Matterport has just announced its forthcoming CAD (computer-aided design) file add-on feature. It will enable its users to produce editable CAD drawings directly from its digital twins. This new add-on is designed to accelerate design workflows and should become available in early 2024.
Matterport CAD add-on
Until recently, Matterport has only delivered CAD files as part of its BIM (building information modeling) file add-on. However, for projects that do not need the level of detail that BIM provides, this requirement adds unnecessary time and cost to a project.
Screenshot from a Matterport 3D model. Original 3D model: Matterport.
With the new CAD file add-on, users can produce editable CAD drawings directly from Matterport point clouds. Thus allowing customers to reduce their design and documentation time.
Matterport’s Senior Director of Business Strategy, Stephanie Lin explains:
“Great design and successful projects start with a solid foundation, yet the industry continues to rely on time-consuming tools and processes to get the job done. With our CAD file add-on, we’re making CAD creation faster and more accessible so that anyone can kickstart the design process to streamline projects.”
Today, most design processes begin with CAD drawings. However, producing accurate drawings is complex and time-consuming. It also requires specially trained professionals with expertise in surveying and modeling.
Moreover, design changes, errors, or omissions at the design stage cause many of the reworks undertaken by the construction industry. Consequently, making adequate documentation an intrinsic component of any new project is essential to maintaining its quality and reducing its costs.
Fortunately, this new add-on builds on Matterport’s existing add-ons and integrations for construction and design professionals. These include Matterport BIM files, the MatterPak Bundle, and the recent integrations with Procore Technologies and the Autodesk Construction Cloud.
The new CAD file add-on package will include support for the following formats:
- AutoCAD (.dxf ) exported from (.dwg).
- CAD format of floor plans and reflected ceiling plans (.dwg AutoCAD 2020 version).
- Floor plans and reflected ceiling plans (.pdf).
- Point Cloud File (.rcs).
- Plot styles for CAD (.ctb).
Matterport hopes to make its new CAD file add-on available in all regions globally within the next few months. For more information, please click here.
About Matterport
Matterport Incorporated specializes in the digital transformation of the construction industry. Its groundbreaking spatial data platform turns physical buildings into easily accessible computer visualizations. Consequently, Matterport digital twins have transformed millions of buildings in more than 177 countries into detailed, realistic 3D models. Its products can assist with every stage of a building’s lifecycle. This starts with planning, construction, operations and documentation, right through to appraisal and marketing.
To learn more about Matterport, please click here.