ODA Announces Teigha PRC Production Release

PHOENIX, AZ, USA, Oct 21, 2015 - Open Design Alliance (ODA) announced the production release of Teigha PRC, a 3D PDF component for Teigha. This component can be used to export a .dwg or .dgn file to PRC-based 3D PDF (Portable Document Format).

The accurate and highly compressible PRC file format is optimized to store, load and display 3D data such as geometry, assembly structures and product manufacturing information. PRC files encapsulated within PDF, an open standard, can be viewed universally which means that detailed 3D designs can be widely communicated.

PRC-based PDF files can be easily archived yet original 3D information will always be accessible for design reuse and revision within CAD, CAD and CAE systems.

“Our members have expressed a strong interest in 3D PDF and the versatility it provides,” comments Neil Petersen, ODA President. “Teigha PRC gives them an additional option for storing and sharing 3D information.”

Teigha PRC is also intended for use as a stand-alone library, providing support for the entire ISO specification for PRC. The component is available to members on the ODA website at http://www.opendesign.com.

Registration Opens for IronCAD 2016 Beta Testing Until Oct 10th, 2015

ATLANTA, GA, USA, Sep 22, 2015 - IronCAD invites customers to take part in their 2016 pre-release software testing program. Designers working in real world environments can fully explore all avenues of design and discover new functionality targeted to improve productivity.

With the investigative support of their customers, IronCAD is able to elevate their software solutions to higher quality prior to release. Participants can share their ideas, explore new options and help create one of the world's best design solution. When customers join the IronCAD Customer Engagement Program, they'll enjoy the following benefits:

• Get a look at our next generation product before anyone else;
• Provide suggestions for improvements;
• Take pleasure in working closely with IronCAD's development team;
• Ensure the delivery of a quality product for your future design needs;

Software testing is a fundamental component of IronCAD quality assurance and represents a thorough review of specification, design and coding. During the program, participants will put the products to test and work closely with R&D to refine functionality and address quality issues. This program is an essential part of the quality control processes of a reputed software company and the program ensures that the newly developed software will deliver quality expected from our customers.

How to Participate:

Registration is open to all current customers on support and can be accessed in the IronCAD Community. Please contact your local reseller or IronCAD to obtain your login or to request membership to participate in the program.

About IronCAD

Based in Atlanta, GA, IronCAD is a leading provider of 3D Design Productivity Solutions that deliver the highest levels of customer satisfaction and productivity. Individual components of this solution can be used standalone, complementary within an existing design environment, or can be used together to collaborate effectively throughout the enterprise to extend productivity. Its flagship product IronCAD has won many industry awards for its innovative technology and leads the industry in its ease of use and design productivity. IronCAD products are being used successfully by thousands of customers worldwide. For more information on IronCAD, call 1-800-339-7304 or visit www.ironcad.com.

ITC Releases IntelliCAD 8.1a

PORTLAND, OR, USA, Sep 22, 2015 - The IntelliCAD Technology Consortium (ITC) announced the release of IntelliCAD 8.1a.

IntelliCAD 8.1a is a maintenance release that contains over 100 improvements and fixes since the IntelliCAD 8.1 release in July 2015, which included support for Microsoft Windows 10 and many new features such as multi-core processing, support for opening and saving .dwg files version 2015, and developing end-user applications with Microsoft .NET 4.5.

Improvements in IntelliCAD 8.1a can be found in the ribbon interface, working with hatches, entity modification, and many additional areas.

Interested IntelliCAD users can contact ITC members to receive details about availability of IntelliCAD software.

About IntelliCAD Technology Consortium (ITC)

The IntelliCAD Technology Consortium is an independent, non-profit organization funded and directed by its members specifically for the development of the IntelliCAD technology. The IntelliCAD Technology Consortium licenses the IntelliCAD technology to its commercial members, who in turn market and sell applications based on IntelliCAD to their end users. Commercial members have access to the IntelliCAD source code, documentation, developer support, and more. The ITC is also a founding member of the Open Design Alliance, thereby contributing to interoperability in the engineering industry. For more information, visit http://www.intellicad.org or call 1-503-293-7655.

ITC Releases IntelliCAD 8.1

PORTLAND, OR, USA, Aug 14, 2015 - The IntelliCAD Technology Consortium (ITC) announced the release of IntelliCAD 8.1.

IntelliCAD 8.1 is a major release that now includes support for Microsoft Windows 10. IntelliCAD 8.1 also includes multi-core processing when opening and regenerating files, which provides a 1.5 to 3 times performance improvement on multi-core computers. Also included is support for opening and saving .dwg files version 2015, developing end-user applications with a new Microsoft .NET API, opening and exporting .dgn files, annotation scaling, publishing drawings, printing to .dwf (or .dwfx), .png, and .jpg files, drawing helices and revision clouds, lofting and sweeping entities, creating polysolids, and various other new commands such as SETBYLAYER, XPLODE, TXT2MTXT, and AUTOCOMPLETE.

Many user interface enhancements are also included: new ribbon user interface that can be used with or without menus, support for customizable workspaces, and ability to quickly switch color schemes.

Vitor Neves, ITC Chairman and President of CAD Manufacturing Solutions, Inc. (CMS), an ITC member company, stated, "ITC members will appreciate the new IntelliCAD 8.1 multi-core processor support performance boost, additional .NET 4.5 Framework, stunning new user interface enhancements and, as always, advanced CAD compatibility."

Mr. Neves added, "This release consolidates IntelliCAD Technology Consortium’s unique market position as the sole non-profit organization committed to the development of the most advanced CAD engine technology developed by an open group of CAD solutions providers. IntelliCAD 8.1 also sets a milestone on how the ITC community proactively addresses new challenges."

About IntelliCAD Technology Consortium (ITC)

The IntelliCAD Technology Consortium is an independent, non-profit organization funded and directed by its members specifically for the development of the IntelliCAD technology. The IntelliCAD Technology Consortium licenses the IntelliCAD technology to its commercial members, who in turn market and sell applications based on IntelliCAD to their end users. Commercial members have access to the IntelliCAD source code, documentation, developer support, and more. The ITC is also a founding member of the Open Design Alliance, thereby contributing to interoperability in the engineering industry. For more information, visit http://www.intellicad.org or call 1-503-293-7655.

AVEVA Software Licenses to Support Korean Engineering Courses

SEOUL, South Korea, Aug 14, 2015 - AVEVA announced that software licenses for some of its most popular products including AVEVA Everything3D and AVEVA Bocad will be provided through AVEVA’s Academic Initiative to support engineering courses at the Yeosu Petrochemical High School and Seoul Urban Science Technical High School. Students taking modules in areas such as Process Handling, Process Facility and Process Electrical & Instrumentation will now receive access to AVEVA’s industry leading 3D design, engineering and steel fabrication software to develop important engineering skills.

AVEVA attended a signing ceremony with Seoul Urban Science Technical High School on 29 June 2015. The signing ceremony with Yeosu Petrochemical High School took place on the 9 July 2015. Hi-Tech Engineering, a prominent engineering company based in Yeosu City, signed an MOU with Yeosu Petrochemical High School in 2014, agreeing to employ a number of students from the school after graduation.

‘Teaching the use of AVEVA software on our curriculum gives students practical hands-on experience with the technology they will use throughout their careers’, said YoungMan Cho, Principal of Yeosu Petrochemical High School. ‘They can simulate the design of plants in a collaborative working environment. Institutions like ours, working alongside AVEVA and Hi-Tech Engineering, can ensure that the petrochemical complex in Yeosu continues to operate its production facilities efficiently and safely as new engineers join the industry.’

‘It is important for Korea to invest in highly skilled young engineers in order to meet a demand that is often fulfilled with foreign talent’, said TaeIn Park, Teacher, Seoul Urban Science Technical High School. ‘As older engineers retire and the industry continues to grow, the need for future employment is greater than ever. It is interesting for students to see how engineering software such as AVEVA’s relates to the real world, for example, in the design of plant facilities.’

SangWook Ham, Vice President, Head of EPC and Marine Sales, NEA, AVEVA added, ‘By supporting programmes like the ones at Yeosu Petrochemical High School and Seoul Urban Science Technical High School, AVEVA is giving graduates the confidence and skills they need to enter the work force and make an immediate contribution to engineering companies and Owner Operators alike.’

Yeosu Petrochemical High School and Seoul Urban Science Technical High School are part of a network of over 40 Meister Schools, specifically designed to prepare young people for work in high-skilled manufacturing jobs and other fields. With support from the South Korean government they near-guarantee employment to graduates, follow an industry-supported curriculum design, and focuses on developing skills required by various trades while exposing students to the workplace. The AVEVA Academic Initiative benefits educational institutions, their students, employers, and the global engineering community. AVEVA's educational partners range from local vocational training centres to the world’s most prestigious postgraduate universities. Common to all is a dedication to developing engineering skills that can be applied directly in the process plant, power and marine industries. For more information, visit www.aveva.com/academic.

About AVEVA

For almost 50 years, AVEVA software has enabled the creation of some of the world’s most complex power and process plants, vessels and offshore facilities. AVEVA’s Digital Asset approach ensures there is always an accurate digital representation of each physical asset. This allows engineering contractors, owner operators and ship builders to work more safely, more efficiently and with less risk throughout the life cycle of their projects and operations. AVEVA is the proud winner of the Frost and Sullivan 2015 Global Engineering Information Management Solutions Competitive Strategy Innovation and Leadership Award. For more information, visit www.aveva.com/ednotes.

Dassault Announces 3D FinTech Challenge 2015 Accelerator Program

LONDON, UK, Aug 4, 2015 - Dassault Systems (Euronext Paris: #13065, DSY.PA), the 3DEXPERIENCE Company, world leader in 3D design software, 3D Digital Mock Up and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions, announced that the 3D FinTech Challenge, its seven-week accelerator program helping drive disruptive technological innovation in financial services, will focus its 2015 edition on addressing the impact of increased regulatory oversight across the industry.

The 3D FinTech Challenge 2015 will identify and nurture high-performance startups that are building new data management technologies or leveraging recent disruptive technologies, such as blockchain, to improve the competitive advantage of financial institutions. Applications are now open for the program, which will run from September 16th – November 3rd, 2015, for the third consecutive year in London.

“Since the 2008 global financial crisis, the financial services industry has witnessed significant customer dissatisfaction due to regulatory burdens and complexities, and this is forcing the industry to adapt and evolve,” said Guillaume Dufour, Vice President, Financial and Business Services Industry, Dassault Systems. “Dassault Systèmes has 30 years of technology know-how and experience in helping companies in regulated industries embrace disruptive innovation and change. The 3D FinTech Challenge enables us to collaborate with the financial industry, share our heritage and drive customer centric innovations that help institutions thrive in the face of industry transformation.”

This year’s theme was selected by senior executives from leading financial institutions to ensure that the 3D FinTech Challenge 2015 delivers solutions that address their everyday challenges. They will also select the six finalists who will benefit from master classes, ongoing commercial mentoring from Dassault Systems and leading global financial institutions, as well as technical and legal support from industry experts. On the Finals Day—November 3rd, 2015—the finalists will present their solutions to these executives and experts as well as to venture capitalists, regulators, journalists and government officials. The winner will receive additional mentoring and networking opportunities from the global financial services ecosystem to accelerate its development.

A key difference with this year’s 3D FinTech Challenge is that Dassault Systems is hosting the program in partnership with Deutsche Börse, one of the world's leading data and technology service providers for the securities industry, bringing additional expertise, resources and networks to the program. Unlike other accelerator programs, Dassault Systems and Deutsche Börse do not take equity in the startups. Invest Northern Ireland returns as sponsor.

“For the last two consecutive years, I have mentored finalist teams on the 3D FinTech Challenge and witnessed the positive outcomes achieved during the program,” said Brendan Bradley, Chief Innovation Officer, Deutsche Börse. “In our bid to drive customer centric and disruptive innovation, Deutsche Börse is proud to strengthen its commitment to the next wave of high-performance startups and participate as a partner in the 3D FinTech Challenge 2015.”

The 3D FinTech Challenge 2015 will be hosted at Level39, Europe’s largest accelerator hub for high-performance startups in financial services, located in London’s Canary Wharf. Interested startups worldwide can apply until August 22nd, 2015 by visiting: http://www.3ds.com/industries/financial-and-business-services/3d-fintech-challenge/

About Dassault Systems

Dassault Systems, the 3DEXPERIENCE Company, provides business and people with virtual universes to imagine sustainable innovations. Its world-leading solutions transform the way products are designed, produced, and supported. Dassault Systems’ collaborative solutions foster social innovation, expanding possibilities for the virtual world to improve the real world. The group brings value to over 190,000 customers of all sizes, in all industries, in more than 140 countries. For more information, visit www.3ds.com.

AVEVA to Launch E3D 2.1 at World Summit in Dubai on Oct 20-22

CAMBRIDGE, UK, Jul 24, 2015 - AVEVA announced that version 2.1 of its innovative 3D design software, AVEVA Everthing3D, has been extremely well received in early adopter trials. Leading names have been involved in the initial trials with an overwhelmingly positive response. Building on the success of AVEVA E3D 1.1 this next generation of plant design software introduces an enhanced user interface which is driving down learning curves whilst increasing efficiency. Unique laser scanning capabilities will deliver huge benefits, especially in brownfield projects, and significant changes to the structural and supports modules to maximize performance.

‘We’ve made a number of major enhancements to AVEVA E3D after working closely with our customers’, said Dave Wheeldon, CTO, AVEVA. ‘The market has demonstrated a real appetite for more powerful and advanced plant design software, and our customers have made it clear that AVEVA E3D is delivering a game-changing solution. I heard some fantastic comments about our latest version of AVEVA E3D at a recent reference group with a key customer including: “Brilliant”, “Step-Change”, “Value-Added”, and “We love it!”. This kind of enthusiasm is a great validation for AVEVA E3D 2.1.’ 

 

AVEVA E3D 2.1 is currently being trialed by selected customers around the world. It will be launched at the AVEVA World Summit in Dubai on October 20-22, 2015. Learn more about the AVEVA World Summit at www.avevaworld.com.

About AVEVA

For almost 50 years, AVEVA software has enabled the creation of some of the world’s most complex power and process plants, vessels and offshore facilities. AVEVA’s Digital Asset approach ensures there is always an accurate digital representation of each physical asset. This allows engineering contractors, owner operators and ship builders to work more safely, more efficiently and with less risk throughout the life cycle of their projects and operations. AVEVA is the proud winner of the Frost and Sullivan 2015 Global Engineering Information Management Solutions Competitive Strategy Innovation and Leadership Award. For more information, visit www.aveva.com.

Autodesk Design Academy iTunes U Course Available Free for Educators

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, USA, Jul 1, 2015 - Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADSK) announced the availability of the new Autodesk Design Academy iTunes U course, marking the first time the company has shared its portfolio of curricula resources through iTunes U. Developed by educators and subject matter experts across the globe, the Autodesk Design Academy provides hundreds of standards-aligned class projects to support design-based disciplines in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) while using Autodesk’s professional-grade 3D design, engineering and entertainment software used in industry, helping students develop 21st century skills and prepare for future careers.

Autodesk Design Academy provides hundreds of standards-aligned class projects, including lessons in Autodesk Fusion 360, which brings CAD, CAM and CAE together in the cloud.

iTunes U is the best way to bring a classroom together on iPad, helping educators build lessons with amazing content, collect and grade student work and stay connected with their class.

A key component of the Autodesk Design Academy iTunes U course is learning materials about the use of Autodesk Fusion 360, which brings CAD, CAM and CAE together in the cloud. It’s an integrated, connected, and accessible platform built for the new ways products are being designed and made.

Autodesk also launches the Autodesk Design Academy Multi-Touch book, which includes learning materials about Autodesk SketchBook Express, software that brings digital art and concept sketching to life. Both the iTunes U course and Multi-Touch book will be available for free on iPad this fall.

“Getting our curricula and learning resources to millions of educators for free through iTunes U and Multi-Touch books is a fantastic opportunity to empower students with the tools that will help them to imagine, design and create a better world,” said Randy Swearer, vice president, Education, Autodesk. “The new Autodesk Design Academy iTunes U course helps us to bring best-in-class resources to more schools, establishing a future pipeline of designers, architects and engineers.”

In December 2014, Autodesk announced a multi-million dollar commitment to make available free access to its 3D design software and creativity applications to schools, educators and students around the globe to support future global economies and drive innovation.

“Autodesk software is used heavily in the engineering industry, and I want my students to know it well so they can jump right into a job without the employer needing to train them,” said Jennifer Hohne, educator, Heritage Hills High School, Lincoln City, Indiana.

The Autodesk Design Academy complements Autodesk’s 3D design software and creativity applications across the education continuum to advance learning outcomes, including:

• Building proficiency with learners to support STEAM education both in and outside of the classroom
• Imparting industry-relevant knowledge and 3D design skills to give students a competitive edge to achieve their personal goals today, and career success in the future
• Helping educators inspire creativity and innovation through a project-based curriculum and a multidisciplinary approach to education; facilitating collaboration and hands-on problem-solving skills that reflect today’s business realities

To request free access to Autodesk software for educational institutions, visit www.autodesk.com/academic.

To gain access to the Autodesk Design Academy, Autodesk Design Academy iTunes U course for Fusion 360 and Autodesk Design Academy Multi-Touch books for SketchBook Express, visit academy.autodesk.com.

For information regarding training, support and software implementation, locate your local Autodesk Academic Partner.

About Autodesk 

Autodesk helps people imagine, design and create a better world. Everyone - from design professionals, engineers and architects to digital artists, students and hobbyists—uses Autodesk software to unlock their creativity and solve important challenges. For more information visit www.autodesk.com or follow @autodesk.

Dassault Launches 'Passenger Experience' for Aerospace, Defense Industry

VELIZY-VILLACOUBLAY, France, Jun 13, 2015 - Dassault Systems (Euronext Paris: #13065, DSY.PA), the 3DEXPERIENCE Company, world leader in 3D design software, 3D Digital Mock Up and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions, announced the launch of “Passenger Experience,” a new aerospace and defense industry solution experience, featuring high-end 3D visualization technology for the profitable delivery of customized aircraft cabins.

Aircraft modernization and the retirement of thousands of aircraft over the next decade have led to a strong build cycle in the industry. This is spurring innovation in cabin personalization as an effective tool for business jet original equipment manufacturers, completion centers, suppliers and airlines to differentiate themselves and build customer loyalty.

Based on Dassault Systems’ 3DEXPERIENCE platform, “Passenger Experience” uses high-end 3D visualization technology and interactive content to transform engineering data into powerful, visual 3D design, marketing and sales applications that address all aspects of the cabin design experience- from initial customer interaction and design validation and verification, through to marketing campaigns.

“We are convinced that the Dassault Systems ‘Passenger Experience’ will help to better differentiate from competitors and more efficiently meet customers’ demands,” said Martin Rehmet, Product Manager, RECARO Aircraft Seating. “The results of our initial project with the sales configurator have exceeded our expectations.”

“Passenger Experience” automates cabin completion processes and personalizes cabin buying and marketing experiences with cost-effective and time-saving features:

• Essential intelligent ‘building blocks’ capture rules, regulations, and manufacturing knowledge to automate cabin interior design, development and delivery;
• Real-time cabin configuration and immersive cabin validation capabilities enable quick turnaround time on design configurations, reduce engineering changes and ensure that the final product meets expectations before a physical prototype is created;
• Different forms of training and visualization content, including web-based course-ware, interactive game-based training and fully immersive 3D visualization, increase training efficiency and minimize time out of the field for cabin crews and aircraft on the ground;
• 3D data provide marketing teams with high-end cabin images and videos to promote cabin designs that can be quickly adapted for a wide range of marketing purposes, digital channels and devices, and eliminate costly photo shoots.

“Allowing aircraft customers to experience their choices as they make them, to appreciate the beauty, effect, practicality, feasibility, cost and benefit in real time as they make these choices, is a key goal for ‘Passenger Experience’,” said Michel Tellier, Vice President Aerospace & Defense Industry, Dassault Systems. “There is a competitive advantage in bringing maximum harmony between the interior while it is being specified and what will be delivered, and ultimately marketed, to the private or commercial passenger.”

For more information on Dassault Systems’ industry solution experiences for Aerospace & Defense: http://www.3ds.com/industries/aerospace-defense

“Passenger Experience” will be showcased at this year’s International Paris Air Show (June 15-21) at Dassault Systems’ booth, F183 (Hall 2B) and Chalet B 161 (by invitation only). 

About Dassault Systems

Dassault Systems, the 3DEXPERIENCE Company, provides business and people with virtual universes to imagine sustainable innovations. Its world-leading solutions transform the way products are designed, produced, and supported. Dassault Systems’ collaborative solutions foster social innovation, expanding possibilities for the virtual world to improve the real world. The group brings value to over 190,000 customers of all sizes, in all industries, in more than 140 countries. For more information, visit www.3ds.com.

Kevin Lee Allen Updates Entertainment Design Instructional Guide

COLUMBIA, MD, USA, Apr 3, 2015 - Authored by award-winning scenic and lighting designer, Kevin Lee Allen, Entertainment Design: Scenery, Lighting, and Sound with Vectorworks Spotlight, 4th Edition provides readers with tutorial-based design techniques applicable to film, television, concerts, exhibits and more. Allen updated the instructional guide to complement the release of Vectorworks Spotlight with Renderworks 2015 software developed by Nemetschek Vectorworks, Inc.

The guide outlines a process for design development and collaboration with other designers and technical staff. Specifically, Entertainment Design explores the creation of scenic, lighting and sound designs for a theoretical Broadway production of Romeo and Juliet. Readers will also learn how to create a simple 3D object.

In addition to reflecting the features in Vectorworks 2015 software, the fourth edition of the guidebook will help readers:

• Use the new Deform tool to bend, taper or create a bulge with practically any geometric object.
• Create temporary platforms with Stage Deck tools and model supports with Stage Lift tools.
• Directly edit Lighting Position objects.
• Work with new rendering styles such as White Model style.

Readers will also be introduced to the Vectorworks Remote App, which connects mobile devices to a Vectorworks desktop using a remote connection plug-in. The app allows users to interactively use the device like a remote to view, navigate and present designs without having to be at their desktops.

“Kevin Lee Allen’s books and accompanying tutorials have been tremendously helpful as I transitioned to Vectorworks as my go-to drafting software,” said Tom Palmer, partner and creative director at Palmer Schwartz Agency. “I can’t think of a better investment in Vectorworks education than purchasing this training guide.”

Availability

Entertainment Design is now available for $75,  click here. Members of the media interested in reviewing the book may contact Lauren Burke at LBurke@vectorworks.net or 443-542-0294.

About the Author

Kevin Lee Allen is an American artist and designer of scenery for film, television and theater; specialty/themed interiors; special events; museum exhibitions and spectacular signage. His work spans architecture, graphic design and sculpture. He has designed across the United States and on three continents.

Allen’s published work focuses on set design and lighting design for the entertainment industries and exhibit design. He has taught the application and other facets of design on the university level and at the Broadway Lighting Master Classes. He attended Montclair State University, where he obtained a degree in theater, and the Lester Polakov Studio & Forum of Stage Design in New York City.

About Nemetschek Vectorworks, Inc.

Nemetschek Vectorworks, Inc. is the developer of Vectorworks software, a line of industry-specific CAD and BIM solutions that allow designers to easily capture, develop and communicate their ideas with accuracy and efficiency. With more than half a million users around the world, Vectorworks software is a global leader in 3D design technologies for the AEC, landscape and entertainment industries. Nemetschek Vectorworks was founded in 1985 and has been a part of The Nemetschek Group since its acquisition in 2000. For more information, visit www.vectorworks.net.

IronCAD Releases COMPOSE Mobile 3D Collaboration App for iPad

ATLANTA, GA, USA, Mar 19, 2015 - IronCAD, a leading provider of design productivity solutions, today announced IRONCAD COMPOSE Mobile for iPad, a professional 3D collaboration application that offers secure viewing, collaboration, and configuration for design data published by IronCAD's desktop suite of products.

IRONCAD COMPOSE Mobile is more than just a free viewer, it is a valuable tool for communicating 3D design concepts directly on a mobile device anywhere at any time. The download is free to everyone for the initial release; from designers wishing to share their designs to a sales person presenting and configuring their company's products at the point of sale.

Everyone in a team can leverage existing design data from any CAD system by reading it into the IronCAD Design Collaboration Suite (DCS) Desktop products and publishing securely to the COMPOSE Mobile device as files or catalogs components. From there, interrogate the geometry, add commentary, configure new assemblies, and share the designs back to IronCAD DCS users for further collaboration in real-time which can dramatically reduce time-to-market.

Making use of IronCAD's patented Smart Assembly capabilities, design intelligence can be added to components to enable automatic positioning and alignment on the iPad during Drag & Drop from catalogs. Once placed, position of the components can be adjusted to offer additional flexibility and customization to offer new design alternatives.

Point of sale users for example can configure new custom products or make adjustments to products or assemblies at the customer site to precisely meet a specific design need. They can even share the design back to IronCAD DCS along with annotation comments. IronCAD DCS users can then automatically convert the design information into precise engineering design data allowing additional modifications based on the customers feedback. Throughout the product lifecycle, designers can continue to optimize their digital models while simultaneously sharing their work with customers or sales teams using Mobile Compose. This ability dramatically improves communication between a supplier and customer and ensures that the right product is delivered in the shortest possible time. Sales cycles can be dramatically reduced with an increase of success rates.

Mobile Compose can be used to provide estimates or quotations since users have access to information such as part weight or pricing that can all be stored with the components. And if users need link with corporate ERP or other software applications, IronCAD can customize Mobile Compose specifically to meet unique needs or requirements.

Cary O'Connor, Vice President of Marketing at IronCAD, stated, "Our customers will enjoy the flexibility of accessing their models and catalog content anywhere. Furthermore, with COMPOSE on their mobile device, anyone can communicate and configure directly with their customers using an application that is simple to use even for non-designers!"

For more information and to download IRONCAD COMPOSE Mobile, click here. 

About IronCAD

Based in Atlanta, GA, IronCAD is a leading provider of 3D Design Productivity Solutions that deliver the highest levels of customer satisfaction and productivity. Individual components of this solution can be used standalone, complementary within an existing design environment, or can be used together to collaborate effectively throughout the enterprise to extend productivity. Its flagship product IRONCAD has won many industry awards for its innovative technology and leads the industry in its ease of use and design productivity. IronCAD products are being used successfully by tens of thousands of customers worldwide. For more information on IronCAD, call 1-800-339-7304 or visit www.ironcad.com.

ZW3D Announces 2014 Design Contest Winners

GUANGZHOU, China, Dec 17, 2014 - ZW3D, one of the world's leading suppliers of advanced CAD/CAM solutions for the manufacturing industry, announced the final results of the ZW3D Design Challenge 2014, a modeling contest for worldwide designers in a bid to promote, publicize and make creative thinking and innovation visible through 3D CAD modeling.

The Winning Prizes

The contest, which kicked off on October15, required contestants to use ZW3D CAD/CAM software to design and KeyShot to render appliances. Hundreds of stunning submissions were received, making it a tough choice for the judges from ZW3D Community, Luxion Inc. and ZWSOFT.

"The vast variety of entries continues to grow each year with original designs of both conventional and smart appliances, ranging from furniture, small appliances, kitchenware, etc.," said Coin Lin, Vice Director of ZW3D Overseas Business. “We are impressed with the collective creativity, ingenuity and design excellence from the community of loyal ZW3D users."

Winning entries were chosen based on a variety of factors, including model skills, originality, manufacturability and application of ZW3D’s features. Finally, 9 winners stood out from the rest and won big prizes like cash and ZW3D licenses.

The first prize went to Remus Pacis, the designer of Food Mixer. "This food mixer is very delicate and beautiful. It is wise to use top-down design modeling skill to create the product. And the parts and assembly were created with lots of ZW3D’s advanced functions, such as Morph, Ready Sketch, etc.," commented the judges from ZWSOFT.

"I'm very satisfied about the result of ZW3D and its surfacing and direct edit that really helps me to complete my entry for this contest," said Remus.

To appreciate and download other entries for free, click here.

About ZW3D CAD/CAM

ZW3D, an integrated CAD/CAM solution designed for the complete product development process, features the fastest kernel for Solid-surface Hybrid Modeling, non-solid mold parting and smart CNC Machining tactics from 2 axis to 5 axis. It brings customers endless benefits such as reduced costs, optimized design workflow and improved efficiency. For more information, visit http://www.zwsoft.com.

Autodesk Offers Design Software Free to Schools Worldwide

LAS VEGAS, NV, USA, Dec 4, 2014 - Fulfilling its promise to expand access to its professional design software in education, Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADSK) has made its industry-leading design, engineering and entertainment software free* to students, instructors and academic institutions worldwide.

Through this action, more than 680 million students and educators from over 800,000 secondary and post-secondary schools in 188 countries can take advantage of free access to Autodesk’s professional software and services for use in classrooms, labs, and at home.

“The way we make things is changing rapidly, and we need a workforce ready to design for new manufacturing and construction techniques. By providing free professional design tools to students, faculty members and academic institutions around the world, we’re helping get industry ready for the next phase,” said Carl Bass, CEO, Autodesk.

Following its announcement of free software for academic institutions in the United States earlier this year as part of President Obama’s ConnectED initiative, Autodesk has gradually expanded free access to its leading design software to academic institutions across Asia Pacific and Europe. The leader in 3D design, engineering, and entertainment software is also helping schools move to the cloud by providing academic institutions with its full suite of next generation cloud-based design products, cloud services such as the A360 collaboration platform, as well as maintenance subscription for free.

From students as young as 13 years old leveraging Fusion 360 to conceptualize and 3D print prosthetic devices, to college teams developing environmentally sustainable homes using BIM 360 Glue, young talent are pushing the boundaries of design and innovation both inside and outside of the classroom using the same design software used by professionals every day.

“Our students are using Fusion 360 to design an Energy Scooter which we are bringing to market via Kickstarter, and they’re only in 8th grade! If we can help more classroom teachers incorporate learning through design in their curriculum, and technologies that engage students in problem-solving through engineering, students will see how math and science are springboards to careers as future innovators and entrepreneurs,” said Karen Kaun, Founder of Makeosity.

To facilitate the integration of design tools into curricula, Autodesk also offers free project-based learning content and resources including the Digital STEAM Workshop and Design Academy.

“Closing the digital gap in education starts by providing European schools with common access to the same advanced technology being used by industry professionals today. Autodesk’s pledge to provide our schools, students and teachers with free access to its professional 3D design software will enable educators to introduce design thinking into our classrooms; equip digital natives with the design tools to learn to solve real-world challenges in new creative ways; and prepare the next-generation workforce with the 21st century skills to meet industry demands and advance our economies,” said Neelie Kroes, former vice-president of the European Commission.

To learn more or to request free educational access to Autodesk software, visit http://www.autodesk.com/education.

About Autodesk

Autodesk helps people imagine, design and create a better world. Everyone—from design professionals, engineers and architects to digital artists, students and hobbyists—uses Autodesk software to unlock their creativity and solve important challenges. For more information, visit www.autodesk.com.

 

*Free Autodesk software and/or cloud-based services may only be used for educational purposes and are subject to acceptance of and compliance with the terms and conditions of the software license agreement or terms of service. Details and restrictions available at http://usa.autodesk.com/legal-notices-trademarks.

TraceParts Launches 8th Annual Design Contest

ST. ROMAIN, France, Nov 18, 2014 - TraceParts, one of the leading providers in the world of 3D digital content for design and engineering, has announced today that it is launching its 8th annual design competition.
 

The TraceParts engineer community, numbering more than 2 million CAD users, has been getting involved in this competition for eight years. This year, participants are invited to draw a place or monument in 3D that best represents their country, using CAD or image editing software. They can use as many CAD components as they wish, available for free on the TracePartsOnline.net portal. 

Entries & Prize:

• Entries should be submitted to info@traceparts.com before December 17, 2014 in a file no more than 1 MB in size.
• All the entries will be published on www.traceparts.com, and the best design will be revealed on December 24, 2014.
• Participation in this competition is anonymous, and the winner will be contacted by the TraceParts team to be awarded the prize for 2014, a 3D “RepRapPro” printer distributed by RS Components.

All the 3D files available on TracePartsOnline.net are compatible with the most popular native CAD software packages used, such as SOLIDWORKS, CATIA, Pro/E & Creo, Inventor, AutoCAD, Solid Edge, TopSolid, Geomagic Design, Kompas 3D, SpaceClaim, SketchUp, Autodesk Revit, ZW3D, Draftsight, HiCAD, TurboCAD and T-FLEX.

Most neutral CAD formats are also supported, in particular DWG, DXF, IGES, STEP, SAT, JT, VRML and many others including STL format, which is the standard format for CAD files used for 3D printing.

About TraceParts

TraceParts is a world-leading digital engineering 3D content company, offering progressive business software solutions for over 20 years through powerful web based products and services such as CAD part libraries, electronic catalogs and product configurators, helping part vendors to improve marketing efficiencies by increasing the value of their existing digital product data. The TracePartsOnline.net CAD portal is freely available to millions of CAD users worldwide, with hundreds of supplier catalogs and over 100 million CAD models and product datasheets suitable for the Design, Purchasing, Manufacturing and Maintenance processes. For more information about TraceParts, visit www.traceparts.com.

Robobat Poland to Offer Free Webinar on Autodesk Advance Steel

Nov 14, 2014 - Robobat Poland to offer free online interactive workshops, conducted by experts and its Training Service Department to discuss specific issues / problems with the functioning of Autodesk Advance Steel.

• Date: December 16th, 2014, 10:00 (CET time)
• Organizer: Robobat Poland
• Location: Online
• Webinar language: Polish

The Autodesk Advance Steel detailing software is built on the AutoCAD platform. The intelligent 3D modeling tools help you accelerate the accurate design and detailing. Speed up time to fabrication and construction with tools that automatically generate shop drawings and deliverables. The interoperability with Revit and Advance Design Building Information Modeling (BIM) software supports a more connected workflow.

For Registration for individual sessions and participation rules, click here.

IronCAD Design Collaboration Suite 2015 Released

ATLANTA, GA, USA, Nov 13, 2014 - IronCAD, a leading provider of design productivity solutions, announced the release of their highly anticipated 2015 IronCAD Design Collaboration Suite (DCS). Customers will benefit from an improved user experience, enhanced design capabilities and new collaboration tools.

Simplifying the user experience is a key objective for the IronCAD development team and the 2015 release delivered upon this by extending its Configuration Based Design capabilities such as its unique catalog interface. IronCAD DCS catalogs allow design elements to be stored as basic elements or intelligent elements and then dragged & dropped onto any new object. With the added intelligence, components can automatically configure position, orientation, size, and can give access to business information such as quoting, procurement and more. Extending upon the catalogs, IronCAD DCS 2015 adds the ability to create catalog groups, which makes it even simpler to organize data and find the best fitting element. Additional intelligence is accessible to automatically constrain elements for not only fit but for function when used in mechanisms.

Beyond the core configuration based design improvements, IronCAD DCS 2015 developed better memory management which improved performance with large data files by up to 20%.

To further enhance verification during the design process, IronCAD DCS 2015 has integrated Multi-Physics (Multi-Physics for IronCAD), a general-purpose solution for modeling and simulating physics-based problems. Also new is a 3D Annotation framework that is the basis for PMI (Product Manufacturing Information). Leveraging its existing industry standard annotation capabilities, users will now have the ability to create 3D annotations such as weld, datum, surface finish, notes, and standard dimensions stored in user-set viewing planes for easy visibility within the 3D scene.

In addition to the many IRONCAD standard improvements, this release focuses on tighter connections to 3rd party programs that help expand the Configuration Based Design capabilities both within an enterprise and extending outside to companies consumers and suppliers. Such improvements include support for KeyShot 5 giving users access to the latest improvements and rendering capabilities to create visuals that can be used for quoting, marketing and product documentation. Connections to Sketchfab and GrabCAD extend online accessibility to collaborative content.

IronCAD's commitment to sharing design content throughout the supply chain and the extended global team has fueled the creation of more powerful collaboration tools. Capabilities such as SmartMarkup and the new COMPOSE iOS app allows users to import, export, view and collaborate with extended teams to speed up the development process. The IronCAD DCS allows users to share, in a secure way, design data on applications with different levels of access and usability. The ability to automatically connect to the source product data allows IronCAD DCS designers to quickly see optimized design configurations and preview downstream change requests. Designers can then accept, reject or further optimize design changes directly to speed product designs into production.

Cary O'Connor, Vice President of Marketing at IronCAD, stated, "The extension of our Configuration Based Design with our new 2015 release definitely enhances our customer experience and efficiency. These core design tools facilitate quick design, sharing, reuse and accessibility among different user levels across business processes."

"Furthermore", Cary added, "Our customers will benefit from IronCAD DCS 2015 collaboration tools such as Smart eMarkup especially on mobile devices like the iPad. The improvements in the catalogs as well as the advances in communication allows our customers to deliver the highest quality designs faster than ever before possible."

Availability

IronCAD DCS 2015 is available for download at www.ironcad.com/download.

About IronCAD

Based in Atlanta, GA, USA IronCAD is a leading provider of 3D Design Productivity Solutions that deliver the highest levels of customer satisfaction and productivity. Individual components of this solution can be used standalone, complementary within an existing design environment, or can be used together to collaborate effectively throughout the enterprise to extend productivity. Its flagship product IRONCAD has won many industry awards for its innovative technology and leads the industry in its ease of use and design productivity. IronCAD products are being used successfully by thousands of customers worldwide. 

For more information on IronCAD, call 1-800-339-7304 or visit www.ironcad.com.

Autodesk Acquires Stockholm-based Bitsquid Game Engine Creator

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, Jun 14, 2014 - Autodesk, Inc. (Nasdaq: ADSK) has acquired Stockholm-based Bitsquid AB, the creator of the Bitsquid game engine. The acquisition brings to Autodesk expertise in 3D game development and proven technology that will enable Autodesk to supercharge its portfolio of tools for game makers through the development of a new 3D game engine. Multiple game developers have used the modern and flexible Bitsquid engine to create 3D games for next-generation consoles and PCs, and Autodesk will continue to work with many of these companies to develop the new 3D game engine. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

"Bitsquid has been a key success factor for Fatshark, as we've been able to produce high quality games with short development times," said Martin Wahlund, CEO, Fatshark. "We are excited to see how Bitsquid evolves now that it is part of Autodesk."

In addition to acquiring the Bitsquid game engine, the acquisition of the Bitsquid team and technology will enable Autodesk to create new tools that push the limits of real-time 3D visualization for architects and designers, many of whom face challenges placing design data into real world contexts. The new technology will also be incorporated into solutions for customers outside of the games industry, including architecture, manufacturing, construction, and film. Autodesk plans to create new types of design exploration tools that allow visualization and contextualization of designs using the same fluid control and immediate feedback that exist today in modern console and PC games.

"Autodesk’s acquisition of Bitsquid will revolutionize real-time exploration of complex data. Imagine being able to walk through and explore any type of design, from buildings to cars, with the same freedom you experience in the open world of a next-generation console game. Game engine technologies will be an increasingly critical part of the workflow, not only for creating games, but also for designing buildings or solving complex urban infrastructure challenges," said Chris Bradshaw, senior vice president, Autodesk Media & Entertainment. "The Bitsquid acquisition brings to Autodesk both the expertise and the technology that will enable us to deliver a groundbreaking new approach to 3D design animation tools, and we welcome the team and community to Autodesk."

Additional information on the new Autodesk 3D game engine, which will complement Autodesk's industry leading games portfolio of middleware tools and 3D animation software including Autodesk Maya LT, Autodesk Maya and Autodesk 3ds Max, will be available later this year.

About Autodesk

Autodesk helps people imagine, design and create a better world. Everyone - from design professionals, engineers and architects to digital artists, students and hobbyists - uses Autodesk software to unlock their creativity and solve important challenges. For more information, visit www.autodesk.com.

MagiCAD 2014.4 for Revit, AutoCAD Released

TURKU, Finland, Jun 7, 2014 - MagiCAD announces the release of a new version of MagiCAD for Revit and AutoCAD. The new release 2014.4 extends and optimizes MagiCAD's design functions, and improves day-to-day flexibility of design and editing through numerous clever new features. Introducing advanced new device types, as well as extended support for IFC import and export, MagiCAD represents the cutting edge of MEP Building Information Modelling (BIM) and design. 

MagiCAD 2014.4 supports AutoCAD 2015 and Revit 2015, as well as the earlier versions AutoCAD 2010-2014 and Revit 2014.

To view a complete list of new features and to learn more about the new release, click here. 

For further information visit http://www.magicad.com.

Nemetschek Launches Vectorworks Design Scholarship Program

COLUMBIA, MD, May 11, 2014 - Nemetschek Vectorworks, Inc. has launched the Vectorworks Design Scholarship program to recognize students around the world who are pursuing education as a means to build their skills and solve challenging design problems. Students across all design disciplines may submit their best work, created in any software program, and answer a few short questions to be considered for cash prizes up to US $10,000 and other awards.

"Students represent the next generation of creative potential, so we launched this program to help them achieve their professional goals," said the company's Chief Marketing Officer Stewart Rom. "The Vectorworks Design Scholarship gives us the opportunity to inspire young minds, remove some of the financial pressures associated with higher education and put into students’ hands the tools they need to develop their ideas from concept to completion."

The scholarship program supports promising students on two levels. First, Vectorworks Design Scholarships will be presented to multiple winners around the globe. Prize packages include $3,000, Vectorworks Designer with Renderworks software for a computer lab at the winner’s school and virtual or in-person training for faculty and students. Winners will be announced August 30, 2014.

Second, all Vectorworks Design Scholarship recipients will compete for The Richard Diehl Award, a global award named after the founder and current chairman of Nemetschek Vectorworks that recognizes the top overall submission to the program. The winner will be announced September 10, 2014, and receive an additional US $7,000.

Diehl's vision for Vectorworks software stemmed from the belief that he was an artist providing a canvas for other artists to create their best work. Today, Vectorworks includes several design product solutions that are equally evocative and demonstrate that it is possible to pursue aesthetic satisfaction and practice design stewardship simultaneously. The scholarship will help tomorrow’s visionaries pursue similar goals.

"In all the years I've known Rich, he's exhibited a tireless commitment to the design profession and championed designers at every level, so providing a scholarship in his name is a wonderful way to honor him,” said Architect Scott Campbell of Dakantus AS, Nemetschek Vectorworks' global distribution partner in Norway. “We are excited to recognize the scholarship winners and see their visionary designs."

Students may submit their designs at www.vectorworks.net/scholarship through 11:59 p.m. ET on July 30, 2014. An international panel of judges will evaluate the submissions. Entrants must be pursuing a design-oriented degree and enrolled or accepted for enrollment in undergraduate or graduate studies for six or more credits at an accredited college or university in 2014-2015. Learn more about the Vectorworks Design Scholarship program by contacting academicteam@vectorworks.net or following @Vectorworks and #FundMyVision.

About Nemetschek Vectorworks, Inc.

Nemetschek Vectorworks, Inc. is the developer of Vectorworks software, a line of industry-specific CAD and BIM solutions that allow designers to easily capture, develop and communicate their ideas with accuracy and efficiency. With more than 450,000 users around the world, Vectorworks software is a global leader in 3D design technologies for the AEC, landscape, and entertainment industries. Nemetschek Vectorworks was founded in 1985 and has been a part of The Nemetschek Group since its acquisition in 2000. For more information, visit www.vectorworks.net.

3D Systems Names 2014 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Winners

ROCK HILL, SC, Apr 2, 2014 - 3D Systems (NYSE:DDD) announced the three winners of the 3D Design Award for the 2014 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards (pdf). The 3D Design Award, which exemplifies the Scholastic Award's "Future New" category, inspires students to use 3D design and printing tools to create innovative art. The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards are the USA's longest-running and most prestigious award and recognition program for creative students in grades 7-12, and this year received more then 255,000 submissions for the program's 28 categories, which include everything from Future New, comic art, video game design and flash fiction to the more traditional mediums of poetry and sculpture.

The "Future New" category evaluates the originality, technical skill, and the emergence of personal vision or voice through the 3D printed designs. The winners are offered a choice between a $1,000 scholarship or their own Cube home 3D printer.

The winners of the 2014 Future New 3D Design Award are:

• TJ Gascho, 10th Grade, California - TJ Gascho submitted "Egg-scape" using the 3D animation program Blender. Egg-scape portrays an egg yolk as a creature trying to escape from the egg whites representing a "human, born into this word in a bad environment, and though it tries to escape, it never can..."
• Eric Voorhis, 12th Grade, Florida - Eric Voorhis created "Visual Representations of Audio Files" by various musical artists using 3D printing software. He converted mp3 music into a visual 2D plane, presenting a final image containing millions of pixels composed into static white noise. His three 3D static blocks represent the complexity of sound as an image.
• Elbert Han, 12th Grade, Michigan - Elbert Han designed "Metamorphosis," a multipurpose accessory that converts from a set of two cufflinks to a cuff bracelet via a system of hinging magnets. The goal of this piece is to create a versatile accessory that could transition from a formal to casual setting, giving the wearer the freedom to sport this accessory regardless of the situation in which they find themselves.

"This year's award winners are a testament to the art of the possible, with 3D design and printing tools. Together with the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers we are nurturing a new kind of digital literacy with real world implications," said Leanne Gluck, Director of Social Impact, 3DS. "Scholastic Art & Writing Award winners give teachers, students and parents reason to be optimistic that these skills are relatively quick to learn and even quicker to implement."

3DS has partnered with the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, the nonprofit presenter of the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, since 2012 with a joint mission to provide 21st century tools of expression and to challenge today's students and tomorrow's artists, designers, entrepreneurs and leaders to think and create in new, bold directions. 3DS provides free access to its consumer design tools for students to create their work in 3D.

"The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards were created with a mission to recognize creative teens and show their work to the world, proving they are sophisticated young artists in their own right," noted Virginia McEnerney, Executive Director of the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers. "The works that students share with us in the Future New category that are designed with free resources provided by 3D Systems are wonderful examples of the innovative thinking that our country needs in future leaders of all industries."

To know more about 3DS' commitment to education and providing today's students with tomorrow's technology, visit www.cubify.com/education.

About 3D Systems Corporation

3D Systems is a leading provider of 3D content-to-print solutions including 3D printers, print materials and cloud sourced on-demand custom parts for professionals and consumers alike with materials including plastics, metals, ceramics and edibles. The company also provides integrated software and hardware tools including scan to CAD and inspection. Its expertly integrated solutions replace and complement traditional methods and reduce the time and cost of designing new products by printing real parts directly from digital input. These solutions are used to rapidly design, create, communicate, prototype or produce real parts, empowering customers to manufacture the future.

For more information, visit www.3DSystems.com.

About The Alliance for Young Artists & Writers

The Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, identifies teenagers with exceptional artistic and literary talent and brings their remarkable work to a national audience through the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Founded in 1923, the Awards program is the longest-running, most prestigious initiative of its kind, having fostered the creativity and talent of millions of students through recognition, exhibitions, publications and scholarships. Over the past six years alone, students have submitted more than a million works of art and writing and over $30 million has been made available in scholarships and awards to top winning participants. The Alliance partners with more than 100 regional affiliates across the country to bring the program to local communities, and works with a network of more than 60 colleges and universities to increase scholarship and award opportunities.

For more information, visit www.artandwriting.org.