Object Technology

GDL (Geometric Description Language) -- contains all of the information necessary to completely describe building elements as 2D CAD symbols, text specifications, and 3D models for calculations and presentations ArchiCAD users have long enjoyed the benefits of GDL, with tens of thousands of intelligent objects available and in use around the world. This intelligent object technology also offers a new and more efficient way for building component manufacturers to market and sell their branded products on the Internet or on CD-Rom. The selection of building components during the design phase benefits both the designer, who can design using real-life objects, and the component manufacturers, who can successfully market their product at an earlier stage in the design process.

The role of GDL technology for Graphisoft
As the infrastructure for digital communication grows rapidly, higher demands are raised upon intelligent 3D formats and catalogs for describing building components. In order to make full use of this tremendous opportunity Graphisoft established a dedicated company totally focused on this new marketplace, that works with building component manufactures, on-line and off-line publishers and business software developers.

The mission for GDL Technology Ltd, is to establish GDL as the standard description language for building components.

Highlights of GDL

Optimized for the Internet - Thanks to its parametric nature, GDL creates objects that are easy to access and easy to manage on the Internet. GDL-based electronic product libraries require little effort for their maintenance, which means it is easy to keep information on the website up-to-date.

Flexibility and Control - GDL objects can be used on both the Macintosh and Windows, and are compatible with the most common CAD file formats including DXF and DWG, and with emerging industry standards like IFC. The GDL Object Web Plug-In can also use XML databases. So manufacturers can reach their customers on any platform and in any CAD package. Better still, neither the manufacturer or the CAD user is dependent on Graphisoft for the design, development nor maintenance of GDL objects.

Integration with Building Design - The selection of building components during the design phase benefits both the designer, who can design using real-life objects, and the component manufacturers, who can successfully market their product at an earlier stage in the design process.

Product placement. Manufacturer's information is included in the GDL object information, which means product-specific information is available not only to the designer, but the facilities manager and all other building professionals who need access to such information throughout the building's life cycle.

Cost savings. GDL is an open standard and easy to learn and use, so the initial development and maintenance costs are low. Additionally, data conversion is automatic, so there is no need to recreate information in different formats such as DXF and DWG.

To learn more about GDL Technology click here.