CADDHELP

Bought a new Dell XPS 9100

2011-11-16T12:39:00.001-05:00

Recently bought a Dell XPS9100. Be sure you research the components before you buy from Dell...or you will regret it. I've had several problems so far all related to the video card and misinformation on the Dell website. Then in trying to sort it out I get the runaround between sales, technical support, returns, etc. That of course is broken up by the eventual disconnect at about the 45-50 min mark during the support call. At this point I have given up...sigh.

Win a trip to AU 2011 and a 3D mouse, compliments of 3Dconnexion!

2011-10-18T16:42:00.003-04:00

Introduce yourself to new products, people, and techniques at the premier conference and exhibition for Autodesk product users, and take home a new SpacePilot PRO – the ultimate 3D mouse!

· One full-conference pass to Autodesk University 2011 in Las Vegas, NV Nov 29 through Dec 1, 2011

· Airfare and hotel accommodations for 3 nights

· A SpacePilot PRO - The Ultimate Professional 3D Mouse

Are suites, sweet?

2011-09-21T08:04:00.001-04:00

Just got the Autodesk Design Suite Premium 2012. Something new was the distribution, it came in a small box with a USB flash drive! No more stacks of CD/DVD cases…

This little thing came packed with software too! AutoCAD, Autodesk SketchBook Designer, Autodesk Showcase, Autodesk Mudbox, and 3ds Max Design! The MSRP is about $5000 but these titles by themselves are almost $10k! For me, having AutoCAD is a no-brainer, everyone can use that. I’ve played with SketchBook but unfortunately I am not much of a freehand artist. But I can model with the best of them and then render real-life with 3ds Max.

This form of bundling and delivery is certainly appealing. The biggest benefit is getting access to some apps that under normal circumstances I would not have been able to buy without a specific use case presented. But now, for example, Showcase, having access to that can cut a lot of time from the “just give me a rendering” efforts. You know, you need a nice render but don’t have the time to do an awesome render.

Where this goes into the future is unclear. I have my doubts about Autodesk providing these USB flash drives to deliver software. I would bet that pretty soon it will be internet download only. Better get yours while supplies last!

AU2011

2011-08-26T13:56:00.000-04:00

I’m starting to get organized for AU2011 this year in Las Vegas. This year should be a bit busier than most with my additional AUGI responsibilities. I’m really looking forward to meeting some great AUGI volunteers and members. I also really enjoy having a chance to talk Autodesk’s ears off about the software we know and love.

AU 2011 Class Catalog Is Live

2011-08-17T10:31:00.001-04:00

The preview version of the Autodesk University 2011 class catalog is now live. View it now and begin planning out your AU schedule.Class space at AU is limited so plan to sign up when AU registration goes live for AU members on August 30.

Highlights for AU 2011 include:

• New! Classes on:

o Advanced features and workflows

o Cloud, mobile technologies, and visualization

o Autodesk Certification preparation

• New! Innovation Forums

• New! AU Leadership Forum

• New! Media & Entertainment Developer Network Conference

View the Catalog Now http://au.autodesk.com/?nd=au2011_class_catalog

Remember, early registration for AU members starts one week before general registration. Plan to register starting August 30, 2011. Learn more http://au.autodesk.com/?nd=e2011.

Vote for my project!

2011-07-19T12:41:00.001-04:00

This is a project of mine under construction at the moment. The roof is actually done and the project was submitted for the annual Tekla design competition. One crazy design…

http://www.tekla.com/us/Documents/BIM-awards-2011/steelproject4.html

Point Cloud UsabilityStudy- Call for Participants

2011-07-16T21:35:00.000-04:00

ANNOUNCEMENT: Call for Participants!
Dear AutoCAD user!
The AutoCAD Team is planning series of user research validations (usability studies) between July 18 and July 22, 2011. All sessions will be remote (using the GoToMeeting and the phone).
We will compensate your time with $30 Amazon Gift Certificate.

Topic
Working with Point Cloud data in AutoCAD.

Who Should Participate?
We are looking for AutoCAD, AutoCAD Civil and/or any other application users with experience and need for working with Point Cloud data in their design process.

How is the Study Conducted?
Remotely; an individual 60 min remote session will be conducted via the internet (GoToMeeting) and phone.
When?
The study will be conducted between July 18 and July 22, 2011.

How To Sign Up?
Please submit qualification data and indicate your availability here:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Point-Cloud<https://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=i7VqarO21upB2udAZNadk4O1z4okJma6OTCdDTm1YFY_3d>

Compensation
You will be receiving $30 Amazon Gift Certificate as a Thank You for your participation or you can also donate this amount to one of the charities.
Note: This research requires a Non-Disclosure Agreement.

Thanks for your help!
AutoCAD User Experience Team
Autodesk, Inc.

AutoCAD Design & User Experience Team is looking for Studyparticipants!

2011-06-16T13:06:00.001-04:00

ANNOUNCEMENT

Dear Autodesk product User!

We are looking for participants in the usability study which will be conducted between June 22 and June 30, 2011.

Topic:

Documenting 3D Models in AutoCAD (creating views of 3D models).

Who Should Participate?

We are looking for AutoCAD Mechanical, Inventor and/or AutoCAD users with experience and need for creating views of 3D mechanical parts and models (3D models from various sources).

How the Study will be conducted?

Remotely; individual 60 min remote session will be conducted with the GoToMeeting and the phone (all info will be provided in the invitation).

How To Sign Up?

Please submit qualification data and indicate your availability here:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ModelDocumentation

Compensation

You will be receiving $30 Amazon Gift Certificate as a Thank You for your participation.

Please note: this research requires a Non- Disclosure Agreement.

Thanks for your help!

AutoCAD User Experience Team

Autodesk, Inc.

Contact <Elena.fadeeva@autodesk.com> if you have any questions.

Follow AutoCAD Research on Twitter:

http://twitter.com/AutoCADResearch

AUGIWorld April 2011 issue available!

2011-04-19T12:49:00.002-04:00

AUGI is pleased to announce that the April 2011 issue of AUGIWorld is now available for download via PDF and online via digital edition.

Autodesk has released new versions of most of its products!

Click Here to read the AUGIWorld April 2011 issue.

Also in this issue of AUGIWorld:

Beth Powell uncovers a streamlined and simplified AutoCAD MEP 2012
Brian Benton examines the productivity boost in AutoCAD 2012
Stephen Preston unplugs the latest AutoCAD 2012 API’s
Brian Benton goes mobile with AutoCAD WS 2012
Autodesk’s Harlan Brumm answers AUGI’s 15 most interesting questions
Christopher Fugitt gets sand between his toes with AutoCAD Civil 3D 2012
Lonnie Cumpton and team win big with Revit Architecture 2012 & Platform
William Troeak gives you a Heads Up with all the latest updates, services packs and top known issues.
Erik Lewis has the latest industry news in the Inside Track
R. Robert Bell unveils what’s in the Revit MEP 2012 box
Phil Russo reinforces the value found in Revit Structure 2012
Richard Parker gets interoperable with Navisworks 2012
John Evans finds all the new nuts and bolts in Autodesk Inventor 2012

Customize your 2012

2011-04-15T10:17:00.004-04:00

So I'm deep into installing Autodesk 2012 deployments for a network installation of these products and missed an important step. I don't know about others but I prefer to have clear instructions on what to do next.

In previous version of Autodesk products, if you wanted to customize the build, perhaps to change the defaults or pull files in special locations, you clicked the Customize button.

However, with 2012 and the fancy, yet cool, installer, this can easily be overlooked. The "button" to Customize is only displayed when you hover over the area with the \/ arrow.

I admit I missed it... I didn't play around looking for the Customize button. I do this about once a year and so it didn't dawn on me. I clicked Create and sat back and enjoyed my coffee.

Afterwards I noticed I never saw a Customize option and then contacted some folks at Autodesk for more insight.

When I repeated the process, this time looking for anything, I found the button to Customize. Autodesk calls it Configure, same thing to me.

Anyway, that's it for this post. Keep an eye out for it when you are creating deployments.

Point Cloud: Looking for your feedback

2011-04-11T08:41:00.001-04:00

From Autodesk…

Greetings CAD software User!

Are you using the Point Cloud data? - The AutoCAD User Experience &Product Design Team would like your feedback on the use of Point Cloud files (from various 3D laser scanners) in your projects.

Please participate in the research by submitting the Point Cloud Survey:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/PointCloud

We look forward to hearing from you,

AutoCAD User Experience & Product Design Team

Autodesk BIM 360

2011-04-05T09:11:00.002-04:00

There is a new product bundle (suite-ish) coming from Autodesk. Here is a run down of what it is it:

Vault Collaboration AEC

Buzzsaw

AutoCAD WS

Project Bluestreak

Design Review

Navisworks

Pretty dense Rebar

2011-04-05T08:40:00.002-04:00

Snapped a pic from Jay Bhatt's presentation of highly detailed Revit Structure model of a foundation mat. Ugh... scary...but cool.

It's begun

2011-04-05T08:29:00.003-04:00

Paul Sullivan with Autodesk gave a brief introduction of the events to occur over the next few days. Following that Jay Bhatt is pumped and giving a nice discussion on where Autodesk is going and what the AEC industry is breaking in. Snapped a quick pic of Jay... ;)

Autodesk AEC Media Event

2011-04-05T08:16:00.002-04:00

So today up in Waltham, MA, USA, Autodesk is holding the 2012 Product Release Media Event. In a nutshell this event is attended by the press from all over the world. I am also attending, representing my firm, Walter P. Moore and Assoc., as well as Autodesk User Group International, AUGIWorld magazine, and my little blog CADDHELP and related Twitter.

What I actually end up saying is to be seen but I'll try to do my best to let you know what Autodesk is saying this year and what might be relevant to most users.

Next up...Waltham, MA

2011-04-03T20:33:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow morning, heading to Autodesk AEC HQ in Waltham, near Boston, MA. This trip is twofold, to meet and greet some of the guys who make Revit what it is and to raise awareness about the new wares from Autodesk.

Look for more early this week.

Look what just arrived!

2011-03-29T16:27:00.001-04:00

AutoCAD 2012!! Cool...

Revit 2012 webcast comments

2011-03-22T11:16:00.004-04:00

I'm not a MEP guy but this is looking really good. I wish I had a MEP counterpart who would do this level of detail.

Revit 2012 webcast comments

2011-03-22T11:11:00.003-04:00

Assemblies are totally new. You can select elements and create views that focus only on those elements. Talk about a smart beam or column schedule! Back in the day we used to do make these drawings but they took a long time. Seeing this in Revit is astounding.

Revit 2012 webcast comments

2011-03-22T11:07:00.002-04:00

Nice! Rebar ties can now in RST2012 to not intersect themselves and actually lap as it does in real life elements. The power of this is huge, but now we have to worry about it as well. :p

Revit 2012 webcast comments

2011-03-22T11:05:00.001-04:00

Hey, some new features that create 24 different ways to place rebar in RST2012!

Revit 2012 webcast comments

2011-03-22T10:54:00.005-04:00

Revit Structural enhancements look pretty cool.

A big improvement has been made for the analytical properties of elements. You can enable and disable this as needed. You can also turn the display of the AM on and off easily.

Revit 2012 webcast comments

2011-03-22T10:43:00.002-04:00

New visualization methods really do improve the workability via selection transparency. That keeps things clearer as you work and select stuff. Gone is the Shaded with Edges and that is managed via the Graphic Display Options. A much better placement IMHO.

Don't be afraid of the Ghost....it's cool!

It is getting close to not need rendering at all in 3ds max... damn... max was fun.

Point clouds scare me, talk about filling up your model with data. But it comes with the territory if you need to do it. Changing the point cloud within Revit is pretty easy, scale and placement is just by property and placement.

Once you have the cloud in place you can actually reference the inherent planes made by the mass of points to place work such as walls. That is pretty damn cool.

Revit 2012 webcast comments

2011-03-22T10:39:00.002-04:00

Revit server doesn’t work for you? Now you can try Citrix!

Revit 2012 webcast comments

2011-03-22T10:38:00.002-04:00

This point cloud scan is of the Autodesk HQ in Waltham, MA! Cool stuff!

Revit Webcast comments

2011-03-22T10:35:00.002-04:00

David Mills and Anthony Hauck are presenting a live webcast on Revit 2012 products! WOOHOO!

Autodesk Suites are sweeter!

2011-03-22T10:20:00.001-04:00

Clearly there is a huge push by Autodesk to suite products together. I don’t know if it is a great thing for the average user since many products are networked and you get what your IT group gives you. But it should do wonders for expanding the single user by providing access to other apps they never had access to in the past.

Revit 2012 is coming soon!

2011-03-22T08:09:00.001-04:00

Autodesk exposed many of the new features of Revit 2012 during a worldwide webcast on Mar 21. It is all very exciting! Somewhat akin to Christmas, or a box of chocolates, you never know what you are going to get! Now the key question is what do these features mean for you, the everyday user? Well like anything else, you need to try it to find out. Now there are other blogs with more detailed info than mine (here is David Light’s http://autodesk-revit.blogspot.com/2011/03/autodesk-revit-architecture-2012.html) but everyone deserves an opinion so here is my take on some of these.

Revit Server gets add’l platform support. Yawn… yea, it’s great to see this improve but I don’t use Revit for that feature so it doesn’t really touch me.

Linking and tagging. Now we are talking! This one feature has potential to dramatically change how we all use Revit. My only concern is that we start to further break into more models now (because we can) and therefore tracking down *where* something is becomes more of a challenge. But yet, having the option to tag thru a linked model was something that has been needed from the beginning.

Work sharing. This is one of those features that at first seems like “oh, ok, that’s nice” and you don’t really care. But once you put this into practice you will find that they added visual insight will become so second nature if they took the feature away you would get angry.

DWG exports. At some point, it always happens. You have to provide DWG files and cringe at the thought of how messed up your purty drawing will become. This enhancement should remove most of your worry for now you can tweak and tweak to heart’s content. I guess the problem then is when to stop.

General improvements. There are a handful of other improvements that basically shine up a feature or two. Colors and graphics along with rendering styles all help Revit 2012 a little more refined, like a nice 6y old wine, rather than the brute 2y discounted wine. I really like the new assembly views features. I guess my problem now is plotting in color – I don’t have a large format color plotter.

Core modeling. Wow…neat and fun is all I have to say! I can’t wait to get a job where it is usable. Too bad most users don’t have a need for that level of Gehry type design. Of course all should benefit from the ability to cut into family files of all types. Punch holes in my beams? No problem! Donuts coming right up!

Revit parts. Every want to make a view of just one thing? Bingo, Revit parts to the rescue. I’m very excited about this because it finally frees up the modeler from having to worry about all the other junk in the mode polluting their view of a specific object. Who hasn’t produced a series of drawings only to find something stray in a series of views. Arg! This would help that a lot!

Massing. There are a number of improvements to massing although I don’t use it much it will help those that do. Especially curves and refinement of surfaces.

Materials. They are never perfect so they got tweaked again.

Point Cloud. This one is exciting and scary. I love the idea of being able to have this directly in my model, but what happens when I’m expected to model to the cloud precision with all the camber, sag, creep, in the existing structure. Painful to say the least. Hey, but at least I can see how much the building has sagged.

IFC. Industry Foundation Classes got improved. Until I have a need I don’t really know if this solves many problems.

That’s it for now. I think I’ll dive into more later.

Autodesk Webcast Invitation!

2011-03-21T09:48:00.001-04:00

You’re invited! There is a kick-off webcast will be hosted by Amar Hanspal on March 21^st at 5p Eastern Daylight Time. This webcast is open to the general public.

· What: Autodesk invites you to a live webcast featuring Senior Vice President Amar Hanspal. Learn about Autodesk’s new products for the design, engineering, and entertainment industries.

· When: Monday, March 21 @ 5p EDT

· Preregister: http://autode.sk/glzUsA

AUGIWorld magazine - March 2011 issue

2011-03-16T13:21:00.001-04:00

AUGI is pleased to announce that the March 2011 issue of AUGIWorld is now available for download via PDF and online via digital edition.

Christian Barrett provides a Civil 3D Guide to Sustainable Designing.

Click Here to read the AUGIWorld March issue

Also in this issue of AUGIWorld

• David Harrington, interim AUGIWorld Editor-in-Chief introduces the new AUGIWorld Content Management team

• Erik Lewis has the latest industry news in the Inside Track

• Antonio Fontenele introduces the new AutoCAD Material Editor and Browser

• Beth Powell covers her top 5 commands that she can’t live without in AutoCAD

• Christopher Fugitt admits we don’t know everything we could about AutoCAD Civil 3D

• Jeff Bartels speaks volumes in AutoCAD Civil 3D for Earthwork in living color

• Melinda Heavrin explains how Display Themes work in AutoCAD Architecture

• Matt Worland gets old school with AutoCAD AutoLISP

• Phil Russo finds the Formula for success in Revit Structure

• Todd Shackelford exposes Revit MEP Lighting Fixture Schedules

• William Troeak gathers in Heads Up all the latest updates, services packs and top known issues.

Do you use 3D in your AutoCAD work? Autodesk wants to learn from you!

2011-03-02T14:28:00.000-05:00

If you are familiar with 3D modeling, lighting, rendering, or visual styles, either in AutoCAD or in other software, we're interested in finding out more about how you work.

Autodesk is conducting a survey to learn about your 3D work process. The survey should take less than 10 minutes to complete, and your feedback will help them improve future versions of AutoCAD. Here is the link:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/72HDGVG

They are also conducting a series of paid research sessions over the next few weeks. At the end of the survey, you will have a chance to sign up for sessions if you are interested.

Who they’re looking for: People who are familiar with lighting, rendering, or visual styles

What it involves: If you are selected to participate, they will get in touch with you to set up a study time. During the 1-hour session:

· You will work 1-1 with a facilitator using meeting software and the phone

· They will observe part of your work process and ask questions

· You will be given a $30 Amazon gift card as a thank-you for your time

Dates: They are conducting studies during the week of March 7th and the week of March 14th.

They look forward to receiving your feedback!

AUGIWorld Jan/Feb 2011 Issue Available!

2011-01-18T08:05:00.000-05:00

Ok, so here it is, my excuse… been busy…okay? I had AU2010 to deal with, took a vacation, took on more responsibility at AUGI, and generally gave up much of my personal life…

On with the show now.

There is a new issue of AUGIWorld out! Find out more at http://augi.typepad.com/augi_news/2011/01/januaryfebruary-2011-augiworld-magazine-now-available-for-download.html

This is killer!

2010-11-15T19:53:00.001-05:00

Photo Scene Editor 1.2 for Project Photofly
Project Photofly is a cloud service that converts photographs to 3d scenes. Create models to load into AutoCAD^®, Inventor^®, Revit^®, etc. software. Version 1.2 adds an improved GUI, better accuracy, plane-restricted modeling, and easier manual stitching. http://labs.autodesk.com/utilities/photo_scene_editor/

Revit Hangs

2010-11-15T08:27:00.000-05:00

I have not posted in a little while, been very busy with work and preparing for Autodesk University. I need to make a conceience decision to post something as often as I can, so perhaps I’ll start just rambling on about what is happening in my world(s).

The machine I have now I have had for about 9 months with very little problems. I’ve had Revit Structure 2011 installed since first being released and have not had many problems. One came up this morning though.

The software wouldn’t load past the splash screen. I recalled others in my office discussing this and after a quick reminder, did a quick look on the web and found the solution described at http://revitclinic.typepad.com/my_weblog/2010/07/revit-2011-hangs-at-splash-screen-or-crashes-with-unrecoverable-error.html

Pretty simple actually, I deleted the files noted in #2 and #3 and it opens just fine. Moving on with work now…

Help Shape AU 2010 Technology Main Stage – Win $50

2010-10-18T15:43:00.001-04:00

We want to know what is on your mind, and we will make it worth your time!

The Technology Main Stage at Autodesk University in Las Vegas (Wednesday, December 1, 6:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.) is your opportunity to hear CTOs from Autodesk, Dell, HP, and Intel engage in candid discussions on emerging technologies, near future breakthroughs, and upcoming solutions that may help you do your job better, and help your business maintain growth in this economic climate.

Help us identify the trends and technologies most important to you and your work.
Please take a moment to share your thoughts on which topics Autodesk and our partners should focus on during Technology Main Stage this year. Please respond by Thursday, October 21, 2010.

As a special thank you for your time, three respondents will be randomly selected to receive US$50 gift cards from Amazon.com!

Respond Now

RTC North America

2010-10-11T08:15:00.002-04:00

The call for speakers (otherwise known as abstracts) has gone out. If you are up to the challenge and know your Revit stuff, submit a class and see what happens...

Click here to view the announcement.

Revit Extensions for Autodesk Revit Structure 2011

2010-10-01T14:39:00.001-04:00

Q3 FEATURE SUMMARY

This document presents an overview of the most interesting new features in the software. A full description of all the features is available in the Help.
Important information:

In order to run this software, you must first install Autodesk® Revit® Structure 2011.

New Extensions

Floor Vibration Analysis

The Floor Vibrations Analyzer for Revit Extensions is designed to analyze the vibration response criteria of steel-framed bays for human comfort and sensitive equipment, as described in the AISC Steel Design Guide Series "Floor Vibrations Due to Human Activity." Analysis of floors is performed in one or more of three categories described by the AISC guide:
 Vibrations due to walking (static footfall excitation)
 Vibrations due to rhythmic activities (dynamic excitation)
 Disruption of sensitive equipment (velocity limits due to walking activity)

Gravity Column Analysis

This extension is designed for simple isolated gravity column design. It can analyze existing columns to check section capacity as well as optimize column sections based on axial loads and moments at each floor level. Integration with Revit allows:
 Importing Revit defined point loads along the column axis with a possible eccentricity
 Reading column end fixity
 Writing the selected section back to Revit if accepted.

Column capacity analysis is performed with the AISC13 LRFD Interaction Equation method. Capacity is calculated for each unbraced segment along the strong and weak axis and then compared to the loads and moments at the top of that segment. Loads are automatically aggregated in the direction of gravity along the column.

SDNF Import/Export

The SDNF Import/Export extensions allow:
 Export of a steel Revit model to SDNF file format
 Import of a SDNF file format to generate a steel model inside a Revit Structure model
These extensions are supporting SDNF v 2.0 and v 3.0 versions and packets:
 Packet 00 - Title Packet
 Packet 10 - Linear Member Packet
 Packet 50 - Grid Packet
 Packet 60 - Arc Member (only v3.0)

Integration with SS3

This extension bi-directionally links data between Revit Structure and SS3. Engineers can then use structural data from SS3 to create coordinated drawings and collaborate with Autodesk® Revit® Structure software users. This extension is available only in the Japanese version of Revit Extensions.

Member section Schedule

This extension is generates a member section schedule for reinforced beams and columns from a Revit project. This extension is available only in the Japanese version of Revit Extensions.

CSV Element Generator

This extension will give the ability to generate concrete beams and columns on a Revit Structure project as well as create parametric reinforcement inside these new elements. Generation is based on the CSV file format. This extension is available only in the Japanese version of Revit Extensions.

Extensions Update

Integration with Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis
Appropriate model location in space when transferred from to Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis

This enhancement helps ensure transferred models will be accurately located in relation to Robot’s Global Coordinate System.

Better management of Sections Profiles names when transferred to Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis

This enhancement distinguishes Revit families of the same name when represented as Section Labels in Robot.

Revit 2011 Subscription Advantage Pack - Part 2

2010-09-27T12:31:00.004-04:00

So the previous post has some pretty big enhancements, but that isn't all of it...nice huh? Those guys up in Waltham have been busy!

So far we have new conceptual energy analysis tools. These are now doable from within the single Revit Architecture or Revit MEP programs. Get out of the darkness and into the sun study! Okay, well I'm not a comic so that is best I could come up with.

Then we have now something called Revit Server, where a central file is placed on a single server on your WAN, defined as a Central Server. Then users access it, files get copied to local servers and then to the local station. Performance gets a big boost.

Next in the Revit 2011 SAP are improved Design Analysis tools in Revit Structure. Newly added is floor vibration analysis, gravity column analysis, and SDNF import & export. The last one has the potential to really finally get engineers to start using a RST model for the model generation in non-Autodesk design tools. It is an older format, but it provides a pretty wide base level of compatability.

So when is the Revit 2011 SAP getting released? Soon...probably this week. ;)

Revit 2011 Subscription Advantage Pack

2010-09-27T08:58:00.002-04:00

Today Autodesk announced a new Subscription Advantage Pack for Revit 2011 products. There are a good number of enhancements across the Revit collection. As a long time AutoCAD user, I'm personally very pleased to see enhancements between major release versions. It keeps me new and excited as these new features are hot new tools and toys. It will get me thru the next 6 months of dry time...

So what is new? Well for starters there is a new conceptual energy analysis module that can be used as a precursor to Ecotec. For those that do daylight and sun studies, this will really let you do a lot from within the Revit file. Using Ecotec requires porting out to another file for use in that product. It's cool stuff... pardon the pun. Location Weather and Site is another new thing. Basically Autodesk is providing localized temp, wind, etc, statistical data for just about any location in the world. This is then used for analysis. Another enhancements is dealing with masses and surfaces. If you are in the architectural arena, these features will be a great interest.

The next big thing, one that will be of benefit to any Revit user is what is called Revit Server. In a nutshell it allows are a central file to be used remotely at a level of performance that is truly usable. Whoa... this is really, really, big. I don't know about you but worksharing over a WAN is almost a death sentence. I know I feel I lose "life units" when saving to central across a WAN. Now, how does it work? You got me, it just does. But I do know that it will make some hardware solutions somewhat null and void. I have heard of many going out and buying hardware that mimics this sort of functionality. So from now on you don't have to decide on buying hardware to make remote work better, or getting a new application. You can now go ahead and just get that application.

So what is it? You have a central file in San Francisco on a Central Server. Then you have local server in your location. This has your local central file. Then by making a copy as you do now you work with the project file via the local file. Now qwhen you do a reload latest, that info comes from the local server. Then the local servers and central server talk amongst themselves, and keep each other up to date with elements and permissions. Ok, so you get more efficient use of your bandwidth. Only the new stuff is moving back and forth. And lastly you getting the infrastructure for future growth, out from behind the firewall. Can you say collaboration?

So who is going to be your Revit Server Adminstrator? I see some power struggles coming.

Do you have access to all there is?

2010-09-27T08:37:00.003-04:00

So you have some Autodesk software, you use it and love it. Now, do you want more? Do you have everything that you need? Is there anything missing?

Of course there is.

One great method is to surf the internet for diamonds. There are many users out there who create families, lisp routines, blocks, programs, API, etc. They create these things and then share them with the world via http://www.augi.com/, Autodesk exchange, blogs, ftp, etc.

But in the end, you have to take the first step. You have to go and look for it. Very little in this world will just drop itself on your lap(top). Now fortunately there are users out there who will do some of this work for you, myself included. There are some cool things about to drop...today...keep an eye out.

Autodesk University 2010: Check your classes

2010-09-24T12:39:00.002-04:00

I'm going out to AU (see you there) and have done the whole register bit and picked my classes. This week I got what looked like an automated email saying one of my selected classes was cancelled. At this time I don't recall which class it was but if you get one of these emails, you would be wise to not sit on it. Get back to the site and pick another class to fill in that time slot. In most cases there are only a few classes in each time slot on a similar track. If you get one cancelled and don't select the other, well, you might lose out since everyone else who got the same notice will pick that class you want. Classes do fill up after all...

Project Newport

2010-09-24T12:36:00.001-04:00

Autodesk came out with this a little while ago but it is still making the rounds. Per their web site

Experience real-time 3D story-building technology designed specifically for architectural visualization and presentation. With game-engine technology and intuitive navigation techniques, Project Newport helps architects show their designs in context, rapidly explore design options, and create vivid and immersive 3D presentations in which customers and building owners can actively participate. Project Newport brings architectural designs to life by expressing design intent, understandably and in context, at every stage of a project.

Click here to read more...

Load additional catalog types "easy peasy"

2010-09-15T08:16:00.002-04:00

I’ve been meaning to share this for a while. I came across a quick way to load additional types from a catalog (or reload a family quickly) by using the Families section of the Project Browser.

For example, if I want to load a W30x108 beam type from the W-Wide Flange.rfa family file, normally I would start the Beam tool. Then since I don’t have the type click the Load Family button. That opens the Load Family file dialog. Click into Structural, then Framing, Steel, scroll down and locate and select W-Wide Flange.rfa. Click Open and there we have the catalog file. That was 7 clicks and took a little focus to get the right folders. Without close attention on occasion you might go into Columns incorrectly and not notice until after loading.

Now for the other method. Once you know you need a beam type you don’t have loaded. Expand the Families list (if needed). Expand Structural Framing (or the category you need), locate and select the family name (W-Wide Flange), right-click and choose Reload. Revit will locate the family file and make it selected. All you have to do is click Open. If all items I mentioned were closed, that was 6 clicks to get the catalog open, perhaps not a huge savings, but often you will have some of these expanded already. Additionally, there was no hunting thru a directory for a file. I think that is where the efficiency really is. No mistakes can be made.

That’s it. Reload via the Families category in the Project Browser. Give it a try.

AUGIWorld September/October 2010 Issue

2010-09-14T13:04:00.000-04:00

The next exciting issue of AUGIWorld is out! Click here to read it...

Autodesk University Registration Open

2010-09-11T14:35:00.001-04:00

You can now register to attend Autodesk University in Las Vegas in early December 2010. Click here to go to the conference website.

Revit Technology Conference 2011

2010-08-31T09:58:00.000-04:00

The dates and locations of the 2011 conferences have just been announced!

Revit Technology Conference, Australia: 26-28 May, Jupiter's Gold Coast, Queensland
Revit Technology Conference, USA: 23-25 June, Hyatt Huntingdon Beach, Orange County, California

Read all about it, with the complete wrap of the 2010 conference in the just released Newsletter #7 August 2010.

AUGI Wish Lists Voting

2010-08-18T07:06:00.002-04:00

AUGI has just opened a Wish List ballot for both Revit MEP and Revit Structure. This is the first time there has been a vote on these products, it's all very exciting!

Do you use these programs? Then vote!

Spring 2010 Edition of AUGI AEC Edge Now Available

2010-08-11T12:50:00.001-04:00

AUGI AEC Edge, AUGI’s newest publication dedicated to the AEC industry, has a brand new edition ready for download. This feature-packed issue delivers a long list of articles spanning nearly every discipline of the AEC industry.

Here’s a list of what you can expect from the Spring 2010 issue:

CROSS-DISCIPLINE
Design Your Own Adventure: Combining Energy and Cost Analysis With Revit
Rooms and Spaces; Revit’s Un-Built Elements
Linking Revit Files
Collaboration Using a Single Model
Sustainable Infrastructure: The Benefits of Autodesk BIM at a Project and City Scale

CIVIL ENGINEERING
Visualization and Automation Guide
ARCHITECTURE
AutoCAD 2011: 25 and Still Going Strong
What’s New in Revit Architecture 2011

STRUCTURE
Revit Fundamentals - Part 3 (I wrote this!)

DEPARTMENTS
Contributed White Paper – “BIM for Integrated Design: A Process for Design Analysis”
Product Review - "Product Review - CodeBook - version 9.0”
Autodesk Insiders
AUGI Local Chapter Focus
Inside Track
Head's Up

AUGIWorld July/August 2010 Issue

2010-07-15T15:46:00.002-04:00

The latest issue of AUGIWorld magazine July/August 2010 issue is out! Check it out here.

This issue is chock full of great articles plus a focus on the Top Ten wish list for AutoCAD and Revit Architecture, June 2010 cycle. Additionally, each author contributed their own personal wish ideas, a neat extra punch for this issue!

As Jean-Luc Picard would say, "Autodesk, make it so".

Revit and Visualization

2010-07-14T16:32:00.000-04:00

It doesn’t get much better than this. Included are videos on how to do it as well as sample files to learn by.

http://www.nzdan.com/white-papers/revit-technology-conference-2010

Yep, I'm still here

2010-07-12T20:55:00.002-04:00

Just very, very busy...

A couple new things popping up. Should see a new issue of AUGIworld shortly. AUGIAEC Edge is due out soon as well. I'm working to get more people working on the magazines, both as writers and editors (interested? email me). There are some new things happening on the AUGI wish list (more later). I didn't submit to teach a class at AU this year, I have plenty to do as it is. But it looks like there will be a chance to see me teach sometime next year...

Take the 2010 AUGI Salary Survey

2010-06-24T12:51:00.001-04:00

Dear AUGI Member,

How does your salary stack up against others with your title, in your industry, and in your geographic region? AUGI promises to help you find that out. But first you have to complete the 2010 AUGI Salary Survey!

Key results will be published in AUGIWorld magazine this fall, and we'll present our usual in-depth analyses for additional industries on www.AUGI.com.

The AUGI Salary Survey is always a work in progress. The comments and feedback we've collected from AUGI members are reviewed and used to enhance this year's survey to include more job titles, additional questions, and other improvements. You'll get results that you can show to the boss, and maybe even take to the bank. Click here to take the Salary Survey.

As always, your participation in AUGI's Salary Survey is anonymous. We do not track, capture, or in any way link individual AUGI members with the survey data they provide.

Remember that your participation is vital. The more survey respondents there are, the more accurate our picture of salaries earned and benefits enjoyed by all AUGI members worldwide. Please don’t delay! The deadline for participating in the survey is July 10, 2010.

Thanks,
Melanie Perry
AUGI Salary Survey Manager

AUGI Wish List May 2010 Results

2010-06-01T13:36:00.003-04:00

AUGI AutoCAD Wish List May 2010 Voting Results

AUGI Revit Architecture Wish List May 2010 Voting Results

Call for Participants for AutoCAD Migration study

2010-05-25T16:06:00.000-04:00

ANNOUNCEMENT

Dear AutoCAD User!

AutoCAD Product Design & Usability Team is looking for participants for the study.
Topic: focus on Migration process, Migration tool and results of migration.

Our Goal
To gain the most complete understanding about problems and requests AutoCAD users may have while migrating their settings and customization from a previous release of AutoCAD.

Who Should Participate?
We are looking for individual contributors or CAD managers with small number of seats (less than 5- either standalone or multi-seat standalone) with unsatisfying experience using Migration tool to migrate settings from a previous version of AutoCAD.

How the Study will be Conducted?
We will schedule ~1 h interview session with you (remotely) and discuss your experience with migration, results you expected, outcome you’ve got.

When?
We are planning research between May 27 and June 2, 2010.

How To Sign Up?
Please submit qualification data and indicate your availability here:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/MigrationSignUp

Please contact elena.fadeeva@autodesk.com if you have any questions.

Thanks for your help!
AutoCAD Product Design&Usability Group
Autodesk, Inc

Vote Now for Your Favorite AU 2010 Class Proposals!

2010-05-18T07:46:00.002-04:00

Here is your chance to influence which classes will be offered at AU this year. Help us select from the large number of topics submitted by the international AU community. It only takes a few minutes to vote for those classes that you want to see offered.

You can vote on a maximum of 20 classes. Use caution when voting. Once a vote is submitted, you cannot change it.

To vote for your favorite classes:
1. Go to Autodesk University Class Voting
2. Sign in to the AU website using your AU username and password. This is the same account you use to access AU online classes and register for the AU conference or AU Virtual.
3. Search for topics that might interest you. You can filter by track, audience expertise, class type, software product, language, and speaker.
4. Click on a class to get more information about the class or to vote for the class.
5. In the Vote Now drop-down list, select one of the voting choices.
6. Click Submit Vote.

Voting ends Friday, May 21.

The AU Team
Email: autodeskuniversity@autodeskevents.com
Phone: 888-371-1722 (toll-free in the United States) or +1 415-446-7717
Fax: 415-507-1480
Hours: 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (Pacific Time)

Autodesk Survey: AutoCAD Array

2010-05-11T16:24:00.002-04:00

Sign Up for the Study!
We are looking for participants for the remote study on AutoCAD Array.

Who Are We Looking For?

General AutoCAD users of any discipline (latest release or older versions of AutoCAD), who are familiar with the Array command and use grips to edit their drawings.
Optional/additional requirements:
• Users that are familiar with parametric drawing (geometric and dimensional constraints in AutoCAD)
• Users familiar with 3D
• Familiar with the DIVIDE and MEASURE commands.

When?
We are planning to conduct this study the week of May 17th (we will conduct 8 sessions).

Compensation
We will be sending you a $30 Amazon Gift Certificate as a token of thanks for the 60 min remote session.

How to Participate?
All sessions are remote, via the GoToMeeting/phone.

If you are interested in participating, please check all times that you are available (Pacific Time, USA):

Autodesk: Revit API Wishlist Survey, Spring 2010

2010-05-11T07:20:00.001-04:00

Dear Developer,

We would like your help prioritizing API enhancements for future releases of Autodesk Revit. Based on your input today, we will publish back to you the "Revit API Wish List" that our engineering team will be considering when prioritizing their Revit API development efforts. Help us help you by completing this survey.

Click HERE to begin.

Attention Writers!

2010-05-05T11:12:00.002-04:00

Interested in sharing your mad CAD skills with the world? Do so in a magazine! Just contact me if you are interested in writing in AUGI publications! It is a great way to get some recognition and help out your fellow users too!

Autodesk AutoCAD Survey: Internet Usage

2010-04-26T13:02:00.001-04:00

ANNOUNCEMENT
Dear AutoCAD User!

Please provide us with your opinions on the use of the internet when accomplishing CAD work. We need your expertise on what content you find valuable and useful to make sure that future releases support your work effectively.

Please dedicate 30- 35 min of your time by submitting your responses on this research.

Our Goal
To gain the most complete understanding about CAD-related internet usage so that we may be able to make effective design decisions.

Who Should Participate?
This survey is open to individual contributors (Designers, Drafters), CAD Managers and students using any AutoCAD variation for any period of time.

How To Participate?
Please submit your opinion via the AutoCAD and the Internet Survey:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/AutoCAD_Internet

Please contact us if you have any questions.

Thanks for your help!
AutoCAD Product Design&Usability Group
Autodesk, Inc
(On behalf of the group- Elena.fadeeva@autodesk.com)

Follow AutoCAD Research on Twitter:
http://twitter.com/AutoCADResearch

Time to Vote on Wishes!

2010-04-23T09:51:00.001-04:00

The AutoCAD and Revit Architecture Wish List ballot closes on May 31 at 12:00 am CST USA.

AUGI Members, it is time once again to let Autodesk know what you would like to see in future releases of AutoCAD and Revit Architecture. The next Wish List ballot is open. Autodesk uses the results of AUGI Wish List ballots to help plan out improvements in the software. Take advantage of this opportunity. The only thing you need is a membership in AUGI, and a little bit of your time.

You've submitted your wishes, now come vote on the ones you'd most like to see become a part of the product you use on a daily basis. On behalf of all of the wish list team members - reviewers and administrators - thank you for your time and your vote!

Vote now for AutoCAD and Revit Architecture!

You must be an AUGI member and you must log in to vote.

AutoCAD
Revit Architecture

Yum...software

2010-04-07T15:44:00.001-04:00

Even after all these years I still excited about getting new software. Even if I have already beta test it, nothing beats a cardboard box

ANNOUNCEMENT Dear AutoCAD User!

2010-04-06T19:06:00.001-04:00

Please provide us with your opinion - the destiny of Toolbars is in your hands!

Who Should Participate?
Any AutoCAD user

How To Participate?
Please submit your opinion via the Toolbars and Menus Survey:
<http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Toolbars>http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Toolbars

Thanks for your help!-
AutoCAD Product Design&Usability Group
(Contact: elena.<mailto:fadeeva@autodesk.com>fadeeva@autodesk.com<mailto:fadeeva@autodesk.com>)

Follow AutoCAD Research on Twitter!:
http://twitter.com/AutoCADResearch

Autodesk AEC Technology Day

2010-04-06T08:13:00.002-04:00

Last week, I think Thursday, I got a call from a guy at Autodesk. After the initial platitudes he asked a question, "What are you doing next week?". After a few more minutes of explaination I was invited to the first Autodesk AEC Technology Day. The event is being held in the Walthan, MA, Autodesk AEC headquarters.
One of my first questions is why? What is this about? What is my role? I don't really have all the answers yet but it is proving to be interesting.
Last night was a media reception at the office. It was here that I learned that a main focus of the event is to make sure we (bloggers,writers,teachers,etc) have a basic grasp of what 2011 entails. What's good about it and how it can impact what we are doing.
What does Autodesk expect from this? As far as I can tell nothing beyond doing what *we* do. Talk about it, if we want, or don't talk about it. I've asked the question and interestingly gotten pretty much nothing in the form of guidance.
Okay, so what do I say? Well last night was interesting. I was happy to spend a few minutes speaking with some old Autodesk friends such as Nicolas and Marie. It was great to finally meet some fellow bloggers and instructors. The event ended too early in my opinion, so a few of us went back to the hotel and kept up the dialog, discussing all aspects of Autodesk, the communitity, and how it is impacting our lives directly.
So far so good. Today is scheduled and full of meetings. I can't wait to get through it and I will surely peel off at some point and talk about what I have seen and heard.

Revit Structure 2011 Feature: Bullets and Numbering

2010-04-05T16:06:00.002-04:00

What? Really? Yes kids, you have bullets and numbering in Revit 2011! You can fire up the text notes tool. Pick a spot to put it and then start typeing. When you are ready to start numbering, use the tool from the contextual ribbon and you immediately get a numeral uno! "1." and some space. Start typing and you have your first line of text. Hit Enter and get a "2.", continue typing.

It is just how it supposed to be, the world is alright now...

Now I have to admit it isn't all glory, we don't yet have copy/paste from MS Word and have the copied bullets or numbers exist as native Revit bullets & numbers. But I generally believe it is good enough now and that ability actually isn't needed anyway. Learn to type your notes in Revit and this is a non-issue.

Revit Structure 2011 Feature: Remove Beam System

2010-04-01T19:43:00.006-04:00

The new release right around the corner and I have had a lot of people inquire about what is in it. There are a lot of new features and enhancements, but I always really enjoy the 'duh' features. You know, the things that are so cool and handy they should have been there *before*. I've been around this industry long enough to knnow the lingo. Most people call these features "low hanging fruit" and they are very sweet indeed.

My personal favorite in RST2011 is the new ability to explode a beam system.

It may seem simple but you have to have the perspective from where we were before this little gem. In prior versions of Revit Structure, you could have a field day placing beam systems all over the place. It is a super quick way to layout lots, and I mean lots, of framing. But once it was there it kind of locked you out of making refinements as you want. Sure, you can change sizes and even unpin and move members about. But that beam system was still there - haunting you.

At some point you eventually get fed up with it and delete the beam system and relegate yourself to modeling the beams back.

Well now you don't have to. Once you are done with the beam system control, you can blow it up and leave all the beams behind. Nice.

Navisworks 2011 for Subscription Managers

2010-04-01T08:16:00.003-04:00

Today Navisworks 2011, both Manage and Simulate (and Freedom I suspect) is available for download from your Subscription Center. I have not looked into the new features of the NW products but it is a very cool application. It's ability to bring in just about any 3D data and then let you move about in it is totally amazing. It has never let me down in capacity to bring in very large models.

Revit Structure 2011 - User Interface Changes

2010-03-25T11:57:00.004-04:00

One of the biggest changes to Revit 2011 has been in the UI and how you get around. The changes, honestly, are very subtle but very profound because of how you use work with the interface is so impacted.

The two big changes for me are the Modify panel on the Ribbon and the Properties Palette.

For the ribbon, now whenever you work with objects, the tools that are consistent between all objects are to the left side. There is a division (see fig) and then to the right are the tools that are applicable to that object. It solves a complaint in 2010 in that tools moved around and made it hard to find to what you wanted. Now there is a level of consistency that should help. As anything, as you use it, you get used to it.

The other big thing for me is the new Properties Palette. Basically an on-call dialog with either view or object property parameters. I kinda like having it at the ready, but I will admit I have to widen it up to see more data. Then I thin it back. I suppose as I move into using it for production work it will end up sitting on a second monitor and be wider all the time. At the top of this puppy is the Type Selector. Seems like a good place for it to go, with a big image of the active family. If that placement isn't as helpful as one would like you can add it to the Quick Access Toolbar. From there it is much like it as in the past on the Options Bar.

Autodesk Webcast

2010-03-25T07:10:00.002-04:00

Hey, guess what! It is that time again! Spring! And with spring comes...software!
It had to happen, Autodesk had improvments to make and users had needs. Then they get married!

But seriously, interested in what's coming around the bend? Click here... but you have to be fast...today only.

AutoCAD Linetype Survey

2010-03-12T22:44:00.001-05:00

ANNOUNCEMENT

Dear AutoCAD User-

AutoCAD Product Design and Usability Group would appreciate your feedback and input on using Linetypes in AutoCAD.

Who Should Participate?

The audience is that of general AutoCAD users, in any discipline, currently using linetypes in their drawings.

How To Participate?

Please use the AutoCAD Linetypes Survey Link to access the survey:

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/6Z2NMVW

Thanks for your participation!

AUGIWorld March/April 2010 Issue

2010-03-11T15:51:00.001-05:00

AUGI is pleased to announce that the latest issue of AUGIWorld is now available for download.

Click Here to download the AUGIWorld March/April 2010 issue

In this issue of AUGIWorld:

* Beyond Autodesk: Are You Plugged In? - Innovation comes not only from within Autodesk, but from the vast user community outside it as well. In this article, Autodesk's Kean Walmsley introduces a number of plugins developed to enhance various Autodesk products - all honored as "Plugin of the Month."
* How Do You Use AutoCAD Civil 3D? - A question asked of Autodesk University attendees yields some surprising answers, summarized here by author John Evans.
* Put a Shine on those Floors! - Author Christopher Fox discusses a number of techniques for creating and managing floors in Autodesk Revit Architecture.
* Groups Inside Revit Structure - The ability to better manage change is one of the major reasons to use groups inside of Revit. Phil Russo walks you through the process.
* Peopleware, Part 2 - If you decide to hire outside the firm, here are some practical tips from Antonio Fontenele on the best way to approach

Hello?

2010-02-28T13:55:00.002-05:00

Yea, it's been quiet around this little blog since the new year. I'm not going to complain about being busy in this economy, but it is being busy which seems to keep me hoping around so much so that I never find time or topic to post here.

But I have one now...

Recently I had another go at using AutoCAD Architecture for generating structural drawings. It didn't go so well. ACA (and the AutoCAD parent) are great at modeling, I've used them many times over the years. But from a standpoint of documentation, ACA just doesn't do it for a structural drawing. Too many limitations, too much configuration is required to get something that looks "ok". Now this may spawn some negative feedback from some solid ACA users who do structural work, but that's okay, I don't mind. I have to wonder though, if Autodesk itself thought ACA was a good SE solution - don't you think they would be marketing that way? They don't and it is that fact that should be the clue as to how well it works. If Autodesk thought they could provide a solution (without having to create new s/w) and make a buck/quid doing it, they would! Duh... I kinda feel dumb for even trying now.

AUGIWorld: Jan/Feb 2010

2010-01-16T10:57:00.001-05:00

The latest issue is out...

http://www.augi.com/publications/default.asp?page=63

Organize Frequently Used Families

2010-01-07T11:39:00.005-05:00

Okay, so you use Revit of some flavor. No doubt you use families. No doubt you load them over and over and over. If you use a family with a catalog, you load that family repeatedly as you load additional types. Here's a tip to perhaps make your life a little easier.

1) In your My Documents folder, create a folder called whatever, "RST2010 Family Favs" perhaps.

2) From within Revit, open any File access dialog (like Open) and browse to My Documents. Click and drag the "RST2010 Family Favs" folder onto the Places area of the File access dialog.

3) When you close this dialog, Revit will ask if you want to save the changes to the Places list - do so.

Now go about your work. Next time you go to access a family you use a lot,

a) Right-click on it and choose Copy.

b) Then move to the Places list and click on that "fav" folder. In the "fav" folder, right-click and choose Paste Shortcut.

Now you can just click the shortcut link and Revit will follow it and load the family file. If applicable it will open up the catalog as well.

Now the beauty of this is that the file organization for Revit families is quite complicated, files are all over the place - even those related to one another. You could take this a step further and make folders for specific project types (perhaps a Precast building folder) and put shortcut links to frequently used families that all related to that building type. By being a shortcut, you maintain your standard family organization and as Autodesk updates the family files, the links you created stay valid (as long as the name and location is the same).

Comments?

AUGIWorld 2010 March/April Issue

2010-01-05T07:46:00.000-05:00

Hello there!

Efforts are underway for the second issue of AUGIWorld for 2010! Here’s the request for you to pitch in and help out! As you may have noticed AW has gotten a bit more chunky as now we are a digital only publication. This is great news as now more authors can contribute and the articles can be longer!

The next deadline is January 18, 2010. This is a Monday so you have that weekend prior to write. ;)

If you can contribute to this issue please contact me as soon as possible so we can define the subject you are covering.

Take care and have a wonderful new year!
David

I Got Elected!

2009-12-22T20:22:00.000-05:00

The AUGI 2010 Board of Directors!

Preparing for launch

2009-12-21T10:16:00.000-05:00

Hi - Here at Autodesk, the marketing group is busy preparing for the launch of Revit 2011. There's always a web component to our launch plan but this year I want to expand our activity in the blogosphere, on YouTube, and several other areas within social media. To help inform that process, I've built a survey and would appreciate your input. I'm specifically looking for input from Revit Architecture users and buyers in the US. If you've got 15 minutes to spare, please take the survey so that I know where to spend this portion of our marketing resources. Thanks in advance. Here's the link and 'official' blurb.

http://bit.ly/7rI9aA

/*
Autodesk is conducting research to understand how Revit® Architecture users and buyers engage in online social media, how social behavior is evolving in your business, and where business buyers choose to participate in online communities.

This 15 minute survey will not ask for any personally identifying information. We will use your responses in aggregate only and will not attribute any responses back to you.

AUGIWorld 2009 Issue 6

2009-12-10T09:40:00.000-05:00

The latest issue of AUGIWorld is now available.

AU 2009 Classes Online Soon

2009-12-08T16:31:00.001-05:00

Starting Friday, December 11, AU Online will have all of the class handouts, presentation materials, data sets, and screencasts of more than 500 AU 2009 conference and AU Virtual sessions, so you can access them anytime, anywhere, all year long.

Vote for AUGI 2010 Board of Directors

2009-12-05T17:51:00.003-05:00

The polling has begun, click here to go vote for the AUGI 2010 Board of Directors.

AUGI Board Candidates Discussion Forum Open

2009-11-28T20:41:00.002-05:00

Those that know me, know that Autodesk User Group International has been a big part of my professional career since 1994. I served on the Board of Directors (BoD) for 7 years and even spent one year as President. Since then I have remained on the sideline dutifully working on AUGIWorld and providing input when asked.

Well I'm trying to get into the game once again. AUGI has had a tough time since Sep 2008. It parted ways with SolidVapor (management company) and has struggled in this economy just as others have done. I believe I have the experience and vision to aid AUGI get back it's footing so I am running for the Board of Directors, for the 2010-2011 term.

This time around is again typical AUGI, full of power plays, politics, and drama galore. It is quite amazing how once you put on the volunteer hat that your passion for a given issue is magnified tenfold. The cool part is that I've been there and I think I can handle it once again.

This time around there are 8 open seats on the BoD with 2 returning, the new Board will be like a new football team, brimming with energy and drive. The potential is truly amazing! Unlike recent BoD elections, the ballot will not be a slate of names just up for a yes/no vote but rather a ranked ballot with 9 names for 8 slots. Someone will not make it, which is quite a shame because there are some great candidates (myself included of course)!

Joining AUGI is free, and becoming informed about the upcoming election is easy. Read about the candidates here! Then after Autodesk University, AUGI will hold the election and which you can return to the website and cast your votes! Vote for me, or not, but if you read this blog I very much hope you vote. Only with a high voter turnout will the newly elected BoD have the confidence in themselves that they have the complete backing of the membership, to do whatever it takes, and to steer AUGI in even better directions.

Catch me at Autodesk University and say "HI". Live long and prosper!

Just saw Star Trek 2009 - it rocks!

AU Discussion Forum - "Embedding Learning into the Product"

2009-11-20T10:39:00.000-05:00

The AutoCAD User Assistance Team would like to invite you to a special event during Autodesk University this year!

On Tuesday, December 1st and Wednesday, December 2nd, we will be hosting a User Assistance Discussion Forum. We hope you will be able to join us for one of the sessions if you are planning to attend AU this year!

Discussion Forum: “Embedding Learning into the Product"

Description:
We will present our proposed changes to user assistance (help system, tutorials, animations etc.) for future releases of AutoCAD and other Autodesk products. The goal is to move more assistance into the product so it is available when you need it.

Help shape the future of Autodesk products. We would appreciate your opinions.

Who Should Participate?
Autodesk users who use the help system and training.

When Are the Focus Group Meetings?
Date Session Time Duration

Forum: “Embedding Learning into the Product"
Tuesday, December 1 5:00 –6:30 pm 90 minutes
Wednesday, December 2 3:00 –4:30 pm 90 minutes

All events will take place in the conference area in the Mandalay Bay hotel. Participants will receive a gift for their time.

How Do I Sign Up?
To sign up, fill out this brief survey:

Please indicate which session you are available to attend. The confirmation will include specific location, and an NDA will be required for all who attend.

In the meantime, please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions, email to:
diane.serda@auotodesk.com.

Space is limited so sign up today! Please fill out the survey by Monday, November 23.

We look forward to seeing you in Las Vegas!

Best Regards,
The User Assistance Team

Twitter? I might be a twit...

2009-11-19T07:44:00.003-05:00

I've waited it out and this tweeter thing isn't going away yet. So I might as well have a go at that form of communication as well. I suspect since the "bar" is a bit lower it might be easier than blogging about intelligent topics.

So my twit handle? @caddhelp of course... ;)

AUGIWorld Issue 5

2009-11-04T13:48:00.001-05:00

The latest edition of AUGIWorld has been released.

AUGI membership is required to view it, but that's free!

Click HERE

AUGI | AEC EDGE

2009-11-04T06:11:00.003-05:00

The latest edition of AUGI AEC EDGE has been released. Pretty good stuff in it, including an article by me. ;)

Click here to access it.

Revit 2010 Subscription Advantage Pack

2009-10-20T14:27:00.002-04:00

Another new and cool feature is that now the Draw panel on the ribbon, the tools contained it to draw lines, arc, etc, will all have keyboard shortcut access.

New Keyboard Shortcut editor

2009-10-20T14:16:00.004-04:00

There are a number of new features coming in this Revit 2010 enhancement but a really cool one is a Keyboard Shortcut editor. As you can see in this image it provides a clean dialog for adjusting your preferences.

Coming soon...

2009-10-20T14:01:00.001-04:00

Revit Platform 2010 Subscription Advantage Pack!

Stay tuned for more info...

2009 BIM Smart Market Report

2009-10-16T13:11:00.000-04:00

Pretty interesting read for BIM types...link to big PDF below

http://www.bim.construction.com/research/pdfs/2009_BIM_SmartMarket_Report.pdf

Windows 7 cometh

2009-10-15T12:46:00.003-04:00

As many others, for my personal machine I am going to upgrade to Windows 7. This machine is about 3 years old (Dell 9150) and runs XP pretty good - but I have to stay on top of virus blocking. Now when Vista came out I upgraded to that, but within a matter of months I reverted back to XP. My biggest gripe was the driver availability and the machine was kinda sluggish.

Well with Win7 I hope to do better and actually enjoy the new features and interface without complaint. I ordered Windows 7 Home Premium via Sams Club for $128 delivered to the door when it ships.

Something annoying you? Just delete it!

2009-10-08T09:31:00.000-04:00

A technique I use a lot is the DELETE and DO and then PASTE what I deleted back. This works for me both in AutoCAD and Revit.

For example, I need to draw or select something and a solid hatch is blocking my view. Well the standard method would be to freeze the annoying layer, do what you need, and then unfreeze. But depending on the condition it might be quicker to just erase it. In AutoCAD I can delete stuff, do whatever, and then OOPS and what I deleted last will be restored. Pretty cool!

Now for Revit, that takes using the CTRL+X to erase and put it into the clipboard. Then do what I need, and PASTE SAME PLACE to put it back.

The caveat to this technique is dimensions associated to the deleted objects will be tossed in the garbage, so you need to be on top of your CADD game to use this.

WPM is #6!

2009-09-30T07:42:00.002-04:00

Even in this economy some companies are still managing to get work done, do it right, and keep their staff generally happy. I was pleased to see my company of 22 years once again get recognized.

http://www.gostructural.com/page-best_firms_list-31.html

It is interesting that so many of the best firms have less than 50 people.

Congrats to all!

Awww, that's pretty

2009-09-28T07:52:00.003-04:00

A project I did in little ol' Tampa town is nearly completion. The Tampa Museum of Art isn't huge but it was an interesting project in Revit and looks very nice along the river.

http://www2.tbo.com/photoalbum/2009/sep/25/tampa-museum-2009/

Bye, Bye Migration part 2

2009-09-28T07:43:00.002-04:00

Blog reader Gregorw asked regarding my previous "Bye, Bye Migration" post that he could not find the location to shut off the migration. It is found during the deployment build within the Custom install area as shown in this image.

Mastering Revit Structure 2010 shipping!

2009-09-15T09:58:00.002-04:00

A CADDHELP reader named Scott asked when the new book will be out. As it happens I just heard yesterday from the production editor that he had his copy of the book and it was being released 9/14. Soooo, it's out there and on the way...

Here is the link on Amazon if you need. Again, I get $0 for each copy sold (unless the publication is a real hot item) so this is just me saving time on the search.

http://www.amazon.com/Mastering-Revit-Structure-2010-Thomas/dp/0470521414/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1253023035&sr=8-1

Looking to help out?

2009-09-09T07:16:00.003-04:00

I recently started a new Linkedin.com group called CADDHELP. The primary goal of the group is to help connect publishers with authors of CADD related materials. At this time the main focus is AUGI magazines AECEDGE and AUGIWorld but it will branch out into books and perhaps even video training.

If you are a member of Linkedin and willing to help on occasion, consider joining the CADDHELP group. As opportunities pop up you will be notified accordingly.

http://www.linkedin.com/groups?about=&gid=2068780&trk=anet_ug_grppro

RST2009 Dialog of the Day

2009-08-28T11:11:00.003-04:00

I love dialogs like this. Someone had to code it up, right? He/she knew there was a problem, and it was with the software, but really didn't know what else to say about it. Sigh...

AutoCAD 2010 SP1

2009-08-21T07:17:00.000-04:00

As shown on Between The Lines blog.

>This update addresses over 160 defects and issues< WOW

http://autodesk.blogs.com/between_the_lines/2009/08/autocad-2010-and-autocad-lt-2010-update-1-sp1-available-for-download.html

Revit Wish

2009-08-13T08:13:00.001-04:00

A tool to identify reference planes that are not being referenced by anything...so they can be deleted without messing up the model!

Using Architectural Walls

2009-08-07T08:10:00.003-04:00

An frequent problem is that you get an architectural model with walls you need to use in your model. Except that their wall is full of layers you don't need and can't show in your documents. to top it off you want to use copy monitor to bring them in, but then will be breaking the connection.

So the fundamental issue is keeping the core element within the wall in the same place as you change the wall types. The key to this is the location line.

Within an architectural model I have only ever seen two location settings, exterior face and core centerline. The problem is both of these settings will have to be changed.

So what I do is open up the arch model (yes, for editing) and change all wall location lines to wall centerline. Then close the model.

Then open my model. Use transfer project standards and bring in all architectural wall types.

After this I fire up import link and bring in the arch model. Then use copy monitor, but before bringing in objects adjust the options to do one to one arch model wall type to struct model wall type. We need to get the wall in first, in the right place, then we can fix it.

Once ready then I copy monitor the walls as I need. RST should create wall instances matching the arch wall exactly.

Once that is done exit the copy monitor tool and then I can select all walls and change the location line to core exterior face. I use that to handle any CMU walls in the best method.

Then I can use the families list and edit wall types to remove all non-core layers, and simply delete wall types (and walls) I don't need. The wall where I remove layers from the type should not move around since they are located by the core face.

Autodesk API surveys (more)

2009-07-24T08:31:00.003-04:00

Autodesk is deep in development of the next releases of our products. We need your help setting API development priorities. Choose the product(s) you prefer, and place your ADN vote for API enhancements.

AutoCAD
Autodesk Inventor
Revit
AutoCAD Civil 3D

Since starting these API wish lists seven years ago, ADN has consistently lobbied Autodesk’s various engineering teams for the enhancements you request. And your voice is being heard. Across our products, API enhancements requested by ADN members are delivered, release after release.

Your vote is important, but to be counted, we have to hear from you! The deadline for entries is Friday July 31, 2009. Each survey is short and should take around five minutes to complete.

When the surveys have ended, and the results have been compiled, we will publish the final API Wish list that our engineering teams will use to prioritize API development.

Thank you in advance for all your help. Autodesk values your input.