1. Preparation in Tekla Structures

An IFC file can handle geometry and loads, and both physical and analytical models.  So, the export can be as complete as you prefer, as long as these items are present in Tekla Structures.

2. Send model from Tekla Structures to IFC

2.1 From Tekla Structures to BIM Expert

There is more than 1 way to send models from Tekla Structures to BIM Expert. You can either start from

BuildSoft menu in the top ribbon

Applications and components sidebar

Click the BIM Expert icon to launch the transfer. Next you need to select what items to include, in addition to the Analysis model:

• Additional data: data that came from a previous transfer, but is not supported by Tekla Structures. This information is kept and can now be taken along in the current transfer (e.g. seismic information, soil layers, …)
• Rigid links
• Connection: full or only haunches
• Internal forces from ‘End Conditions’.  The End Conditions tab can be found in the element’s UDA (User Defined Attributes):

Alternative method: start in BIM Expert

Alternatively, you can start in BIM Expert: click ‘Model > Import’ and select the Tekla Structures plugin. Choose the Tekla Structures version and what elements to import (see above).

No matter the way you have chosen, BIM Expert will now take over.

2.1.1 Settings

If you have more than one analytical model in Tekla Structures, you need to select the analysis model that you want to transfer

Next, the Tekla Structures sections and materials must be mapped with BIM Expert’s section and material database. BIM Expert will try to find as many automatic mapping matches as possible. In case all sections and materials find a match, you will not see any dialogs for mapping.

2.1.2 Material mapping

In case you have turned off the option to reduce dialog windows, you might see a material mapping dialog for mapping unknown materials. In the ‘reduce dialog window’ case, unknown materials will be added as new.

2.1.3 Section mapping

In case you have turned off the option to reduce dialog windows, you might see a section mapping dialog for mapping unknown sections. In the ‘reduce dialog window’ case, unknown sections will be added as new.

2.1.4 Connections and component bundles

In case you have chosen to export connections and there are connections in the model, BIM Expert will now start the connection conversion.

If you have turned off the option to reduce the dialog windows, you will get an overview of all connections components in the model and the possibility to bundle components.

The model is now in BIM Expert.

2.2 From BIM Expert to IFC

In the Model tab, select ‘Export’. Next, choose the destination, namely “IFC’. Click to continue.

By default, your IFC file be saved in the following folder

%localappdata%\BuildSoft\BIM Expert\Ifc

2.2.1 Export options

You can specify the defaults in ‘File > Settings > IFC’, such as the IFC version (scheme), file format, the destination folder and action to take after the save.

Unchecking the ‘Always use default settings’, will allow you set the options at every export operation.

This article explains how to send a Tekla Structures model to Revit, using BIM Expert.

1. Preparation in Tekla Structures

The transfer is based on the analytical model. So in Tekla Structures you need to create an analytical model first. The quality and coherence (connection between elements) of the analytical model will determine the quality of the structural calculations. It is therefore essential to build a good analysis model in Tekla Structures.

Learn here how to make a good analysis model in Tekla Stuctures.

2. Send model from Tekla Structures to Revit

2.1 From Tekla Structures to BIM Expert

There is more than 1 way to send models from Tekla Structures to BIM Expert. You can either start from

BuildSoft menu in the top ribbon

Applications and components sidebar

Click the BIM Expert icon to launch the transfer. Next you need to select what items to include, in addition to the Analysis model:

• Additional data: data that came from a previous transfer, but is not supported by Tekla Structures. This information is kept and can now be taken along in the current transfer (e.g. seismic information, soil layers, …)
• Rigid links
• Connection: full or only haunches
• Internal forces from ‘End Conditions’.  The End Conditions tab can be found in the element’s UDA (User Defined Attributes):

Alternative method: start in BIM Expert

Alternatively, you can start in BIM Expert: click ‘Model > Import’ and select the Tekla Structures plugin. Choose the Tekla Structures version and what elements to import (see above).

No matter the way you have chosen, BIM Expert will now take over.

2.1.1 Settings

If you have more than one analytical model in Tekla Structures, you need to select the analysis model that you want to transfer

Next, the Tekla Structures sections and materials must be mapped with BIM Expert’s section and material database. BIM Expert will try to find as many automatic mapping matches as possible. In case all sections and materials find a match, you will not see any dialogs for mapping.

2.1.2 Material mapping

In case you have turned off the option to reduce dialog windows, you might see a material mapping dialog for mapping unknown materials. In the ‘reduce dialog window’ case, unknown materials will be added as new.

2.1.3 Section mapping

In case you have turned off the option to reduce dialog windows, you might see a section mapping dialog for mapping unknown sections. In the ‘reduce dialog window’ case, unknown sections will be added as new.

2.1.4 Connections and component bundles

In case you have chosen to export connections and there are connections in the model, BIM Expert will now start the connection conversion.

If you have turned off the option to reduce the dialog windows, you will get an overview of all connections components in the model and the possibility to bundle components.

The model is now in BIM Expert.

2.2 From BIM Expert to Revit

As the export is directly to Revit, make sure that you a empty Revit file open.

In the Model tab, select ‘Export’. Next, choose the destination software, namely Autodesk Revit. Click to continue.

2.2.1 Settings

In case there is more than 1 Revit file open, you should choose the correct one by clicking

The import will now continue in Revit.

2.2.2 Material mapping

In case not all materials can be automatically mapped with the Revit document materials, you will see a dialog window to map BIM Expert’s materials with Revit’s document materials.

It is good practice to map all incoming BIM Expert materials with Revit document materials.  Choose ‘R Document’ and then search for a match in the pull down list. Note that the material should already exist in the Revit material library.

If you cannot find a suited match, you can choose ‘Create New’.

2.2.2 Section mapping

2.2.2.1 Bar sections

In case not all sections can be automatically mapped with the Revit document sections, you will see a dialog window to map BIM Expert’s sections with Revit’s document sections.

It is good practice to map all incoming BIM Expert sections with Revit document sections. Choose ‘R Document’ and then search for a match in the pull down list. If no suited match can be found, you can choose ‘Create New’ of select it from a ‘Library’.

For I, H, RHS, CHS, L, C. U, rectangular and circular cross-section, BIM Expert will create a new family symbol (cross-section) for you. There is no need to open a Revit library.  If the ‘Continue’ button (right bottom corner) is enabled, all sections can be converted and you simply can move forward without any mapping.

When to choose & open ‘Library’?

• you are using “non-typical” shapes
• you have created your own family of cross-sections (symbols) to match
• you really want to match with existing Revit libraries

C:\ProgramData\Autodesk\RVT {latest version}\Libraries

2.2.2.2 Plate sections

In case not all plate sections can be automatically mapped with the Revit document plate sections, you will see a dialog window to map BIM Expert’s sections with Revit’s document plate sections.

Choose ‘R Document’ and then search for a match in the pull down list. If you cannot find a suited match, you can choose ‘Create New’. It is not uncommon to add all plate sections as new.

Note: The slab type ‘Breedplaat/Predal’ is converted to a precast slab in Revit. However, the original plate configuration is saved. When converting to other software supporting this type of slabs (ex. Diamonds), the plate will be recognized as ‘Breedplaat/Predal’.

2.2.4 Connections and components

Connections are currently not being transferred.

3. Final steps in Revit

The model is now in Revit, ready for the next steps.

4. Get started with BIM Expert

1. Preparation in Tekla Structures

The transfer is based on the analytical model. So in Tekla Structures you need to create an analytical model first. The quality and coherence (connection between elements) of the analytical model will determine the quality of the structural calculations. It is therefore essential to build a good analysis model in Tekla Structures.

Learn here how to make a good analysis model in Tekla Stuctures.

2. Send model from Tekla Structures to Diamonds

2.1 From Tekla Structures to BIM Expert

There is more than 1 way to send models from Tekla Structures to BIM Expert. You can either start from

BuildSoft menu in the top ribbon

Applications and components sidebar

Click the BIM Expert icon to launch the transfer. Next you need to select what items to include, in addition to the Analysis model:

• Additional data: data that came from a previous transfer, but is not supported by Tekla Structures. This information is kept and can now be taken along in the current transfer (e.g. seismic information, soil layers, …)
• Rigid links
• Connection: full or only haunches
• Internal forces from ‘End Conditions’.  The End Conditions tab can be found in the element’s UDA (User Defined Attributes):

Alternative method: start in BIM Expert

Alternatively, you can start in BIM Expert: click ‘Model > Import’ and select the Tekla Structures plugin. Choose the Tekla Structures version and what elements to import (see above).

No matter the way you have chosen, BIM Expert will now take over.

2.1.1 Settings

If you have more than one analytical model in Tekla Structures, you need to select the analysis model that you want to transfer

Next, the Tekla Structures sections and materials must be mapped with BIM Expert’s section and material database. BIM Expert will try to find as many automatic mapping matches as possible. In case all sections and materials find a match, you will not see any dialogs for mapping.

2.1.2 Material mapping

In case you have turned off the option to reduce dialog windows, you might see a material mapping dialog for mapping unknown materials. In the ‘reduce dialog window’ case, unknown materials will be added as new.

2.1.3 Section mapping

In case you have turned off the option to reduce dialog windows, you might see a section mapping dialog for mapping unknown sections. In the ‘reduce dialog window’ case, unknown sections will be added as new.

2.1.4 Connections and component bundles

In case you have chosen to export connections and there are connections in the model, BIM Expert will now start the connection conversion.

If you have turned off the option to reduce the dialog windows, you will get an overview of all connections components in the model and the possibility to bundle components.

The model is now in BIM Expert.

2.2 From BIM Expert to Diamonds

In the Model tab, select ‘Export’. Next, choose the destination software, namely Diamonds. Click  to continue.

2.2.1 Settings

You can choose to either

• save the model as *.bsf-file
• send the model to the current open Diamonds instance – you see all open instances of Diamonds

Select your choice and click  to continue.

If you choose to open the model directly in Diamonds, you will get a notification in Diamonds on the right side. You can now choose to load the model or to delete it (by using the ‘x’).

2.2.2 Mapping

In rare cases you might see a material and section mapping dialog.

3. Final steps in Diamonds

When loading a 3rd party model in Diamonds, it is good practice to

1. Make all lines intersect with each other, using
2. Perform a structure verification, with a geometric tolerance of 1cm, using

1. Preparation in Tekla Structures

The transfer is based on the analytical model. So in Tekla Structures, you need to create an analytical model first. The quality and coherence (connection between elements) of the analytical model is not relevant, as we recommend to choose on the physical model when going to Idea StatiCa Connection.

Existiting connection components will be recognized by BIM Expert and be sent to Idea StatiCa Connection with all connection elements. Loose connection elements will not be recognized and therefore will not be tranferred to Idea StatiCa Connection.

2. Send model from Tekla Structures to Idea StatiCa Connection

2.1 From Tekla Structures to BIM Expert

There is more than 1 way to send models from Tekla Structures to BIM Expert. You can either start from

BuildSoft menu in the top ribbon

Applications and components sidebar

Click the BIM Expert icon to launch the transfer. Next you need to select what items to include, in addition to the Analysis model:

• Additional data: data that came from a previous transfer, but is not supported by Tekla Structures. This information is kept and can now be taken along in the current transfer (e.g. seismic information, soil layers, …)
• Rigid links
• Connection: full or only haunches
• Internal forces from ‘End Conditions’.  The End Conditions tab can be found in the element’s UDA (User Defined Attributes):

Alternative method: start in BIM Expert

Alternatively, you can start in BIM Expert: click ‘Model > Import’ and select the Tekla Structures plugin. Choose the Tekla Structures version and what elements to import (see above).

No matter the way you have chosen, BIM Expert will now take over.

2.1.1 Settings

If you have more than one analytical model in Tekla Structures, you need to select the analysis model that you want to transfer

Next, the Tekla Structures sections and materials must be mapped with BIM Expert’s section and material database. BIM Expert will try to find as many automatic mapping matches as possible. In case all sections and materials find a match, you will not see any dialogs for mapping.

2.1.2 Material mapping

In case you have turned off the option to reduce dialog windows, you might see a material mapping dialog for mapping unknown materials. In the ‘reduce dialog window’ case, unknown materials will be added as new.

2.1.3 Section mapping

In case you have turned off the option to reduce dialog windows, you might see a section mapping dialog for mapping unknown sections. In the ‘reduce dialog window’ case, unknown sections will be added as new.

2.1.4 Connections and component bundles

In case you have chosen to export connections and there are connections in the model, BIM Expert will now start the connection conversion.

If you have turned off the option to reduce the dialog windows, you will get an overview of all connections components in the model and the possibility to bundle components.

The model is now in BIM Expert.

2.2 From BIM Expert to Idea StatiCa Connection

In the Model tab, select ‘Export’. Next, choose the destination software, namely Idea StatiCa. Click  to continue.

2.2.1 Settings

2.2.1.1 Version

Select the desired version of Idea StatiCa.

2.2.1.2 Model type

Choose between model types analysis or physical:

• The analysis model will only send independent analytical bars, as defined in the analytical model:
  • When bars are continuous in reality and grouped into a physical group, this is ignored.
  • Existing connections (e.g. from Tekla Structures, Revit or PowerConnect) are also ignored. Only the analysis members will remain. All physical elements (bolts, welds, connection plates, … ) will be ignored in the transfer.
• The physical model will send physical elements, that is
  • Continuous bars (if properly grouped)
  • Connections including all physical elements (bolts, welds, connection plates, … ). Connections are always in the physical model defined.

If you choose physical model, it is recommended to opt for ‘Use data from analysis model’, as this will use the load and result information from the analysis model.

It is good practice to check ‘Export loads’ and Export results’ unless you want to define the loads again in Idea StatiCa Connection.

2.2.1.3 Destination

Select the destination ‘Idea StatiCa Connection’.

2.2.2 Select nodes and connections

In the next window you get an overview of the model, where nodes and connections can be selected to be transferred. On the left side, ‘Connections in Idea StatiCa’ holds a list with all connections to be sent to Idea. The list is empty by default.

Depending on the choice of model (analysis or physical) and whether there are physical connections present in the model, this window can have different layouts.

Hit ‘Continue’ to continue the transfer to Idea StatiCa.

2.2.3 Saving the model

Choose a folder to save the conversion files (IOM etc).  We recommend to have a separate BIM Expert folder, where all your models are stored.

2.2.4 Open the model in Idea Checkbot

Idea Checkbot will launch automatically.  A ‘New’ tab, a new project is proposed and the project name and project folder are filled out accordingly. Click ‘Create project’ to start.

2.2.5 Load the nodes

Click ‘Import > Bulk’ to load all nodes. Depending on the number of nodes selected and the amount of results in model, this can take a while.

Select a connection from the list of project items and click ‘Open’ to open it in Idea StatiCa Connection.

3. Final steps in Idea StatiCa Connection

In case you have sent the analytical model, you need to add bolts and connection plates to build up your model.

In case you have sent the physical existing connections, you will see the already defined connection.  Other physical bars will need to be completed with bolts, welds, connection plates etc.

This article explains how to send a Tekla Structures model to PowerConnect, using BIM Expert.

There are 2 ways to send your connections from Tekla Structures to PowerConnect:

• Connections components only (easiest, see video above):
  • connection components must be present in the model – only they will be transferred
  • requires no analytical model creation
  • additional connections via Connection Assembler are not possible
• Analysis model:
  • connection components can be present in the model and will be recognized
  • requires the creation of an analytical model
  • extra connection can be added via the Connection Assembler

Connection componentsAnalysis model

1. Preparation in Tekla Structures

The transfer is based on the connection components.  Make sure you have some in your model. The components below are supported by PowerConnect.

2. Send model from Tekla Structures to PowerConnect

2.1 From Tekla Structures to BIM Expert

Tip

In the BIM Expert menu ‘File > Settings > Tekla Structures’, opt for ‘Apply default actions in conversion’s dialogs’.

This option will reduce the number of conversion dialogs whenever possible. You only be prompted with dialogs when user input is required.

There is more than 1 way to send connections from Tekla Structures to BIM Expert. You can either start from

BuildSoft menu in the top ribbon

Applications and components sidebar

Click the BIM Expert icon or PowerConnect icon to launch the transfer. Next you need to select what items to include:

• Additional data: data that came from a previous transfer, but is not supported by Tekla Structures. This information is kept and can now be taken along in the current transfer (e.g. seismic information, soil layers, …)
• Internal forces from ‘End Conditions’.  The End Conditions tab can be found in the element’s UDA (User Defined Attributes)

Click Ok to proceed.  In the left bottom of the Tekla Structures you will see the information on what to do next:

2.1.1 Selection of elements

Select the elements and confirm your selection by clicking the middle mouse button (mouse wheel).

You will get an overview of all selected connection components:

 

2.1.2 Component bundles

If you have turned off the option to reduce the dialog windows, you will get an overview of all connections components in the model and the possibility to bundle components.

Component selection and group dialog

In this window you can do 2 things:

• Select the connections to be included in transfer, via the checkbox in the ‘Accept’ column
• Bundle connection components into larger complex connection groups:
  1. Position this window in a corner of your screen, because once you start adding groups, the window position is locked.
  2. Click ‘Add group’ to select the components.
  3. Select the components by clicking the component arrow. All components should logically be around a single node of course.
  4. Confirm the selection with the middle mouse button.
  5. The group is now listed with the reference ids of the individual components.

If there are materials of bolt elements to be mapped, they will appear in the next pop-up window.

The model is now in BIM Expert.

2.2 From BIM Expert to PowerConnect

In the Model tab, select ‘Export’. Next, choose the destination software, namely PowerConnect. Click  to continue.

2.2.1 Settings

You can choose to either

• save the model as *.bpc-file
• send the model to the current open PowerConnect instance – you see all open instances of PowerConnect

Select your choice and click  to continue.

2.2.2 Automatic detection of connection components

BIM Expert automatically detects existing connection components in the model. You get an overview of all found connection components and whether they can be transferred to PowerConnect.

Use the eye button in the ‘Show’ column to see a detailed popup window of the connection.

Possible descriptions are

• Some internal forces could not be retrieved from the analysis results
  No (or not all) internal forces are present from the source software.
• The connection is identical to connection(s) {IDs} and therefore has been grouped
  Identical connections will be treated as one connection. You must only calculate the connections one, with envelope forces.
• Connection merged with one or more parts of the following connection: {ID}
  The connection is merged with other one to create a more complex connection (e.g. two shear connections to beam-column are merged to design a double-sided shear connection)
• Connection divided into <….> connections
  A complex connection has been split up into smaller PowerConnect connections
• The connection bars/plates with following ID’s could not be recognized: {IDs}
  The connection is recognized and can be calculated with PowerConnect, execpt for these bars/plates, with given Ids
• Connection type not support
  This connection configuration cannot be calculated by PowerConnect, so it will not be transferred.

Click ‘Accept’ to continue to PowerConnect.

If you have chosen to open the model directly in PowerConnect, you will get a notification in PowerConnect on the right side. You can now choose to load the model or to delete it (by using the ‘x’).

1. Preparation in Tekla Structures

The transfer is based on the analytical model. So in Tekla Structures, you need to create an analytical model first. The quality and coherence (connection between elements) of the analytical model is not relevant, as PowerConnect uses the physical model.

Creating the analytical model fast (no quality demand)

In the top ribbon, go to the tab ‘Analysis & Design’ and click the ‘A & D models’ command

Next create a New analysis model – a Analysis Model Properties window will pop-up. The analysis model content should be ‘Full model’ – unless you want to start selecting element per element.

2. Send model from Tekla Structures to PowerConnect

2.1 From Tekla Structures to BIM Expert

Tip

In the BIM Expert menu ‘File > Settings > Tekla Structures’, opt for ‘Apply default actions in conversion’s dialogs’.

This option will reduce the number of conversion dialogs whenever possible. You only be prompted with dialogs when user input is required.

There is more than 1 way to send models from Tekla Structures to BIM Expert. You can either start from

BuildSoft menu in the top ribbon

Applications and components sidebar

Click the BIM Expert icon to launch the transfer. Next you need to select what items to include, in addition to the Analysis model:

• Additional data: data that came from a previous transfer, but is not supported by Tekla Structures. This information is kept and can now be taken along in the current transfer (e.g. seismic information, soil layers, …)
• Rigid links
• Connection: full or only haunches
• Internal forces from ‘End Conditions’.  The End Conditions tab can be found in the element’s UDA (User Defined Attributes):

Alternative method: start in BIM Expert

Alternatively, you can start in BIM Expert: click ‘Model > Import’ and select the Tekla Structures plugin. Choose the Tekla Structures version and what elements to import (see above).

No matter the way you have chosen, BIM Expert will now take over.

2.1.1 Settings

If you have more than one analytical model in Tekla Structures, you need to select the analysis model that you want to transfer

Next, the Tekla Structures sections and materials must be mapped with BIM Expert’s section and material database. BIM Expert will try to find as many automatic mapping matches as possible. In case all sections and materials find a match, you will not see any dialogs for mapping.

2.1.2 Material mapping

In case you have turned off the option to reduce dialog windows, you might see a material mapping dialog for mapping unknown materials. In the ‘reduce dialog window’ case, unknown materials will be added as new.

Material mapping dialog

Database materials such as steel (e.g. S235, ASTM-Grades), concrete (e.g. C25/30, M50) and timber (e.g. C24, D50, GL28c) are mapped automatically. In some cases, the match is not automatically found, because the name differs (Concrete grade C25 instead of Concrete grade C25/30). In that case, you can select the correct material from the database.

Tip: When searching an item in the database, type the first letters of the name to find it more quickly.

If you cannot find a suited counterpart in the BIM Expert database, the material can be added as new.

2.1.3 Section mapping

In case you have turned off the option to reduce dialog windows, you might see a section mapping dialog for mapping unknown sections. In the ‘reduce dialog window’ case, unknown sections will be added as new.

Section mapping dialog

Database sections (such as I, H, UB, UC, W, C, U, O, ☐ and L sections) are mapped automatically. In some cases, the match is not automatically found, because the name differs  (e.g. name is HEB300 – S235 instead of HEB300). In that case, you can select the correct cross-section from the database.
Tip: When searching an item in the database, type the first letters of the name to find it more quickly.

Parametric sections (e.g. rectangles, circle, trapezium, …) and user defined sections are not in the database. They should always be added as new.

2.1.4 Connections and component bundles

In case you have chosen to export connections and there are connections in the model, BIM Expert will now start the connection conversion.

If you have turned off the option to reduce the dialog windows, you will get an overview of all connections components in the model and the possibility to bundle components.

Component selection and group dialog

In this window you can do 2 things:

• Select the connections to be included in transfer, via the checkbox in the ‘Accept’ column
• Bundle connection components into larger complex connection groups:
  1. Position this window in a corner of your screen, because once you start adding groups, the window position is locked.
  2. Click ‘Add group’ to select the components.
  3. Select the components by clicking the component arrow. All components should logically be around a single node of course.
  4. Confirm the selection with the middle mouse button.
  5. The group is now listed with the reference ids of the individual components.

If there are materials of bolt elements to be mapped, they will appear in the next pop-up window.

The model is now in BIM Expert.

2.2 From BIM Expert to PowerConnect

In the Model tab, select ‘Export’. Next, choose the destination software, namely PowerConnect. Click  to continue.

2.2.1 Settings

You can choose to either

• save the model as *.bpc-file
• send the model to the current open PowerConnect instance – you see all open instances of PowerConnect

Select your choice and click  to continue.

2.2.2 Automatic detection of connection components

BIM Expert automatically detects existing connection components in the model. You get an overview of all found connection components and whether they can be transferred to PowerConnect.

 

Use the eye button in the ‘Show’ column to see a detailed popup window of the connection.

Possible descriptions are

• Some internal forces could not be retrieved from the analysis results
  No (or not all) internal forces are present from the source software.
• The connection is identical to connection(s) {IDs} and therefore has been grouped
  Identical connections will be treated as one connection. You must only calculate the connections one, with envelope forces.
• Connection merged with one or more parts of the following connection: {ID}
  The connection is merged with other one to create a more complex connection (e.g. two shear connections to beam-column are merged to design a double-sided shear connection)
• Connection divided into <….> connections
  A complex connection has been split up into smaller PowerConnect connections
• The connection bars/plates with following ID’s could not be recognized: {IDs}
  The connection is recognized and can be calculated with PowerConnect, execpt for these bars/plates, with given Ids
• Connection type not support
  This connection configuration cannot be calculated by PowerConnect, so it will not be transferred.

If no connections are found, you will see

2.2.3 Add connections manually via Connection Assembler

You can make your own connections by clicking ‘Modify’ (see image above).

In the next window, you see on the left hand side the BIM Expert model. In this window you see the regular scroll, 3D orbit and pan functions. On the right hand side, there is on top an overview of created connections and at the bottom, the ‘Create’ button to make new connections.

In the next step you choose the connection type

• Moment connections: beam-column, beam-beam, splice, beam-column-beam or CHS splice
• Shear connections: beam-column or beam-beam, beam-column-beam or beam-beam-beam
• Base plate connections

After selecting for example ‘Beam to column’ you select the column and next the beam element from the 3D image on the left hand side. Click once on the column element and next on the beam element. BIM Expert will list and indicate which connections are possible:

• Beam to column flange > possible, and marked with
• Beam to column web > not possible, and not marked – you can click the orange arrow at the end to fold out the details and see why this connection is not possible.

On clicking ‘Create’, the connection is added to the list of connections on top. Having selected the beam-column type, you can now continue making this type of connections, until you click ‘Change pattern’.

When the connection definition is finished, you click ‘Close’ and ‘Accept’ to continue to PowerConnect.

If you have chosen to open the model directly in PowerConnect, you will get a notification in PowerConnect on the right side. You can now choose to load the model or to delete it (by using the ‘x’).

3. Final steps in PowerConnect

All connections will appear in the node list on the left side (as from PowerConnect 2021).  Remember that all identical connections will be grouped as 1.

Connections made with the Connection Assembler might appear with a red bar and as ‘Undefined’.  The connector type must be chosen (e.g. end plate, shear plate, welded, angles etc)

Click on this connection to set the connector.

If no loads or internal forces were transferred, you should add loads in PowerConnect, in order to have a proper design of the connections.

1. Preparation in Tekla Structures

The transfer is based on the analytical model. So in Tekla Structures you need to create an analytical model first. The quality and coherence (connection between elements) of the analytical model will determine the quality of the structural calculations. It is therefore essential to build a good analysis model in Tekla Structures.

Learn here how to make a good analysis model in Tekla Stuctures.

2. Send model from Tekla Structures to SAP2000

2.1 From Tekla Structures to BIM Expert

There is more than 1 way to send models from Tekla Structures to BIM Expert. You can either start from

BuildSoft menu in the top ribbon

Applications and components sidebar

Click the BIM Expert icon to launch the transfer. Next you need to select what items to include, in addition to the Analysis model:

• Additional data: data that came from a previous transfer, but is not supported by Tekla Structures. This information is kept and can now be taken along in the current transfer (e.g. seismic information, soil layers, …)
• Rigid links
• Connection: full or only haunches
• Internal forces from ‘End Conditions’.  The End Conditions tab can be found in the element’s UDA (User Defined Attributes):

Alternative method: start in BIM Expert

Alternatively, you can start in BIM Expert: click ‘Model > Import’ and select the Tekla Structures plugin. Choose the Tekla Structures version and what elements to import (see above).

No matter the way you have chosen, BIM Expert will now take over.

2.1.1 Settings

If you have more than one analytical model in Tekla Structures, you need to select the analysis model that you want to transfer

Next, the Tekla Structures sections and materials must be mapped with BIM Expert’s section and material database. BIM Expert will try to find as many automatic mapping matches as possible. In case all sections and materials find a match, you will not see any dialogs for mapping.

2.1.2 Material mapping

In case you have turned off the option to reduce dialog windows, you might see a material mapping dialog for mapping unknown materials. In the ‘reduce dialog window’ case, unknown materials will be added as new.

2.1.3 Section mapping

In case you have turned off the option to reduce dialog windows, you might see a section mapping dialog for mapping unknown sections. In the ‘reduce dialog window’ case, unknown sections will be added as new.

2.1.4 Connections and component bundles

In case you have chosen to export connections and there are connections in the model, BIM Expert will now start the connection conversion.

If you have turned off the option to reduce the dialog windows, you will get an overview of all connections components in the model and the possibility to bundle components.

The model is now in BIM Expert.

2.2 From BIM Expert to SAP2000

In the Model tab, select ‘Export’. Next, choose the destination software manufacturer, namely ‘Computer and Structures, Inc’ (CSI) . Click  to continue.

Choose ‘SAP2000’

2.2.1 Settings

Select your SAP2000 version, the destination and analysis model.  The destination can be either:

• To a new empty model in a new instance – after the file is loaded you immediately will be prompted to save the file
• To current instance and new empty model

SAP2000 will launch automatically in case of ‘new instance’ choice.

Next, the BIM Expert sections and materials must be mapped with SAP2000’s section and materials. BIM Expert will try to find as many automatic mapping matches as possible. In case all sections and materials find a match, you will not see any dialogs for mapping.

2.2.2 Material mapping

In a new file, SAP2000 only has 2 materials present: Steel S355 and Concrete 30/37. Chances are real that you see the material mapping dialog.  If you cannot find a suited counterpart in the SAP2000 model, the material can be added as new.

2.1.3 Section mapping

A new SAP2000 model has no cross-sections. So all will be added as new.

3. Final steps in SAP2000

Depending on the chosen destination: launch SAP2000and open the file. Or continue working in the open version of SAP2000.

1. Preparation in Tekla Structures

The transfer is based on the analytical model. So in Tekla Structures you need to create an analytical model first. The quality and coherence (connection between elements) of the analytical model will determine the quality of the structural calculations. It is therefore essential to build a good analysis model in Tekla Structures.

Learn here how to make a good analysis model in Tekla Stuctures.

2. Send model from Tekla Structures to ETABS

2.1 From Tekla Structures to BIM Expert

There is more than 1 way to send models from Tekla Structures to BIM Expert. You can either start from

BuildSoft menu in the top ribbon

Applications and components sidebar

Click the BIM Expert icon to launch the transfer. Next you need to select what items to include, in addition to the Analysis model:

• Additional data: data that came from a previous transfer, but is not supported by Tekla Structures. This information is kept and can now be taken along in the current transfer (e.g. seismic information, soil layers, …)
• Rigid links
• Connection: full or only haunches
• Internal forces from ‘End Conditions’.  The End Conditions tab can be found in the element’s UDA (User Defined Attributes):

Alternative method: start in BIM Expert

Alternatively, you can start in BIM Expert: click ‘Model > Import’ and select the Tekla Structures plugin. Choose the Tekla Structures version and what elements to import (see above).

No matter the way you have chosen, BIM Expert will now take over.

2.1.1 Settings

If you have more than one analytical model in Tekla Structures, you need to select the analysis model that you want to transfer

Next, the Tekla Structures sections and materials must be mapped with BIM Expert’s section and material database. BIM Expert will try to find as many automatic mapping matches as possible. In case all sections and materials find a match, you will not see any dialogs for mapping.

2.1.2 Material mapping

In case you have turned off the option to reduce dialog windows, you might see a material mapping dialog for mapping unknown materials. In the ‘reduce dialog window’ case, unknown materials will be added as new.

2.1.3 Section mapping

In case you have turned off the option to reduce dialog windows, you might see a section mapping dialog for mapping unknown sections. In the ‘reduce dialog window’ case, unknown sections will be added as new.

2.1.4 Connections and component bundles

In case you have chosen to export connections and there are connections in the model, BIM Expert will now start the connection conversion.

If you have turned off the option to reduce the dialog windows, you will get an overview of all connections components in the model and the possibility to bundle components.

The model is now in BIM Expert.

2.2 From BIM Expert to ETABS

In the Model tab, select ‘Export’. Next, choose the destination software manufacturer, namely ‘Computer and Structures, Inc’ (CSI). Click  to continue.

Choose ‘ETABS’

2.2.1 Settings

Select your ETABS version, the destination and analysis model.  The destination can be either:

• To a new empty model in a new instance
• To current instance and new empty model

ETABS will launch automatically in case of ‘new instance’ choice.

Next, the BIM Expert sections and materials must be mapped with ETABS’ section and materials. BIM Expert will try to find as many automatic mapping matches as possible. In case all sections and materials find a match, you will not see any dialogs for mapping.

2.2.2 Material mapping

In a new file, ETABS only has 2 materials present: Steel S355 and Concrete 30/37. Chances are real that you see the material mapping dialog.  If you cannot find a suited counterpart in the ETABS model, the material can be added as new.

2.1.3 Section mapping

A new ETABS model has no cross-sections. So all will be added as new.

3. Final steps in ETABS

Depending on the chosen destination: launch ETABS and open the file. Or continue working in the open version of ETABS.

1. Preparation in Tekla Structures

The transfer is based on the analytical model. So in Tekla Structures you need to create an analytical model first. The quality and coherence (connection between elements) of the analytical model will determine the quality of the structural calculations. It is therefore essential to build a good analysis model in Tekla Structures.

Learn here how to make a good analysis model in Tekla Stuctures.

2. Send model from Tekla Structures to Diamonds

2.1 From Tekla Structures to BIM Expert

There is more than 1 way to send models from Tekla Structures to BIM Expert. You can either start from

BuildSoft menu in the top ribbon

Applications and components sidebar

Click the BIM Expert icon to launch the transfer. Next you need to select what items to include, in addition to the Analysis model:

• Additional data: data that came from a previous transfer, but is not supported by Tekla Structures. This information is kept and can now be taken along in the current transfer (e.g. seismic information, soil layers, …)
• Rigid links
• Connection: full or only haunches
• Internal forces from ‘End Conditions’.  The End Conditions tab can be found in the element’s UDA (User Defined Attributes):

Alternative method: start in BIM Expert

Alternatively, you can start in BIM Expert: click ‘Model > Import’ and select the Tekla Structures plugin. Choose the Tekla Structures version and what elements to import (see above).

No matter the way you have chosen, BIM Expert will now take over.

2.1.1 Settings

If you have more than one analytical model in Tekla Structures, you need to select the analysis model that you want to transfer

Next, the Tekla Structures sections and materials must be mapped with BIM Expert’s section and material database. BIM Expert will try to find as many automatic mapping matches as possible. In case all sections and materials find a match, you will not see any dialogs for mapping.

2.1.2 Material mapping

In case you have turned off the option to reduce dialog windows, you might see a material mapping dialog for mapping unknown materials. In the ‘reduce dialog window’ case, unknown materials will be added as new.

2.1.3 Section mapping

In case you have turned off the option to reduce dialog windows, you might see a section mapping dialog for mapping unknown sections. In the ‘reduce dialog window’ case, unknown sections will be added as new.

2.1.4 Connections and component bundles

In case you have chosen to export connections and there are connections in the model, BIM Expert will now start the connection conversion.

If you have turned off the option to reduce the dialog windows, you will get an overview of all connections components in the model and the possibility to bundle components.

The model is now in BIM Expert.

2.2 From BIM Expert to Diamonds

In the Model tab, select ‘Export’. Next, choose the destination software, namely Diamonds. Click  to continue.

2.2.1 Settings

You can choose to either

• save the model as *.bsf-file
• send the model to the current open Diamonds instance – you see all open instances of Diamonds

Select your choice and click  to continue.

If you choose to open the model directly in Diamonds, you will get a notification in Diamonds on the right side. You can now choose to load the model or to delete it (by using the ‘x’).

2.2.2 Mapping

In rare cases you might see a material and section mapping dialog.

3. Final steps in Diamonds

When loading a 3rd party model in Diamonds, it is good practice to

1. Make all lines intersect with each other, using
2. Perform a structure verification, with a geometric tolerance of 1cm, using

1. Preparation in Tekla Structures

The transfer is based on the analytical model. So in Tekla Structures you need to create an analytical model first. The quality and coherence (connection between elements) of the analytical model will determine the quality of the structural calculations. It is therefore essential to build a good analysis model in Tekla Structures.

Learn here how to make a good analysis model in Tekla Stuctures.

2. Send model from Tekla Structures to Tekla Structural Designer

2.1 From Tekla Structures to BIM Expert

There is more than 1 way to send models from Tekla Structures to BIM Expert. You can either start from

BuildSoft menu in the top ribbon

Applications and components sidebar

Click the BIM Expert icon to launch the transfer. Next you need to select what items to include, in addition to the Analysis model:

• Additional data: data that came from a previous transfer, but is not supported by Tekla Structures. This information is kept and can now be taken along in the current transfer (e.g. seismic information, soil layers, …)
• Rigid links
• Connection: full or only haunches
• Internal forces from ‘End Conditions’.  The End Conditions tab can be found in the element’s UDA (User Defined Attributes):

Alternative method: start in BIM Expert

Alternatively, you can start in BIM Expert: click ‘Model > Import’ and select the Tekla Structures plugin. Choose the Tekla Structures version and what elements to import (see above).

No matter the way you have chosen, BIM Expert will now take over.

2.1.1 Settings

If you have more than one analytical model in Tekla Structures, you need to select the analysis model that you want to transfer

Next, the Tekla Structures sections and materials must be mapped with BIM Expert’s section and material database. BIM Expert will try to find as many automatic mapping matches as possible. In case all sections and materials find a match, you will not see any dialogs for mapping.

2.1.2 Material mapping

In case you have turned off the option to reduce dialog windows, you might see a material mapping dialog for mapping unknown materials. In the ‘reduce dialog window’ case, unknown materials will be added as new.

2.1.3 Section mapping

In case you have turned off the option to reduce dialog windows, you might see a section mapping dialog for mapping unknown sections. In the ‘reduce dialog window’ case, unknown sections will be added as new.

2.1.4 Connections and component bundles

In case you have chosen to export connections and there are connections in the model, BIM Expert will now start the connection conversion.

If you have turned off the option to reduce the dialog windows, you will get an overview of all connections components in the model and the possibility to bundle components.

The model is now in BIM Expert.

2.2 From BIM Expert to Tekla Structural Designer

In the Model tab, select ‘Export’. Next, choose the destination, namely “CXL’. Click  to continue.

Next, you will be prompted to save the file

2.2.1 Material & section mapping

Most common materials and sections are mapped according to the TSD neutral file mapping conventions. If there is no match found, a default section and material will be applied. You can specify these defaults in ‘File > Settings > CXL’

3. Final steps in Tekla Structural Designer

1. On the BIM Integration tab, click Structural BIM Import.

   The BIM Integration wizard opens.

2. Use the […] button to browse and select the appropriate CXL file.

   The remainder of the fields are populated with the settings read directly from the file.

3. Click Next to continue.

   The Import Options page shows the settings related to the file, it will indicate if this is a first time import or an update, and allows the user to choose Metric or Imperial for the units, a design code and the default level type. The level type can later be adjusted in the construction levels dialog if required.

4. Click Next to continue.

   The Relocate Import Model page allows for models to be moved to around the datum position in Tekla Structural Designer from a real world co-ordinate. The extent of the model can be seen from the information displayed on the right hand side of the dialog.

5. Click Next to continue.

   The Integration Filter will be displayed. The five options shown here allow you to verify if grids, levels etc. are to be imported. Please note that the settings held in the Delete Existing… and four Update… columns should not be used when performing a First Time Import and are only used when synchronizing changes into an existing Tekla Structural Designer model.

6. Click Next to continue.

   Mapping of materials to recognised grades will be shown now. Here you can view the different materials recognised in the incoming CXL file and the options to alter materials with a more preferred grade.

7. Click Next to continue (if available).

   Following on from Material mapping, the dialog for Decking mapping will be shown (if applicable). Again this allows users to view the decking types being imported and have the option of overwriting the details if required.

8. Click Finish

   After the file has completed processing, the model will be displayed within the Structural 3D view and you can then proceed with validation of the structure before applying any analytical information.

1. Preparation in Tekla Structures

An UBSM file can handle geometry, loads, mesh, analysis settings, results and connections.  So, the export can be as complete as you prefer, as long as these items are present in Tekla Structures.

The transfer is based on the analytical model. So in Tekla Structures you need to create an analytical model first. The quality and coherence (connection between elements) of the analytical model will determine the quality of the structural calculations. It is therefore essential to build a good analysis model in Tekla Structures.

Learn here how to make a good analysis model in Tekla Stuctures.

2. Send model from Tekla Structures to UBSM

2.1 From Tekla Structures to BIM Expert

There is more than 1 way to send models from Tekla Structures to BIM Expert. You can either start from

BuildSoft menu in the top ribbon

Applications and components sidebar

Click the BIM Expert icon to launch the transfer. Next you need to select what items to include, in addition to the Analysis model:

• Additional data: data that came from a previous transfer, but is not supported by Tekla Structures. This information is kept and can now be taken along in the current transfer (e.g. seismic information, soil layers, …)
• Rigid links
• Connection: full or only haunches
• Internal forces from ‘End Conditions’.  The End Conditions tab can be found in the element’s UDA (User Defined Attributes):

Alternative method: start in BIM Expert

Alternatively, you can start in BIM Expert: click ‘Model > Import’ and select the Tekla Structures plugin. Choose the Tekla Structures version and what elements to import (see above).

No matter the way you have chosen, BIM Expert will now take over.

2.1.1 Settings

If you have more than one analytical model in Tekla Structures, you need to select the analysis model that you want to transfer

Next, the Tekla Structures sections and materials must be mapped with BIM Expert’s section and material database. BIM Expert will try to find as many automatic mapping matches as possible. In case all sections and materials find a match, you will not see any dialogs for mapping.

2.1.2 Material mapping

In case you have turned off the option to reduce dialog windows, you might see a material mapping dialog for mapping unknown materials. In the ‘reduce dialog window’ case, unknown materials will be added as new.

2.1.3 Section mapping

In case you have turned off the option to reduce dialog windows, you might see a section mapping dialog for mapping unknown sections. In the ‘reduce dialog window’ case, unknown sections will be added as new.

2.1.4 Connections and component bundles

In case you have chosen to export connections and there are connections in the model, BIM Expert will now start the connection conversion.

If you have turned off the option to reduce the dialog windows, you will get an overview of all connections components in the model and the possibility to bundle components.

The model is now in BIM Expert.

2.2 From BIM Expert to UBSM

In the Model tab, select ‘Export’. Next, choose UBSM File. UBSM is BuildSoft’s neutral file format, XML based. Click  to continue.

2.2.1 Settings

Choose the formatting style and whether the file should be opened after saving.Select the elements to be included in the conversions.  Click ‘Continue’ to finish the export.

Pick a location to save the UBSM file.