Currently, there are two primary technical approaches for achieving lightweight display of BIM models on the web:
The first method involves 3D display of BIM models based on WebGL. WebGL can be considered the browser equivalent of OpenGL, enabling the rendering of 3D and 2D graphics directly within a web browser without requiring any plugins. Using WebGL, developers can implement 3D model displays by creating shaders, loading 3D models, animating objects, assigning colors and materials, and simulating environmental lighting. This approach offers extensive flexibility and creative freedom but demands advanced technical skills to achieve high-quality 3D rendering.
To simplify WebGL development, many have encapsulated native WebGL functionalities into open-source frameworks such as Three.js, PhiloGL, Babylon.js, and SceneJS, which provide more accessible tools for building interactive 3D web applications.
The second approach consists of platforms developed by professional software vendors. These platforms are typically built on WebGL and focus on BIM model visualization and interactive functionality. They include specialized model conversion plugins to ensure compatibility across various BIM formats. Additionally, they offer comprehensive APIs and well-documented development resources, enabling users and developers to perform customized secondary development according to their specific needs.
Notable examples of such platforms include Autodesk’s Forge cloud service platform (USA), Trimble’s Trimble Connect platform, and China-based Guanglianda Technology’s BIMFace platform.
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