ConstructionAdvisorToday

ITT Bell & Gossett Unveils New Online Library of 3D BIM Content Files in Autodesk Revit 2010

Morton Grove, Ill.-based ITT Bell & Gossett earlier this month announced a new online library of 3D BIM content files in Autodesk Revit 2010. A total of 113 Revit families and 5,252 types have been created for the following HVAC product lines: Pumps -- VSX Series 1510, 1531, 80, 80-SC, 60, and 90; Pump Accessories -- suction diffusers and triple-duty valves; Engineered Specialies -- Rolairtrols and B&D expansion tanks; and U-Tube heat exchangers.

Researchers Receive Additional Funding to Advance Technology That Aims to Bolster Construction Productivity

The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) recently provided $CAN581,250 ($US568,783) for advancing several productivity-related projects, including one that involves the i-Booth, a wireless, mobile information terminal that researchers hope will significantly improve productivity at construction sites. This amount is supported by $290,000 ($US283,794) from various construction companies and the University of Calgary.

Groups Want Standards Bodies to Help Minimize Market Confusion Over the Term 'BIM'

Allied national and international standards bodies need to do more to help minimize market confusion regarding the term "BIM" (building information modeling), BuildingSmart Alliance (BSA) and the Open Geospatial Consortium Inc. (OGC) recommended in a new report, entitled "Summary of the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Owner Operator Phase 1 (AECOO-1) Joint Testbed."  The report summarizes the results of a nine-month effort to increase interoperability among software used by architects, construction companies, cost estimators, and building energy analysts.

Tekla Reports Several New BIM-Related Developments

Tekla has launched its annual main version of Tekla Structures BIM (building information modeling) software, one of several developments that the company recently reported.

The new Tekla Structures 16 introduces several workflow benefits, such as an improved solution for cast-in-place concrete and better IFC data exchange, the company stated. Tekla Structures BIM software is developed according to a long-term plan of improved user experience, process, and functionality. "This provides the whole building design and construction project team a unique model-based way of collaboration, including possibilities for increased business, productivity, and sustainability."

Autodesk Acquires Dynamite VSP, SIM Visualization Software Products, Related Assets

Autodesk Inc. recently announced that it has completed the acquisition of Dynamite VSP and Dynamite SIM visualization software products and related assets. The products were purchased from 3AM Solutions, a United Kingdom-based technology company that develops visualization software for civil infrastructure. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Lochinvar Develops Library of Drawings of Its Product That Are Configured for Placement in BIMs

Lebanon, Tenn.-based Lochinvar has developed a library of drawings of its commercial and residential products that are fully configured for placement in Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010 building information models. Architects, contractors, and designers using the 2010 edition of Revit software, which allows them to design with parametric modeling and drafting elements, can now download the pre-programmed, 3D Lochinvar equipment models at www.Lochinvar.com.  Lochinvar manufactures water heaters, boilers, pool heaters, and storage tanks.

AGC Develops MEP Spatial Coordination Requirements for BIM

The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) has announced the development of a document entitled "MEP Spatial Coordination Requirements for Building Information Modeling."

"The recent widespread adoption of building information modeling (BIM) and 3D modeling in the construction industry has necessitated the development of a well-defined, organized, consistent, and repeatable framework for spatial coordination of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire-protection systems," according to the report, created by the Specialty Contractor's Subforum of the AGC BIMForum.

Bentley to Establish Shared Services, Sales, Marketing Centre

Bentley Systems Inc., which provides architects, engineers, constructors, and owner-operators with comprehensive software solutions for sustaining infrastructure, has committed to establish an international Shared Services, Sales and Marketing Centre in Dublin, Ireland. The investment was facilitated by the Irish government through IDA Ireland.

California Adopts Statewide Green Building Standards Code

California's Building Standards Commission (CBSC) has adopted a mandatory Green Building Standards Code (CALGREEN), which is designed to improve energy efficiency and environmental responsibility for new buildings. CALGREEN, which is believed to be the first such code of its kind in the United States, is scheduled to take effect in January 2011.

Las Vegas' New CityCenter Considered One of World's Largest Green Developments

The new CityCenter, billed as an "unprecedented urban metropolis" in Las Vegas, is considered one of the world's largest sustainable developments.

The 18-million-square-foot urban resort is slated to receive a combination of gold and silver LEED ratings from the U.S. Green Building Council. Among the structures included in the development are hotels, residences, restaurants, and retail and public spaces.