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Tekla Structures

System Manual

Product version 16.0

December 2009

2010 Tekla Corporation

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2010 Tekla Corporation and its licensors. All rights reserved.

This Software Manual has been developed for use with the referenced Software. Use of the Software, and use of thisSoftware Manual are governed by a License Agreement. Among other provisions, the License Agreement sets certainwarranties for the Software and this Manual, disclaims other warranties, limits recoverable damages, defines

permitted uses of the Software, and determines whether you are an authorized user of the Software. All informationset forth in this manual is provided with the warranty set forth in the License Agreement. Please refer to the License

Agreement for important obligations and applicable limitations and restrictions on your rights. Tekla does notguarantee that the text is free of technical inaccuracies or typographical errors. Tekla reserves the right to makechanges and additions to this manual due to changes in the software or otherwise.

In addition, this Software Manual is protected by copyright law and by international treaties. Unauthorizedreproduction, display, modification, or distribution of this Manual, or any portion of it, may result in severe civil andcriminal penalties, and will be prosecuted to the full extent permitted by law.

Tekla, Tekla Structures, Xcity, Xengineer, Xpipe, Xroad, Xpower, Xsteel, and Xstreet are either registered trademarksor trademarks of Tekla Corporation in the European Union, the United States, and/or other countries. Other productand company names mentioned in this Manual are or may be trademarks of their respective owners. By referring to athird-party product or brand, Tekla does not intend to suggest an affiliation with or endorsement by such third partyand disclaims any such affiliation or endorsement, except where otherwise expressly stated.

Portions of this software:

D-Cubed 2D DCM 2008 Siemens Product Lifecycle Management Software III (GB) Ltd. All rights reserved.

EPM toolkit 1995-2004 EPM Technology a.s., Oslo, Norway. All rights reserved.

XML parser 1999 The Apache Software Foundation. All rights reserved.

Project Data Control Library 2006 - 2007 DlhSoft. All rights reserved.

DWGdirect, DGNdirect and OpenDWG Toolkit/Viewkit libraries 1998-2005 Open Design Alliance. All rightsreserved.

FlexNet Copyright 2006 Flexera Software Limited. All Rights Reserved. This product contains proprietary andconfidential technology provided by and owned by Flexera Software Limited Of Schaumburg, IL, USA. Any use,copying, publication, distribution, display, modification, or transmission of such technology in whole or in part in anyform or by any means without the prior express written permission of Flexera Software Limited is strictly prohibited.Except where expressly provided by Flexera Software Limited in writing, possession of this technology shall not be

construed to confer any license or rights under any of Flexera Softwares intellectual property rights, whether byestoppel, implication, or otherwise.

The software is protected by U.S. Patent 7,302,368. Also elements of the software described in this Manual may bethe subject of pending patent applications in the European Union and/or other countries including U.S. patentapplications 2004031231, 2004267695, 2005285881, 2006000484 and 200613639.

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TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 3

Conventions used in this guide

Typographicalconventions

The following typographical conventions are used in this guide:

Noteboxes The following types of noteboxes are used in this guide:

Font Usage

Bold Any text that you see in the user interface appears in bold. This fontis used, for example, for window and dialog box titles, box and

button names, and list items.

I tal ic bo ld New terms are in i tal ic bo ldwhen they appear in the current contextfor the first time.

Monospace Extracts of program code, HTML, or other material that you wouldnormally edit in a text editor, appear in monospaced font.

This font is also used for file names and folder paths, and for anytext that you should type yourself.

A tip might introduce a shortcut, or suggest alternative ways of doingthings.

A note draws attention to details that you might easily overlook. It canalso point you to other information in this guide that you might finduseful.

You should always read very important notes and warnings, like thisone. They will help you avoid making serious mistakes, or wasting yourtime.

This symbol indicates advanced or highly technical information thatis usually of interest only to advanced or technically-oriented readers.

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Contents

Conventions used in this guide ........................................................................................................................... 3

1 Using Tekla Structures effectively ......................................................... 151.1 General................................................................................................................................................. 15

Firm and project folders................................................................................................................... 16

Catalogs........................................................................................................................................... 16

Options............................................................................................................................................. 16

Profile names ............................................................................................................................ 16

Connections .............................................................................................................................. 17

Edge distance ............................................................................................................................ 17

Units and decimals........................................................................................................................... 17

Updating units and decimals in dialog boxes ............................................................................ 17

Recording and running macros........................................................................................................ 17

Warning messages.......................................................................................................................... 19

1.2 Modeling............................................................................................................................................... 19

Automating the detailing process..................................................................................................... 19

Predefining part properties............................................................................................................... 20

Modeling tools.................................................................................................................................. 20

AutoDefaults..................................................................................................................................... 21

AutoConnection................................................................................................................................ 21

1.3 Drawings and printers........................................................................................................................... 21

Drawing properties........................................................................................................................... 21

Layouts and templates..................................................................................................................... 22

Reports and symbols....................................................................................................................... 22

Selection filters................................................................................................................................. 22

Wizards............................................................................................................................................ 22

Defining print devices....................................................................................................................... 22

1.4 Autosave............................................................................................................................................... 22

Setting Autosave interval ................................................................................................................. 23

Autosave file location....................................................................................................................... 24

Keeping Autosave files..................................................................................................................... 24

Usernames....................................................................................................................................... 24

Application error............................................................................................................................... 25

Fatal: Model memory corrupted by read. ................................................................................... 25

1.5 Customizing the interface..................................................................................................................... 25

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Toolbars........................................................................................................................................... 25

Managing toolbars ..................................................................................................................... 26

Icons .......................................................................................................................................... 27

Creating a user-defined toolbar........................................................................................................ 27

Adding customized icons for macros ......................................................................................... 27

Creating a user-defined menu.......................................................................................................... 27

Defining shortcuts............................................................................................................................ 28

1.6 Optimizing system performance........................................................................................................... 29

Virtual memory................................................................................................................................. 29

Display adaptor................................................................................................................................ 29

Solid buffer size................................................................................................................................ 29

How Tekla Structures handles solids............................................................................................... 30

1.7 Customizing Tekla Structures with Tekla Open API............................................................................. 30

2 Multi-user mode....................................................................................... 332.1 General information on the multi-user mode........................................................................................ 33

When to use multi-user mode.......................................................................................................... 34

Switching between single-user and multi-user modes .............................................................. 34

Changing the server of a multi-user model ................................................................................ 34

Overview of the multi-user system................................................................................................... 35

The Tekla Structures server ..................................................................................................... 35

How multi-user works....................................................................................................................... 36

Locking ...................................................................................................................................... 36Setting up the multi-user system...................................................................................................... 37

Saving in multi-user mode................................................................................................................ 38

Save .......................................................................................................................................... 38

Autosave ................................................................................................................................... 38

Saving model revision comments .................................................................................................... 38

Shutting down the model.................................................................................................................. 40

Copying multi-user models............................................................................................................... 40

Displaying active multi-users............................................................................................................ 40

Clearing locks................................................................................................................................... 41

Error messages................................................................................................................................ 41

Recommendations........................................................................................................................... 42

2.2 Modeling in multi-user mode................................................................................................................. 43

Working with a master model........................................................................................................... 43

Numbering setup.............................................................................................................................. 47

Synchronizing numbering with the master model ............................................................................ 48

2.3 Drawings in multi-user mode................................................................................................................ 49

About drawing files........................................................................................................................... 49

Guidelines for multi-user drawings................................................................................................... 49

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6 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16

Locks for drawings ........................................................................................................................... 50

2.4 Maintenance procedures....................................................................................................................... 50

Checking multi-user databases........................................................................................................ 50

Deleting unnecessary drawing files.................................................................................................. 51

2.5 Access rights......................................................................................................................................... 51Locking objects................................................................................................................................. 51

Controlling access to attributes........................................................................................................ 52

Restricting access to model ............................................................................................................. 53

Controlling access to numbering setup............................................................................................ 53

3 Files and Folders ..................................................................................... 553.1 Initialization files.................................................................................................................................... 55

Storing advanced options settings................................................................................................... 56

Setting advanced options .......................................................................................................... 56

Using the Advanced Options dialog box .................................................................................... 56

Editing the user.ini file ................................................................................................................ 57

Disabling advanced options in an initialization file ..................................................................... 58

Structure........................................................................................................................................... 58

Initialization file reading order .................................................................................................... 58

Creating customized initialization files ....................................................................................... 59

Including other initialization files ................................................................................................ 59

Creating shortcuts............................................................................................................................ 59

3.2 File types and function.......................................................................................................................... 60

Input files.......................................................................................................................................... 61

Component description files ...................................................................................................... 61

Data files.......................................................................................................................................... 62

Data files and modeling tools ..................................................................................................... 62

DSTV connection properties............................................................................................................ 64

Messages......................................................................................................................................... 65

Profiles............................................................................................................................................. 65

inp (ASCII) ................................................................................................................................. 65

cnv (ASCII) ................................................................................................................................ 65lis (ASCII) ................................................................................................................................... 65

Binary files ................................................................................................................................. 66

Bin.................................................................................................................................................... 66

Fonts................................................................................................................................................ 66

Symbols............................................................................................................................................ 66

System............................................................................................................................................. 67

File extensions ................................................................................................................................. 67

3.3 Folders.................................................................................................................................................. 70

Folder search order.......................................................................................................................... 70

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Open a model first............................................................................................................................ 94

The filter ........................................................................................................................................... 94

Saving a modified catalog................................................................................................................ 94

What is the difference between Update and OK?............................................................................ 95

4.2 The profile catalog................................................................................................................................. 95

Working with rules............................................................................................................................ 96

Defining the material of profiles ................................................................................................. 97

Adding a rule .............................................................................................................................. 99

Adding a next level rule ............................................................................................................. 99

Editing a rule ............................................................................................................................ 100

Organizing rules ....................................................................................................................... 100

Deleting a rule .......................................................................................................................... 100

Example: Adding user attributes to rules ................................................................................ 100

Viewing or modifying the profile catalog......................................................................................... 102

Using standardized values for profile dimensions.......................................................................... 103

Adding a profile.............................................................................................................................. 103

Copy an existing profile ........................................................................................................... 103

Creating a new standard profile ............................................................................................... 104

Creating a cross section................................................................................................................. 104

Cross section with no inner contours ....................................................................................... 104

Cross section with inner contours ............................................................................................ 105

Modifying a cross section............................................................................................................... 105

Different types of chamfer ........................................................................................................ 105

Deleting a cross section................................................................................................................. 106

Profiles with variable cross sections............................................................................................... 106

Creating a profile with variable cross sections ......................................................................... 107

Modifying a profile with variable cross sections ....................................................................... 108

Adding a standard (fixed) user-defined profile............................................................................... 108

Adding user-defined attributes to a profile...................................................................................... 110

Merging profile catalogs................................................................................................................. 110

Exporting the profile catalog........................................................................................................... 111

Exporting elements from the profile catalog................................................................................... 111

Importing from previous versions................................................................................................... 112Importing the profile catalog........................................................................................................... 112

What happens to existing profiles? .......................................................................................... 112

User-defined fixed cross section definitions ............................................................................ 113

User-defined attributes ............................................................................................................ 113

4.3 The material catalog............................................................................................................................ 113

Viewing or modifying the material catalog...................................................................................... 113

Adding a user-defined attribute to a material grade....................................................................... 114

Units of measure ...................................................................................................................... 115

Adding a material type.................................................................................................................... 115

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Adding a new material grade......................................................................................................... 115

Deleting a material grade............................................................................................................... 115

Defining your own symbols for materials....................................................................................... 116

Export and import........................................................................................................................... 116

4.4 The bolt and bolt assembly catalogs.................................................................................................. 117

Viewing or modifying the bolt catalog............................................................................................. 117

Saving a modified bolt catalog....................................................................................................... 119

Viewing or modifying bolt assemblies............................................................................................ 119

Creating studs................................................................................................................................ 121

Merging bolt catalogs..................................................................................................................... 122

Exporting the bolt catalog............................................................................................................... 123

Importing the bolt catalog............................................................................................................... 123

Upgrading to a new version ..................................................................................................... 123

4.5 The reinforcing bar catalog................................................................................................................. 124

4.6 For the advanced user........................................................................................................................ 124

A closer look at the export file........................................................................................................ 125

Dos & donts of editing the export file............................................................................................ 126

Importing part of the bolt catalog.................................................................................................... 126

Units used in export and import ..................................................................................................... 127

Bolt length calculation.................................................................................................................... 128

Polybeam length calculation.......................................................................................................... 131

5 AutoConnect ion ..................................................................................... 1335.1 AutoConnection setup........................................................................................................................ 133

AutoConnection setup.................................................................................................................... 134

AutoConnection rule groups........................................................................................................... 135

AutoConnection rule sets............................................................................................................... 135

Rules.zxt ....................................................................................................................................... 137

Changing a connection.................................................................................................................. 137

5.2 AutoDefaults setup............................................................................................................................. 137

AutoDefaults setup......................................................................................................................... 137

Connection properties files............................................................................................................. 138Saving connection properties .................................................................................................. 139

Access to properties files ........................................................................................................ 139

Defaults.zxt.................................................................................................................................... 139

Priority of rule sets......................................................................................................................... 140

Editing connection properties......................................................................................................... 140

5.3 AutoConnection and AutoDefaults rules............................................................................................. 141

Combining and iterating properties................................................................................................ 143

Limitations ............................................................................................................................... 144

Combining properties..................................................................................................................... 144

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Iteration with connection check...................................................................................................... 145

Reaction forces and UDL............................................................................................................... 147

6 CNC......................................................................................................... 149

6.1 NC files................................................................................................................................................ 149Setting up NC files.......................................................................................................................... 150

Defining destination machines for parts......................................................................................... 151

Defining selection criteria............................................................................................................... 152

Maximum size .......................................................................................................................... 153

Profile type ............................................................................................................................... 153

Maximum size of holes ............................................................................................................ 153

Defining hole properties................................................................................................................. 154

Creating NC files............................................................................................................................ 157

Creating tube NC files.................................................................................................................... 157

Defining the output format and folder............................................................................................. 158

6.2 DSTV................................................................................................................................................... 159

Fittings affect NC data.................................................................................................................... 159

6.3 DXF..................................................................................................................................................... 160

Converting DSTV files to DXF ....................................................................................................... 161

6.4 Pop-marks.......................................................................................................................................... 161

Creating pop-marks........................................................................................................................ 161

Pop-mark settings .......................................................................................................................... 162

Pop-marking options ................................................................................................................ 163

6.5 Hard stamps........................................................................................................................................ 164

Creating hard stamps..................................................................................................................... 164

Hard stamp properties.................................................................................................................... 164

Information contained in hard stamps ...................................................................................... 165

Position of hard stamps ........................................................................................................... 165

Hard stamps for secondary parts ............................................................................................. 165

7 Import and export .................................................................................. 1677.1 Import and export basics..................................................................................................................... 167

Using import and export ................................................................................................................. 168

Available formats............................................................................................................................ 168

Importing into Tekla Structures ................................................................................................ 168

Exporting from Tekla Structures .............................................................................................. 172

7.2 Conversion files................................................................................................................................... 175

Converting twin profiles.................................................................................................................. 176

Creating conversion files................................................................................................................ 177

Locating conversion files................................................................................................................ 177

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Sample conversion files................................................................................................................. 177

Troubleshooting............................................................................................................................. 178

7.3 Importing models................................................................................................................................ 178

Import tools.................................................................................................................................... 179

Overview of importing models........................................................................................................ 179Finishing the import ................................................................................................................. 179

Re-importing a model..................................................................................................................... 180

Revision control options .......................................................................................................... 181

Creating reports of import .............................................................................................................. 182

Importing DWG/DXF files............................................................................................................... 182

IFC import ...................................................................................................................................... 182

Importing an IFC model ........................................................................................................... 183

Converting IFC objects into native Tekla Structures objects ................................................... 183

CIS import...................................................................................................................................... 185

CAD import..................................................................................................................................... 186

CAD specific information ......................................................................................................... 186

Creating log files ...................................................................................................................... 186

CAD import file types..................................................................................................................... 186

SDNF specific options ............................................................................................................. 186

FEM import..................................................................................................................................... 187

FEM specific information ......................................................................................................... 187

FEM import file types ............................................................................................................... 188

DSTV files...................................................................................................................................... 188

About DSTV ............................................................................................................................ 189

STAAD files.................................................................................................................................... 189

Stan 3d files................................................................................................................................... 190

Bus import...................................................................................................................................... 191

Yield stress in FEM import ............................................................................................................. 191

Model dump import ........................................................................................................................ 191

ASCII import................................................................................................................................... 191

ASCII format description................................................................................................................ 192

Attribute import............................................................................................................................... 194

About input files ....................................................................................................................... 195Example input file for drawings ............................................................................................... 196

Example input file for parts ...................................................................................................... 197

Data types file .......................................................................................................................... 197

Steelfab import............................................................................................................................... 198

Steelfab specific information ................................................................................................... 198

Fabtrol XML import......................................................................................................................... 198

S-Frame import.............................................................................................................................. 199

About S-Frame imports ........................................................................................................... 199

MicasPlus import............................................................................................................................ 199

MicasPlus specific information ................................................................................................ 199

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Eureka LPM import......................................................................................................................... 199

Overview of ELiPLAN import and export........................................................................................ 199

Import ELiPLAN status data .................................................................................................... 200

7.4 Exporting files...................................................................................................................................... 201

Exporting 3D DWG/DXF................................................................................................................ 202Export as .................................................................................................................................. 202

Exporting 3D DGN.......................................................................................................................... 203

Exporting FEM................................................................................................................................ 204

Combine segments (MicroSAS) .............................................................................................. 204

STAAD ..................................................................................................................................... 204

DSTV ....................................................................................................................................... 204

Exporting CIMsteel......................................................................................................................... 205

Analysis model ......................................................................................................................... 205

Manufacturing model ............................................................................................................... 206

More CIMsteel information ....................................................................................................... 207

Exporting CAD................................................................................................................................ 208

PML ......................................................................................................................................... 209

SDNF ....................................................................................................................................... 209

XML ......................................................................................................................................... 210

PDMS ...................................................................................................................................... 211

Exporting MIS................................................................................................................................. 211

MIS types ................................................................................................................................. 211

MIS list file ............................................................................................................................... 212

Exporting ASCII.............................................................................................................................. 212

IFC export....................................................................................................................................... 212

Defining the resulting IFC entity for the exported model objects ............................................. 213

Exporting a Tekla Structures model into an IFC file ................................................................ 214

IFC base quantities .................................................................................................................. 214

Exporting user-defined attributes and template attributes as property sets into IFC models .. 215

Exporting a model dump................................................................................................................ 215

Exporting BVBS.............................................................................................................................. 216

Exporting reinforcement to BVBS format ................................................................................. 218

Export rebar BVBS (78) dialog box .......................................................................................... 218BVBS (78) specification ........................................................................................................... 220

Exporting Unitechnik...................................................................................................................... 221

Exporting cast units to Unitechnik format ................................................................................ 222

Unitechnik export reference ..................................................................................................... 225

Main ......................................................................................................................................... 225

Unitechnik configuration .......................................................................................................... 230

TS configuration ....................................................................................................................... 234

Line attributes .......................................................................................................................... 236

Reinforcement ......................................................................................................................... 239

Data specification .................................................................................................................... 243

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Overview of ELiPLAN import and export........................................................................................ 243

Exporting ELiPLAN .................................................................................................................. 243

7.5 Exporting drawings............................................................................................................................. 245

Layers............................................................................................................................................ 245

Advanced line type and layer conversion ................................................................................ 2477.6 Tekla WebViewer................................................................................................................................ 250

Publishing a model as a web page................................................................................................ 250

Customizing Web Viewer tooltips................................................................................................... 250

Web templates............................................................................................................................... 252

Emailing WebViewer models......................................................................................................... 252

Receiving WebViewer models....................................................................................................... 252

Sending WebViewer links.............................................................................................................. 252

Handling named views................................................................................................................... 253

Handling clip planes....................................................................................................................... 253Hiding and showing objects........................................................................................................... 255

Full content rendering.................................................................................................................... 255

How to move and zoom?............................................................................................................... 255

8 Reserved shor tcuts ............................................................................... 2578.1 Common shortcuts.............................................................................................................................. 257

8.2 Modeling commands........................................................................................................................... 258

8.3 Drawing commands............................................................................................................................ 259

8.4 UCS.................................................................................................................................................... 260

8.5 Representation for parts..................................................................................................................... 260

8.6 Representation for component parts.................................................................................................. 261

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Using Tekla Structures effectively

1 Using Tekla Structureseffectively

Introduction With Tekla Structures you do not have to do everything manually. There are many features youcan you use to automate your work processes. You will find it useful to read this chapter beforestarting a project in Tekla Structures.

In this chapter This chapter is a collection of practical suggestions from experienced Tekla Structures usersand service personnel on how to use Tekla Structures effectively. You will also find many linksto more detailed explanations of the various features discussed here and step-by-stepinstructions where appropriate.

Contents This chapter is divided into the following sections:

General (p. 15)

Modeling (p. 19) Drawings and printers (p. 21)

Autosave (p. 22)

Customizing the interface (p. 25)

Optimizing system performance (p. 29)

1.1 General

This section describes how to make the most of various Tekla Structures features when settingup a project.

Topics Firm and project folders (p. 16)

Catalogs (p. 16)

Options (p. 16)

Recording and running macros (p. 17)

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Firm and project folders

Before you customize any object properties for specific projects or organizations, create firmand project folders in which to store them. This will save you time setting up future projectsand also when you upgrade Tekla Structures.

See also Project and firm folders (p. 73)Folder search order (p. 70)

Predefining part properties (p. 20)

Catalogs

Before you start a project, check that the catalogs you are using conform to the projectrequirements. Ensure all users access the same catalogs.

See also Folder search order (p. 70)

Catalogs (p. 93)

Open a model first (p. 94)

The profile catalog (p. 95)

The material catalog (p. 113)

The bolt and bolt assembly catalogs (p. 117)

The reinforcing bar catalog (p. 124)

Options

Check that your option settings are set up correctly before you start modeling. ClickTools > Options > Options..., and see the different tabs. Component properties override these

settings. Tekla Structures only uses the values set in the Options dialog box if thecorresponding fields in the component dialog boxes are empty.

Tekla Structures uses the information in the Options dialog box when it creates parts usingcomponents.

Example It is important that profile names are set up correctly so that you can use filters and wizardseffectively.

If you change settings in the Options dialog box, Tekla Structures only applies the new settingsto components you subsequently create. Components you created prior to changing the

preferences are not affected.

Profile namesIn the Preferences tab, profile names are parametric profile prefixes. They must exist in the

profile catalog. If you want to use a parametric profile name that does not exist in the catalog,first add it to profile catalog, then enter it here. Tekla Structures uses the Folded plate prefixwhen you use the Polyplate command in macros.

See also The profile catalog (p. 95).

In multi-user mode, all users working in the same model have the sameoption settings as well as other properties, catalogs, etc.

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ConnectionsTo define the default bolt properties to use in connections, select a Bolt standard and Bolt size.

Enter part start numbers in fields Pos1 to Pos4. Cross-check these settings against thenumbering series you define to make sure they cannot overlap. If they overlap, Tekla Structuresmay create two non-identical parts with the same part number. This generates an error in thelog file numbering.history .

Edge distanceWhen you use components, Tekla Structures uses the Factor of bolt edge distance andElement considered fields to check that the bolts it creates are not too close to the edge of a

part. Tekla Structures warns you if they are.

Check that bolt edge distance is set according to the standard you are using. Use the Elementconsidered field to base edge distance checks on bolt or hole diameter.

Default edge distance settings depend on the environment. If you change the default settings,use Save defaults (p. 81) command to save settings in the current model folder.

Units and decimalsTo configure how units and decimals are input, output, stored and displayed, clickTools >Options > Options... > Units and decimals.

Different types of data are separated onto three tabs in the Units and decimals dialog box.Input data appears on the Modeling and Catalogs tabs. Output data appears on the Analysisresults tab (output data only relates to structural analysis).

The settings on the Modeling tab affect the data you use when using modeling commands, suchas copy, move, create grid, create point, part location, and dimensions.

Settings on the Catalogs tab affect the data stored in the profile and material catalogs.

Settings in the Units and Decimals dialog box have no effect on drawings, reports, or theInquire and Measure tools.

You can use positive exponent notation, but not negative exponent notation.

See also Updating units and decimals in dialog boxes (p. 17)

Updating units and decimals in dialog boxes

To update the units and decimals in a dialog box:1. Click Tools > Options > Options...

2. Click Units and decimals in the list of available options.

3. Modify the values on the different tab pages as required.

4. Click OK. Tekla Structures updates the format of units and decimals in all open dialogboxes.

See also Units and decimals (p. 17)

Recording and running macros

Tekla Structures enables you to record a series of actions from menus, dialog boxes, andshortcuts.

The number of decimals affects input and storage accuracy. Always usea sufficient number of decimals.

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Recording amacro

To record a macro:

1. Click Tools > Macros... to open the Macros dialog box.

2. Enter a Macro name.

3. Click Record.

4. Perform the actions you want to record.

5. Click Stop to stop recording.

Macros are saved as *.cs files, in the folder defined with the advanced optionXS_MACRO_DIRECTORY in the environment-specific initialization files.

Creating a macromanually

To manually create a macro file, clickCreate in the Macros dialog box. This creates an emptymacro file, which you can manually edit, or copy and paste commands to it from other macrofiles.

Running a macro To run a macro:


2. Select the macro and clickRun.

Editing macros To view or edit a macro:

1. First check that the file type .cs is associated with suitable text editor.


3. Select the macro and clickEdit.

The recorded macro is saved in the drawings ormodeling folders,depending on in which mode the macro was recorded in.

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4. The macro opens in the associated text editor.

Timestamp If you want to examine the time spent on different tasks while recording macros, use theadvanced option XS_MACRO_ENABLE_TIMESTAMP.

Warning messages

Some third party applications may cause unexpected complications, such as unnecessarywarning messages, when working with Tekla Structures. Applications that are known to causecomplications are anti-spyware programs.

1.2 Modeling

This section explains how to make the most of the various modeling tools and features in TeklaStructures.

Topics Automating the detailing process (p. 19)

Predefining part properties (p. 20)

Modeling tools (p. 20)

AutoDefaults (p. 21)

AutoConnection (p. 21)

Automating the detailing process

If you have a standard way of configuring connections, save time by saving the connectionproperties once. Store them in firm or project folders for future use. See Firm and projectfolders (p. 16).

Tekla Structures includes AutoConnection and AutoDefaults tools to automate the modelingprocess. So you can customize Tekla Structures to suit a particular project and the way youwork. See AutoConnection and AutoDefaults and also AutoConnection (p. 133).

There are three levels of automation that you can help you work faster and more accurately.

Macros are based on C# commands and in case you want to edit macros,knowledge of C# programming is needed.

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Predefining part properties

If you have additional information you need to include for particular parts, create user-definedattributes. Tekla Structures saves all customized object properties in the current model folder.

You can also copy the attribute files to project or firm folders for future use. See Firm andproject folders (p. 16) and Parts.

Example For beam properties, this technique guarantees that part names are correct. This means you caneasily use a wizard to create drawings. See Using AutoDrawings to create drawings andCreating AutoDrawings wizard files (p. 83).

Consider developing a naming policy for files containing customized object properties. Thenyou can easily cut and paste them to firm and project folders. This also makes it easier tomanage objects in view filters, selection filters, drawing properties, etc.

Using predefinedproperties

You can set the properties for macros, connections, and other objects (columns, beams, bolts,etc.) then save them. It is then simple to reload these properties either for current or future

projects.

Modeling tools

Customize the properties of modeling tools you use to create objects, rather than changing theproperties manually each time.

Example You know you will use the same type of stairs in several projects. Set up and save the stairmodeling tool properties once.

When you next need to use that particular stair modeling tool you can just load the pre-definedproperties, as shown below. When you apply the modeling tool, Tekla Structures createsexactly the same stairs.

In multi-user mode, all users working on the same model use the samepreferences and attribute files.

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See also Getting Started.

AutoDefaults

Use AutoDefaults to automatically apply the correct properties to existing connections.

Using this technique you are also building your own expertise into the Tekla Structuresdatabase, so the entire company benefits from it.

See AutoConnection and AutoDefaults, and also AutoConnection (p. 133).

AutoConnect ion

Use the AutoConnection feature to automatically apply connections.

You can use AutoConnection to quickly add connections individually, in phases, or project-wide. This is a useful technique when you are working on a large project using manyconnections, modifying a model, or importing modified profiles.

See AutoConnection and AutoDefaults, and also AutoConnection (p. 133).

1.3 Drawings and printers

This section explains how to make the most of the selection filters, wizards and printer catalogsettings to standardize drawing creation and printing.

Topics Drawing properties (p. 21)

Layouts and templates (p. 22)

Reports and symbols (p. 22)Selection filters (p. 22)

Wizards (p. 22)

Defining print devices (p. 22)

Drawing properties

Using well-prepared drawing settings and wizards can dramatically reduce the time it takes tocreate and edit drawings. Define the settings for different types of parts and assembliescarefully. Then the drawings you create are as complete as possible, with little or no need forediting.

Predefined properties

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Examples Define different assembly drawing settings for columns, beams, secondary beams, plates,bracings and trusses.

Define single-part drawing settings for I and H profiles, tubes, round tubes (wrap-around) andplates.

Predefine drawing view properties to use additional views in drawings, such as detail, sectionor plan views.

See also Drawing Properties .

Layouts and templates

Plan and define the layouts and templates for drawings you will use before you start a project.See Drawing Layout.

Reports and symbols

Plan and define special reports and symbols you need for a project.

Selection fi lters

Create your own selection filters to use both when modeling and using wizards to automatedrawing creation.

You will find it useful to create selection filters for each part with a different name (column,beam, sec.beam, plate, brace, truss, etc.).

Use the Selection Filterdialog box to modify existing filters or create your own. See Creatinga selection filter.

WizardsUse wizards to create objects and drawings automatically.

See Creating AutoDrawings wizard files (p. 83) and Using AutoDrawings to createdrawings.

Defining print devices

Set up print devices before starting the project.

See The printer catalog.

1.4 Autosave

Tekla Structures includes the Autosave feature that backs up and saves your work automaticallyat set intervals. In addition, we strongly recommend that you implement and test a corporate

backup strategy. When restoring system backups, you should always restore an entire copy of amodel rather than parts of it. Autosave files have the extension .db1_.

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Topics Setting Autosave interval (p. 23)

Autosave file location (p. 24)

Keeping Autosave files (p. 24)

Usernames (p. 24)

Application error (p. 25)

Setting Autosave interval

You can define Autosave intervals separately for operations performed in drawings andmodels, and for automatic drawing creation.

ClickTools > Options > Options... > General.

The first value defines how often Tekla Structures automatically saves a model or drawing.This number represents the number of menu commands issued. If you create many beamswithout interrupting the Create > Beam command, it counts as one menu command. Likewise,in drawings, if you create many dimensions with the Create > Horizontal dimensioncommand without interrupting the command, it counts as only one command.

The second value is the number of drawings after which Tekla Structures automatically savesyour work.

In multi-user mode, Autosave is not equivalent to the Save command.Autosave only saves a single users version of the model and does notupdate the master model.

If the interval values are set to less than 2, autosave is disabled.

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Autosave fi le location

To have Tekla Structures store Autosave files in a specific folder, use the advanced optionXS_AUTOSAVE_DIRECTORY. Tekla Structures creates the folder automatically. You will findthe Autosave file in the autosave folder, in a subfolder with the same name as the model.

If you do not use this advanced option, Tekla Structures stores Autosave files in the currentmodel folder.

Autosave inmulti-user mode

If you are working with multi-user models, have Tekla Structures store Autosave files locally,not in the model folder that is located on a network drive. Set the advanced option

XS_AUTOSAVE_DIRECTORY=%XS_RUNPATH%\autosave. By saving autosave files locallyyou make sure that if there are problems in the network traffic, you are still able to save yourown work.

You will notice that in multi-user mode Autosave is much faster than using the Save command.This is because Autosave performs a local save, but the Save command updates the mastermodel.

Keeping Autosave files

By default Tekla Structures deletes Autosave files when you save and close a model.

To keep Autosave files, even if you exit Tekla Structures without saving the model, set theadvanced option XS_KEEP_AUTOSAVE_FILES_ON_EXIT_WHEN_NOT_SAVING=TRUE.

Usernames

Give all users a different username when working in both single- and multi-user mode. TeklaStructures identifies users by username.

To have the same autosave values for all models, enter the requiredvalues to the file standard.opt, located in the folder..\TeklaStructures\\environments\\system.

Open the file using a standard text editor, such as Notepad. Search forthe following rows:

dia_autosave.autos_interval

dia_autosave.autos_draw_interval

Enter the required autosave value for models in the first row, and fordrawings in the second row. For example, to have Tekla Structures savethe model after every 20 modeling commands and after creating every10 drawings, enter

dia_autosave.autos_interval 20

dia_autosave.autos_draw_interval 10

After you are done, save and close the file.

In multi-user mode, Autosave only saves a single users version of themodel and does does not update the master model.

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Single-user In single-user mode, if several users with the same username open a model, Tekla Structuresdoes not display a warning. So you risk conflicts when saving the model.

Multi-user In multi-user mode, Tekla Structures saves Autosave files in the master model folder by defaultwith the filename .db1_ . So, if several people are using the sameusername, conflicts are inevitable.

See also Multi-user mode (p. 33).

Application error

When you open a model, Tekla Structures automatically checks if the previous session exitednormally. If it did not, Tekla Structures prompts whether you want to continue using theAutosave model or the original model.

Fatal: Model memory cor rupted by read.When Tekla Structures displays the warning Fatal: Model memory corrupted by read, itmeans that hardware problems have damaged the model database. Your hard disk may bedamaged.

Use autosave or system backup files to restore the model.

1.5 Customizing the interface

Once you are familiar with Tekla Structures, you can create your own toolbars, menu andshortcuts containing the commands you use every day. This section explains how to do this.

Topics Toolbars (p. 25)

Creating a user-defined toolbar (p. 27)

Creating a user-defined menu (p. 27)

Defining shortcuts (p. 28)

Toolbars

In Tekla Structures, both customized toolbars and user-defined menus are user-specific.

You can create as many toolbars as you need.

Do not change existing toolbars, particularly the connection toolbars.Instead, create new ones. See Creating a user-defined toolbar (p. 27).

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Managing toolbarsTo open the Customize dialog box, clickTools > Customize....

Use the Toolbars tab to reorganize toolbars: move commands from one toolbar to another andeven create your own toolbars.

The tree on the right contains all available toolbars and displays the commands they include.

Action Description

Add or remove commands In the Customize dialog box, click on acommand to select it, then on the toolbaron which you want the command toappear. Click the right arrow to addcommands, the left arrow to removethem.

Delete commands or toolbars In the Customize dialog box, click acommand or toolbar to select it, thenclickDelete.

Restore original toolbar Click Reset to restore the originaltoolbar.

Display toolbar Check Visible to display the toolbar inTekla Structures. Tekla Structures usesthe following icons to indicate if atoolbar is visible or not:

Move command in toolbar tree Use arrow buttons.

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IconsTekla Structures displays the icon for the command you select. By default, the icon is 16x16

pixels. If the icons look too small, checkLarge icons which are 24x24 pixels. CheckTooltipsto see the command name when you hold the pointer over an icon.

Creating a user-defined toolbarTo create your own toolbar:

1. Open a Tekla Structures model.

2. Click Tools > Customize to open the Customize dialog box.

3. On the Toolbars tab, clickNew.... An new toolbar with the name User Toolbar 1 appearsin the toolbar tree. You can enter a new name for the toolbar.

4. Click commands on the list on the left, then the right arrow to add them to a toolbar. Usethe left arrow to remove commands from a toolbar.

5. Repeat step 3 until you have all the desired commands on the toolbar.

6. Click Close.

Limitations If you want to create a user-defined toolbar for drawing commands, create it in the modelingmode, otherwise the toolbar is not saved.

See also Toolbars (p. 25) and Creating a user-defined menu (p. 27).

Adding customized icons for macrosYou can add customized icons for macros in user-defined toolbars.

To add customized icons:

1. Create the bitmap you want to use as the icon. The size of the bitmap needs to be 16x16pixels.

2. Save the bitmap with the same name as the macro in the same folder as the macro.

For example, if you have a macro that is used in modeling, and the name of the macro is

RotatePart.cs, save the bitmap as RotatePart.bmp in the folder..\TeklaStructures\\environments\common\macros\modeling .


4. Add a new user-defined toolbar. For more information, see Creating a user-definedtoolbar (p. 27).

5. Enter Macro in the Filterbox to display the available macros.

6. Select the desired macro from the list and click the right arrow to add it to the user-defined toolbar you created.

7. Restart Tekla Structures to load the bitmap.

Limitations You can use this functionality only with default-sized icons, not with large icons.

See also Creating a user-defined toolbar (p. 27)Recording and running macros (p. 17)

Creating a user-defined menu

Each user can create their own menu, which is always named User. You can only create oneuser menu per user.

To create your own menu:

1. Open a Tekla Structures model.


3. Click the Menu tab.

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4. Click commands on the command list on the left, then the right arrow to add them to themenu. Tekla Structures displays the commands on the menu on the right of the dialog box.

5. Use the left arrow to remove commands from the menu.

6. Use the arrow buttons to move a command up or down the toolbar tree.

7. Use the line button to add a separator line above the selected command.

8. Repeat step 3 until you have added all the desired commands to the menu.

9. Click Close.10. You must restart Tekla Structures to activate the menu. The menu name is always User.

Limitations If you want to create a user-defined menu for drawing commands, create it in the modelingmode, otherwise the menu is not saved.

See also Creating a user-defined toolbar (p. 27).

Defining shortcuts

If you frequently use certain commands, assign keyboard shortcuts to them. You will find itfaster than using the icons and menus.

To assign a shortcut to a command:


2. Click on the command on the list on the left of the dialog box. Use the Filterlist box tofind commands easily. Click to select subgroups of commands. ALL displays all thecommands available in Tekla Structures. You can also type in the command name to searchfor commands.

3. Use the Shortcut fields to assign a shortcut to the command. You can use a single letter, orcombine a letter with the Shift, Alt or Ctrl keys.

4. Copy the command to the Usermenu to activate the shortcut. See Creating a user-defined menu (p. 27).

5. Click Close to exit the Customize dialog box.

Valid shortcutkeys You can use the following keys in shortcuts: AZ

09

F1F24

Left, Right Up, Down

Backspace, Enter, Esc, Tab

Insert, Delete, Home, End, Page Up, Page Down

Numpad 09

Numpad */+-, (Multiply, Divide, Add, Subtract, Decimal)

Tekla Structures also includes many predefined shortcuts. See Reserved shortcuts (p. 257).

To define, for example, + as a shortcut, enteradd in the Shortcut field:

Restart Tekla Structures. To execute the command, use the + key on theNumpad. The same procedure applies for Multiply, Divide, Subtract andDecimal.

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1.6 Optimizing system performance

There are various settings in Tekla Structures that you can modify to improve systemperformance, which is particularly useful when you are handling large and complex models.

Topics Virtual memory (p. 29)Display adaptor (p. 29)

Solid buffer size (p. 29)

How Tekla Structures handles solids (p. 30)

Virtual memory

You will probably need to adjust the virtual memory settings in Windows to optimize systemperformance. The amount of virtual memory you need depends on the size of the model, andthe processes you are using. For example, saving in multi-user mode is more memory-intensivethan in single user mode.

Display adaptor

Tekla Structures makes use of OpenGL technology, if your display adaptor supports it. Youmay need to indicate that your display adaptor does not support OpenGL technology.

Indications can be: objects displayed incorrectly, or difficulty selecting objects.1. Click Tools > Options > Advanced Options... to open the Advanced options dialog box.

2. In the Model view category, set the advanced option XS_USE_SOFTWARE_RENDERING toTRUE.

3. Restart Tekla Structures.

Solid buffer size

To improve performance in large models, try increasing the solid buffer size using theadvanced option XS_SOLID_BUFFER_SIZE. This results in Tekla Structures keeping moresolids in memory, so it does not have to continuously recreate them. This technique uses a littleextra memory, but can result in significant increases in speed. In one example, increasing thesolid buffer size from 5000 to 20000 decreased the time taken to run the numbering routine by80%.

This advanced option affects many aspects of modeling, drawings and numbering.

See also How Tekla Structures handles solids (p. 30).

To prevent data loss, always use identical values for the Initial size andMaximum size of virtual memory.

If you increase the solid buffer to a size that exceeds the availablememory, Tekla Structures uses the hard drive. This slows down thesystem significantly. Trial and error is the best way to optimize the solid

buffer size.

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How Tekla Structures handles solids

One of the factors that affect performance is the number of verteces in objects. For instance,tubes, particularly if they are curved, usually contain a large number of verteces, as can largenumbers of round cuts. The key to optimizing performance in these circumstances is tomanipulate the settings that affect how Tekla Structures handles solids. Techniques you can try

include: Minimize the number of curved segments in curved beams. A value of 20 or less is usually

adequate for the bottom chords. See Bending.

Maximize solid buffer size. See Solid buffer size (p. 29).

Minimize the number of views, when you create assembly drawings. For instance, avoidusing automatic section view creation in an assembly drawing with many tubes. WhenTekla Structures creates the cuts, the solids are are actually cut in the drawing, which istime-consuming.

When you create assembly drawings, minimize the number of dimensions, as searching fordimension points in tubes is time-consuming. Avoid using automatic dimensioning intrusses. See Dimensioning.

It is much faster to use fast, or reference line parts and fast hole and bolt representation.When you want an exact view of the parts, either minimize the work area first, or only theobjects you want Tekla Structures to draw with exact lines. See Display settings.

1.7 Customizing Tekla Structures with Tekla Open

API

You can customize Tekla Structures to suit your needs further by using the Tekla Open API.

Tekla Open API Tekla Open APIis a specialized Application Programming Interface (API) developed by Teklathat enables you to develop applications and additional functionality on the Tekla modeling

platform and integrate it into your own environment. Tekla Open API is implemented usingMicrosoft .NET technology.

Extendedapplications

Applications that are developed with Tekla Open API to work in conjunction with TeklaStructures are called extended appl icat ions.

Examples With Tekla Open API you can:

Record and run user interface actions.By recording and running user interface actions you can automate routine tasks such ascreating daily reports.

Create automation tools.You can create automation tools for frequently needed objects. With automation tools youcan for example create basic structures or add typical details to drawings.

Integrate Tekla Structures to other software.You can utilize the Tekla Open API and .NET in transferring information between TeklaStructures and other software, such as Analysis & Design software.

Create new functionality.

With Tekla Open API, you can create tools that add new functionality to Tekla Structures.

For moreinformation

Reference manuals for Tekla Open API, available in the folder..\TeklaStructures\\nt\help\enu :

Tekla.Structures.Analysis

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Tekla.Structures.Drawing

Tekla.Structures.Model

Tekla.Structures.Plugins

.NET startup package, available for download in the Extranet: https://extranet.tekla.com/BC/tekla-structures-en/product/openapi/Pages/Default.aspx

Extensions Downloads page in the Extranet: https://extranet.tekla.com/BC/tekla-structures-en/product/extended-applications/Pages/Default.aspx

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Multi-user mode

2 Multi-user mode

Introduction You can work on Tekla Structures models in either single-user or multi-user mode. Multi-usermode allows several users to access the same model at the same time. Several users can workon the same project and be aware of the others progress. This eliminates the need for copyingand merging models.

This chapter describes how to set up a multi-user system and how to work in multi-user mode.

Assumedbackground

You should have some experience of modeling in Tekla Structures.

Contents This chapter is divided into the following sections:

General information on the multi-user mode (p. 33)

Modeling in multi-user mode (p. 43) Drawings in multi-user mode (p. 49)

Maintenance procedures (p. 50)

Access rights (p. 51)

2.1 General information on the multi-user mode

This section explains how multi-user mode works, and how to set up and use Tekla Structures

in multi-user mode.

Topics When to use multi-user mode (p. 34)

Overview of the multi-user system (p. 35)

How multi-user works (p. 36)

Setting up the multi-user system (p. 37)

Saving in multi-user mode (p. 38)

Tekla Structures multi-user mode only runs on TCP/IP-based networks.

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Multi-user mode

Shutting down the model (p. 40)

Copying multi-user models (p. 40)

Error messages (p. 41)

Recommendations (p. 42)

Documents

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