Skidmore, Owings & Merrill's Structural Engineering Group Chooses Altair Engineering's HyperWorks OptiStruct Software for Structural Development
Advanced topology optimization tool streamlines building design process for global architectural and engineering firm
TROY, Mich., (May 9, 2007) - Altair Engineering, Inc., a leading global provider of technology and services that strengthen client innovation and decision-making, today announced that the Structural Engineering Group of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP (SOM) has chosen Altair's OptiStruct and other HyperWorks tools to provide advanced optimization technology for the structural development of its landmark buildings. The HyperWorks framework, of which OptiStruct is a part, is an integrated suite of advanced computer-aided engineering (CAE) tools for product design.
SOM, one of the world's leading architecture, urban design, engineering and interior architecture firms, is widely recognized for sophistication in building technology applications and its commitment to design quality. The firm's portfolio features some of the most important architectural accomplishments in this century, including Chicago's Sears Tower and John Hancock Tower, as well as the Burj Dubai tower in Dubai, U.A.E., which is currently under construction. When completed, it will be the world's tallest building.
"SOM is extremely proud of its reputation for designing unique, highly functional buildings that transform natural forms into extraordinarily beautiful architectural composition," said Alessandro Beghini, Ph.D., of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill's Chicago office. "We are confident that HyperWorks OptiStruct can streamline the advanced finite-element analysis process that is critical to the successful structural engineering of these buildings."
HyperWorks OptiStruct is finite element-based software for conceptual design, analysis and optimization. Using topology and topology optimization methods, OptiStruct enables engineers to develop reliable, structurally efficient designs from package space information in significantly less time than traditional methods. Especially when integrated early in the development process, OptiStruct's powerful solver intelligently predicts, validates and refines designs that result in robust, innovative outcomes.
"Architectural and structural engineers can now take full advantage of advanced CAE technology to promote creativity and reduce cycle time in the building development process," said Jeff Brennan, vice president of Altair's HyperWorks business group. "Altair is delighted that a prestigious, global architectural and engineering firm like SOM has recognized the benefits of OptiStruct in improving structural design, and we look forward to supporting the evolution of incorporating this technology into the building design process."
About Altair HyperWorks
Altair HyperWorks is an integrated CAE framework containing best-in-class solutions for the complete virtual product development process. HyperWorks not only contains powerful finite-element and multi-body simulation solutions, it also delivers an open, programmable platform that is easy to integrate into existing processes. From modeling and assembly, to visualization and reporting, to virtual manufacturing and robustness assessment, HyperWorks' powerful interface system to all major CAD and CAE packages is the foundation for a truly integrated simulation-driven design process. It can also help bring highly engineered products to market faster.
About Skidmore, Owings & Merrill
Founded in 1936, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP (SOM) is one of the world's leading architecture, urban design, engineering and interior architecture firms, with work ranging from the architectural design and engineering of individual buildings to the master planning and design of entire communities. With an international reputation for design excellence, SOM has completed more than 10,000 projects in more than 50 countries, including Chicago's Sears Tower and Lever House, a NYC office building that set new standards for office design around the world. It is the only such organization to twice win the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Firm Award, the highest honor for design excellence in a collaborative practice. Over its 70-year history, SOM has received more awards than any other American design firm.
About Altair Engineering
Altair Engineering, Inc. strengthens client innovation and decision-making through technology that optimizes the analysis, management and visualization of business and engineering information. Privately held with more than 1,200 employees, Altair has offices throughout North America, South America, Europe and Asia/Pacific. With a 20-year-plus track record for product design, advanced engineering software and grid computing technologies, Altair consistently delivers a competitive advantage to customers in a broad range of industries. To learn more, please visit
www.altair.com.