CAD FOR BUILDINGS
Autodesk released its 2011 enhancements for several products this spring. One new release is Autodesk Revit Structure 2011, building information modeling (BIM) software. Key features include enhancements to framing (slanted columns, beam systems, trusses and connection systems); to reinforcement and concrete clean-up; and to analytical modeling.
The 2011 Autodesk Revit MEP (mechanical, electrical plumbing) enhancements include cable tray and conduit modeling, panel schedules and MEP fixture management.
To help firms move into the BIM process, the 2011 portfolio also includes software suites that combine traditional software with Revit. For example, AutoCAD Revit Structure Suite combines AutoCAD 2011 and AutoCAD Structural Detailing 2011, with Autodesk Revit Structure 2011. www.autodesk.com
CAD FOR INFRASTRUCTURE
For infrastructure engineers, Auto- CAD Civil 3D 2011 by Autodesk has improved scalability features and an optimized 64-bit version of Civil 3D. It also has enhanced tools for creating and editing corridors, and enhanced superelevation functionality.
AutoCAD Map 3D 2011, which helps land development, water and transportation engineers to more easily create and analyze GIS and asset data, includes new point cloud tools and enhanced data support and workflow capabilities. www.autodesk.com
Bentley Systems is integrating its civil engineering design and stormwater modeling and analysis applications to improve team workflows and collaboration. The applications include Bentley’s InRoads, GEOPAK, PowerCivil for North America, MXROAD, CivilStorm, StormCAD, and PondPack products. With this integration, civil designers can ensure the accurate location of stormwater infrastructure using geometric and digital terrain data. They can also generate 3D visualizations and analysis for clash detection and constructability, all from within Bentley civil products. www.bentley.com
DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT
Burrtech of Colorado has introduced eTransmittal, a web-based tool that streamlines and automates the exchange and tracking of architecture, engineering, and construction documents. It has been developed as an affordable, functional and more secure way of transmitting large documents compared to traditional shipping, e-mail, and ftp sites (which often provide no tracking and little security). Because eTransmittal is a Software-As-A-Service (SaaS) productivity tool, all that is needed is an internet connection and web browser. www.etransmittal.com
