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Autodesk University Extension Dubai 2014 Opens

More than 1000 top design, engineering professionals, and students to attend 3rdedition of AUx Dubai, one of Middle East’s premier learning and networking event
Dubai, UAE, December 17th, 2014 – The third edition of Autodesk University Extension (AUx) Dubai 2014, the Middle East region’s premier learning and networking event for design and engineering professionals, is set to open today at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC)–with the hope of attracting more than 1,000 participants from all over the terrain. Organized by Omnix International, a leading distributor of Autodesk design software in the UAE, this year’s edition promise participants a full day worth of interactive workshops, demonstrations, sessions and an exhibition, which is being held under the theme, ‘Learn, Connect, Explore.’ AUx Dubai 2014 has received enthusiastic response from the industry with top IT brands like Lenovo (Platinum); HP (Gold), Canon (Gold); Dell, NVIDIA, and AGA CAD (Silver) endorsing the event.
Sessions to be held today include showcase of futuristic 3D Design technologies, engaging training sessions and projects done using 3D Design Technologies. It will also offer professionals the opportunity to network with international experts and peers across the industry. In addition, AUx Dubai will also provide opportunity to industry professionals and students to validate their skills by obtaining free Autodesk Certifications at the event on Autodesk’s key range of 3D Design software like Autodesk® Revit® Architecture, Autodesk® AutoCAD Civil 3D®, AutoCAD®, Autodesk® 3ds Max®, Autodesk® Inventor® Professional.

“We are delighted to bring you the third edition of Autodesk University Extension Dubai,” said Louay Dahmash, Head, Autodesk Middle East. “AUx Dubai will help design and engineering professionals to learn new technologies, deepen their industry connect and enhance their skills and boost the creative economy in the region. We are happy at the enthusiastic response from the industry and look forward to an increased number of attendees at this year’s event.”
Jon Pittman, Vice President, Corporate Strategy, Autodesk Inc. giving the key note address at ‘Autodesk University Extension Dubai 2014’
Today’s sessions will feature talks and presentations from some of the world’s leading design experts and professionals including,
  • Jon Pittman, Vice President, Corporate Strategy, Autodesk, Inc.
  • Lynn Allen, Cadalyst Columnist and Autodesk Technical Evangelist, Autodesk
  • Robert Green, Owner, Robert Green Consulting
  • Gerry McFadden, BIM Manager, WSP Group
  • Alex Horst, Product Specialist, Autodesk
  • Tony Archibold, Design Director, Bluehaus Group
  • Dave Evans, Technical Specialist, Autodesk
  • Ayman Nicola, Technical Sales Lead Engineer, Autodesk
Participants will be able to choose from numerous industry sessions covering a wide range of interesting topics and subjects which among others includes:
  • Tips & Tricks in using the new AutoCAD® 2015 the latest version of the world’s top drafting and architectural software
  • Training session on Autodesk® BIM for infrastructure that would focus on how Autodesk BIM solutions help you plan, design, build and manage an infrastructure project from start to finish
  • Session on how to simplify your designs while gaining hands on experience with the Free Form Modeling resource in the Autodesk Inventor® software
  • Session on industry leading 3ds Max® 3D modeling software and how it helps accelerate performance, streamline workflows and help increase overall productivity
“AUx Dubai 2014 could not have come at a better time–as the Middle East region is currently witnessing a large influx of construction and development projects wherein companies are looking at Autodesk and its diverse range of software to gain competitive advantages and meet customer demands. Aiming to address these demands, AUx Dubai 2014 has positioned itself as a cost-effective venue to receive advanced training, certification, learnings on important industry trends and networking to meet potential clients and collaborators,” concluded Dr Jayant Deshpande, Director – CAE Division, Omnix International.
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About Autodesk
Autodesk helps people imagine, design and create a better world. Everyone—from design professionals, engineers and architects to digital artists, students and hobbyists—uses Autodesk software to unlock their creativity and solve important challenges. For more information visit autodesk.com or follow @autodesk
Autodesk, AutoCAD, Inventor, Navisworks, AutoCAD Civil 3D Revit and 3ds Max are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates in the USA and/or other countries. Autodesk is not responsible for typographical or graphical errors that may appear in this document. 


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HBMSU launches digital version of ‘Those Who Inspire: UAE’ book for learners & staff in the presence of French authors

In collaboration with the Office of H.H. the Crown Prince of Dubai and in line with University’s efforts to enrich knowledge & promote culture of creativity
   
The book documents experiences of 60 innovative Emiratis to inspire future generations and highlights citizens’ role in driving UAE’s cultural, intellectual and humanitarian development

[UAE, December 8, 2014] – Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU) has launched the digital edition of the book, ‘Those Who Inspire: UAE,’ authored and published by French nationals Delphine Barets and Marlene Plomik. HBMSU’s learners and staff will be able to access the digital edition at the university’s e-library and Virtual Executive Club. The venture is part of a joint initiative between the book’s authors and the Office of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council and President of HBMSU. The two parties aim to pass on knowledge about Emirati culture to the local community and inspire the younger generation to pursue excellence, leadership and creativity in a bid to position the UAE among the world’s developed countries.

Attending the launching of the book’s digital version were H.E. Saif Bin Markhan Al Ketbi, Director General of the Office of H.H. the Crown Prince of Dubai, Dr. Mansoor Al Awar, HBMSU Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Board of the UNESCO Institute for Information Technologies in Education (IITE), Dr. Khalid Mohammed Al
Zahed, CEO of Strategy and Development Sector of the Office of H.H. the Crown Prince, and authors Barets and Plomik.
The newly launched book, which celebrates the successful accomplishments of 60 successful Emiratis, was received positively in the UAE. It acts as an inspiration for excellence and leadership in the administrative, economic, artistic, medical, sports, charitable, humanitarian, and various other segments.
Dr. Al Awar thanked the Dubai Crown Prince’s Office for entrusting the digital edition to HBMSU. He lauded the book for portraying some of the most inspiring experiences of select Emiratis. He also commended the book for reflecting the high level of excellence and creativity that the Emirati community has achieved, saying it contributes to the country’s cultural, intellectual and humanitarian development.
Dr. Al Awar said: “We are honored to launch the digital edition of the book which will be accessible through the HBMSU portal as part of our ongoing commitment to enrich knowledge and consolidate the culture of innovation in the Arab World. We look forward to passing on the culture of creativity as a key pillar of the ambitious objectives of the National Innovation Strategy launched by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The strategy aims to make the UAE one of the world’s most innovative countries in the next seven years. For our part, we are intensifying our efforts to contribute effectively to the strategy by encouraging innovation in the education industry and providing the skills of the 21st century to build a young generation capable of consolidating the UAE’s position as an international model of creativity, excellence and growth.”
Al Awar concluded: “The book sheds light on the creations of our Emirati intellectuals, doctors, artists, educators, scientists, athletes and entrepreneurs. It highlights that success, creativity and excellence are not limited to a certain domain but are open to everyone with different interests. We are confident that the book, with all the leading experiences
and achievements it documents, will inspire readers to pursue leadership and excellence in their field of expertise. This will make a positive impact on our society.”

‘Those Who Inspire: UAE’ was officially launched in the UAE on October  29, 2014 under the patronage of H.E. Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development. The 284-page book is the second of a series included in the ‘Those Who Inspire’ collection. The first was the Oman-based edition launched in 2012. The authors are planning to launch the book in Bahrain, Greece, France, Nigeria, and Hong Kong, among other places. Barets and Plomik gave 1,000 complimentary copies to the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research for distribution among universities and colleges across the UAE in the hopes of encouraging, inspiring and motivating students to achieve academic, professional and personal success. 


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3rd Edition of Autodesk University Extension Dubai Announced

Middle East’s premier event for design and engineering professionals to learn new technologies, connect with industry peers and enhance industry skills
UAE, November 27th, 2014 – Omnix  International, the leading distributor of Autodesk design software in the UAE, announced that it is set to host the third edition of Autodesk University Extension (AUx) Dubai 2014, the Middle East region’s premier learning and networking event for design and engineering professionals. Promising professionals an experience to “Learn, Connect, Explore,” this full-day interactive conference and exhibition will be held on December 17, 2014 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and expects to attract over 600 design and engineering professionals from the entire GCC region.
AUx Dubai is part of ‘Autodesk University’, an annual series of Autodesk in-person and virtual user conferences that has already enjoyed two decades of success in the US. Brazil, Russia, Germany, India, Indonesia, Australia are some other regions that get to host an Autodesk University or an Autodesk University Extension annually. The event will feature futuristic 3D Design technologies, engaging training sessions and showcase of innovative projects and will also offer professionals the opportunity to network with international experts and peers from the industry.
This year, AUx Dubai will see participation from industry experts, thought leaders and innovators from the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC), Manufacturing and Media and Entertainment (M&E) industries from across the Middle East. In addition, AUx Dubai will also offer the opportunity for industry professionals to validate their skills by obtaining free Autodesk Certifications at the event on Autodesk’s range of 3D Design software like Autodesk® Revit® Architecture, Autodesk® AutoCAD Civil 3D®, AutoCAD®, Autodesk® 3ds Max®, Autodesk® Inventor® Professional. There will also be industry focused workshops on newer technologies, hands-on lad sessions and partner exhibits on the day of the event. 
From captivating AU Extension Dubai keynote speakers to knowledgeable class instructors, AU Extension Dubai conference feature speakers who are experts in their industries and include,
  • Jon Pittman, Vice President, Corporate Strategy, Autodesk, Inc.
  • Lynn Allen, Cadalyst Columnist and Autodesk Technical Evangelist, Autodesk
  • Robert Green, Owner, Robert Green Consulting
  • Gerry McFadden, BIM Manager, WSP Group
  • Alex Horst, Product Specialist, Autodesk
  • Tony Archibold, Design Director, Bluehaus Group
  • Dave Evans, Technical Specialist, Autodesk
  • Ayman Nicola, Technical Sales Lead Engineer, Autodesk
Participants will be able to choose from numerous industry sessions covering a wide range of interesting topics and subjects which include among others sessions on
  • Tips & Tricks in using the new AutoCAD® 2015 the latest version of the world’s top drafting and architectural software
  • Training session on Autodesk® BIM for infrastructure that would focus on how Autodesk BIM solutions help you plan, design, build and manage an infrastructure project from start to finish
  • Session on how to simplify your designs while gaining hands on experience with the Free Form Modeling resource in the Autodesk Inventor® software
  • Session on industry leading 3ds Max® 3D modeling software and how it helps accelerate performance, streamline workflows and help increase overall productivity
Registration for AUx Dubai 2014 is now open at:  AUx Dubai
Commenting on the 3rd edition of AUx Dubai, Louay Dahmash, Head of Autodesk Middle East, said, “Autodesk University extension offers design and engineering professionals from Middle East the unique opportunity to learn about latest industry developments, hone their skills on Autodesk’s industry leading 3D Design software and network with leading international experts. We are delighted to offer this unique platform to the region’s design ecosystem to ‘learn, connect and explore’ which would accelerate adoption of new technologies and improve user productivity as well.”
Dr. Jayant Deshpande, Director – CAE Division, Omnix International, said, “Omnix International is proud to host the third edition of Autodesk University Extension Dubai, which has become a ‘must-see, must attend’ event for the region’s design professionals. This event takes the focus on professionals who are serious about creating—how to come up with world-class, fully efficient and highly durable designs, drawings and the like that will be benchmarks for architecture, interior design and multimedia. The event proves to be very timely and strategic as the region is currently seeing a large influx of construction and development projects wherein companies are looking at Autodesk to gain competitive advantages and meet customer demands. To address this challenge, Autodesk University Extension acts as a cost-effective venue to receive advanced training, certification, learning about important trends in the industry and networking to meet potential clients and collaborators.


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HBMSU & Paris Dauphine University sign MoU to Cooperate in Islamic Finance Education and Training

  
UAE, November 10, 2014 – Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU) and Paris Dauphine University (UPD), a renowned French public research and higher education institution, have entered into a landmark agreement to extend cooperation in Islamic Finance education and training. Both parties will work closely to design programs and initiatives in Islamic Finance tailored for the GCC and MENA regions. They will also jointly develop curricula that will give full credit for courses taken in either of the institutions.

Serine El Salhat, HBMSU’s International Cooperation & Corporate Communication, Assistant Chancellor, and Prof. Arnaud Raynouard, UPD’s Vice President for International Affairs, signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during a brief ceremony at the HBMSU campus.  The joint venture is timely given the growing global influence and popularity of Islamic finance. HBMSU and UPD provide excellent facilities for masters and research students to specialize in the field. Their world-class curricula and renowned faculty members help learners develop advanced and structured analytical and research skills to work in a wide range of Islamic Finance specialties.

 
Serine El Salhat, HBMSU’s International Cooperation & Corporate Communication, Assistant Chancellor, and Prof. Arnaud Raynouard, UPD’s Vice President for International Affairs, during the signing of the MoU.
The two institutions will also collaborate on other student and faculty exchange programs and jointly conduct faculty research. UPD’s Masters in Islamic Finance students will present papers before well-respected international academicians in HBMSU’s annual Innovation Arabia 8 conference, where UPD faculty and students can exchange ideas with their HBMSU counterparts and meet industry leaders and representatives. HBMSU learners, on the other hand, will join UPD students in their annual international trips. Since 2009, UPD has been offering the Masters in Islamic Finance degree locally and to other French-speaking nations. 


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Salford’s Postgraduate Push Helping Drive Abu Dhabi’s Economic Vision

University of Salford is launching 30 postgraduate courses in its Abu Dhabi global hub which opened up in May
UAE, November 03, 2014 – The University of Salford’s Pro-Vice Chancellor (International Priorities), Professor Amanda Broderick, is launching a wide-ranging portfolio of postgraduate and career professional development (CPD) courses in Abu Dhabi on Sunday 2 November.

The programmes being launched are all in academic areas where the University has an internationally recognised reputation. The portfolio has been developed to support sectors identified as priorities for growth in Abu Dhabi’s Economic 2030 Vision.
The courses will include postgraduate level qualifications in Construction Management and Building Information Modelling (BIM), a module-level course in Diabetic Foot Healthcare and a Postgraduate Certificate in Public Health. These new programmes embrace the Middle East’s Smart City agenda and aim to improve diabetic care, whilst helping meet the growing demand for highly trained healthcare professionals in the region.
Major infrastructure and construction projects are a key part of the economic vision. But whilst the Emirati’s construction industry employs more than 500,000 people, 98% of that workforce are ‘non-citizens’. Therefore up-skilling the domestic and regional workforce is a top priority. The introduction of the University’s expertise in Construction and BIM and new postgraduate courses will contribute to reducing Abu Dhabi’s overreliance on migrant workers.
 Hisham Elkadi, Head of the School of Built Environment at the University of Salford, said: “The University is offering a new global-leading Building Information Modelling (BIM) programme designed to develop in-depth knowledge of BIM and lean processes.
The new programme offers research-based teaching combined with the opportunity to learn from the world’s leading industrial experts through a series of integrated guest lectures. If you want to increase your knowledge of efficient multidisciplinary collaboration through the design and construction process and the life cycle management of assets with the support of BIM, this course is for you.”
As well as infrastructure, healthcare is a major area of growth in the region. Diabetes, in particular, is a serious issue in Abu Dhabi and across the UAE. The University is already working closely with Mafraq Hospital. The relationship has led to a 38 per cent risk reduction in hospital mortality and major amputation rates for diabetic foot emergencies at the facility. The new Diabetic Foot Healthcare module will help continue that success and train home-grown medical professionals.
Mafraq’s former Consultant Vascular Surgeon, Professor Mo Baguneid said: “Complicated diabetic foot infections are common within the Middle East and in particular the outcome of late presentations is devastating. Much more needs to be done and continued collaboration with the University of Salford is important.”
Salford has developed the Postgraduate Certificate in Public Health for Abu Dhabi as the overall healthcare industry in the Emirati has grown considerably in past 20 years. The sector now employs more than 50,000 people and is the second largest employer of women. Plus, there are now 900 healthcare centres in Abu Dhabi, with health tourism also becoming a growth industry. The region will need a highly-skilled work force to maintain such growth and Salford’s postgraduate courses will help sustain the expansion.
Pro-Vice Chancellor (International Priorities), Professor Amanda Broderick said: “Helping Abu Dhabi and the wider region up-skill their workforce in these specialist areas is a fundamental part of the University of Salford’s international priorities strategy. Maintaining an international context to the University for our students is imperative as the ME regional and global employability markets continue to diversify and grow.
“Salford has an excellent reputation in delivering industry-relevant postgraduate and professional level qualifications. These courses will enhance the University’s history of working with educational partners and industry across the UAE and wider Middle-East. Postgraduate and professional education is a key driver in Abu Dhabi’s quest to become a successful knowledge-based economy and the University of Salford is immensely proud to be a part of that vision.”


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EDUKEX 2014 to Take Place in Abu Dhabi and Dubai in Early November

 
26 universities exhibiting at Le Royal Meridien – Abu Dhabi on November 3, and 4 at Dubai World Trade Centre on November 4 and 5
 
Dubai, UAE, 12 October 2014 – British Council, the United Kingdom’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities, will be holding the 13th edition of the Education UK Exhibition (EDUKEX 2014) through separate shows in Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the first week of November.
 
The exhibition will be inaugurated by HE Philip Parham, UK Ambassador to UAE on November 3 at Le Royal Meridien Hotel – Abu Dhabi and HE Edward Hobart, British Consul General in Dubai on November 4 at the Multaqa Ballroom at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The Dubai exhibition will run until November 5.
 
The annual event targets UAE students through showcasing world class education opportunities in selected renowned UK universities. The Abu Dhabi event, open from 6 pm to 9 pm, will feature 26 universities, while the Dubai show will see participation of 41 education providers between 5pm and 9pm over two days.
 
EDUKEX will also allow students to get detailed information about educational programmes, through dedicated sessions at both venues, while highlighting relevant information on visa requirements, studying and living in the UK and types of undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as information regarding scholarships and financial aid, for the benefit of students and parents keen to pursue UK higher education.
 
The 13th edition of EDUKEX is expected to attract record number of visitors, as a large number of exhibitors will showcase their special offerings, including Kingston University, University of Kent, University of Aberdeen, University of Plymouth, University of Westminster, Loughborough College, Middlesex University, London Metropolitan University, Cardiff University, University of Bradford, University of West London, University of Greenwich, University of the Arts London, The University of Law, University of Bristol, The University of Reading, Queen Mary University of London, University of Surrey, The Royal Wolverhampton School, University of Ulster, Norwich University of the Arts, University of Leeds, The University of Manchester, Loughborough University, University of Southampton, University College London, University of Warwick, City University, Anglia Ruskin University, Bangor University, University for the Creative Arts, De Montfort University, The University of York, University of Greenwich, York St John University, Glasgow Caledonian University, Regent’s University London, Liverpool John Moores University, BPP University, Royal Holloway, University of London, University of Derby, University of the West of Scotland and Manchester Metropolitan University.
 
Marc Jessel, Director of the British Council in the UAE said: “awareness of UK higher education and application procedures has grown rapidly in the UAE. We are delighted to see EDUKEX expanding every year and achieving its goal of promoting the prestigious UK education system in the UAE.”
 
“Through the exhibition guide, we will help students draw full benefit from their visits by meeting with the participating universities. As a result, visitors will be able to find the right people to talk to and obtain the right information with ease,” said Jessel.
 
British Council organises EDUKEX as one of its initiatives aimed at enhancing cultural and educational relations between the UAE and the UK.
 
Jessel added: “The main objective of EDUKEX is to raise awareness of the high quality of UK education and the extensive choice of courses and institutions on offer at every academic level.”
 
EDUKEX provides UAE students with the opportunities to obtain UK qualifications and return to the UAE to contribute to the economy with their ideas and skills.
 
From accountancy to zoology, visitors to the exhibition will be able to gather information on hundreds of courses being delivered by institutions across the UK.
 
The Gold Sponsor of the 13th edition of EDUKEX is The International English Language Testing System (IELTS), the world’s proven English language test that is available through more than 900 test centres and locations in over 130 countries.
 
More than 2.2 million tests were taken globally last year alone, IELTS has cemented its position as the world’s most popular high stakes English language test by providing a reliable measure of a candidate’s ability across the four skills of listening, reading, writing and speaking.



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Autodesk, ADVETI and STS Collaborate to Advance 21st Century Skills in Abu Dhabi

Autodesk 3D design software technologies will support students from science, technology, engineering, digital arts, or mathematics (STEAM) related subjects to solve real world challenges.
 Abu Dhabi, 05 August 2014 – Autodesk Middle East has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Abu Dhabi Vocational Education and Training Institute (ADVETI) to advance design education and 21stcentury skills between ADVETI Institutes, Secondary Technical School (STS) and Autodesk as Industry and Technology partners. STS is a technical high school within ADVETI, established to provide young Emiratis with a senior high school education that has a focus on technical and technology education.

Based on the agreement signed Autodesk Middle East will collaborate closely with ADVETI faculty, STS and its curriculum development departments to facilitate the following:
  • Technology access: Provide access to Autodesk Academic Resource Center which currently offers Autodesk’s professional 3D design software and creativity applications for use in all ADVETI classrooms, workshops and labs at no charge.
·         Curriculum development: Develop discipline-specific curricula and courseware to enhance students’ knowledge and application of advance industry concepts and workflows including Building Information Modeling (BIM), Digital Prototyping, and Digital Entertainment Creation.
·         Facilitating project-based learning: Implement project-based workshops utilizing professional Autodesk 3D design software technologies to support science, technology, engineering, digital arts, or mathematics (STEAM) related subjects to solve real world challenges.
·         Training model: Conduct professional develop and excellence programs and validating faculty skills through Autodesk Certification
·         Immersive learning experiences: Encourage students to participate in national design competitions organized by Autodesk to showcase their design skills and interact with peers from different states
Today’s students are tomorrow’s creative leaders who will shape the future of our economy. By imparting industry-relevant knowledge and 3D design skills to the future workforce, the collaboration between ADVETI Institutes, STS and Autodesk seeks to prepare tomorrow’s generation to take full advantage of opportunities in a new global environment,” said Louay Dahmash, Head of Middle East, Autodesk.
“3D Design technologies today are becoming critical to solve some of the most pressing challenges related to urbanization, sustainable construction, efficient manufacturing and infrastructure planning. It is important for students in the region to master these skills and apply them meaningfully for overall development of the economy. With the partnership with Autodesk, we hope to provide our students and faculty access to the best of design technologies and immersive learning experiences and contribute towards building a skilled workforce in Abu Dhabi”, said Dr. Khodair Abid, Director of Schools – ADVETI.
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About Autodesk
Autodesk helps people imagine, design, and create a better world. Everyone from students and hobbyists to engineers, architects, design professionals and digital artists uses Autodesk apps, software and services to unlock their creativity make better products and solve important challenges. For more information, visit www.autodesk.com or follow @autodesk.
Autodesk is a registered trademark of Autodesk, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates in the USA and/or other countries. Autodesk is not responsible for typographical or graphical errors that may appear in this document.
Free Autodesk software and/or cloud-based services may only be used for educational purposes and are subject to acceptance of and compliance with the terms and conditions of the software license agreement or terms of service. Details and restrictions available at http://usa.autodesk.com/legal-notices-trademarks. 
© 2014 Autodesk, Inc. All rights reserved.