We got in touch with K. K. Venkataraman, CEO, 3D Solid Compression Pvt. Ltd. (3DSoC) which is a start up formed in 2006 that focuses on geometric compressions to enable the widespread deployment of 3D applications. Currently they have developed a new patented data format for 3D model representation – “VIS” format, which is typically 100 times smaller than some of the CAD formats and is smaller than even the JPEG or GIF images. Among their products VISPublisher Solution (Virtual Interactive Solid) is a concise 3D representation, which provides for a graphical animated instruction set along with linked voice and text content.
With mobile and internet playing important roles in today’s diversified advanced society, knowing 3DSoC’s plan of action in a technocratic society would be of great use. Their multilingual, geographically dispersed models, supporting complex mechanical equipment are funded by IDG Ventures. Mr. Sudhir Sethi and Mr. Hemir Doshi represent IDG Ventures in 3DSoC’s board.
Venkataraman prior to joining 3DSoC worked with Wipro Technologies and Tata Elxsi. Some excerpts of the interview -
What motivated you to come up with an interactive 3D modelling company?
This was the result of a joint research project between Stanford University, Palo Alto and Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore (IISc), where they had to share heavy 3D models and felt the need for a concise representation.
What in your opinion are the key elements for a start-up to raise funding?
- (a) Differentiated offering (product / solution / service) driven by market needs,
- (b) Team,
- (c) Scalable business model.
What are the opportunities of 3D modelling in India?
We’re into 3D visualization – Enterprise Publishing (training/education/service manuals) and Interactive 3D applications (on the mobile).
What is the scope of e-learning in India? What role can VIS play in it?
e-Learning is a very large market in India and there are also government funded initiatives to get more content online. VIS can provide an interactive 3D learning experience, especially in engineering education.
What are the benefits of Technical Publishing in today’s times?
3D Publishing of a service manual available online provides more value to a dealer or technician, at a reduced cost and effort.
What are the challenges that you face in creating mobile and internet applications?
Challenges are entirely different for both – but one common challenge is in ensuring seamless delivery (say through a browser) for the end user, without them having to install any heavy software.
Who are your competitors in India?
As of now, no one directly, but to some extent, we’d think it is Adobe.
Do you have a revenue model? What is it?
Software licensing.
Where do you see 3DSoc 5 years down the line? How?
As a global player with the VIS player on as many desktops & mobiles as possible.
