Construction

Autodesk Forge: From API to 3D

Written by Sachin Sharma

Sachin Sharma

What is Autodesk Forge?

Autodesk has been making way in the construction and engineering world with new innovative technologies that allows everyone to get access to the data they need through tools, specifically through a new platform of its own called Forge. Autodesk Forge, a cloud-based software platform of Autodesk Forge API's, allows users to integrate products into workflows and Autodesk Forge applications. The products used for integration are from Autodesk SaaS and include Autodesk Fusion and Autodesk BIM 360.

The Forge Ecosystem

Autodesk Forge consists of an ecosystem referred to as "the cloud" where data is stored. According to business partners working with Forge, the ecosystem is where people, processes, and information are all connected across an individual common data environment. In order to connect all three, Forge is the only end-to-end solution. Components of Forge include: technology cloud services, resources with information and tools, and a community comprising of partners and customers.

Forge Offerings:

Some of what comes with the use of Forge include:

• Data Management API – Access and manage files and data in Autodesk cloud storage
• Design Automation API – Run automation scripts in your design files
• Model Derivative API/ Autodesk Viewer – Combined, both features enables user to view, extract and convert data and file formats that are 2D or 3D
• Reality capture API – Create 3D models with laser scans and photos
• BIM 360 API – Build apps and custom integrations for the construction industry
• Webhooks API – Receive event notifications from Autodesk web services

Chetu: A Certified Forge Systems Integrator

Recently, Chetu was able to produce a project using Forge through collaborative efforts between designers and clients. This project was created in order to leverage the use of the Forge platform, facilitate real-time results and become certified systems integrators via Forge application building. What Chetu designed is a 3D model of a professional building for a client:

Chetu's technological expertise in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) and real-estate businesses is ongoing through the provision of seamless backend software development solutions.

The Challenge:

The challenge in designing the project was implementing a mechanism that would facilitate seamless communication and production workflows between the client, designers and developers.

The Solution:

Chetu overcame the challenge through managing and uploading 3D objects in a cloud environment in order to run conversion jobs, retrieve thumbnails, download or delete files, create new buckets, and showcase the objects via Viewer all through the use of Forge. Through use of data management, model derivative API's, OSS (Object Storage Service) and Forge's OAuth 2 overcoming the challenge was made possible.

Chetu developer and Forge integrator, Sachin Sharma, explained what he liked most about using the Forge platform, "Forge was a big help for me, it provided a rich environment to showcase and collaborate on 3D designs with clients".

Founded in 2000, Chetu is a global provider of coding apps solutions and support services. Chetu's specialized technology and industry experts serve startups, SMBs, and Fortune 500 companies with an unparalleled software delivery model suited to the needs of the client. Chetu's one-stop-shop model spans the entire software technology spectrum. Headquartered in Plantation, Florida, Chetu has fourteen locations throughout the U.S. and abroad.