Autodesk® Utility Design software helps utilities plan, design, analyze, and order materials for distribution networks faster, easier and accurately all in one solution. The software streamlines the design process with true rules-based automation by integrating the creation of construction sketches, performing engineering calculations to size facilities, and linking to ordering systems to create the correct material orders for new facilities. It also enables each utility to incorporate its design and construction standards and processes to ensure data accuracy and consistency.

Built on AutoCAD Map 3D

Autodesk Utility Design is built on AutoCAD® Map 3D, which incorporates AutoCAD, and contains all the features and capabilities of the products, including direct access to GIS files and databases through Feature Data Objects and native AutoCAD functionality.

Design Layout Tools

Tool palettes provide a simplified interface that saves the utility designer time. By using the palettes’ auto-hide and transparency features, the designer also gains valuable screen real estate, and sees more of the drawing at once. Because the working environment is AutoCAD, construction drawings can be generated quickly for use in the field.

Engineering Calculations and Reports

A comprehensive set of engineering tools, including automatic guying, voltage drop calculations, and clearance checking, help designers correctly size facilities.

Material Ordering

Simplify the ordering process with an automatically created electric material lists that is available on a “by location” basis. Integration into existing materials ordering systems enables users to make use of the organizations’ materials database directly in the design phase.

Detailed Cost Estimates

Generate a complete report of the material costs associated with the job. If the utility’s compatible units database includes labor estimates, the cost estimate for the job can also include labor costs.

Integrate with Work Management Systems

Autodesk Utility Design can be integrated into existing work management systems, allowing the designer, estimator, or planner, to directly generate work orders related to the design.

“Autodesk Utility Design removes tedious drafting chores and greatly improves performance. Now I can use Utility Design right out of the box without the modifications that were required with each upgrade. In addition, I don’t have to worry about toolbars taking up valuable space on my screen. And now that I can draw lines and label them simultaneously, it allows me to update information on the fly, and work much faster.”
—Pete Frates, Senior Electric Engineering Technician, City of Healdsburg