For example, during years 5-6 it was ' all about filling in the big functional areas. think surfaces, corridor models and section sheets,' explained Simeone. With each release (Civil 3D is updated each year), the software evolved. Simeone admits that in its infancy, Civil 3D didn't have the critical workflows it has today. We also worked closely with the AutoCAD Architecture team to leverage a common object modeling system that allowed us to quickly implement modeling paradigms including 2D/3D object display, modeling relationships and more.' And because civil engineering projects are typically built on actual real-world locations, we opted to build on the functionality of AutoCAD Map 3D. Why was AutoCAD chosen as the foundation of Civil 3D?ĭan Simeone explains: ' We chose AutoCAD as our foundation because the need to deliver 2D submittal documents was absolutely critical and we didn’t see this changing in the near term.

It's also great at automating the process of creating production deliverables and reducing the time needed to react to changes as projects progress. Many of the problems that Civil 3D sought to solve 10 years ago are still relevant today.įor example, Civil 3D is designed to give engineeers a way to use design standards throughout the design process. Here's a snapshot of his observations and predictions:

Now, after a hiatus from the blogosphere, the eponymous Dan Simeone (Civil Product Manager at Autodesk) is back and sharing his thoughts over on the BIM on the Rocks blog on where we've come and what's ahead for AutoCAD Civil 3D. Accompanying the launch of Civil 3D was the popular Dan and Dave blog.

Softdesk was acquired by Autodesk, and Civil 3D was further evolved. The software was originally developed as an AutoCAD add-on by a company in New Hampshire called Softdesk (originally DCA). AutoCAD Civil 3D is 10 years old! Can you believe it?Īs with many Autodesk products, Civil 3D began life elsewhere.

Autodesk civil 3d software