Autodesk University explores building ‘more, better, with less’ in the region

The sixth edition of Autodesk University hosted over 500 architects, designers and engineers and focused on ‘building more, better with less’. The two-day event showed attendees how their peers are using emerging technologies such as generative design, augmented and virtual reality, robotics and additive manufacturing.

The event also shared insights into new advances in cloud technology such as Fusion 360 and BIM 360.

“As we step into the new age of the fourth industrial revolution, it is critically important to understand the tremendous manifold challenges that we face today, and how latest technologies are disrupting the way we make things. Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, virtual reality and 3D printing will herald a new era of making things. At Autodesk, our goal is to help people to thrive in this new era, and this is our driving impetus for pioneering new paradigms across industries,” said Louay Dahmash, head of Autodesk Middle East.

BuroHappold and SSH who are working on the Museum of the Future and Kuwait’s International Children’s Hospital respectively shared insights into how BIM, VR and cloud computing have helped develop complex and ground-breaking designs.

Talking about Dubai’s position as the driver for change in the region, Lynelle Cameron, VP of Sustainability at Autodesk shared her vision for the Future of Making Things and how Autodesk will help customers build more, better, with less negative impact on the world. Tatjana Dzambazova, AI strategist at the Office of CTO Autodesk discussed the role of AI in revolutionising the manufacturing and construction industries in the region, including the UAE’s announcement to use AI in all federal road projects and how that could transform the way infrastructure projects are carried out in the country.

Attendees also had the opportunity to explore the Autodesk Gallery to observe stories of design and engineering from across the globe that gave an in-depth look as to how Autodesk has helped talented individuals imagine, design and make a better world. Autodesk also showcased how VR and real-time technologies are bringing architectural designs to life all, while exploring insights in the Gulf region on the value of BIM and what factors are holding back entities from adopting it.

“What we see happening today in the construction industry is a transformation into one that is more creative, inclusive and sustainable. This should fill all of us with a sense of optimism about taking the steps in the right direction. Let’s together aim to build more, better, with less,” added Dahmash.