Resource search

Search DataDrivenAEC

Type at least two characters to search.

Looking for live projects? Explore open projects or browse the feed.

Open the full search page →

iGeo

Open-source Java library for computational design with NURBS geometry

Free, open-source 3D modeling library in Java for computational design in architecture, product design, and interaction design. Provides NURBS curves and surfaces, vector math operations, polygon mesh management, and 3D visualization with file I/O support. Includes PiGeon interface for Processing integration to lower barriers for non-programmers.

Pricing
Fully open source under GNU LGPL v3—free to use
Alternatives
Archistar, CityDigitalTwin, Atlasly
Who it's for
Architecture, Product Design, Interaction Design
EstablishedOpen Source (GNU LGPL v3)
Founded 2002 · Academic and independent practitioners; used in computational design courses and research projects
Website → ← All Tools
WHY IT EXISTS

Why This Tool Exists

The Problem

Architects and designers interested in computational design struggle with the complexity of implementing NURBS-based geometry in code. Most computational design tools require deep programming knowledge or expensive proprietary software licenses. The learning curve is steep for designers without formal programming training, limiting adoption of generative and parametric design workflows.

The Solution

iGeo provides an accessible, free Java library with comprehensive geometry operations (NURBS curves/surfaces, vector math, polygon meshes) and a Processing interface (PiGeon) that lowers the barrier to entry. Includes full tutorials and training materials for computational design beginners through advanced agent-based algorithms and swarm simulations.

USAGE

How You Use It

Delivery Method
LibraryOpen SourceProcessing Plugin
Disciplines
Architecture
Workflows
Planning & Feasibility
Project Phases
Schematic Design, Design Development
Project Types
Commercial, Residential, Institutional, Mixed-Use
TRANSPARENCY

Data Transparency

Exactly what this tool uses and how

Input
What it needs
Required:Java project or Processing sketch, Vector/curve/surface definitions via API
Optional:Existing 3D geometry files for import, Agent-based behavior definitions
Formats:OBJ, Rhino 3DM
Output
What you get
Format:Java objects and 3D geometry structures
Fields:NURBS curves and surfaces, Vector/point coordinates, Polygon mesh geometries, Transformed/calculated geometry, 3D visualization display
Algorithm
How it works
Model:NURBS geometry engine (open source implementation)
Accuracy:Not publicly specified; NURBS implementation follows standard mathematical definitions
Privacy
How your data is protected
Retention:Not applicable; library runs locally on developer machine
Training:Not applicable; no cloud components
Compliance:No data collection, No cloud transmission
API
Integration
Endpoint:Not applicable; library API used locally
Method:Direct Java method calls via Maven dependency
USE CASES

Use Cases

  • ·Computational design education and training for architecture students
  • ·Generative design exploration using NURBS-based parametric modeling
  • ·Agent-based and swarm-based form generation for architectural design
  • ·Quick prototyping of complex geometries without expensive commercial software
  • ·Integration into custom design tools and workflows via Java
  • ·Processing-based visual design environments for non-programmers
PRICING

Pricing

Free
Fully open source under GNU LGPL v3—free to use, modify, and distribute
Pro
N/A
Enterprise
N/A
Sources & Research NotesResearch date: 2026-04-04
Data Sources (7)
Fields Checked (15)
problem, solution, deliveryMethod, disciplines, projectPhases, projectTypes, isOpenSource, license, yearFounded, maturityStage, input-formats, output-structure, algorithm-approach, useCases, pricing
Not Found (5)
vendor-funding, current-customer-base-numbers, api-documentation, compliance-certifications, data-retention-policies
About this research: This record summarizes the cited sources and fields checked. A research date does not establish hands-on testing. Consult the original sources for current details and limitations.
ALTERNATIVES

Similar Tools

🏘️
Archistar
Planning & Feasibility

AI platform that consolidates zoning and planning data from 25,000+ sources and uses generative design to rapidly create 3D building options that comply with local regulations, automating site discovery and design iteration for property developers and architects.

View Details →
🌍
CityDigitalTwin
Planning & Feasibility

Cloud-based platform for architects, urban planners, and municipalities to simulate microclimate, thermal comfort, energy use, and environmental impacts. Enables design teams to test green infrastructure, cool materials, and renewable systems at neighborhood scale before construction.

View Details →
🗺️
Atlasly
Planning & Feasibility

AI workspace for architects and urban designers. Screens a UK site from a postcode or address against planning, terrain and environmental evidence, prepares custom maps with DXF and GeoJSON outputs, and develops visual studies from a sketch, photograph or CAD screenshot. Positioned as working alongside existing CAD and GIS tools; coverage depends on the location.

View Details →