API

Autodesk Adds New APIs and SDKs to Forge Cloud Development Platform

Friday, June 17, 2016

Autodesk has announced new functionality to its Forge platform, including new cloud application development tools and services cloud developers.

The Forge platform offers a set of cloud services that connects design, engineering, visualization, collaboration, production and operations workflows. Application programming interfaces (APIs) and software development kits (SDKs) allow software developers to build cloud-powered applications and services.

New platform enhancement include:

- Viewer: Displays 2D and 3D design files and associated data from 50 plus file formats in a web and mobile viewer for presentation and collaboration. Also allows comments, markup and measurement.

- Model Derivative API: Translates design files from one format to another, prepares them for online viewing, and extracts geometry data. The data can then be passed into other applications and communicate design information.

- Design Automation API: Allows developers to run AutoCAD scripts on the Cloud.

- Authentication: Open standard used across the Forge Platform for authentication and authorization. Authentication is a secure method to provide a “key” to a third party that allows them only limited access to perform specific functions, which can be accomplished without having to divulge user credentials.

- Data Management API: Manages data across A360, Fusion 360, BIM 360 Docs, and the Forge native Object Storage Service. This API allows users to upload and download a data file from different Autodesk products through one consistent and unified interface.

- 3D Print API: Enables developers to quickly build customized 3D printing solutions from 3D print preparation to print management. This API helps users prepare models for 3D printing with a full suite of tools for mesh repair or slicing. Deliver files to 3D printers with remote monitoring and production management, or use sample apps to heal models for printing.

- Reality Capture API: Turns a series of photos into 3D data. If the photos are geotagged, as is typically the case with UAV/drone photos, the computed reality data also includes a geolocated orthographic view. The reality data is then accessible on Autodesk Cloud services or a partner’s platform, for consumption in web apps or in desktop apps.