Wow, just back from the Autodesk University 2009 - what an event, learnt so much about so many things.. so keep coming back and I will start to share the stuff I have learnt..but in the mean time check this photo out taken at Ceasers Palace... a circular escalator...didn't know this was possible... apparently there are only a few in the world.

Subscription Release Pack for Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010
Improve productivity with the Subscription Release Pack for Autodesk® Revit® Architecture 2010:
Gain exclusive access to new functionality and tools that support efficient architectural documentation and the creation of curved beams, slanted columns, trusses, and more.
Work more efficiently with greater control of keyboard shortcuts and improved access to some frequently used commands.
Access the latest updates available for Autodesk® Revit® Architecture 2010 software (Update 2).

Revit Extensions for Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010
Revit® Extensions extend the capabilities of Revit Architecture 2010 in key areas, including modeling, coordination, and documentation. This pack contains updates to previously released Revit Extensions as well as 2 new features:
Content generator—programmatically generate structural steel, concrete, and wood section families for beams, columns, and materials based on national standards databases 
Wood framing—more quickly and precisely model a wood frame structure within interior and exterior walls
Autodesk Revit Model Review
Automate the process of reviewing and auditing BIM projects in Revit Architecture 2010 with the Autodesk® Revit® Model Review plug-in:
Check the accuracy and consistency of a model against standards set by your firm, your clients, or industry best practices.
Correct inconsistencies with a single click or with instructions provided when manual fixes are required.

Autodesk Revit DB Link
Import and export data between a Revit Architecture 2010 project and an external database, and then more easily maintain relationships of linked data with Autodesk® Revit® DB Link.
A grid view of the data enables you to make any final edits before import.
Databases can be updated following internal or external changes.
The grid control enables you to create Revit shared parameters to add new fields to related tables in the database.
Changes to new fields within the database automatically update Revit shared parameters upon future imports.

Autodesk ImageModeler 2009
Use 2D digital photographs to more quickly and cost-effectively create, edit, and texture 3D models for building renovation projects and energy-efficiency analysis. Bridging the 2D and 3D worlds via DWG™, Autodesk® ImageModeler™ 2009 software enables you to:
Capture building design elements
Take measurements
Create 3D models based on the form of existing buildings

By leveraging models developed directly from the physical environment, ImageModeler 2009 helps architects better integrate improvements or renovations in BIM projects.

Click for more info

The Autodesk® Subscription Advantage Pack for Autodesk® Revit® Architecture 2010 extends the capabilities of Autodesk® Revit® Architecture 2010 software. Productivity-enhancing functionality and features better support modeling, coordination, and documentation, while improved tools help you work more efficiently within the software.

In addition, new applications that complement Revit Architecture 2010 workflows help you:

Validate the accuracy of building information models created in Revit Architecture 2010 against pre-determined standards
Import and export data between a Revit project and an external database, and then more easily maintain the relationships of linked data
Facilitate the use of building information modeling (BIM) for building renovation projects by creating 3D models from 2D digital photographs

Click to watch subscription video

1 link to 59 Autodesk product discussion groups and 14 Autodesk general groups

Well done DesignMind for their recent achievement of over 5000 members! if you haven't been there yet then you must check out www.designmind.co.za 

2nd Generation WACOM Bamboo Tablets

The new Bamboo is the must have for fashionable users and a product that will prove your dealers are cutting edge. Based on current consumer trends and the introduction of touch devices such as the Apple iPhone, Bamboo provides a simple and spontaneous way of using a computer. It is operated by either multi-touch (finger-based input) or the digital pen when tasks require more accuracy and precision.

So what's new with the 2nd generation WACOM BAMBOO range?

With the new Bamboo, a simple tap with a finger on the digital pad will select an icon, open a menu or start an application. In addition, a gesture using two fingers enables users to simply rotate an image or document, flip through a digital photo album or presentation, scroll through a blog or an excel sheet and zoom in and out of a photo or map.

Check out www.sketchbook.co.za

Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010 looks like 2009 !

There are a few people out there who are still having issue with getting used to the 2010 Ribbon user interface.... well if that's the case then this could be your answer:

• Open Wordpad or Notepad
• Type the following text:

          [DebugModes]
          Use2009UI=1

• Save the file as debug.ini
• Place in Revit program directory
• re-start Revit

If you want to get back to 2010, just delete the file and then re-start once again.

Autodesk have come a long way since their first release of AutoCAD.

Now, 9 million professionals in 185 countries are using Autodesk products to save time and money, gain competitive advantage, and change the way ideas are brought to life. 

Check out their 'Story' site