Abstract: A database solution is provided for the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry. A unified database integrates manufacturer, engineering, building code and regulatory information relative to building components. Manufacturer product names and numbers are cross-referenced to a standard nomenclature and numbering system, thereby creating a generic, universal mechanism for coding all building components. An intelligent drag and drop functionality allows users to seamlessly transfer database information into all computer-aided design (CAD) and non-CAD document systems.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for mounting components to an optical bench is provided. The mount allows the components to be easily detached, realigned, and remounted at will. Components that can use the mount include, but are not limited to, mirrors, output couplers, windows, filters, lenses, optical fibers, nonlinear crystals, active and passive Q-switches, piezoelectric elements, apertures, laser gain media, and detectors. The optical component is mounted to an upright portion of the optical mount, the upright portion being mounted to a base plate. The base plate includes a heater, such as a resistive heater, that is used to solder the base plate to the optical bench. Preferably the heater is electrically coupled to a pair of contacts located on the upright portion of the mount, thus providing an easy method of coupling a power source to the heater.