DataLabs Develops 'Framy,' a Cloud Service for Automatic BIM/CIM Model Generation from Point Clouds and 2D Drawings, Opens Test User Recruitment

DataLabs (Headquarters: Chuo-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Daisuke Tajiri) has announced the development of 'Framy,' a cloud service that automatically generates IFC-format BIM/CIM models from point cloud data and 2D CAD drawings, and will begin recruiting test users starting in June.

Background: The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) is gradually implementing BIM/CIM, with fiscal 2026 marking the transition to mandatory 3D model contractual documentation. By fiscal 2027, the integration of 3D models with estimation systems is expected to become standard. In this landscape, 3D proficiency will dictate business opportunities. However, the industry faces critical shortages of BIM/CIM experts and tools, as well as high outsourcing costs. Framy was developed to address these issues and accelerate the use of 3D data in the construction industry.

Technical Foundation: Framy's modeling technology is based on research outcomes selected for the MLIT's 'Technical Development and Demonstration of Maintenance Methods for Public Structures Using Digital Twins' (SBIR) program. It has undergone accuracy verification with major infrastructure owners, including major railway companies, confirming its feasibility for infrastructure like railway viaducts and bridges.

Overview of 'Framy': Framy is a cloud system that automatically generates IFC-format BIM/CIM models in minutes by simply uploading point cloud data or 2D CAD drawings along with basic instructions. High-performance PCs or specialized software are not required. The ability to generate models from both point clouds and 2D drawings is a key differentiator.

Vision: The 'Auto-Generation Factory' for 3D Deliverables: In future construction projects where BIM/CIM is applied, 3D deliverables will be required across surveying, design, construction, and maintenance phases. Framy acts as an 'Auto-Generation Factory,' automatically converting drawings and point clouds into LandXML and IFC formats, building a cross-industry data conversion foundation. Specifically, for civil infrastructure like roads, rivers, and bridges—where structures, terrain, and earthworks are inseparable—Framy supports not only structural BIM in IFC format but also modeling of road alignment, terrain, and cross-sections in MLIT's standard J-LandXML 1.2 format. This foundation aims to integrate the management of structures, terrain, and earthworks within a single 3D space.

Additionally, to support the MLIT-promoted '2D and 3D consistency check,' the system is developing a feature to automatically detect and list discrepancies between generated BIM/CIM models and original 2D drawings. A professional in-house modeling team is ready to support modifications, allowing Framy to provide one-stop support from automatic generation to quality verification and correction.

Furthermore, Framy is designed to ensure BIM models remain 'living' assets rather than one-off deliverables. It is building a collaborative foundation that allows designers, clients, and contractors to continuously update and operate models through version control, discrepancy highlighting, and comment features on individual members.

Expansion to Architectural and Equipment BIM: Beyond civil structures, the company is also expanding support for automatic IFC model generation from 2D drawings in the architectural and equipment sectors. This will include modeling of room spaces, column grids, beams, fixtures, and piping systems, catering to design firms, subcontractors, and building owners.

Recruitment for Test Users: While several companies are already conducting trials, the company will now open recruitment for approximately 10 additional test users starting in June. They will provide a demonstration version (alpha) for 2D CAD drawing modeling free of charge.