Accelerating AEC Workflows with 3D Geospatial Context in Runtime Engines

HNTB, a global architectural and infrastructure engineering firm, has partnered with Cesium, a leader in open and interoperable 3D geospatial platforms, to enhance the design, visualization, and contextual analysis of large-scale infrastructure projects. By adopting Cesium's technology, HNTB has significantly reduced the manual effort required to model complex projects—from small toll plazas to extensive 26-mile roadway alignments—by leveraging Cesium's 3D Tiles and geospatial streaming capabilities. To further streamline workflows, HNTB developed custom tools within Unity and Unreal Engine for editing Cesium 3D Tiles, including volumetric masking, edge blending, curvature adjustments, and the addition of natural elements like trees and foliage. Cesium supports AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) workflows by providing out-of-the-box geospatial context, such as Google Photorealistic 3D Tiles, and by optimizing and hosting user data for performant runtime streaming. Enhancing this ecosystem, Cesium continues to innovate with tools like the Cesium Design Tiler for efficient BIM model streaming and Cesium ion for Autodesk Revit, enabling seamless export and publication of Revit designs as 3D Tiles.