Next generation BIM software
In a virtual press conference in February, Autodesk, Inc. announced new versions of its software products for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries, which are designed to help increase industry adoption of the building information modeling (BIM) process. Updated software in Autodesk’s BIM portfolio includes Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010 software, Autodesk Revit Structure 2010 software, Autodesk Revit MEP 2010 software, AutoCAD Civil 3D 2010 software, and Autodesk Navisworks 2010 software solutions.
Autodesk, Inc., www.autodesk.com


Blast protection system for existing masonry structures
CINTEC America, Inc. of Baltimore, Md., designer and manufacturer of the CINTEC Reinforcing Anchor System, offers a blast protection system for existing masonry structures. The system, known as Blastec, a complete diagnostic design and installation service,
utilizes sophisticated technology and drilling methods designed to retrofit masonry structures to better withstand possible damage from incidents such as gas explosions or bomb blasts. Blastec is capable of reinforcing a variety of masonry wall types in either solid or windowed panels.
CINTEC America, Inc., www.cintec.com


Blast-resistant glass block system
Building on a strong tradition of safety and security in its glass block product line, Pittsburgh Corning Corporation has developed and tested a new generation of patent pending products. The first offering, LightWise Blast Resistant Glass Block System, has been designed to withstand the blast pressure from an explosion. With the increased threat and awareness of terrorist and criminal attacks from explosive devices, responsible government and commercial organizations are responding with more stringent building requirements along with better products and construction methods. In the past, the majority of injuries and deaths to building occupants have been caused by shattered glass fragments sent flying through the air from the blast force.
Pittsburgh Corning Corporation, www.pittsburghcorning.com


Steel construction software
GRAITEC, the international software developer for CAD and structural analysis solutions for civil engineering launches the 2009 release of Advance Steel software. Aimed at steelwork construction and design offices, Advance Steel is an easy to use 3D steel structural modeling (profiles, joints etc.) software solution that automatically creates general arrangement drawings, detail drawings, material lists and NC files. Advance Steel is running on AutoCAD. The 2009 version focuses on the following three main themes:

• collaborative work for users simultaneously working on the same model,
• security and speed improvements, and
• productivity increase.

GRAITEC, www.graitec.com

User-friendly steel deck
As part of an ongoing effort to support the specifying efforts of engineers and architects within the metal decking industry, ASC Steel Deck recently received the updated Roof Deck (ESR-1414) and Floor Deck (ESR-2408) ICC-ES Evaluation Reports referencing the 2006 International Building Codes. "Condensed, yet more specific information make these reports user-friendly and reflect the recently enacted standards in the 2006 IBC," said ASC Steel Deck Vice President Dave Golden. The ICC-ES Evaluation Reports on ASC Steel Deck Roof Deck (ESR-1414) and Floor Deck (ESR-2408) can now be found online at www.ascsd.com, or by calling 800-360-2477 and requesting a printed copy.
International Code Council Evaluation Services, www.icc-es.org