VectorWorks Architect 2008 — Flexible to Fit Your Workflow

VectorWorks' approach to Building Information Modeling (BIM) lets you improve your design process instead of trying to replace it. Work faster while reducing drawing errors. Cutting-edge capabilities link plans, elevations, sections, perspectives, reports and even rendered views, so a change to one updates the others. Query the model for information at any time and, using the IFC standard, move your BIM projects through the project lifecycle with a growing selection of validation, analysis, and construction programs. Request a free trial:

iLevel® Shear Brace Specifier's Guide

Structural wall bracing helps protect life and property against damage from the lateral forces of high winds and earthquakes. Currently, a significant number of municipalities are enforcing International Residential Code (IRC) requirements for wall bracing.

This download will help architects, specifiers, and builders meet these requirements. The guide offers an overview of both prescriptive specifications and engineered design for wall bracing. The material includes instructions on how to specify braced panels and portals, and includes examples, diagrams, load requirements, and anchorage details for using the iLevel® Shear Brace, a prefabricated, field-adjustable engineered-wood panel.

Explore, Validate and Convey Your Design Concepts with 3ds Max® Design 2009

Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2009 software enables architects, designers, and visualization specialists to fully explore, validate, and communicate their creative ideas — from initial concept models to final, cinema-quality presentations. This comprehensive 3D modeling, animation, and rendering solution includes Exposure™ lighting simulation and analysis technology which provides invaluable assistance in attaining LEED® 8.1 certification for creating more sustainable designs. Additionally, 3ds Max Design 2009 offers tightly integrated workflows and a higher level of data interoperability with AutoCAD® and Revit® — based products for projects involving building information modeling (BIM) and Digital Prototyping so you and your clients can experience your designs before they're real — helping to win more projects. Download a free trial today.

LEED "Innovation in Design" Credit Catalog from USGBC

The U.S. Green Building Council issued this document about projects that have received points for "innovative performance." Currently, projects pursuing LEED Certification have the opportunity to earn up to four points for two types of credits in the Innovation & Design Process (ID) category: exemplary performance related to existing LEED credits and innovative performance.

This document pertains to innovative performance, and is a catalog of ID credits submitted by projects before the summer of 2007. It is a work in progress and is meant as a brainstorming tool to assist project teams in the development of new ID credits. It does not set any precedent to be upheld during a LEED Certification Review. The information found here is a staff summary of information provided by review teams and should not be considered a detailed or comprehensive portrayal of the original credit submittal.

QuickARC 3D

QuickARC 3D is a free 3D CAD model-viewing software developed by QuickArc. QuickARC 3D reads 3D files in the .STL format, and now in Google Sketchup format (.SKP). It allows the user to view their model, check it for quality, and then get an instant quote for 3D printing. QuickARC 3D now reads Sketchup model files, and converts them to a 3D printable format. The free downloadable software provides the user the ability to: find thin walls, read Sketchup files, and do automatic architectural scaling, multiple model viewing, and instant quoting.

Architect's Guide to Home Automation

AVD Australia and Project Connection are sponsoring the 'Architect's Guide to Home Automation' white paper, which provides a seven-step solution for architects who are undertaking home automation projects and creating intelligent environments in new homes. By designing and implementing an infrastructure that can be readily upgraded, designers can ensure that a smart home will keep pace with advances in technology. This free download offers clear and concise advice about what to look for when partnering with a home-automation designer and when hiring an electrical contractor.

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