ENGtechnica

Author: Joydeep Kar

  • ZWSOFT CAD Solutions Recognized in G2’s Top 50 CAD & PLM List

    ZWSOFT CAD Solutions Recognized in G2’s Top 50 CAD & PLM List

    GUANGZHOU, China, Mar 3, 2025 – ZWSOFT has announced that its flagship products, ZWCAD and ZW3D, have been named to G2’s 2025 Best Software Awards, ranking among the top 50 in the CAD & PLM category. The recognition reinforces ZWSOFT’s commitment to empowering sustainable innovation with its all-in-one CAD/CAE/CAM solutions.

    It is to be noted that G2 reaches 100 million buyers annually. Its annual Best Software Awards rank the world’s best software companies and products based on authentic, timely reviews from real users. “The 2025 Best Software Award winners represent the best in the industry, standing out for their exceptional performance and customer satisfaction,” said Godard Abel, co-founder & CEO at G2.

     “We’re honored to see both ZWCAD and ZW3D recognized in G2’s 2025 Best Software Awards. It’s a testament to our continuous product innovation and dedication to customer satisfaction,” said Iris Chen, global brand communications manager at ZWSOFT. “We sincerely thank our users for their trust and feedback, which continue to drive us forward.”

     ZWCAD’s inclusion in G2’s 2025 Best Software Awards marks its second consecutive year of receiving this honor. In the past year, ZWCAD secured multiple prestigious recognitions, including Best Meets Requirements and Easiest Setup, while consistently ranking among the top three in G2’s Easiest to Use General-Purpose CAD list. For professionals in the AEC and manufacturing industries, ZWCAD remains a top choice due to its intuitive interface, powerful 2D and 3D capabilities, and seamless compatibility.

    For the first time, ZW3D has earned a place in G2’s Best Software Awards, demonstrating its rising status in the global CAD market. A powerful combination of features such as hybrid solid surface modeling, structural simulation, multi-axis machining, and AI-powered tools makes ZW3D an optimal tool for product developers.

    Image: ZWSoft

    G2’s 2025 Best Software Awards motivate the company to continue pushing the boundaries of its software to meet the evolving needs of designers and engineers worldwide.

    Source: ZWSOFT CO., LTD.

    About ZWSOFT

    ​ZWSOFT, founded in 1998, is a prominent Chinese CAD, CAM, and CAE solutions provider. Headquartered in Guangzhou, China, the company offers flagship products such as ZWCAD, a 2D CAD solution, and ZW3D, an integrated 3D CAD/CAM solution. The tools cater to manufacturing, architecture, engineering, construction, automotive, electronics, and education industries. ZWSOFT’s products are utilized by over 1.4 million users across more than 90 countries and regions, serving clients like CH. Karnchang, Deltamarin Poland, Dragados Offshore S.A., Hyundai KEFICO Vietnam, LG, and Siemens. The company has established six research and development centers globally, investing approximately 30% of its revenue into R&D over the years. As of 2024, ZWSOFT reported revenues of approximately CNY 874.63 million (around USD 137 million) and a net income of CNY 68.03 million (approximately USD 10.6 million). ​ ​As of December 31, 2023, ZWSOFT employed 2,118 individuals.

  • ABB Acquires Siemens’ Wiring Accessories Business in China

    ABB Acquires Siemens’ Wiring Accessories Business in China

    ZURICH, Switzerland, Mar 3, 2025 – ABB has announced that it has completed the acquisition of Siemens’ Wiring Accessories business in China to broaden ABB’s market reach and complement its regional customer offering within smart buildings. Generating over $150 million in revenue in 2024, the business adds a comprehensive product portfolio, a robust distribution network across 230 cities, and 350 skilled employees. The transaction was announced on May 17, 2024, and the financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

    The business will be margin accretive to ABB and expand ABB’s portfolio with wiring accessories, smart home systems, smart door locks, and further peripheral home automation products, which will continue with the Siemens brand under terms of a licensing agreement. ABB is positioned to deliver integrated solutions that improve energy efficiency, modernize buildings, and reduce carbon emissions by expanding its product range and distribution network.

    Mike Mustapha, president of ABB Electrification’s smart building division said, “This acquisition strengthens ABB’s position and commitment to growth in China’s wiring accessories market, complementing our smart buildings technologies portfolio and enabling us to meet evolving customer needs by creating safer, smarter and more sustainable buildings. We are perfectly positioned to offer a full range of wiring accessories, home and building automation, energy distribution and management solutions, to address major local challenges such as rapid urbanization, energy transition, electrification of buildings, decarbonization and advancing AI and digitalization.”

    Source: ABB

    About ABB

    ​ABB is a global technology leader specializing in electrification and automation, aiming to enable a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. Founded in 1988 through the merger of Sweden’s ASEA and Switzerland’s Brown, Boveri & Cie (BBC), ABB has more than 140 years of history. Headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, the company operates in over 100 countries and employs approximately 110,000 people worldwide. ABB’s offerings include products and services in electrification, robotics, automation, and motion, serving industries such as utilities, transportation, and infrastructure. In 2023, ABB reported revenues of $32.2 billion.

  • DigiKey, Ultra Librarian Link CAD to Component Procurement

    DigiKey, Ultra Librarian Link CAD to Component Procurement

    THIEF RIVER FALLS, MN, Mar 3, 2025 – DigiKey has announced a collaboration with Ultra Librarian. The collaboration connects the supply chain and design, giving engineers an integrated and contextual component discovery and procurement path inside the CAD environment.

    The collaboration integrates DigiKey‘s myLists with UItra Librarian’s UltraBOM bill of materials management tool, which gives designers access to quotes, prices, product availability, and lead times during the design process. Simplifying the design and purchasing workflow, the integration offers DigiKey’s parts to users of OrCAD Capture printed circuit board (PCB) software, who can send a bill of materials to DigiKey with the push of a button.

    myLists is DigiKey’s parts list management tool that consolidates bills of materials (BOMs), price and availability lists, and quotes. It allows users to share their BOMs with external team members or publicly. With customizable permissions, list owners can grant edit access or “view only” rights, ensuring everyone gets the necessary information without risking list integrity.

    “DigiKey and Ultra Librarian’s collaboration is helping engineers maximize their productivity and efficiency by connecting critical design data, enabling a contiguous digital thread from concept through production,” said Cody Walseth, digital product owner for DigiKey.

    “Connecting engineering with procurement and supply chain has traditionally been a manual post-design process,” said Manny Marcano, president of Ultra Librarian and Accelerated Designs Brand. “With the rate of change in design and the constant variability in the supply chain, a better process is needed to ensure engineering and procurement are in sync throughout the product development process. We are proud to work with the amazing team at DigiKey to enhance UltraBOM with myLists, giving the PCB design community a fully integrated path to production.”

    About Ultra Librarian

    ​Ultra Librarian, owned and operated by EMA Design Automation, provides online, cloud-based databases for CAD of printed circuit boards (PCBs). It offers over 16 million verified schematic symbols, PCB footprints, and 3D models, supporting more than 30 different CAD formats. This extensive library serves engineers and designers across various industries, including automotive, aerospace, medical devices, and consumer electronics, facilitating efficient and accurate PCB design processes. Ultra Librarian’s partnerships with numerous integrated circuit (IC) manufacturers ensure users can access up-to-date component information, streamlining the design workflow. The platform reaches over 325,000 PCB engineers each month, enhancing design efficiency and reducing time-to-market for new products.

    About DigiKey

    DigiKey, founded in 1972 by Ronald Stordahl, is a distributor of electronic components headquartered in Thief River Falls, MN. The company offers an inventory of over 15.9 million products, including integrated circuits, connectors, capacitors, resistors, and relays, catering to design engineers and manufacturers across industries such as automotive, aerospace, telecommunications, and consumer electronics. DigiKey serves customers in more than 180 countries, providing services like same-day shipping and a user-friendly online platform. As of 2023, the company reported annual revenues of approximately $5 billion and employed over 5,000 people. DigiKey’s commitment to innovation and customer service has solidified its position as a global leader in electronic component distribution.

  • CBM Appoints Maurice Spooner as Sheet Metal Specialist

    CBM Appoints Maurice Spooner as Sheet Metal Specialist

    The Confederation of British Metalforming (CBM) has strengthened its offer to its 200-strong membership base with a high-profile industrial appointment. Maurice Spooner, who has over forty years’ experience in manufacturing, has joined as the organization’s sheet metal specialist and will help companies involved in pressings and roll-formed products to navigate an increasingly complex business landscape.

    It is vital when considering the ongoing issues around the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and the possibility of rising energy prices again. The former Sertec Group and Lear Corporation expert is also keen to explore opportunities for diversification and new technology.

    Maurice Spooner

    “2025 promises to be a very interesting year for our members and the CBM will have an important role to make sure their voices are heard and the challenges they are facing are understood by the powers that be,” explained Maurice.

    “Sheet metal is our biggest sector of membership, and it will be my role to support these firms by helping with issues they face and ensuring they are aware of the full range of services we offer.”

    He continued: “I’m keen to visit as many as I can and have already been to three companies in my first few weeks. It’s great going inside factories, meeting the management teams and listening to what they need to be successful – both at home and abroad.”

    “There are plenty of challenges to navigate, but there are also significant opportunities for our members – we really do have some wonderful companies, innovating and producing components that help make the world go round.”

    Maurice Spooner started his career on the shop floor in 1981 and has been self-taught throughout, progressing to new model introduction engineer, into project management, and then commercial manager.

    This has predominantly been spent in the automotive sector working for Triplex Safety Glass, ITW Profit, Metal Pressings Group, and QFS.


    Two of his most significant achievements have been supporting the relocation of Lear Corporation’s manufacturing facility to the Black Country with zero quality defects and overseeing the introduction of the Discovery model at Sertec Group, involving 190+ different part numbers.

    “The CBM offers so many different services, from an active health and safety best practice forum to technical support from industry specialists and a wide range of energy services,” continued Maurice.

    “One of my key roles will be making our sheet metal members fully aware of all the different things they can tap into and encouraging them to support our lobbying by adding their voice to the work we are doing in Whitehall and with influential local MPs like Sarah Coombs.”

    Steve Morley, President of the CBM, added his support: “Maurice is a hugely experienced manufacturing specialist who understands what it is like at the coalface.

    “He will be a massive asset to our members and has the ability and contacts to bring more OEMs and tier 1s into the conversation, so we can ensure that the downstream supply chain is better connected and represented.”

    About The Confederation of British Metalforming

    ​The Confederation of British Metalforming (CBM), established in 1998, is the UK’s leading trade association for fasteners, forgings, pressings, cold-rolled, and sheet-metal products manufacturers. Headquartered at the National Metalforming Centre in West Bromwich, West Midlands, CBM serves aerospace, automotive, construction, defense, engineering, nuclear, offshore, and white goods industries. The organization offers its members a platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and skill development through tailored workshops and courses. CBM also represents the collective voice of metal forming manufacturers at the highest levels to influence legislation and raise industry profiles. Additionally, the association identifies business opportunities, facilitates partnerships with research centers like the Advanced Forming Research Centre, and monitors funding availability to support member companies. Specific financial details, such as annual revenue, are not publicly disclosed. ​CBM represents over 200 manufacturing companies across the UK covering sheet metal, fasteners, forging, cold head forging, and cold rolled sections. Together, they employ 70,000 people and boast a combined turnover of £26 billion.

  • Filtermist Appoints Graeme Bell as Global Business Dev Manager

    Filtermist Appoints Graeme Bell as Global Business Dev Manager

    Graeme Bell, New Global Business Development Manager

    Filtermist Ltd. has appointed Graeme Bell as its new global business development manager. The filtration expert will drive new opportunities in the APAC region – particularly in India and China.

    His role will involve increasing sales of the firm’s latest oil mist collectors and ancillary equipment in the countries it already serves in this area, developing new products specifically for these markets, and recruiting new distributors to the Filtermist network.

    Graeme has already visited customers in China, Korea, and India before being part of the Filtermist delegation that exhibited at the IMTEX exhibition, which was organized by the Indian Machine Tool Manufacturers’ Association (IMTMA) in Bangalore.

    “There is massive untapped potential in the APAC region, and this is something I have been brought in to explore,” explained Graeme, who has more than 30 years’ experience working in mist extraction and air pollution control.

    “The market is going to expand dramatically over the next five years. We’re seeing a lot of opportunities in automotive, aerospace and electronics – India, in particular, is becoming a really important manufacturing hub for the Asia Pacific region.”

    “Demand for our products and solutions is growing rapidly in this region, and we need additional resources on the ground to help educate and showcase some of our latest oil mist filtration technologies to new clients.”

    “As well as opportunities with local manufacturers, Western companies and blue-chip businesses all have health and safety protocols which they need to follow globally.”

    He went on to add: “Our established sales teams are doing a great job. My role is to support them in their ongoing activity, whilst adding the right new distributors to our network.”

    Established in 1969, Filtermist has sold its UK-manufactured oil mist collectors into the APAC region for over 35 years. Customers include precision engineers in automotive and aerospace, medical device manufacture and electronics, and companies that produce food and drink.

    Johanna Morris, Filtermist’s global commercial sales director, concluded: “Graeme is an important hire for our business and brings with him extensive industry experience at a senior level.”

    “This is the first time that we have had a dedicated Global Business Development Manager looking after the whole APAC region and demonstrates both our commitment to existing customers and to increasing our market share in this part of the world.”

    Source: Filtermist

    About Filtermist

    Filtermist, established in 1969 in Shropshire, UK, specializes in manufacturing oil mist collectors and filtration equipment. The products are designed to remove oil mist, coolant mist, fumes, and steam from manufacturing environments, ensuring cleaner and safer workplaces. The company serves a diverse range of industries, including automotive, aerospace, food production, medical device manufacturing, and general engineering. Headquarters in Telford, Shropshire, Filtermist operates globally, providing services in over 60 countries. As of December 2023, Filtermist Limited reported a turnover of £30.1 million, with net assets totaling £7.1 million. The company employs approx. 250 staff members. In 2019, Filtermist was acquired by Absolent Air Care Group, a Swedish air cleaning equipment manufacturer, further enhancing its global reach and product offerings.

  • Silicon Labs Unveils MG26: Future-Ready Wireless SoC for IoT

    Silicon Labs Unveils MG26: Future-Ready Wireless SoC for IoT

    The Silicon Labs MG26 SoC is ideal for Matter smart home devices like smart lighting, switches, and sensors.

    AUSTIN, TX, Mar 3, 2025 – Silicon Labs has announced that its MG26 family of wireless SoCs is available through Silicon Labs and its distribution partners. As the industry’s enhanced, high-performance Matter and concurrent multiprotocol solution to date, the MG26 SoC features double the Flash and RAM of other Silicon Labs multiprotocol devices, advanced AI/ML processing, and enhanced security to empower developers to design future-proof Matter applications.

    “With MG26, we’re not just setting a new standard in multiprotocol wireless performance for battery-based, low-power smart home applications—we’re redefining what’s possible for the future of IoT connectivity with Matter,” said Jacob Alamat, senior vice president for the Home and Life business unit at Silicon Labs. “This device empowers developers to create smarter, safer, and more powerful solutions in an increasingly connected world.”

    Further enhancing security through its Custom Part Manufacturing Service (CPMS), Silicon Labs is the only Matter SoC device maker that allows customers to customize their order with their own Matter device attestation certificates (DAC), simplifying and accelerating product launches using Silicon Labs Matter-enabled SoCs while preventing IP theft and counterfeiting.

    MG26 SoC Powers Advanced IoT Applications and Matter

    The MG26 SoC advances Matter adoption with its concurrent multiprotocol capabilities, enabling integration of various Smart Home and Building devices like LED lighting, switches, sensors, and locks into both Matter and Zigbee networks simultaneously. This allows users to create automation and routines incorporating more devices across different ecosystems.

    In addition, MG26’s AI/ML capabilities using its embedded accelerator also enhance its performance in critical tasks like predictive maintenance, anomaly detection, keyword detection, vision, and an increasing number of applications that span across the IoT. To help developers build devices capable of running advanced IoT applications, the MG26 family offers:

    • Higher compute in a multicore format with an ARM Cortex-M33 CPU and dedicated cores for the radio and security subsystems, freeing up the main core for customer applications.
    • Doubled Flash, RAM, and GPIO capacity compared to the MG24 device family, allowing IoT device builders to develop advanced edge applications that use accurate machine learning models. This enhances performance and enables processing of bigger machine learning tasks, such as high-resolution vision.
    • Embedded AI/ML hardware acceleration, enabling up to 8x faster processing of machine learning algorithms using as little as 1/6th the power compared to running on the CPU. Silicon Labs’ new AI/ML Developer Journey provides an easy on-ramp for developers to start building new models to take advantage of this processing power.
    • Best-in-class security with Silicon Labs Secure Vault and ARM TrustZone, compliant with all Matter security requirements.
      • Using Silicon Labs Custom Part Manufacturing Service, MG26 devices can also be programmed with a customer matter device attestation certificate (DAC), security keys, and other features on demand during the fabrication process, further hardening them against vulnerabilities.
      • Secure OTA firmware updates, in conjunction with Secure Boot, prevent the installation of malicious software and allow for vulnerability patching.
    • Concurrent Multiprotocol, enabling the ability to run both Zigbee and Matter over Thread at the same time, simplifying SKU management for the product manufacturer and ease of use for the end user.
    • Industry-leading RF performance to energy-efficiency ratio, with a transmission power of up to +19.5 dBm and receiver sensitivity with ultra-low TX, RX, and sleep currents, enables battery-powered IoT devices with enhanced wireless performance.

    Setting the Industry Standard for Developing with Matter

    Consumers want Matter devices that are secure, interoperable, and user-friendly. Austrian smart lock manufacturer Nuki, set to debut in the U.S. market in 2025, chose Silicon Labs as Matter partner for their latest Smart Lock. This partnership aims to establish dependable and efficient connectivity. Nuki’s newest electronic lock is the first to be compatible with European doors and US deadbolts. Silicon Labs’ Matter-ready SoCs empower Nuki’s smart locks to function for extended durations without frequent battery changes, support various wireless protocols through Matter, and ensure seamless connectivity to home networks.

    The sleek stainless steel body of Nuki is complemented by a set of two black and white switchable base rings.

    “Silicon Labs’ Matter-ready SoCs enable us to bring super compact, battery-driven devices with parallel support for several communication protocols to the market,” said Jürgen Pansy, co-founder and chief innovation officer of Nuki. “Our latest innovation, the award-winning Smart Lock, supports Matter via Thread using Silicon Labs hardware that saves energy and space in the lock’s design to allow for additional connectivity integrations like Bluetooth LE and Wi-Fi.”

    Silicon Labs Leads the Way in Matter Expansion

    Since its early announcement in 2024, MG26 has been recognized globally for its impressive capabilities, winning industry awards such as the Embedded Computing Design’s Best in Show Award and  IoT Evolution World’s 2024 Product of the Year.

    The Matter ecosystem is expected to grow substantially due to new device types, improved security, and industry collaboration. As the top semiconductor code contributor to Matter, Silicon Labsis pleased to be involved in this expansion.

    Learn more about how to develop cutting-edge Matter- and AI/ML-enable devices using Silicon Labs below:

    Source: Silicon Labs

    About Silicon Labs

    ​Silicon Laboratories Inc., commonly known as Silicon Labs, is a fabless semiconductor company specializing in secure, intelligent wireless technology for a more connected world. Founded in 1996 and headquartered in Austin, TX, Silicon Labs offers a portfolio of microcontrollers, sensors, and wireless system-on-chips (SoCs) that cater to sectors, including industrial automation, consumer electronics, and automotive industries. The company focuses on microcontrollers (MCUs), wireless system-on-chips (SoCs), and modules. In 2023, Silicon Labs reported revenues of $782 million. As of 2024, Silicon Labs employs approximately 1,889 individuals. With a global presence spanning North America, Europe, and Asia, Silicon Labs continues to innovate in the IoT infrastructure, providing integrated hardware and software platforms that empower developers to create wirelessly connected devices, transforming industries and improving lives.

  • Dassault Unveils SOLIDWORKS SkillForce

    Dassault Unveils SOLIDWORKS SkillForce

    VELIZY-VILLACOUBLAY, France, Mar 3, 2025 – Dassault Systèmes has announced the launch of SOLIDWORKS SkillForce, its new global initiative to provide licenses of its SOLIDWORKS applications to students participating in internships to gain real-world work experience. SOLIDWORKS SkillForce will enhance the capabilities of students, companies, and the industry by training the upcoming workforce with design, engineering, and manufacturing skills required to thrive in the generative economy.

    Through SOLIDWORKS SkillForce, Dassault Systèmes will provide SOLIDWORKS licenses to students who have earned their Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate (CSWA) certification and are participating in a 3–6-month internship or co-op program. This ensures that students have access to the applications for the duration of their work-based learning experiences, allowing them to apply their verified skills directly in professional environments. By providing software licenses to student interns, the initiative supports the companies hosting them by removing barriers to software access and fostering an efficient and productive internship experience.

    As technology reshapes the way the world works and jobs continue to evolve, students can prepare for and achieve their CSWA certification, bring their own SOLIDWORKS license during internships, and gain industry experience that enhances their career prospects. Businesses can benefit from interns with this certification and access, resulting in a higher skill level and increased productivity.

    The program also seeks to bridge the engineering talent gap by providing students with practical experience in AI-driven virtual twin technologies utilized by numerous industries while motivating others to obtain CSWA certification as a professional qualification.

    “We are committed to nurturing the workforce of the future by equipping our student community with the skills they need to build a strong career path and succeed professionally,” said Gian Paolo Bassi, senior vice president, customer role experience, Dassault Systèmes. “SOLIDWORKS SkillForce bridges the gap between education and industry by ensuring that student interns and co-op participants can use SOLIDWORKS applications on real projects, in real companies, and make real impact.”

    Dassault Systèmes announced SOLIDWORKS SkillForce at 3DEXPERIENCE World, its annual event for the SOLIDWORKS and 3DEXPERIENCE platform user communities. Students attending the event can connect with industry leaders in design, engineering, and manufacturing and visit the 3DEXPERIENCE Edu zone in the 3DEXPERIENCE playground to discover applications, demos, and career advice.   The SOLIDWORKS SkillForce initiative will officially launch on April 15.

    Source: Dassault Systèmes

    About Dassault Systèmes

    Dassault Systèmes SE, founded in 1981 and headquartered in Vélizy-Villacoublay, France, is a leading multinational software corporation specializing in 3D design, digital mock-up, and product lifecycle management (PLM) solutions. The company has pioneered virtual worlds to improve real life for consumers, patients, and citizens. It offers a comprehensive suite of software applications, including CATIA for product design, SOLIDWORKS for 3D mechanical design, DELMIA for manufacturing operations, and SIMULIA for realistic simulation. The tools serve a wide range of industries, such as aerospace, automotive, consumer goods, industrial equipment, life sciences, and high-tech. As of 2023, Dassault Systèmes employs approximately 23,811 individuals across 194 global offices. In 2023, the company reported revenues of €5.67 billion, reflecting its significant presence in the software industry. As of 2024, Dassault Systèmes serves over 350,000 enterprise customers across more than 150 countries.

  • LPA Design Director Matthew Porreca Joins AIA College of Fellows

    LPA Design Director Matthew Porreca Joins AIA College of Fellows

    Matthew Porreca, FAIA, Design Director with LPA Design Studios

    IRVINE, CA, Feb 28, 2025 – LPA Design Director Matthew Porreca has been elevated to the College of Fellows of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), an honor recognizing architects who have made contributions to the profession and society. Porreca is the sixth LPA leader honored with Fellow status.

    Based in LPA’s San Diego studio, Porreca was selected for his decades-long commitment to innovation, sustainability and integrating health and wellness strategies into higher education, commercial, mixed use, healthcare and housing projects. His work prioritizes passive design strategies as a foundation for high-performance buildings, demonstrating that sustainability and design excellence are inseparable.

    “For almost 30 years, Matthew has worked with clients to push the boundaries of sustainable design, setting new benchmarks for performance and innovation across a diverse portfolio,” says LPA CEO Wendy Rogers, FAIA. “His design process demonstrates the critical role designers play in creating healthier and more efficient projects.”

    Porreca’s leadership in net-zero, all-electric design has been instrumental in shaping LPA’s portfolio and developing the “we-don’t-do-this-alone” culture. The AIA recognized LPA with the 2025 AIA Architecture Firm Award, the highest national honor given to an architectural practice, hailing the firm as “a trailblazer in sustainable, high-performance design.”

    “Matthew exemplifies the leadership that spurs us to push the boundaries of what’s possible in sustainable architecture,” says LPA president and chief design officer Keith Hempel, FAIA. “Matthew is always looking for the innovation, the extra design element that will make a project spectacular.”

    As design director, Porreca leads integrated, research-driven teams focused on designing around performance, wellness, community and experience on every project, regardless of scale or budget. His projects include downtown San Diego’s first LEED Platinum and net zero energy office building (Makers Quarters); the first net-zero community college project in California designed to achieve Living Building Petal certification (Palomar College M+O); the largest naturally ventilated building in Southern California (Pacific Center Research and Development); and, most recently, the largest steel modular project on the West Coast (El Cerrito Permanent Supportive Housing). He has championed all-electric buildings at institutions such as UC Berkeley and UC San Diego, helping to lead major campus-wide shifts toward decarbonization.

    Earlier in his career, Porreca contributed to a series of landmark projects that shaped his approach as a design architect, working alongside masters in the field. In Kansas City, he worked with Moshe Safdie on the design of a world-class performing arts venue, recognized for its iconic form and acoustical excellence (Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts), and with Steven Holl on an expansion of a major art museum that redefined the integration of contemporary and historic architecture (Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art). His research collaboration with the Salk Institute for Biological Studies furthered his focus on designing environments that support human health, a theme that continues to inform his work today.

    Porreca’s work has been recognized with 75 design awards in the last decade, including 28 AIA component awards and 12 national and international honors.

    “This honor from the AIA is recognition of the extraordinary work of my colleagues, clients and communities,” Porreca says. “I am honored to work with so many talented and passionate designers, and I want to thank them all for this recognition.”

    Source: LPA, Inc.

    About LPA, Inc.

    LPA, Inc., established in 1965, is an integrated design firm headquartered in Irvine, CA. The company offers a range of services, including architecture, engineering, interior design, landscape architecture, and master planning. Serving diverse sectors such as education, healthcare, corporate, and civic markets, LPA put emphasis on sustainable and collaborative design solutions. Operating from six studios across CA and TX, the firm employs over 400 professionals. As of recent reports, LPA employs over 400 professionals across its studios. The firm’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its achievement of a 78.7% predicted energy use reduction across more than 6.2 million square feet of projects in 2022.

    About AIA College of Fellows

    The American Institute of Architects (AIA) College of Fellows, established in 1952, is a distinguished body recognizing architects who have made significant contributions to the profession and society. Comprising less than 3% of AIAs over 98,000 members, the esteemed professionals are granted the FAIA designation, reflecting their achievements in design excellence, education, and public service. The College aims to foster shared interests among Fellows, advance architectural practice, mentor emerging architects, and enhance societal service. Governed by an Executive Committee, the College also offers initiatives like the Latrobe Prize, a biennial $100,000 research grant supporting advancements in architecture. While the College itself doesn’t generate revenue, it operates under the umbrella of the AIA, headquartered in Washington, D.C.

  • Transoft Solutions Launches AirTOP 2025

    Transoft Solutions Launches AirTOP 2025

    Image: Transoft

    Transoft Solutions has launched AirTOP 2025, the latest version of its fast-time simulation software. AirTOP is a powerful tool for airport and airspace planners and operators who want to efficiently design and operate airport terminal facilities, airfields, and airspace.

    AirTOP 2025 brings new features that improve the accuracy and realism of airport operations and analysis. It includes a DWG importer for faster file imports and a new set of terminal reports. The reports have a summary table to help users compare against the IATA Level of Service (LoS) without facing any issues. The software also offers smoother navigation for panning, rotating, and zooming. Updates to the Airside Aircraft module ensure compliance with security rules for towing and departing aircraft. Additionally, improvements to the AIXM importer help prevent duplication, save time, and simplify workflows. Below are some of the key highlights in this release.

    New features

    All modules | Workflow streamlines as DWG files can now be imported directly into AirTOP without requiring any prior conversion to SHP format.

    Terminal | A new set of automatically generated reports added to the AirTOP Reporter includes a summary table for comparing results against the IATA LoS.

    Improved features

    All modules | It is now possible to review the changes that will be applied when importing an AIXM before the changes are committed, simplifying the model maintenance and workflow.

    Terminal | 3D enhancements in panning, rotating, and zooming commands improve navigation, for example with vertical exaggeration between floors.

    Airside Aircraft | An update in Stand Off Positions for departing and towing aircraft supports operational practices at certain airports, particularly in the US, to comply with security requirements.

    Airside Aircraft | Improved Push Back Clearance help users manage pushback clearances with greater precision.

    Runway Capacity Analyzer | A new chart that shows the average Delay vs Throughput when selecting multiple analyses has been added to improve results.

    TMA/TRACON | The improved AIXM importer prevents duplicate element creation (e.g., SIDLegs) by reusing existing objects to reduce modeling time and simplify the process of updating existing models.

    Seamlessly enhancing airport and airspace operations

    AirTOP is an indispensable resource for airport planners and operators focused on designing and managing terminal facilities, airfields, and airspace. The latest version highlights Transoft’s commitment to improving design processes while maintaining safety and compliance standards. The software includes integrated modules that enable users to create and simulate all aspects within AirTOP.

    Source: Transoft Solutions

    About Transoft Solutions

    Transoft Solutions, founded in 1991 and headquartered in Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, specializes in developing advanced CAD-based software solutions for professionals in aviation, civil infrastructure, and transportation sectors. Their product portfolio includes tools for vehicle-swept path analysis, road and intersection design, site planning, airport modeling, and airspace simulation. Serving over 50,000 customers across more than 150 countries, their clientele encompasses government agencies, engineering firms, and international airports. Transoft has expanded its global presence with offices in the U.S., Australia, the Netherlands, the UK, Belgium, Germany, France, Sweden, Spain, India, and China. In October 2024, they acquired Advanced Mobility Analytics Group (AMAG), enhancing their video-based traffic safety analytics capabilities. The company employs over 180 professionals worldwide, representing over 45 nationalities across 18 countries.

  • Creaform Launches Scan-to-CAD Pro to Simplify Reverse Engineering

    Creaform Launches Scan-to-CAD Pro to Simplify Reverse Engineering

    LÉVIS, Québec, Feb 28, 2025 – Creaform, a business of AMETEK, Inc. and global provider of automated and portable 3D measurement solutions, announced the release of Scan-to-CAD Pro, a new application module integrated within the Creaform Metrology Suite. It has been specifically designed to streamline and enhance reverse engineering workflows with a more concise approach.

    Initially launched in 2014, Creaform’s Scan-to-CAD software module is a popular 3D scan data processing software that creates a simple, easy-to-use bridge between the 3D scan acquisition and the CAD or rapid prototyping (3D printing) software. Now available in two versions, both the standard Scan-to-CAD module and the new Scan-to-CAD Pro module come ready with advanced algorithms to extract information from meshes, flexible alignment, optimized mesh editing tools, and selection capabilities. The new addition offers professionals another option to ensure it aligns well with their reverse engineering workflow.

    With new features, including 2D sketching and 3D modeling tools, the new Scan-to-CAD Pro acts like a seamless gateway between 3D scanning and CAD software, such as SolidWorks. Scan-to-CAD Pro accelerates the transformation of 3D scan data into a detailed CAD model. In some instances, it allows the entire process to be completed within a single software module. This tool makes it easier to extract features and create CAD models from 3D scan data. As a result, manufacturers can save time and improve product design for an exact fit right from the start. There’s no need for lengthy design revisions, especially with complex geometries. With Scan-to-CAD Pro and the adaptability of Creaform’s 3D scanners, companies can streamline the process between 3D scanning and CAD software, speeding up their path to market.

    “Before, users struggled to turn raw scan data to a usable CAD file,” explained David Robichaud, product manager at Creaform. “Now, Scan-to-CAD Pro offers the most intuitive reverse engineering toolkit for mechanical engineers and designers. Scan-to-CAD Pro democratizes reverse engineering processes for businesses and users who do not want to invest time and resources in advanced CAD software. It’s truly a market game changer.” Designed to get the most out of the Creaform scanners, the new Scan-to-CAD Pro application module provides a user experience that only Creaform can offer. “As 3D scanning pioneers with over 20 years of experience, an exceptional customer service and constant innovation,” explains Fanny Truchon, President of Creaform, “we have become a recognized powerhouse in reverse engineering and offer a complete 360° 3D solution second to none.”

    Source: Creaform

    About Creaform

    Founded in 2002, Creaform specializes in developing and manufacturing portable 3D measurement technologies and engineering services. Their product lineup includes 3D scanners, portable coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), automated quality control solutions, and optical coordinate measuring systems. The tools serve applications like 3D scanning, reverse engineering, quality control, non-destructive testing, product development, and numerical simulation. Creaform’s solutions are utilized across multiple industries, including automotive, aerospace, consumer products, heavy industries, manufacturing, oil and gas, power generation, and research and education. Creaform operates in over 85 countries through 14 local offices and a network of more than 125 distributors. In 2013, AMETEK, a global industrial technology provider, acquired the company. As of 2023, Creaform employs approximately 527 individuals.