Objectives  In order to realize the automatic collection of general ship layout data, a new 3D data collection method based on 2D graphic analysis is proposed.

  Methods  In light of the inherent defects of drawings, a complete cabin boundary recognition algorithm is developed to achieve accurate cabin boundary information. Efficient matching between cabin attributes and cabin boundaries is realized using cabin and point serial numbers, and cabin 3D automatic modeling is realized through hierarchical Boolean operation technology.

  Results  This reliable and feasible method reduces the general layout work of 3D cabin modeling, data analysis and unsinkability raw data consolidation, as well as improving design efficiency.

  Conclusions  The above technology allows automatic modeling from a 2D layout to a 3D cabin. The development and testing of the relevant layout information collection software is carried out, and the test results verify the feasibility and applicability of the proposed data collection method.