What AU means to me has definitely evolved over the years. The first couple of years was just taking classes. There was a year there that I worked at a booth i the exhibit hall. Now, to be speaking (just one class this year) or assisting with labs (I was busy assisting in five different labs this year).
I have gone as a representative/employee of large firms (HDR/VHB) and gone as a sole owner of a business (this was as a partner of a business of 4).
Because of this evolution, each year I learn something new and different and AU is looked at from a different perspective. So what did I learn this year?
A Civil .Net API Blog?
Based upon some of the classes, it seems that there is an interest in using the Civil 3D API by those guys coming up from VBA or even lisp. Yet, there really is not a resource yet for it. The call is for a Civil 3D .Net API blog. The question is do you want one? If so, what do you want to learn about on it?? You can write me at joshua.modglin AT inmotioncon.com (or post a comment here).
Part Builder
Part builder is always one of those things that no one seems to like to talk about. However, Cyndy Davenport along with Rad Lazic taught a class on how to use Part Builder called, "Join the Part Builder Skull and Bones Society”. I was impressed on how much they were able to cover in an hour. They kept it simple and yet detailed enough for those of us who have played with Part Builder.
Using Intersections
As always, Eric Chappell did a great job with his class called, "Real-World Intersections Using AutoCAD® Civil 3D®". I liked how he focused on each component of the intersection separately and how we can use each component WITHOUT the others. Just a little breakdown of what I mean:
- Centerline Profile Link
- The intersection object automatically creates a link between the centerline profiles. Use intersections JUST for this feature.
- Curb Return Alignments
- The intersection object allows you to add curb return alignments that tie the crossing offset alignments with DYNAMIC alignments. These alignments can be adjusted also to have additional length or even transitions.
- Linked offset and curb return profiles
- The intersection object not allow will create linked, dynamic offset and curb return alignments but also linked, dynamic profiles for these alignments.
None of the above involved using the complex (but powerful) add corridor option of the intersection object.
Best in Class – Survey
Jerry Bartels wins best in class this year in my opinion. His presentation on “Field to Finish": Sculpting a Better Figure” was seamless. It covered the many features of the Linework Code Sets and how to use their power to the full. Some great little tips and tricks, keeping it simple and yet fast and deep enough for the power users. Well done Jerry.
Next Year
Well, hopefully next year the labs (if not some of the classes) will be back to a 1.5 hour presentation. We will be back to the Venetian the week of November 29 to December 1.
Hope to see everyone there!!
I felt it was a good AU. I did continue to learn those little gems that help make it the class worth going to. I still feel there was not enough advanced sessions. I am really hoping that the sessions are moved back to an 1.5 hours. It seemed like there was a lot skimming when it came to certian topics. I know as a speaker that one thing that I will change next year if still at an hour per session is submitting a more pointed topic. I think that it would be easier to had topic rather than having too much topic and having to remove topic.
All and All it was a good AU maybe not the best but not the worst. I am happy to hear we will be back at the Venetian next year.
I concur with Mr. Dieziger’s comment. Although I was not able to make it to AU 2010 this year. I have typically learned more in the more focused classes.