<p>Autodesk is an American multinational software company founded in 1982. The Company creates software tools for use in the architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing, media and entertainment industries. Basically Autodesk makes software for people who make things.<p>
<p>One of their most well-known products, AutoCAD, is a computer-aided design platform used to model buildings and vehicles, such as Tesla cars. Other products include Sketchbook, Homestyler, Pixlr and Autodesk Inventor, which is used for digital prototyping. These software packages are used to visualize, simulate, and analyze real world performance using digital modelling during the design process. These platforms are also used to create visual effects, to edit and animate, and to develop games and visuals. Autodesk products are relatively pricey but the Company makes free student versions available to qualified academic institutions and non profits.</p>
<p>In its San Francisco office, Autodesk has a gallery of some of its customers’ products. Countless exhibits, all passionately presented by Mary Stevens, our knowledgeable tour guide. We had the opportunity to discover many examples of what Autodesk software products can do.<p>
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<li>For instance, we were all impressed by Soccket, a soccer ball that harnesses energy when playing with it. Half and hour of play will give you 3 hours of light – a great invention for people living in resource-deprived areas.</li>
<li>Another example of the incredible rise of technology is the MX3D Bridge. The aim of this project is to build a fully functional steel bridge over water with 3D printing. Autodesk is providing technology and expertise to the MX3D project team from conceptualization through to fabrication.</li>
<li>Yet another example is how Autodesk worked with James Cameron to make his groundbreaking film ‘Avatar’. The film’s special CGI was created using the Autodesk Character Generator, a two lens camera system that is able to locate actors in a real and computer generated environment at the same time, which helped tremendously with the production of the film. </li>
<li>Lastly, you can build a micro-sized project in the Design & Make Studio housed in the Autodesk Gallery.</li>
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<p>Autodesk is everywhere, so don’t hesitate to have a look at their websites to see what they’re offering. You can also participate in one of their events. If you are in San Francisco, we recommend you to visit the Autodesk Gallery, we had a great time there! </p>
<p>Last but not least, did you know that Autodesk helped build the Shanghai Tower using the BIM (Building Information Modelling) platform? They used it to visualize the virtual building in 3D and and to analyze the design for decision making. So what do you think of Autodesk? </p>