pending innovation operates on any 3D models, regardless of their file type, software used to produce them or file size. Called 3D Diff, the 3D Repo solution also allows users to share visualisations with project partners and stakeholders irrespective of location or time-zone.


The change detection algorithm allows users to mix and match models from different modelling tools and pipelines and still identify what has changed over time between revisions. This tool is important for design coordination stages, and also throughout construction when contractors introduce as-built models. It is important too for litigation to attribute who did what for legal liabilities and financial claims.

By comparing the actual geometry of a model rather than underlying, software specific object IDs or labels, 3D Diff can detect changes between models from different sources. A user can pass 3D models from PDMS to Navisworks as well as to 7981 Tekla due to project specific requirements. Without 3D Diff, there is no way of verifying what data has been lost in translation from one package to the next. 3D Diff runs in real time, regardless of the model file size, so even complex projects can be checked quickly.

The firm says that this fast, effective, software independent solution for change and clash detection requires no installation of desktop software. Data is encrypted and project privileges, such as view only or edit, can be assigned to individual project partners.

Connected Construction

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • Smart traffic analysis improvements
    June 12, 2012
    Transport and traffic analysis nowadays tends to switch between static analysis modelling for large scale studies and microsimulation for finer grain work, with perhaps the mesoscopic model also finding a place for mid-level. Most producers make software tools at all three levels and increasingly package them together. Spanish firm TSS (Transport Simulation Systems) has gone one better with its latest release Aimsum 7, by giving it the capacity to "zoom in" from a larger scale mesoscopic model to a smaller
    Read More
  • Crushing efficiency for the aggregates sector
    December 11, 2020
    The aggregates sector is benefiting from the introduction of new high production technology
    Read More
  • Bentley and WSB join forces to create a project-winning digital platform
    March 17, 2023
    A new partnership between Bentley and WSB will help contractors achieve their aims with regard to introducing the use of sophisticated construction software. This new digital construction management solution and advisory service utilises Bentley’s SYNCHRO digital solutions package.
    Read More
  • Optimising Specialist Bitumen Handling with the MEST Bitutainer™
    June 1, 2025

    As roads become more advanced and surface performance expectations rise, traditional hot bitumen is no longer the only material in demand. Across the globe, highways projects are increasingly relying on high-performance binders, from polymer-modified bitumen (PMBs) to specialist emulsions and tack coats designed for specific temperature conditions or traffic volumes.

    Read More

Highlighted Content