This article explains how to send an ETABS model to Diamonds, using BIM Expert.
1. Preparation in ETABS
The more information is present in the ETABS model, the more complete the transfer will be. For example, you can already set the design standards and the combinations by group (ULS, SLS) in ETABS.
2. Send model from ETABS to Diamonds
2.1 From ETABS to BIM Expert
In the Model tab, select ‘Import’. Next, choose the source software manufacturer, namely ‘Computer and Structures, Inc’ (CSI) . Click to continue. Choose ‘ETABS’. Alternatively, models can be sent to BIM Expert directly within ETABS (Tools > BIM Expert), but you first need to add BIM Expert as a plug-in to ETABS.2.2.1 Settings
Select your ETABS version, and were the model is coming from:- A running instance – that means, the model is currently open in ETABS
- An existing model – click ‘Browse… ‘ to open your file browser, go to the model location and select the model (an .edb file)
2.2.2 Material mapping
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 (S355-link instead of S355). 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.2.1.3 Section mapping
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, …) are not in the database. They should always be added as new.2.1.4 Loads mapping
If you opted to consider the loads during export, the ETABS load combinations need to be categorized. Each valid ETABS combination must be categorized into Eurocode or American combinations. Use the checkbox ‘Use categories according to Limit States’ to switch between European and American combination categories.- Eurocode Limit States
- ULS – Ultimate Limit State Combinations: Fundamental (FC), Seismic (SC), Fire (FI) or Accidental (AC)
- SLS – Serviceability Limit State Combinations: Rare (RC), Frequent (FC) or Quasi-Permanent (QP)
- Custom
- Armerican
- Strength
- Service
- Custom
2.1.5 Reporting
In case of severe incidences, you get a report of the incidences. It usually concerns load cases or element behavior that are not supported by BIM Expert. Click ‘Continue’ to proceed anyway. 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
The model is now in Diamonds, ready for the next steps in the structural analysis.