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Operations & Maintenance

Visual Intelligence: Data in Context

 Overview 

Visualization is a term used across various industries and applications. It means interpreting data, whether tabular or chart reports, 3D models, drawings or even photographs.

Visualization is about comprehending the context around you, regardless of the tools you use. This enables you to take informed actions in planning, engineering, construction, safety or daily life. In this blog, Ill explore how Hexagon’s visualization solutions can enhance your understanding of your environment and help you leverage that data to achieve your business objectives and goals. 

 

A Little History Regarding 2D and 3D Visualization Applications 

The concept of computer-aided design (CAD) began to take shape in the early 1960s. Initial CAD systems were primarily 2D drafting programs used for creating precise drawings. These early systems allowed users to draw directly on a computer screen with a light pen, introducing the basic concepts of computer graphics.

By the 80s, CAD software had become more sophisticated, enabling professionals to create detailed 2D drawings and schematics. These applications significantly increased productivity by automating many of the manual tasks involved in traditional drafting.

The 90s saw the transition from 2D to 3D CAD applications. Advances in computing power and graphics capabilities opened the development of software that modeled objects in three dimensions. Many solutions empowered users to visualize their designs more realistically, perform simulations and detect potential issues before physical prototypes were built. This shift greatly enhanced the accuracy and efficiency of the design process.

The 00s marked the rise of information management solutions integrated with 2D/3D CAD. These solutions extended CAD capabilities by integrating detailed information about every aspect of a project's lifecycle. This led to the creation of comprehensive digital representations that improved stakeholder collaboration and facilitated better decision-making.

Today, visualization continues to evolve with advancements in virtual reality, augmented reality and artificial intelligence (AI). These technologies have made it possible to interact with 3D models in immersive environments, conduct real-time simulations and analyze complex data sets more effectively. Hexagon's suite of visualization solutions leverages these innovations, providing potent tools for improved understanding and optimization of projects, operations and safety.

2D/3D visualization applications are now indispensable for a wide range of industries where professionals bring their ideas to life, streamlining workflows and achieving greater project precision and efficiency. 

 
HxGN SDx2 Visualization: A Groundbreaking Innovation in the Industry 

When we talk about innovation in 2D/3D visualization, its always a challenge because as noted it’s been evolving since the last century. Now, numerous solutions in the market make visualization a commodity. In recognition of this, several years ago, Hexagon’s visualization team embarked on a mission to push boundaries further and create a next-generation solution, which today is a reality.

Enter HxGN SDx2. This is Hexagon’s next-level, cloud-native, SaaS solution for excellence in engineering, operations and maintenance. It encompasses a suite of new and enriched capabilities, including asset lifecycle data and information management, asset modeling and visualization, engineering change, work packaging document management/document control, and design review and issue management.   

Read on as I explain the innovation behind it all and how it can help you achieve your business goals and objectives. 

 
The Challenge: Creating a Completely Cloud-native Visualization Solution 

Current cloud-based visualization solutions rely on files generated from authoring applications. These files are often large, and changes, modifications and new versions must be repeatedly uploaded. While this approach may work for smaller projects, transferring terabytes of data from desktop applications to the cloud becomes unmanageable and scales poorly when dealing with large industrial plants and vast amounts of data. 

Managing crucial engineering data, such as documents, throughout the entire industry lifecycle is imperative but presents significant challenges. Ensuring this data is integrated and managed cohesively adds considerable administrative burdens and costs to organizations. The cost of change also becomes substantial because issues are prolonged and can’t be addressed until the data is available to identify them. These inefficiencies have caused many organizations to struggle with outdated 2D/3D data. 
 

Solution: Streamlining Visualization from Data Creation 

Hexagon addresses this challenge with unprecedented engineering tools that share data to the cloud in HxGN SDx2; not as traditional files, but as objects or granular data. This approach eliminates the need for extensive data administration. As soon as data is created, its shared and can be visualized by any department or discipline with proper permissions.

This helps identify issues early in any process, optimizes collaboration and is highly scalable. By managing information at the granular and object levelwhere every piece of your facility is an individual object containing data and graphicsHxGN SDx2 ensures efficient performance and offers an entirely native cloud experience.

This innovative approach helps organizations save significant money by ensuring their data is always current. Collaboration can occur at the object level, removing the barriers of traditional project management methods. Whether constructing new facilities, operating existing ones, or ensuring their safety, HxGN SDx2 transforms the process, replacing outdated document management systems, emails and other legacy tools. 

 

With No Barriers, What Comes Next? 

At a technical level, the data is now native to the cloud. Organizations can slice and dice data and graphics at any level, enabling seamless sharing and collaboration with always up-to-date information. This innovative graphics cloud-native solution facilitates highly efficient visualization of 2D and 3D models. 

The technology also paves the way for incredibly fast visualization of extensive facilities, with future capabilities promising render times of less than one second. This unmatched speed and efficiency will revolutionize how massive projects and operations are managed, offering instant insights and fostering unparalleled collaboration.

Because weve removed these barriers, the future holds even more exciting possibilities with AI integration. Soon, you’ll be able to interact with this data in ways never possible. Generative AI will enable users to extract data graphically just by asking a question and create immersive environments using simple commands. 
 
This will transform how we interact with our data, making it more than ever – intuitive, accessible and powerful. With no barriers, the possibilities for innovation and efficiency are boundless. By leveraging HxGN SDx2’s cutting-edge capabilities, organizations can transform their approach to projects and operations. Here are a few other of the many possibilities: 

  • Enhanced Predictive Maintenance: With real-time data and granular object management, predictive maintenance becomes more precise, reducing downtime and extending the lifespan of equipment and facilities. 

  • Integrated Smart Systems: Seamless data integration will allow for the development of smart systems that autonomously monitor, analyze and optimize various operations aspects, from energy consumption to safety protocols. 

  • Accelerated Project Delivery: Improved collaboration and up-to-date data will streamline project timelines, allowing faster delivery of new facilities and upgrades to existing ones. 

  • Data-driven Decision-making: With comprehensive and current data at their fingertips, decision-makers will make more informed choices, enhancing efficiency, productivity and profitability. 

  • Increased Innovation:Removal of traditional barriers will foster an environment where creativity and innovation flourish, leading to new technologies and methodologies that further revolutionize the industry. 

  • Sustainable Practices:By optimizing resource use and reducing waste through precise data management, organizations will adopt more sustainable practices, contributing to environmental conservation and reducing costs. 

HxGN SDx2 is paving the way in a world without obstacles for a future where engineering, construction and operational processes are more connected, efficient and innovative than ever. 

 


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About the Author

Leonardo (Leo) De Franca Fernandes is the Director of Solution Design at Hexagon, specializing in xR data visualization. With 20+ years in technology solutions, he excels in product management, crisis handling and market strategy. His expertise spans multiple industries, enhancing productivity and innovation for clients.

Profile Photo of Leonardo (Leo) De Franca Fernandes