Training guide for Autodesk 3ds Max Design 2009
RAND Worldwide announced that its courseware division, ASCENT—Center for Technical Knowledge, released its Autodesk 3ds Max Design 2009 Fundamentals training guide. The guide provides instruction for the interface, workflow, and project configuration, and 3-D model creation from 2-D objects. The guide’s content places greater emphasis on using mental ray lighting, materials, and rendering, including the new Revit-compatible ProMaterials.
ASCENT-Center for Technical Knowledge, www.ascented.com

Framing clamp system
Chicago Clamp Company introduced its Framing Clamp System for roof openings and supporting loads above or below roof decks. The patent-pending framing clamp system is ideal for installing HVAC equipment, exhaust fans, vents, and skylights. The new system eliminates the need for traditional cutting, fitting, and welding methods, which require certification. With a 1,000-pound capacity per end clamp, the Framing Clamp System consists of end clamps, T-brackets, and perforated channels. The Framing Clamp System was developed to be easily installed with the roof decking in place.
Chicago Clamp Company, www.chicagoclampcompany.com

Structural detail software
MultiSUITE Software announced that its structural detailing products have been enhanced to fully utilize the improved drafting environment offered by AutoCAD 2009. Also, for users without full AutoCAD licenses, MultiSUITE’s stand-alone product called MultiSUITE CAD, which is built on AutoCAD OEM Technology, has also been fully revised. The new functionality, such as steel cloning and simplified bar creation in MultiREBAR, makes the software easier to use and increases detailing efficiency. The AutoCAD 2009 version offers an improved user interface and enhanced visualization. According to the developer, MultiSUITE CAD offers the only solution of its kind currently available by combining the structural tools with AutoCAD OEM Technology. It enhances 3-D structural modeling, 2-D steel drafting, and reinforced concrete detailing. AutoCAD OEM technology from Autodesk allows developers to produce industry-specific applications, but retains the familiar AutoCAD interface and produces standard DWG format files. MultiSUITE Software, www.multisuite.com

Document management and workflow
Synergis Software unveiled Adept 8, the newest version of the company’s document management and workflow software. Adept 8 delivers dozens of new features, helping clients manage, share, and control design and business documents throughout their lifecycle. Adept 8 features full-text searching, bill of material automation, transmittal automation, advanced workflow capabilities, support for MicroStation V8, and tight integration with the 2009 family of Autodesk design software. Adept 8 also incorporates productivity-boosting features for e-mail management and notification, as well as advanced data importing tools that allow customers to easily add richer content into Adept for superior searching and reporting.
Synergis Software, www.synergissoftware.com

New release of structural BIM software
Tekla released Tekla Structures 14, a 3-D Building Information Modeling (BIM) solution that streamlines the design, detailing, fabrication, and construction delivery process. Tekla Structures is the first BIM offering to cover all elements of structural design. By using Tekla Structures, steel fabricators and detailers, precast fabricators and detailers, construction companies, and structural engineers can model the entire life cycle of a project to improve construction. Tekla Structures 14 features several enhancements, including improved data storage, better drawing management controls, a more secure licensing system, and improved file format exchanges.
Tekla Structures, www.teklastructures.com

Design guide for façade attachments to steel-framed buildings
The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) recently released AISC Design Guide No. 22, Façade Attachments to Steel-Framed Buildings by James C. Parker, P.E. The guide addresses the design of façade attachments to steel-framed buildings, as well as the structural elements that receive loads from façade attachments. It also reviews consideration and coordination of tolerances and several common façade systems that are used in building construction. The objective of the design guide is to assist practicing engineers achieve economical slab edge details for steel frames that are structurally sound, durable, and that accommodate performance requirements of the façade system. The guide discusses façade system fundamentals and building performance issues that influence attachment design and provides example details of various façade systems.
American Institute of Steel Construction, www.aisc.org