Project Vasari Software Development Kit Now Available

Source/Link: Project Vasari Software Development Kit Now Available

BIM -It is Alive in the Lab

Do you like to program? I sure do.

Project Vasari is an easy-to-use design tool for creating building concepts with a friendly User Interface (UI). Project Vasari integrates analysis for energy and carbon using cloud computing.

// Download Project Vasari via Autodesk Labs

In addition to Project Vasari itself, you can now download a Software Development Kit (SDK). This kit is intended for power users who wish to use the Application Program Interface (API) to have other applications work with Project Vasari.

The API allows a programmer to:

• Create add-ins to automate repetitive tasks in the Project Vasari UI
• Enforce project design standards by checking for errors automatically
• Extract project data for analysis and to generate reports
• Import external data to create new elements or parameter values
• Integrate other applications, including analysis applications, into the Project Vasari
• Create Project Vasari project documentation automatically

// Download Project Vasari SDK via Autodesk Labs

Cloud programming is alive in the lab.

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IDEA Studio: Design Optioneering

Source/Link: IDEA Studio: Design Optioneering

BIM -It is Alive in the Lab

The Autodesk IDEA Studio is a residency program for students, faculty, and industry professionals who apply design-driven solutions to problems in business, society, and the environment. Autodesk provides residents with a place to work at our Gallery at One Market in San Francisco, free use of software, and access to our design professionals worldwide who serve a variety of industries such as Architecture/Engineering/Construction (AEC), Manufacturing (MFG), Media/Entertainment (M&E), and Engineering/Natural Resources/Infrastructure (ENI). In turn, IDEA Studio residents address real-life challenges by finding new and imaginative ways to use design technology with compelling and inspiring results. The results push the boundaries of our software in ways we might not have previously considered. It's a WIN-WIN. It's like the old Las Vegas casino saying "Winner. Winner. Chicken dinner."

Recently researchers from University of Southern California sought to revolutionize early stage building design by "designing in" energy and economics through automation and evolutionary optimization.

Team:

• Dr. David Gerber, Assistant Professor, University of Southern California // more
• Penny Pan, PhD student in Computer Science, University of Southern California
• Eve Lin, PhD student in Architecture, University of Southern California

Software:

• Autodesk Revit Architecture // more
• Autodesk Green Building Studio // more
• Project Vasari // more

Using Project Vasari and Revit Architecture while in the IDEA Studio, Penny and Eve created initial project geometries and developed a custom extension for parameterization. This parameterization enabled them to manipulate their designs and rapidly generate many unique configurations.

Using the Project Vasari, Revit Architecture, and Autodesk Green Building Studio application programming interfaces (APIs), they then developed a plug-in to automatically generate, analyze, visualize, and rank various design configurations according to user-defined parameters, like energy use intensity and financial goals.

Embedding their system with a genetic algorithm, the team created a method for essentially breeding the best designs based on the customized parameters. Using the system to evaluate a complex form with two twisting towers resulted in an expansive solution space with varying geometries.

Some designs were stronger than others in the vast solution space. The top designs reflected the best mix of strong financial performance and design scores with minimized energy use. To reduce subjectivity in assigning design scores, they devised a quantitative approach where values were assigned to achievement of design intent, consideration of site constraints, and variability of level-to-level height and space usage.

This result of their efforts in the IDEA Studio offers the potential for multidisciplinary design teams to systematically explore a large number of design options and quickly find the best alternative. This evolutionary optimization loop could conceptually be applied at many scales. At the urban scale, one can imagine a city fully populated with highly optimized buildings, where the energy footprint is minimized and the urban inhabitants' benefit is maximized.

Thanks to Senior Marketing Manager, Kimberly Whinna, for some of the content in this blog posting.

The process of elimination is alive in the studio.

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We are looking for structural engineering classes for Autodesk University 2012

Source/Link: We are looking for structural engineering classes for Autodesk University 2012

BIM -BIM & BEAM

The Call for Proposals site for AU 2012 is currently opened and accepting class proposals.  If you would like to teach a class now is the time to submit your proposal. 

The Structural Engineering Design track focuses on topics that are important to structural engineers and designers as well as BIM and CAD managers who want to learn more about Autodesk software for Building Information Modeling (BIM). We welcome proposals that focus on:

• How to solve structural workflows  using Autodesk products as well as complementing third-party software solutions
• Best practices for coordination with BIM between architectural firms, structural engineering firms, MEP engineering firms, and contractors.
• Analysis and simulation
• Design to construction workflows, detailing and fabrication

Please send in your submissions as soon as possible! The deadline for submissions is MAY 22, 2012.

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Autodesk Revit Services & Support - Edit default list of profiles in Revit Extensions Frame Generator

http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/ps/dl/item?siteID=123112&id=19400411&linkID=9243099&CMP=OTC-RSSSUP01

Issue

You want to know how to edit a default list of profiles for the Frame Generator in the Revit Extensions for Revit Architecture and Structure.

Workaround

There is not currently an option within the Frame Generator to modify the information in the profile database (e.g. create custom profile sizes).

The following steps show how to manually modify the XML databases used by the Frame Generator so that you can create custom profiles

Note: Modifying these XML files could lead to unexpected results when working with the Frame Generator extension. Autodesk can only support the use of the Frame Generator with the default database files.

• Create copy of standard default profile database
• Edit profile database created by user
• Add user profile database to regional settings
• Add user profile database to project

Create copy of standard default profile database

1. Navigate to your Windows 7 Directory calledC:\ProgramData\Autodesk\Structural\Common Data\Program Name\Data\Prof.
2. Select the XML file that most closely matches the type of profile you want to edit.
3. Ensure you have a backup copy of the original default profile database.
4. In this example we will select the XML File called Auspro, make a copy and rename Custom_Auspro.
   
   
   
5. Ensure the custom XML File has the suffix pro otherwise it will not display in the Section Database list of profiles available to use.

Edit profile database created by user

1. Next you will need an XML Editor. Click here to download Microsoft's free XML Notepad 2007 Editor.
2. Launch the XML Editor and select the file calledCustom_Auspro where the profile database information is stored.
3. The Revit profile family used in the Frame Generator is generated and based on section data from the XML section database. Below is a highlighted example of the data for 100 PFC (Parallel Flange Channel).
   
   
   
   
4. Edit and add the profile information to the XML database appropriate to your requirements and save. Remember Autodesk does not guarantee any editing performed by the user of the standard default profile databases in the Frame Generator. Users can add their own shapes and sizes, but this will be done at the user's own risk.

Add user profile database to regional settings

1. Launch Revit Architecture or Structure and start a new project.
2. Select Frame Generator from the Modelling Tool of the of the Extension tab of the ribbon.
   
   
   
3. Select Section Database from the Frame Generator Dialog.
   
   
   
4. Select Regional Settings from the Section Database dialog.
   
   
   
5. Select the specific region and then select Profiles from the Regional Settings dialog.
   
   
   
6. Select Add database to the list button.
   
   
   
7. Tick the Show user-defined databases and select the Add button.
   
   
   
8. Navigate to the directory calledC:\ProgramData\Autodesk\Structural\Common Data\Program Name\Data\Prof and select the custom profile databaseCustom_Auspro.
   
   
   
9. Select Custom_Auspro from the Database List and select OK to apply.
   
   
   
   

Add user profile database to project

1. Select Save current regional settings as default button.
   
   
   
2. Select Yes to Do you really want save default regional settings?
   
   
   
3. Select Ok to apply and add custom database to Section Database List.
   
   

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New technology released for CAD users. Portability and an impressively simple interface.

Here's some great new technology for 2D line drafters and 100% CAD junkies. Finally, a portable device where you can draft to your hearts content.  Best thing is, there's no command line, pesky mouse or keyboard to slow you down.  It's just you, mano y mano, against the machine.

The best part is, it doesn't require annual upgrade or subscription fees.  I'm sure Autodesk will try to find a way to stop this new company from releasing their technology.  This looks like a huge competitor to AutoCAD.

Remember, as always, no architects were harmed in the making of this video. Well, not physically harmed.  Mentally drained, depressed, distraught or overwhelmed, but definitely not harmed.  Well, maybe a few got carpal tunnel from it, but they can still walk.  Well, they're stuck at their desks, so maybe they can walk, but we'll never know.  Oh, never mind!


http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ari-krupnik/etcher-etch-a-sketch-for-ipad

Video Link: http://kck.st/IG2d8A

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Autodesk University Proposal Submission Deadline is almost here

Have you submitted a proposal to teach at AU?  Why not?  Anyone can do it.  If you've been using Revit and have ideas of how to make it more efficient or have discovered better ways to collaborate or use it in ways no one has thought of, then why not submit?

Are you afraid of public speaking?  Do you get nervous in front of a crowd?  So what?  Everyone does.  The same people get picked every year and it's time for you to share your ideas.  After 5 minutes, you won't be nervous anymore when giving your presentation. The most important part of BIM is the sharing of information.  Submit your proposal.  The worst that can happen is that you decline after getting approved.

You've got nothing to lose.  Come on.  At least think about it.  http://au.autodesk.com/?nd=slv2012_call_for_proposals

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• Are you getting your CM-BIM credential? Click here for classes and information
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Source/Link: BIM Coordinator - now on Labs

AA Autodesk Architecture, Engineering & Construction

BIM Coordinator - now on Labs

Struggling to setup your shared coordinate system in Revit to match your site in Civil 3D?

This is the tool for you.

Also watch the video as it shows how the tool works and how to share your Revit model back to Civil 3D and also Navisworks.

(Also because its my demo )

Currently for 2012 releases of Civil 3D and Revit.

http://labs.autodesk.com/utilities/bim_coordinator/

 

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BIM Coordinator for AutoCAD Civil 3D and Revit Structure Now Available

Wow.  Great news.  Now, only if our consultants were actually using Civil 3D, them this would really be worthwhile.  At this rate, it will be twenty years before everyone is forced to dump AutoBAD.  

Source/Link: BIM Coordinator for AutoCAD Civil 3D and Revit Structure Now Available

BIM -It is Alive in the Lab

Autodesk Consulting helps customers solve their business problems, enhance their productivity, and optimize their operations by transforming the way they do business. Working with a global network of partners, Autodesk Consulting provides best practices and expertise to help customers fully adopt and integrate Autodesk technology for design innovation and business operational excellence.

Brought to you by Autodesk Consulting, the BIM Coordinator for AutoCAD Civil 3D and Revit Structure is a free technology preview to assist in the smooth and error-free exchange of model data. This includes AutoCAD Civil 3D 2012, Revit Structure 2012, and Navisworks 2012.

// Download BIM Coordinator for AutoCAD Civil 3D and Revit Structure via Autodesk Labs

The Autodesk Consulting team is looking for your feedback on this technology preview. Please send your stories of success or failure to labs.civil3d.coordinator@autodesk.com or post them in the discussion forum. They are eager to see how this technology shapes up.

Coordination is alive in the lab.

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Update to Project Vasari 2.5 Now Available

Source/link: Update to Project Vasari 2.5 Now Available

BIM -It is Alive in the Lab

Project Vasari is our free technology preview that is focused on conceptual building design using both geometric and parametric modeling. It supports performance-based design via integrated energy modeling and analysis features.

// Download Project Vasari via Autodesk Labs

Today I posted an update. According to Principal User Experience Designer, Lillian Smith, this update contains:

• Perspective view navigation fixes including more accurate zoom in and zoom region.
• Fixed problems running some external API applications.
• Google Earth satellite images are no longer saved in the project. Instead, they update automatically from the internet when the file is opened.

As always, please try the technology preview and provide your feedback to labs.vasari@autodesk.com. It's why we host technology previews. If we didn't want your feedback, we'd go straight to market.

Updates are alive in the lab.

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Autodesk 360 FAQs

Now that you know the bad news that Autodesk is forcing everyone to be on subscription, the good news is that they have some cool stuff in the Cloud. 

Oh, by the way, since you'll be logging in to these web services, it will be harder to pirate Autodesk software.  The more they move their products into the cloud, more companies will have to buy more licenses. 

http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/ps/dl/item?siteID=123112&id=17889433&linkID=9243099&CMP=OTC-RSSSUP01

Scenario

You have general questions about Autodesk 360 and would like to learn more.

• What is Autodesk 360?
• What are the benefits and features of Autodesk 360?
• What is the advantage for Autodesk Subscription customers?
• What are Cloud Units?
• Can I access Autodesk cloud services through Subscription Center?
• Where can I see how much storage and/or how many cloud units I have used?
• Where can I find additional information about Autodesk 360?

What is Autodesk 360?

Autodesk® 360 is a cloud computing platform that provides a broad set of features, cloud services and products that can help you improve the way you design, visualize, simulate, and share your work with others anytime, anywhere.

What are the benefits and features of Autodesk 360?

Anyone can create a free Autodesk 360 account by visitinghttp://360.autodesk.com to begin benefiting from the core set of features offered through the Autodesk 360 platform, including:

• 3GB of document storage per account
• A collaboration workspace within Autodesk 360
• The ability to view, edit and share files with others
• Free mobile apps, including:
• Autodesk Design Review
• AutoCAD WS
• ForceEffect
• ForceEffect Motion
• Limited time free trial of Autodesk 360 Rendering

What is the advantage for Autodesk Subscription customers?

Autodesk Subscription Customers get even more Autodesk 360 cloud benefits, including: 

• Increase in cloud storage from 3GB to 25GB per account
• Access to certain Autodesk 360 cloud services:
• Autodesk 360 Rendering
• Autodesk 360 Optimization for Inventor
• Autodesk 360 Energy Analysis for Revit
• Autodesk 360 Structural Analysis for Revit
• Green Building Studio
• Cloud Units (CU) for use with Autodesk 360 cloud services:
• 100 CU per user – Stand Alone Products or Standard Suites
• 250 CU per user – Premium Suites
• 500 CU per user – Ultimate Suite

What are Cloud Units?

Cloud units are a unit of measure that assign a value for how much cloud capacity is needed to perform different tasks using Autodesk 360 cloud services.  For example, if you are interested in rendering a file using Autodesk 360 Rendering cloud service, it will take 5 cloud units to perform the job. For more information, read ourAutodesk 360 Cloud Units & Storage FAQs.

How do I access my Autodesk 360 benefits?

Sign in to Autodesk 360 to access your documents anytime, anywhere by going to https://360.autodesk.com.  Click Sign in if you already have an Autodesk ID and Password or create a new account by clicking Create Account.

Can I access Autodesk cloud services through Subscription Center?

No. Autodesk cloud services cannot be accessed through the Autodesk Subscription Center. You can sign in to Autodesk 360 storage at http://360.autodesk.com using the same Autodesk ID and password you use to sign in to Subscription Center. For the access points to other Autodesk cloud services, please see the previous question/answer above.

How do I enable my Autodesk 360 Subscription benefits?

To enable your Autodesk 360 Subscription benefits you will need to link your account with your Subscription by choosing one of the following two options: Option 1 - In-Product Launch an Autodesk product and click Sign In from the upper-right corner of the screen.  Enter your Autodesk ID or email address and password. View Larger

Option 2 - Autodesk 360 Account Sign into your Autodesk 360 account and click Enable underYour 360 Benefits. View Larger

2. Enter a serial number for a product currently on Subscription and click Submit.
   
   Note: You can find your serial number by clicking the arrow by the Help icon in the upper-right corner of your product's top toolbar and then selecting About.

Where can I see how much storage and/or how many cloud units I have used?

You can see how much storage and how many Cloud Units you have used by signing into your account athttp://accounts.autodesk.com.  Your usage will appear under theAutodesk® 360 Products and Services section.

Is Autodesk 360 secure?

Autodesk 360 is built on a reliable, protected technology infrastructure specifically built just for cloud computing to provide individuals and companies with the level of features and services you need when you need them – securely – and to protect your data while it's stored in the cloud and while it is in transit.

For more information, read our Autodesk 360 Security Overview.

Where can I find additional information about Autodesk 360?

You can find additional information, including videos describing Autodesk Cloud services, at www.autodesk.com/360

Where can I find help for Autodesk cloud services?

Check out the Autodesk 360 Support Center, which has a lot of helpful links and great information on cloud services.

Also, online help can be accessed within the interface of each Autodesk cloud service.

 

Did this page resolve your issue? Give us your feedback at the top of the page

 

See Also

Autodesk 360 Cloud Units & Storage FAQsTop Autodesk Sign In Questions & Answers

Top 4 things you can check to conquer sign in issues

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