The new XML-based import and export capabilities in the TRACEâ„¢ 700 and VariTraneâ„¢ Duct Designer software make transferring data between various design software programs easier, the company says. The new Green Building XML (Extensible Markup Language) definition (gbXML) standardizes building descriptions such as building orientation, construction methods and materials, partitions, zones, and mechanical systems. A standardized building model enables automated information exchange between CAD software such as AutoDeskâ„¢ building systems and the company's design and analysis tools. TRACE 700 users can import building details from CAD software to perform an energy analysis and can export the results to CAD software so those calculations are saved in the building model. The Duct Designer's XML interface, ddXML, imports air distribution details from the CAD building model, then exports the resulting duct sizes and pressure calculations.

Trane, 3600 Pammel Creek Rd., La Crosse, WI 54601; 608-787-3960; 608-787-3005 (fax); www.trane.com/commercial/software/index2.asp.

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