Best Engineering Software for AutoCAD

Newforma provides specialized project information management software designed to improve collaboration and efficiency for professionals in the AECO industry. Its flagship products—Newforma Konekt, Project Center, and Constructex—offer tools for BIM coordination, real-time project communication, document control, and submittal management. Newforma Konekt’s 2D/3D viewer allows users to view multiple IFC models with a single click, facilitating enhanced BIM collaboration. The platform integrates email management directly into project workflows, helping teams eliminate email chaos and improve accountability. Newforma’s cloud-hosted and on-premise options allow firms to manage data securely while accelerating project delivery times and reducing risk. Widely adopted by the world’s largest firms, Newforma supports millions of projects and billions of emails, demonstrating its scalability and reliability. Customer testimonials highlight significant time and cost savings achieved through streamlined workflows. Overall, Newforma fosters improved communication, organization, and risk mitigation for construction projects.

SilicaCAD Professional is a versatile CAD software that operates in both 2D and 3D, allowing for DWG-native drafting suitable for a variety of applications. Drawing on over two decades of CAD expertise since its inception in 1999, SilicaCAD boasts remarkable compatibility with AutoCAD® while providing advanced features and unique tools that are crucial for professionals. This software serves as an optimal solution for architectural, engineering, construction (AEC), and mechanical computer-aided design (MCAD) across diverse sectors. Notably, SilicaCAD offers a cost-effective alternative with a perpetual licensing model, granting users access to numerous additional CAD functionalities at a significantly lower price compared to other software. Since DWG is the same file format used by AutoCAD, users can seamlessly open existing DWG files in SilicaCAD without any need for conversion or fear of data loss. Furthermore, it ensures industry-standard compatibility with AutoCAD®, enabling immediate engagement with DWG files, commands, fonts, blocks, hatches, and linetypes right from the start. With SilicaCAD, you finally have the opportunity to invest in a DWG-compatible solution that is not only economical but also rich in features that enhance your design capabilities.

Designed for expert users, SharkCAD® boasts advanced mesh-based and solid modeling capabilities that simplify your projects in architecture, mechanical design, prototyping, and overall creativity. This software is ideal for those who have moved beyond basic 3D modeling tools and are prepared to engage with top-tier solutions. Avoid the pitfalls of inadequate software; choose SharkCAD for your needs. Whether you're an independent designer or part of a larger team, SharkCAD equips you with the essential tools required at a budget-friendly price. With features that include comprehensive 2D drafting and 3D modeling options, users can easily toggle between 2D and 3D views. SharkCAD is instrumental in achieving high-quality 3D prototyping, realistic rendering, and producing designs for everything from product manufacturing to architectural layouts and home renovation projects. Don't waste your time with outdated software that no longer meets your needs; SharkCAD offers professional-grade tools that provide exceptional value without breaking the bank. Its robust capabilities ensure that you can tackle any design challenge that comes your way, making it a wise investment for your creative endeavors.

Transforming the world of design, Maket harnesses the power of generative AI to assist architects, designers, builders, contractors, and developers in creating floorplans, understanding zoning regulations, and experimenting with an infinite array of styles. Unlock your imaginative capabilities with a comprehensive set of tools designed for automated floorplan creation, style experimentation, and the personalization of design features. With a virtual assistant offering expert advice on materials, costs, and design options, you can make informed and confident design decisions. Effortlessly navigate the intricacies of zoning laws and regulations to ensure your projects meet all necessary criteria and avoid delays. Say goodbye to protracted schematic design phases; simply enter your constraints via parameters or natural language and receive countless variations in an instant. This innovative approach not only streamlines the design process but also enhances creativity and efficiency in project execution.

Revit provides specialized software for electrical design, while AutoCAD offers dedicated tools for both electrical and HVAC planning. Maximize the potential of your Revit model for electrical layouts by easily creating one-line riser diagrams, sizing feeders, accurately calculating voltage drops, conducting short-circuit analyses, and much more. Within the well-known AutoCAD platform, you can access a comprehensive electrical design tool that seamlessly combines calculations with drafting tasks. From generating panel schedules to creating one-line diagrams and assessing fault as well as voltage drop, the software covers all essential aspects. Additionally, in the AutoCAD environment, the HVAC design program allows you to efficiently layout, size, and draft your ductwork, ensuring a streamlined workflow for all your design needs. This integration of features not only enhances productivity but also simplifies the overall design process.

Utilize the digital drawing and painting application to visualize concepts and produce artwork. The SketchBook software is perfect for designers, architects, and concept artists who need to rapidly sketch their ideas and generate impressive illustrations. Featuring a suite of professional-grade drawing tools within a visually appealing interface, it caters to users who are frequently on the move. It is tailored for both stylus and touch interactions, allowing for a seamless user experience. With its elegant, organized workspace, SketchBook ensures that you have quick access to essential tools, enhancing your creative workflow. Familiar digital tools such as pencils, inks, and markers, along with a selection of over 190 customizable brushes that can integrate various textures and shapes, are readily available. Many professionals trust SketchBook for its accuracy and efficiency, but what truly sets it apart is its intuitive feel. Additionally, you can easily import your illustrations from SketchBook into Revit, using them as an underlay to construct your model directly on top of your sketches. This capability not only enhances productivity but also fosters rapid idea generation and iteration during the design process.

Simlab Soft has established itself as a pioneering force in the realm of visualization and VR creation software. From its inception, the company's mission has been to produce cutting-edge 3D software that remains accessible, enjoyable, and user-friendly, which culminated in the creation of SimLab Composer (SLC) aimed at facilitating Interactive VR experiences. Unlike typical design applications, SimLab Composer serves as a 3D scene composition tool, enabling users to import various 3D file formats, organize them, tweak their material properties, and incorporate animations, simulations, and interactive functionalities. Once the scene is crafted, users can leverage it in multiple formats, such as generating striking photorealistic images or sharing their work as a 3D PDF, WebGL, or immersive VR experience. The interface of SimLab Composer is systematically structured into distinct workbenches, and when a user selects a specific workbench, the corresponding tools become visible, and the layout adjusts to reflect the selected workbench's settings, thus enhancing the user's workflow and productivity. This thoughtful design ensures that users can seamlessly navigate the software while focusing on their creative endeavors.

BeckerCAD12 3D Pro is a versatile CAD software tailored for a variety of fields including architecture, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering. It offers comprehensive capabilities for detailed drawing, design, and modeling in both 2D and 3D formats. This powerful tool is precise and ensures full compatibility with AutoCAD, allowing for seamless integration. The software can be installed on up to three different PCs, making it accessible for multiple users. Whether you are working on mechanical components, electrical schematics, or architectural plans, BeckerCAD12 3D Pro facilitates the creation of intricate 2D production drawings and stunning 3D models. With an extensive assortment of drawing, editing, and labeling tools, users can accurately generate objects to scale and produce rendered visualizations. Additionally, the software supports the easy import of complex 3D graphics, enabling the creation of eye-catching presentations. It includes a Python programming interface and is fully compatible with CADdy++ Mechanical Design, enhancing its functionality. Users can enjoy realistic scene previews through enhanced lighting options and advanced settings, alongside the ability to adopt colors and material properties directly from graphics and save bills of materials efficiently. Overall, BeckerCAD12 3D Pro streamlines the design process while elevating the quality of output.

A data wrapper to the industry standard US Army Corps of Engineers HEC-HMS software, GeoHECHMS (a stormwater management software) speeds up the creation, analysis and review of stormwater models. It is compatible with AutoCAD graphic user interface. GeoHECHMS offers: • Automated HEC/HMS Workflows • AutoCAD Civil 3D & ArcGIS Integration • Automated Watershed Delineation • Detention Pond Design • Stormwater Design Tools for Purpose-Built Purpose • Automated TOC and Lag Time • Automated CN Computations • Comprehensive Report Generation GeoHECHMS allows one to quickly compare different scenarios, including pre-development conditions and post-development designs. Rapidly design, analyze, and compare retention and detention ponds.

progeCAD is a versatile CAD software that supports both 2D and 3D design, fully compatible with AutoCAD® DWG files ranging from version 2.5 up to 2021, and it can also import files from Autodesk Revit® and IFC formats. It stands out as a superior choice for professionals in architecture, engineering, construction, and mechanical CAD, offering a wide array of features at a significantly lower price than AutoCAD®, ArchiCAD®, or Microstation®. With a perpetual licensing model, progeCAD provides more functionalities than AutoCAD® LT, making it a cost-effective solution. The software's native DWG file format ensures seamless integration, as it utilizes the same file format as AutoCAD®, eliminating the need for conversion and ensuring no loss of data when opening existing DWG files. Users benefit from compatibility with AutoCAD® standards, enabling immediate productivity with familiar commands, fonts, blocks, hatches, and linetypes. Additionally, progeCAD's ability to import Autodesk Revit® and IFC BIM objects enhances its utility in modern design workflows. This makes progeCAD not only a powerful tool for individual designers but also an excellent choice for collaborative projects across various disciplines.

InEight construction project controls software is the best fit for capital construction, thanks to unmatched configurability and flexibility. With an integrated, modular product platform that spans your operations, InEight unifies your data and delivers insights you can’t get any other way. No other provider of construction project controls software brings our level of industry knowledge to our product development or software implementation.

Utilize COMSOL's multiphysics software to replicate real-world designs, devices, and processes effectively. This versatile simulation tool is grounded in sophisticated numerical techniques. It boasts comprehensive capabilities for both fully coupled multiphysics and single-physics modeling. Users can navigate a complete modeling workflow, starting from geometry creation all the way to postprocessing. The software provides intuitive tools for the development and deployment of simulation applications. COMSOL Multiphysics® ensures a consistent user interface and experience across various engineering applications and physical phenomena. Additionally, specialized functionality is available through add-on modules that cater to fields such as electromagnetics, structural mechanics, acoustics, fluid dynamics, thermal transfer, and chemical engineering. Users can select from a range of LiveLink™ products to seamlessly connect with CAD systems and other third-party software. Furthermore, applications can be deployed using COMSOL Compiler™ and COMSOL Server™, enabling the creation of physics-driven models and simulation applications within this robust software ecosystem. With such extensive capabilities, it empowers engineers to innovate and enhance their projects effectively.

Asite serves as a collaborative open platform for the construction industry, allowing entities involved in capital projects to unite for planning, designing, and building while ensuring smooth information exchange throughout the supply chain. By offering a comprehensive suite of solutions, Asite connects teams that are spread across different stages of capital asset development, helping them to enhance quality and foster resilience in their projects. Additionally, Asite empowers capital project owners to lead in innovation, ensuring a continuous flow of critical information that aids in the development of digital twins throughout the project's duration. This capability not only streamlines processes but also enhances project outcomes significantly.

Add PDF Features with 2 API calls Open, Edit, View PDF. Two API calls and a configuration file are all you need. In less than a day, your app can import, view, edit, and open PDF features. The SDK can be used to neutralize differences between formats. This includes cropping, fills, color management, and fonts. The PDF Conversion SDK can convert all PDF versions, including ISO Standard PDF 2.0. Any PDF file or print-ready memory can be used as input. Conversions are seamless without any intermediate steps or compromises in quality. No printer driver. The PDF Conversion SDK works on Windows, MacOS, and Linux. It supports.NET. Included is an example code. Removes redundant information & compresses data. This provides great performance for web and application browsing.

Revizto unifies BIM intelligence, making it instantly accessible and actionable for all project team members. Revizto's advanced Issue tracker predefined workflows allow project team members to identify and manage model-based issues within the 3D space as well as 2D sheets. This includes addressing clash groups. Revizto gives everyone unified access to project data for both 2D and 3-D workflows. This allows anyone to use it according to their project requirements.

The FEA program RFEM enables quick and easy modeling, structural, and dynamic calculation as well as the design and construction of models with member and plate, wall, folded plates, shell, shell, and other solid elements. Modular software allows you to connect the main program RFEM to the appropriate add-ons to meet your specific requirements. Structural analysis program RFEM offers structural engineers a 3D FEA tool that meets all modern civil engineering requirements. Simple and complex structures can be modelled with ease thanks to efficient data input and intuitive handling. The basis of a modular software program is the structural analysis program RFEM. The RFEM basic program is used to create structures, materials, loads, and plans for spatial and planar structural systems that include plates, walls, shells and members. You can also create mixed structures and model contact elements.

ReluxDesktop, a high-performance, intuitively operated application that simulates artificial light and daylight, is highly-efficient. It can provide quick and efficient support for all aspects of large and small projects without any unnecessary loops. Simulating lighting and sensors in real time! Calculation of absolute values, national, and international standards, compatible CAD and BIM systems. And much more. Thanks to our industry partners, the application is free to you. ReluxDesktop will become your daily tool. You'll be amazed at how much time you can save! Add-on for other applications Autodesk Revit functions. Add-on to ReluxDesktop Based on current standards, real tunnel calculation.

RSTAB is a powerful software that allows structural engineers to meet the requirements of modern civil engineering. It provides a 3D beam, frame or truss calculation. Use the RSTAB software to design beam, frame or truss constructions made of steel, concrete, wood, aluminum or other materials. RSTAB allows you to quickly and easily define a structure model, then calculate internal forces, deformations and support reactions. You can use the design add-ons to take into account material- and standard specific requirements.

HydroCAD Stormwater Modelling allows for easy TR-20, TR55, SBUH and Rational hydrology calculations, as well as TC calculations, storage, outlet hydraulics and pump routing, underground storage, pollutant loads, and more. You can import CAD directly, bypass routing, siphons, skimmers and tubes, as well as local rainfall data import. There is also an expanding chamber library. Interactive graphical environments are intuitive and fast, resulting in better results every time.

Simcad Pro allows you to visualize, analyze, and optimize process flow systems within an interactive simulation modeling environment. Optimize, plan, optimize, and reorganize processes and procedures, while optimizing layouts, automation, scheduling, and facility improvement. Simcad Pro integrates historical and live data to offer the best simulation tool on the marketplace. Multiple industries can use these applications, including manufacturing, automation and logistics, distribution warehouse, food & beverage, and services. Multi-Threaded – 64 bit Engine Simulator-on-the-fly - You can make real-time modifications to the model as the simulation is running. You can animated the model in 3D, 2D, and VR using Ray Tracing, light effects, and shadows. Singular model building environment. Smart, Spatially Aware Agents. Sub-Flows. Collision Avoidance. Real-Time Connectivity. Spaghetti Diagrams and Congestion Analysis, Heat Maps Efficiency, OEE. Extensive reporting and analysis tools. Scenario Analyzer.

Tulip's flexible, non-code frontline operations platform allows manufacturers to create front-end apps that guide workers, collect data from machines and workers, and track metrics against your KPIs. Tulip allows companies to digitally transform their operations within days. They can gain real-time visibility into their operations to improve productivity, reduce errors and drive continuous improvement.

ClearCalcs cloud structural engineering software allows engineers and designers to simplify repetitive calculations using easy-to-use calculators for beams and columns, foundations, and other important information. ClearCalcs has calculators for all standards including the US, Eurocode, Australian, New Zealand, and Canadian. ClearCalcs can help you improve your productivity and design ability. Calculations can be linked together in one click, saving time and errors copy paste loads. Reports print to a simple one-page PDF for easy inspection.

IDEA Architecture provides sophisticated 3D BIM modeling while maintaining an interface similar to AutoCAD, allowing users to utilize basic 2D commands such as polylines, entity snaps, and copy functions to effortlessly create 3D models with our extensive library of 3D BIM objects. By simply drafting floor plans with the intuitive and parametric objects found in our AutoBLD menu, IDEA Architecture automatically generates the corresponding 3D representation. With a quick double-click, users can access and modify properties of any object with ease. Differentiating itself from other BIM software, IDEA Architecture utilizes DWG as its core file format and offers functionality to convert 3D BIM objects into straightforward vectors, which can be easily viewed and altered in AutoCAD®. This compatibility makes it simple to share both 2D and 3D files with a wide range of CAD users. Additionally, our Architectural Software incorporates all the capabilities of 4MCAD, which serves as a viable alternative to AutoCAD®, ensuring a versatile and comprehensive design experience. By combining user-friendly commands with powerful features, IDEA Architecture streamlines the transition from 2D to 3D design.

Plateia is an advanced software solution tailored for roadway design and reconstruction, fully compatible with BIM standards. This professional-grade, 3D tool utilizes a versatile and dynamic data model to facilitate seamless BIM workflows and adheres to the IFC standardized data format. Its thoughtfully crafted user interface and workflows align perfectly with established road design engineering practices, ensuring that users can quickly become proficient with the software. Plateia encompasses a comprehensive suite of commands and tools that supports the entire design process, beginning with preliminary design phases and extending through to detailed design. This includes integrating initial survey data, creating intricate 3D road models equipped with analysis capabilities, and offering robust documentation and publishing features. Furthermore, Plateia stands out for its ability to adapt to various project requirements, making it an invaluable asset for engineers and designers in the field.

Enhance project delivery through effective design collaboration and coordination. BIM Collaborate is an innovative cloud-based software solution that links architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) teams, ensuring the realization of design intent while producing high-quality, buildable models in one unified platform. Keep track of design advancements to make informed decisions backed by valuable project insights. Utilize automatic clash detection to evaluate constructability efficiently. For design teams, BIM Collaborate Pro, which was previously known as BIM 360 Design (see the FAQ for more details), offers additional cloud collaboration features for simultaneous model co-authoring, including tools for Revit Cloud Worksharing, Collaboration for Civil 3D, and Collaboration for Plant 3D. Both Autodesk® BIM Collaborate and Autodesk® BIM Collaborate Pro facilitate streamlined connections between AEC teams, ultimately leading to better project outcomes. Strengthen communication channels with user-friendly feedback mechanisms, and speed up project timelines with the benefits of live design co-creation available exclusively in BIM Collaborate Pro. This comprehensive approach not only fosters teamwork but also enhances the overall efficiency of the design process.