Connected Construction

Software specialist Bentley Systems has announced the nominees for its ccconstruction software innovation awards, being held in the UK in November 2015. The project finalists for the 2015 Be Inspired Awards highlight Bentley users advancing infrastructure design, construction, and operations throughout the world. Ten independent jury panels selected the 54 finalists from more than 360 nominations submitted by organisations in 55 countries.

Infrastructure software provider Bentley Systems has acquired Paris-based e-on software for an undisclosed amount. The company becomes a Bentley subsidiary and will continue to focus on creating 3-D virtual environments for highways as well as other major infrastructure projects. VUE and PlantFactory products are some of e-on’s main products used by computer graphics professionals in the media and entertainment, science and education industries.

Highway designers are increasingly asked to integrate cycle lanes and paths into their projects in major urban areas. And many commuting cyclists are grateful for it, too. But what happens when the cycle path ends, even if it is right outside the rider’s destination, such as his or her work place, be it an office building or factory? That last few metres are essential for completing the perfect commute. This means being able to park the bicycle in a secure environment.

Trimble is expanding with the acquisition of Norwegian firm Vianova Systems. The move brings Trimble additional capabilities in BIM, a key technology area. The financial terms were not disclosed. Vianova Systems is a pioneer in the development of software leveraging advanced BIM technology for the civil engineering market and infrastructure lifecycle management across infrastructure design. The company offers a portfolio of solutions for civil engineers, civil contractors and project owners. These solutions

It may be early days for using drones – unmanned aerial systems (UAS) -- to map construction sites, but technology and legislation are moving in that direction. At the moment drones can fly within only a 500m radius of the ‘pilot’ standing on the ground, making the flight area a 1km diameter. This is the key limiting issue for any sector, especially road construction, says Jonathan Gill, a robotics engineer and a qualified drone pilot for the past seven years.