Autodesk, Inc is probably best known for its industry-leading computer-aided design program, AutoCAD.  The company is participating in the American Institute of Architects (AIA) National Convention and Expo, which began today in San Francisco.  As part of its planned events for the AIA convention, Autodesk announced the availability of its new Ecotect Analysis 2010 software program and the free Autodesk Guide to Sustainable Design.

 

“Autodesk Ecotect Analysis 2010 provides architects and engineers with a wide range of simulation and analysis functionality, which helps users to better understand earlier in the design process how environmental factors--such as solar, thermal, shading, lighting and airflow--will affect building performance.”  Source: PR Newswire

 

The Guide to Sustainable Design looks at several different phases of the design process and includes both new construction and renovation projects.  The tool looks at six different design phases:  requirements development, conceptualization, design, implementation docs, construction, and own/operate/sell.  The energy, water, materials, and land resources are assessed at each stage of the design and vary if the project is new construction or a renovation.

 

For more information about Autodesk, Inc’s products, visit the company’s website.