Allplan 2024-1 Released for Design to Build Workflows

MUNICH, Germany, Apr 26, 2024 – ALLPLAN, provider of BIM solutions for the AEC industry, has announced the latest update of Allplan 2024 which further accelerates productivity and innovates design-to-build workflows. The Allplan 2024-1 service release delivers extended tools to plan and execute construction more efficiently. New cloud-based processes and enhanced BIM functions support more sustainable design and accelerated project delivery.

One Click LCA Monitor

“Allplan 2024 has truly revolutionized our workflow,” says Riccardo Fontana, CEO of the Italian engineering office Inoving Studio Associato. “The productivity benefits are evident from the moment we started using it. Tasks that used to take hours now can be completed much faster, allowing us to meet tight deadlines with ease. The software seamlessly integrates into our design to build workflow, empowering us to deliver projects more efficiently, safely, and in an eco-conscious manner,” Riccardo continues.

Eduardo Lazzarotto, chief product & strategy officer at ALLPLAN adds: “Our latest Allplan 2024-1 service release marks a significant leap forward in construction efficiency. With expanded tools, cloud-based processes, and enhanced BIM functions, we’re empowering users to plan and execute projects with unparalleled efficiency. This isn’t just about faster delivery—it’s also about enabling sustainability and raising quality. By streamlining workflows and accelerating project timelines, we’re enabling our users to invest more time and energy in what truly matters: designing outstanding architecture, engineering robust transportation infrastructure, and constructing a better, more sustainable built environment.

Improved BIM workflows for architects and engineers

Allplan 2024-1 now features seamless integration with One Click LCA(Life Cycle Assessment), enabling quick and easy analysis. This tool helps users assess the carbon footprint of buildings, evaluate materials and construction methods, and optimize BIM models for sustainability. With automatic transfer of BIM attributes to the LCA cloud, users can generate reports effortlessly. Plus, any model changes automatically update previous LCA adjustments, eliminating the need for remapping.

The creation of provision for voids can be a time-consuming process, especially for larger and more complex projects. To perform this task more quickly and smoothly the performance of this functionality has been optimized for version 2024-1, resulting in substantial time savings. What used to take minutes can now be achieved in seconds. In addition, the optimization of attribute mapping and the application of imported cylindrical geometries from IFC files for void creation have been further enhanced to make designers ‘day-today work even more efficient.

Compliance with current country-specific standards is essential for the work of structural engineers and detailers. For this reason, the Shape Code Manager was integrated into Allplan 2024-1 to support customer-specific reinforcement shapes based on the new British Standard BS 8666 2020. This makes daily work noticeably easier, not only in the UK, but also in many other countries that use the British Standard or customer-specific reinforcement shapes.

Smoother collaboration through cloud-based processes

Cloud-based processes support efficient design to build workflows and underpin collaboration. Advanced combination of 2D plans and 3D models through the Overlay Manager enables easy interaction and interrogation to clarify uncertainties, identify discrepancies, and conveniently raise issues. Users can now visualize multiple drawings together with models, markups can be made and saved in issues and slideshows, conveniently extending federated models with 2D plans.

Timesaving IFC file previewing through the new Allplan Cloud Viewer enables users to rapidly view and check visually before fully uploading and creating a revision.

Allplan 2024 can also be seamlessly integrated with the BIMcollab issue management tool, with improved information content for issues, enhancing collaboration, reducing errors, and accelerating checking processes.

Extended tools for construction planning

Built-in construction planning tools now include a Technical Preview introducing sheet pile walls for excavation shoring, expanding options for precise planning in construction projects. These profiles, available in single, double, and triple forms, along with corner profiles, enhance flexibility and support varied terrain conditions. Parametric components are utilized for positioning easy adjustments. This addition complements existing retention elements like bored pile walls and soldier pile walls, along with ground anchors, offering comprehensive solutions for groundworks.

The BIM2 form Add-on for Allplan 2024 now incorporates Peri TRIO, expanding options for cost-effective formwork planning. Traditionally, companies either handle formwork planning manually or rely on external providers, incurring significant costs and project control challenges. With this tool, automated assignment of formwork wall components, including Peri TRIO, is facilitated, alongside existing options like MEVA Mammut 350 and MEVA MAMMUT XT. Allplan users can now efficiently plan with various formwork systems, reducing outsourcing expenses significantly.

Availability

Allplan 2024-1 is available via the Auto Update function in Allplan or on Allplan Connect. Allplan Cloud services including Bimplus Pro is included with Allplan Subscriptions.

For more information, visit: Features Allplan AEC 2024 – ALLPLAN Deutschland GmbH

About the Nemetschek Group

The Nemetschek Group is a globally leading provider of software for digital transformation in the AEC/O and media industries. Its intelligent software solutions cover the entire life cycle of construction and infrastructure projects and allow creatives to optimize their workflows. Customers can plan, construct, and manage buildings and infrastructure more efficiently and sustainably, and develop digital content such as visualizations, films, and computer games in a creative way. The software company drives new technologies and approaches such as artificial intelligence, digital twins, and open standards (OPEN BIM) in the AEC/O industries to increase productivity and sustainability. We are continuously expanding our portfolio, including through investments in disruptive start-ups. More than 7 million users are currently designing the world with the customer-focused solutions of our four segments. Founded by Prof. Georg Nemetschek in 1963, the Nemetschek Group today employs more than 3,400 experts.

The company, which has been listed in the MDAX and TecDAX since 1999, achieved a revenue of EUR 851.6 million and an EBITDA of EUR 257.7 million in 2023.

For more information, visit www.nemetschek.com.

PlanHub Unveils Upgraded Private Planrooms, Additional Tools

for General Contractors

WEST PALM BEACH, FL, Apr 26, 2024 – PlanHub, the leading cloud-based preconstruction software (SaaS) platform, has announced the rollout of a new-and-improved private planroom experience. Building upon the all-in-one solution’s already-extensive array of tools, PlanHub’s new and improved private planroom helps general contractors network, find more qualified subcontractors for their projects and simplify bid management like never before.

With private planrooms, general contractors can confidently grow and collaborate with their network of subcontractors.

With private planrooms, general contractors can confidently grow and collaborate with their network of subcontractors. They can also keep track of insights and updates related to their activity, all with the peace of mind provided by a secure environment.

General contractors using private planrooms will also have access to a new and improved assortment of cutting-edge features, including:

  • Advanced Directory – Planhub users can easily search the platform’s extensive directory of over 400k hard-to-find subcontractors using intuitive search & filter functionality, pinpoint the best candidates for their project and send ITB’s in just one click. Plus, general contractors can create lists of subcontractors to send ITBs to, and restrict access to projects to keep them private.
  • Activity and Status Tracker – This tool makes it easier than ever for general contractors to track activity on their projects and manage communications with bidders. It helps them monitor who is downloading project files and track the bidding status of companies who have viewed their projects. If gaps emerge in a project’s bid coverage, general contractors can then reach out to subcontractors that have interacted with their projects to remind them to bid, or reach out to more contacts.
  • Messaging Center 2.0 – This upgraded tool allows general contractors to connect and communicate with subcontractors easier than ever. Instead of juggling phone calls, emails and texts, users can share files, create group chats, search through messages, revisit prior conversations and much more, all in one place.

“At PlanHub, we’re always thinking about how we can evolve our platform to help construction professionals set their projects up for success while saving them time in the process,” said Ro Bhatia, PlanHub CEO. “With our enhanced private planroom, we’re proud to offer general contractors new and exciting ways to help them network, connect and grow.”

PlanHub continues to strategically focus on providing tools and features designed to assist general contractors, with many more exciting updates planned for the weeks and months to come.

PlanHub’s latest upgraded tools for general contractors are available now.

About PlanHub

PlanHub is the cloud software platform that empowers commercial construction professionals to expand their businesses by building their networks, optimizing workflows and streamlining collaboration. Our user-friendly tools assist contractors and suppliers throughout the preconstruction journey, including finding more projects to bid on, connecting with the right people to get the job done right and building better proposals to win more business.

For more information, visit planhub.com.

Trimble Q1 Results, Conf Call May 3, 8AM ET

WESTMINSTER, CO, Apr 26, 2024 – Trimble will hold a conference call on Friday, May 3, 2024 at 8AM ET to review its first quarter 2024 results. The call will be broadcast live on the Web at http://investor.trimble.com. Investors without internet access may dial into the call at (888) 660-6347 (US) or (929) 201-6594 (international). The conference ID is 1043223.

About Trimble

Trimble is transforming the ways people move, build and live. Core technologies in positioning, modeling and data analytics connect the digital and physical worlds to improve our customers’ productivity, quality, safety, transparency and sustainability.

For more information about Trimble, visit www.trimble.com.

FARO Q1 Results, Conf Call May 2, 8AM ET

LAKE MARY, FL, Apr 26, 2024 – FARO, the global leader in 3D digital measurement, imaging and realization solutions, announced that after market close on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, it will release its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2024. In conjunction with the release, Peter Lau, president and chief executive officer, and Matthew Horwath, chief financial officer, will host a conference call on Thursday, May 2, 2024 at 8:00AM ET.

Interested parties can access the conference call by dialing 888-632-3384 (US) or +1 785-424-1794 (International) and using the passcode FARO. To avoid a delay in connecting to the call, please dial in 10 minutes prior to the start time. A live webcast will be available in the Investor Relations section of FARO’s website at: https://www.faro.com/about-faro/investor-relations/events

A replay of the webcast will be available in the Investor Relations section of the company’s website approximately two hours after the conclusion of the call and remain available for approximately 30 calendar days.

About FARO

For 40 years, FARO has provided industry-leading technology solutions that enable customers to measure their world, and then use that data to make smarter decisions faster. FARO continues to be a pioneer in bridging the digital and physical worlds through data-driven reliable accuracy, precision, and immediacy.

For more information, visit www.faro.com.

AIA CA Announces Twelfth Architecture at Zero Competition

SACRAMENTO, CA, Apr 26, 2024 – The American Institute of Architects California (AIA CA) announces the twelfth annual Architecture at Zero a design competition for decarbonization, equity, and resilience, open to students and professionals worldwide. It serves to engage the fields of architecture, design, engineering and planning in the pursuit of sustainable design while also considering the impacts of equity and resilience.

The 2024 competition challenge is to design a new building on a middle school campus in East Los Angeles (East LA), California. While the brief is to design the project for the Griffith STEAM Magnet Middle School, Architecture is an ideas competition and not a “real” project. Students and professionals participating in Architecture at Zero will design a new building that will replace relocatable classrooms and is to include science labs, art classroom, maker space, outdoor learning environments, and a teacher workroom.

A panel of international experts will select which submitted projects should be recognized. Recognized entries will be awarded $25,000 in total prizes.

“The American Institute of Architects California is enthusiastic to collaborate with the Los Angeles Unified School District on this important initiative in keeping with the organization’s commitment to sustainability, equity, and the fostering of future architects,” said AIA California president Winston L. Thorne, AIA.

Architecture at Zero strives to generate new, innovative ideas for a decarbonized future, helping California achieve its goal of having all new commercial construction be ZNE by 2030.

Competition entries will be juried by international experts including Paul Torcellini, Principal Engineer, National Renewable Energy Laboratory; Lance Collins, AIA, a Director at Partner Energy; and Allison Williams, FAIA.

The competition deadline is December 16, 2024. To learn more, visit www.architectureatzero.com.

This program is funded by California utility customers and administered by SCE, SCG and PG&E under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission.

About AIA California

AIA California is dedicated to serving its members, and uniting all architecture professionals in the design of a more just, equitable, and resilient future through advocacy, education, and political action. It celebrates more than 75 years of service and, today, is composed of more than 11,000 members across the state.

For more information, visit AIA California website.

Vitruvi Appoints Dave Walters as CEO, Mark Lemmons as CTO

DENVER, CO, Apr 26, 2024 – Vitruvi Software, the leading provider of next generation construction management software, has announced the appointment of Dave Walters as chief executive officer and Mark Lemmons as chief technology officer to lead Vitruvi into its next growth phase.

Since the successful acquisition of Vitruvi by Bow River Capital in September of 2023, the company has continued to expand and broaden its global footprint. Vitruvi is the first and only solution to unify designs, work, and as-built reconciliation for horizontal infrastructure projects and is the leading project management application for building out fiber optic networks. Vitruvi enables clients to close the “as-built gap” between the network designed and the network delivered.

“I am thrilled to join the Vitruvi team and continue Vitruvi’s tradition of technology innovation for our existing, and future, clients. Vitruvi is in a prime position to conquer the construction management market as a strategic partner for future-proof growth today,” said Dave Walters, CEO of Vitruvi.

“The Vitruvi As-Built Platform is proven to optimize portfolio-wide deployment and network value and we have great plans in store to make the solution even more powerful for the everyday users of the software and the executives that rely on insights, reporting, and the ability to get paid faster,” said Mark Lemmons, CTO of Vitruvi.

This next growth phase will accelerate the delivery of new product features and functionality that further address the root causes of project delays, cost overruns, and erosion of asset value, solidifying Vitruvi’s stronghold as the leader in construction management software.

About Vitruvi Software

Vitruvi Software stands at the forefront of construction management technology providing an unparalleled GIS-based platform that transforms the landscape of telecom and broadband construction projects. The Vitruvi As-Built Platform offers a comprehensive suite of solutions that are best-in-class and support the entire lifecycle of construction management, from design through delivery and close-out. Vitruvi is committed to revolutionizing industry standards by offering tools that enhance efficiency, boost productivity, and significantly increase profitability for businesses in the telecom and broadband industry.

For more information, visit www.vitruvisoftware.com.

COVAL Launches CMS M Series Vacuum Pumps

COVAL launches CMS M Series the new generation of multi-stage mini vacuum pumps. The CMS M series, the latest addition to COVAL’s range of multi-stage vacuum pumps, has been designed and developed with two guiding objectives: compactness and performance. It offers an optimum solution for industrial applications which require high suction flow rates.

Compo CMS-M

Enhanced performance and robustness

CMS M multi-stage mini vacuum pumps are the product of COVAL’s advanced research, seeking to provide a powerful, durable solution for handling porous parts, emptying tanks, or random gripping in harsh industrial environments. Thanks to their ultra-compact design and optimized multi-stage Venturi system, these pumps guarantee powerful suction flows of up to 19.42 SCFM, while reducing compressed air consumption in a compact footprint.

Modularity and ease of maintenance

An outstanding feature of the CMS M series is its modularity, making it easy to adapt to a variety of applications and simple to maintain. Available in two suction capacities (10.59 SCFM to 19.42 SCFM) and with or without vacuum and blow-off control, these mini pumps also offer two exhaust configurations to perfectly match each specific need.

Advanced multi-stage technology for maximum efficiency

COVAL’s multi-stage technology maximizes the energy input of compressed air by cascading several stages of Venturi profiles and combining their respective suction flows. Intermediate valves progressively isolate each stage to achieve maximum vacuum level. This technology makes it possible to generate high suction flow at low vacuum levels.

This innovation reflects COVAL’s commitment to providing efficient, energy-saving solutions for industry.

About COVAL

Established in the south of France, COVAL SAS designs, produces and markets high-performance vacuum components and systems throughout the entire world for industrial applications in all lines of business. COVAL is an ISO 9001 V2015 certified company that innovates on a global scale in the area of vacuum handling using optimized components with integrated, intelligent and reliable features. Its solutions can be adapted to any industrial context and their primary goal is to improve productivity with safety in mind. COVAL’s clients are present in all major industrial fields in which vacuum handling is critical for efficiency and productivity. These fields include packaging, automotive, food processing, plastic processing, aeronautics.

COVAL markets its products and services internationally through its subsidiaries and its network of authorized distributors.

For more information, visit www.coval-inc.com.

KonnectAi, Google Cloud Partner for AI Quality Inspection Tool

KonnectAi has announced its collaboration with Google Cloud, officially launching its AI-powered quality inspection platform for manufacturers. KonnectAi will help manufacturers optimize quality inspection and ensure product traceability so they can increase efficiency and scale their businesses.

With just a simple snap of a picture—without the requirement for CAD or specifications—KonnectAi’s advanced system augments existing quality inspection processes, ensuring that products and processes meet the highest safety and quality standards. KonnectAI leverages Google Cloud’s industry-leading development platform to deliver a revolutionary AI quality-analysis system for manufacturers. A powerful visual inspection engine containerized with Cloud Run, data analytics powered by BigQuery, and Google’s state-of-the-art global network and Cloud CDN combine to ensure manufacturers can confidently stand behind their product portfolios and grow while limiting risk.

In the competitive landscape of manufacturing, KonnectAi helps rise above common challenges and unlock growth through its key features:

  • State-of-the-art AI algorithms analyze images with unmatched precision, enhancing productivity, optimizing operations, and reducing inefficiencies resulting in the highest quality, safety, and traceability.
  • Simple solution that offers the benefits of AI without the complexity, cost, and resources.
  • Real-time data and actionable insights enable manufacturers to engage in agile decision-making, spot trends, respond swiftly to customer demands, and make informed decisions that propel business forward.
  • Resource optimization data that allows manufacturers to allocate much-needed workforce resources elsewhere, while lowering operational costs.

To learn more about KonnectAi’s capabilities hosted by Google Cloud, please visit https://konnectai.ai/.

About KonnectAi

KonnectAi is a visual inspection technology company launched by ECI. The flagship product was developed by Promark Electronics, now a family-run division of ECI, which manufactures wire harnesses, cable, and electromechanical assemblies utilized by commercial electric vehicles, aerospace, defense, and other technically-complex, mission-critical products.

About Electrical Components International (ECI)

Founded in 1953, Electrical Components International (ECI) is one of the world’s leading suppliers of electrical distribution systems, control box assemblies, and other critical engineered components for diversified markets. With 25,000 employees and 40 global manufacturing locations, ECI is the trusted partner to market leaders with 500+ customers. ECI powers smart, connected, and electrified solutions that enable the most advanced technologies to solve the most complex challenges.

Universal Robots Integrates SRCI into Software

Universal Robots (UR) has now integrated the Standard Robot Command Interface (SRCI) into its software. UR is proud to be among the first cobot vendors to offer this functionality.

automated processes in control cabinet construction

The SRCI is a new standard for robotics manufacturers that aims to create a single interface between PLCs and robots. The full integration of SRCI into UR’s software will enhance the connectivity capabilities of UR’s cobots and will ensure customers a frictionless integration with Siemens PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), since Siemens is the first – and currently only – PLC Vendor supporting SRCI in the automation market.

The uniform cross-manufacturer data interface of the SRCI makes robot implementation interoperable, and it standardizes definitions and robot commands between UR cobots and Siemens PLCs. This allows for easier and quicker setup and simplifies the deployment of UR robots into existing and new Siemens ecosystem-based production lines.

The SRCI is available for UR’s e-Series family and the next-generation robots UR20 and UR30. It can be installed and activated with PolyScope version 5.15 or higher via add-on URcap software. For more info, click here.

Read more about Siemens’ SIMATIC Robot Integrator here.

About Universal Robots

Universal Robots is a provider of collaborative robots (cobots) used across a wide range of industries and in education. Founded in 2005 and headquartered in Odense, Denmark, Universal Robots aims to create a world where people work with robots, not like robots.

Since introducing the world’s first commercially viable cobot in 2008, Universal Robots has developed a product portfolio reflecting a range of reaches and payloads and has sold over 75,000 cobots worldwide. An extensive ecosystem has grown around the company’s cobot technology creating innovation, choice for customers and a wide range of components, kits and solutions to suit every application.

For more information, please visit www.universal-robots.com.

Stratasys Launches H350 v1.5 Printer

Announces SAF HighDef Printing Capabilities

EDEN PRAIRIE, MN & REHOVOT, Israel, Apr 26, 2024 – Stratasys announced its new SAF HighDef Printing capabilities and the launch of the H350 printer, version 1.5 (V.1.5) to expand SAF adoption with additional applications and use cases for a growing set of manufacturing end markets.

Stratasys announces new High-Definition Printing capabilities. Seen here are new high-definition sensors and on the end, 3D printed grains of rice. (Photo: Business Wire)

Introducing High Definition

Stratasys’ new HighDef Printing capabilities are designed to allow for more exact, high-definition printing with detailed resolution. This gives manufacturers the ability to rapidly scale their additive manufacturing through reliable repeatability, while creating more intricate parts and expanding their design capabilities. Customers from industries such as aerospace, automotive, and healthcare can take advantage of SAF thermal control to create applications that require smooth, precise features like gears and mechanisms.

“High-definition printing enables tighter tolerances, moving assemblies and a new range of applications for SAF customers,” said Adam Ellis, corporate applications manager, Stratasys. “Bringing HighDef to our customers will help us expand and improve their capabilities and increase their adoption of 3D printing in manufacturing roles.”

Delivered as part of a firmware update, Stratasys’ HighDef Printing will be backwards compatible with previous H350 models and made available to customers at no additional cost.

New Stratasys H350 v1.5 printer, which is now available. (Photo: Business Wire)

The New H350

Stratasys is introducing the new H350 v1.5 printer. This new printer has improved sensors and remote service capabilities, making the printer easier to operate and service. The H350 V1.5 will also come with the new Stratasys HighDef Printing firmware update.

“The new capabilities and the upgraded H350 align with the performance needs that our customers indicated to us, that will allow them to further benefit from additive manufacturing and SAF technology in particular,” said Torben Lange, vice president, SAF Research & Development, Stratasys. “New applications and use cases will allow manufacturers to scale their production, with more intricate parts, without compromising speed or quality.”

About Stratasys

Stratasys is leading the global shift to additive manufacturing with innovative 3D printing solutions for industries such as aerospace, automotive, consumer products and healthcare. Through smart and connected 3D printers, polymer materials, a software ecosystem, and parts on demand, Stratasys solutions deliver competitive advantages at every stage in the product value chain. The world’s leading organizations turn to Stratasys to transform product design, bring agility to manufacturing and supply chains, and improve patient care.

To learn more about Stratasys, visit www.stratasys.com.