FreeDimension, the new 3D surfacing program for initial concept design, is adding support for Google SketchUp via the KML file format to its feature list. FreeDesign, Inc. will demonstration the ability at the annual geek graphics fest SIGGRAPH, this week in Boston.
As AECnews reported in June, the new version of KML includes COLLADA, an XML-based schema for 3D authoring used in the game industry. The ability to harness COLLADA technology is probably the reason why FreeDesign Inc. is using it instead of SketchUp’s native SKP format, which is also documented. If I find out more, I’ll update this report accordingly.
FreeDesign uses a new, patent-pending 3D surfacing technology called N-Sided Surfacing (NSS). Current surfacing technologies, including NURBS and Bezier surfaces, require the user to define curved surface spaces as quadrilaterals. FreeDesign’s NSS technology allows users to focus on the curves of a shape, a method that more closely mimics pencil-and-paper-based design.
A company announcement says FreeDimension accepts import of KML files but makes no mention of export. Importing will allow FreeDimension to accept designs from SketchUp or other CAD and modeling products that support the format (the list keeps growing). A company source confirms KML export is under development, but not quite ready yet. Once FreeDimension adds export, users will be able to contribute to Google’s 3D Warehouse.
“The decision to support Google SketchUp format was an easy business decision,” comments Dick Sowar, CEO, Free Design Inc., in a prepared statement. “Our product is all about having fun while designing great things. So is SketchUp. We deliver a simple interface while providing highly advanced surfacing. This makes for a great combination, and a way to advance 3D design even further, while still keeping the rewards for having a simple but usable solution.”
In addition to KML, FreeDimension currently supports STL export, OBJ export, NURBS export (but not in the current beta). Under development is STL import, Wavefront OBJ import, IGES import and export, and DXF export.
More information at www.freedesign-inc.com. The company expects to have a trial version available for download starting August 7.
--RSN
Technorati Tags: FreeDimension surfacing CAD NURBS Google 3D SketchUp N-Sided Surfacing KML COLLADA SIGGRAPH Bezier
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