Autodesk to acquire Alias conceptual design software

CAD/CAM giant Autodesk is acquiring privately held 3D graphics technology developer Alias for $182 million cash. Buzz Kross, vice president of Autodesk’s manufacturing solutions division, says the companies had worked together for some time, but that the acquisition will be a boost to its offerings particular for the design of consumer products and automotive components and assemblies. “The big thing is it builds out our strategy in the conceptual design piece,” says Kross. “We have great modelling but their stuff is for the conceptual artistic design work. Their tools are about ‘I want the design to look like this’.” As for the future he says: “We’re going to integrate our tools so that designers can link Alias Studio tools to Autodesk Inventor Mechanical Inventor and work through the whole conceptual design and engineering cycle. Also, Alias has no data management and we have one that’s perfect.” Carl Bass, COO of Autodesk, adds: “This acquisition brings to Autodesk a highly talented group of individuals, a wealth of technologies and a great set of products. Alias’ technology spans several of our most important markets and augments the synergy between our design and media businesses. ”Our design customers are demanding more powerful visualisation, animation and publishing capabilities. By combining the technology and talents of our two companies, we will be better able to continue delivering solutions that address our customers’ complex needs.” Alias’ tools comprise sketching, animation, visual effects, design, modelling, rendering and reviewing solutions. Alias MotionBuilder is Alias’ 3D character animation product; Alias FBX is widely used in the exchange and use of 3D content; and Maya is the company’s Academy Award-winning 3D application. The deal should close in the next four to six months.