Design X Tech: AI Innovations, AutoCAD 2026, Civil 3D Upgrades & More!
The only AEC email you need to read this week.
Design X Technology Weekly Brief – May 12, 2025
It only took until 2026, but Civil 3D can finally reference part of a surface. Somewhere, a TIN file just sighed in relief.
Here’s what else is happening in AEC + Design tech:
🧠 Insight of the Week
AI Adoption in Architecture is Accelerating
A new report from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) shows rapid AI adoption across the architecture industry. From automating design iterations to streamlining project management, firms are discovering how AI can support creativity and reduce busywork.
Article Link
🛠️ Tool of the Week: Scalera.ai
This Swiss startup is helping construction firms cut through admin clutter. Scalera uses AI to automate tendering, supplier evaluation, and quote requests. The result? Huge time savings and more accurate procurement.
Perfect for engineers and project managers juggling multiple bids or chasing down reliable vendors.
Link: Scalera.ai
📰 Headlines You Need to Know
1. AutoCAD 2026: Accelerate with Faster Performance, Autodesk AI, and Connected Design
AutoCAD 2026 is all about performance. File open times are up to 11× faster, startup is snappier, and AI tools like Smart Blocks improve efficiency. Even PDF output is cleaner and more accurate. If you're on the fence about upgrading — this one might be worth the jump.
2. Trimble’s Tekla Structures 2025 Adds AI and Collaboration Tools
Structural engineers rejoice: Tekla’s new version delivers AI-enhanced workflows and improved BIM collaboration. Model sharing, detailing, and conflict detection are smoother than ever. Especially powerful for multi-firm project teams.
3. Zaha Hadid Architects: Pioneering AI-Driven Design
The legendary firm is fully embracing AI, using tools like Midjourney and Stable Diffusion to supercharge concept design. They're generating futuristic forms, faster, a glimpse into how AI might reshape the role of architects and designers worldwide.
4. Civil 3D 2026 Introduces Partial Surface References (Huge!)
Finally! Civil 3D users can now reference just part of a surface in a data shortcut (DREF). This new partial surface reference feature means smaller files, faster loading, and way better performance on big corridor projects. Great for firms working on master plans or large transportation models.
⚡ Quick Tip of the Week
AutoCAD Power Move: Ctrl + Shift + C
Want more precision in your copying workflow? Use Ctrl + Shift + C to copy objects with a base point, making pasting a breeze when snapping to specific geometry. Saves time and keeps your layout locked in.
Learn how to easily Copy objects from one drawing to another
📚 XREFS (Links)
👀 What’s Next?
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