Tekla Structures 2017i · Tekla Structures 2017i Interoperability ... 12.1 DGN import ... 33.1 Download a reference model from and upload a reference model

Tekla Structures 2017iInteroperability

September 2017

2017 Trimble Solutions Corporation

Contents

1 What is interoperability?.............................................................. 9

2 Industry standards...................................................................... 10

3 Compatible formats.................................................................... 11

4 Compatible software...................................................................13

5 Import to and export from Tekla Structures............................30

6 Conversion files........................................................................... 326.1 Twin profile conversion files..........................................................................336.2 Create conversion files................................................................................... 34

7 Base points................................................................................... 377.1 Define a base point......................................................................................... 377.2 Set a coordinate system as the project base point.....................................407.3 Insert a reference model using a base point............................................... 417.4 Export an IFC model using a base point....................................................... 427.5 Base points in drawings..................................................................................427.6 Base point in reports and templates............................................................ 43

8 Reference models and compatible formats............................. 468.1 Import a reference model.............................................................................. 478.2 View reference models................................................................................... 498.3 Modify reference model details.................................................................... 538.4 Lock reference models................................................................................... 548.5 Detect changes between reference model versions...................................558.6 Define a comparison set for reference model change detection..............60

Create a new comparison set...............................................................................................60Properties in comparison property set...............................................................................62

8.7 Export change detection results to Excel..................................................... 648.8 Inquire reference model contents................................................................ 678.9 Reference model objects................................................................................ 688.10 Examine reference model hierarchy and modify reference model

objects.............................................................................................................. 698.11 Reference model assemblies......................................................................... 73

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9 IFC.................................................................................................. 759.1 IFC interoperability concepts.........................................................................759.2 IFC import.........................................................................................................789.3 Convert IFC objects into native Tekla Structures objects.......................... 79

Check and change the IFC object conversion settings......................................................79Convert selected IFC objects at one go...............................................................................81Convert IFC objects using conversion change management - first conversion ............ 83Convert IFC objects using conversion change management - update conversion ...... 85Macro for selecting converted IFC objects..........................................................................86Class values............................................................................................................................ 86 Profile conversion logic in IFC object conversion ............................................................ 88Example: Convert IFC objects into Tekla Structures objects in one go........................... 89Limitations in IFC object conversion....................................................................................92

9.4 IFC export......................................................................................................... 93Define additional property sets for IFC export.................................................................. 94

Add a new IFC property set configuration file.............................................................. 94Tekla Structures model objects and corresponding IFC entities................................ 96

Export a Tekla Structures model or selected model objects to an IFC file..................... 97Define IFC entities for Tekla Structures model objects................................................98Export to IFC......................................................................................................................99Export to IFC4................................................................................................................. 103

Check the exported IFC model...........................................................................................105IFC base quantities in exported IFC model.......................................................................106Property set configuration files used in IFC export......................................................... 107

10 SketchUp.....................................................................................11110.1 Export a model to SketchUp........................................................................ 111

11 DWG and DXF..............................................................................11211.1 Import a 2D or 3D DWG or DXF file..............................................................11311.2 Export a model to a 3D DWG or DXF file..................................................... 11411.3 Export a drawing to a 2D DWG or DXF file ................................................. 116

Start DWG/DXF export ........................................................................................................116Define DWG/DXF export settings and export ..................................................................117Layer rule example..............................................................................................................123Tips........................................................................................................................................ 124To use old DWG/DXF export............................................................................................... 124

11.4 Export a drawing to 2D DWG or DXF (old export)...................................... 124Layers in exported DWG/DXF drawings............................................................................ 126Create layers in DWG/DXF files for drawing export.........................................................127Assign objects to layers in drawing export ......................................................................128Example: Create a rule for exporting beam marks to their own layer indrawing export.....................................................................................................................129Copying export layer settings to another project ...........................................................130Define customized line type mappings in drawing export.............................................131Default line types in drawings............................................................................................134Example: Set up layers and export to DWG..................................................................... 135

Example: Create a selection filter for DWG export.................................................... 135Example: Create layers for DWG export......................................................................136Example: Create a rule for drawing DWG export and assign a layer to the rule....137

3

Example: Define a custom line type for DWG export................................................ 138Example: Define line types and weights for layers in DWG export..........................138Example: Export the drawing to DWG......................................................................... 140

12 DGN............................................................................................. 14312.1 DGN import.................................................................................................... 14312.2 DGN objects supported in reference models ............................................14412.3 Export to 3D DGN files.................................................................................. 146

13 LandXML..................................................................................... 148

14 PDF...............................................................................................15014.1 Import a PDF to a model...............................................................................150

15 CAD.............................................................................................. 15115.1 CAD import and export formats..................................................................15115.2 Import an SDNF model................................................................................. 15215.3 Import a Plantview model............................................................................15515.4 Import a SteelFab/SCIA model.....................................................................15615.5 CAD model import settings.......................................................................... 15715.6 Export to CAD.................................................................................................16315.7 CAD model export settings.......................................................................... 16415.8 Re-import a CAD model................................................................................ 16915.9 Create import reports...................................................................................170

16 FEM.............................................................................................. 17216.1 FEM import and export file types................................................................17216.2 DSTV................................................................................................................ 17316.3 Import a DSTV model.................................................................................... 17316.4 Import a STAAD model..................................................................................174

STAAD table type specifications.........................................................................................17616.5 Import a Stan 3d model................................................................................ 17616.6 Import a Bus model.......................................................................................17716.7 Export to STAAD.............................................................................................17916.8 Export to DSTV............................................................................................... 179

Supported DSTV entities.....................................................................................................180

17 ASCII............................................................................................ 18217.1 Import a model in the ASCII format............................................................18217.2 Export a model to the ASCII format............................................................ 18317.3 ASCII file description.....................................................................................183

18 Attribute import........................................................................ 18618.1 Import attributes.......................................................................................... 186

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18.2 Input files in attribute import..................................................................... 187Examples of input files used in attribute import.............................................................188Data file used in attribute import......................................................................................190

18.3 Attribute import settings.............................................................................191

19 CIS and CIMSteel........................................................................ 19319.1 Import a CIMSteel model..............................................................................19319.2 Export to a CIMSteel analysis model...........................................................19419.3 Export to a CIMSteel design/manufacturing model..................................195

CIMSteel conversion files....................................................................................................197

20 MIS............................................................................................... 19920.1 Export a MIS list.............................................................................................19920.2 Information on MIS file types...................................................................... 200

21 FabTrol XML................................................................................20121.1 Import a FabTrol XML file............................................................................. 201

22 PDMS/E3D .................................................................................. 203

23 NC files........................................................................................ 20423.1 DSTV file description.....................................................................................20623.2 Create NC files in DSTV format.................................................................... 20723.3 NC file settings.............................................................................................. 20923.4 Customize NC file header information ...................................................... 21923.5 Create pop-marks in NC files....................................................................... 22023.6 Create contour marking in NC files............................................................ 22523.7 Fittings and line cuts in NC files.................................................................. 22723.8 Create tube NC files ..................................................................................... 22823.9 Create NC files in DXF format...................................................................... 229

Create NC files in DXF format using Convert DSTV files to DXF macro......................229Create NC files in DXF format using tekla_dstv2dxf.exe................................................. 230 tekla_dstv2dxf_.def file description ...................................................................... 230

24 HMS............................................................................................. 24124.1 Export to the HMS format............................................................................ 24124.2 HMS Export settings......................................................................................242

25 ELiPLAN.......................................................................................24625.1 Import an ELiPLAN status data file.............................................................24625.2 Export an EliPLAN data file.......................................................................... 24725.3 EliPLAN user-defined attributes..................................................................24825.4 EliPLAN export settings................................................................................ 250

Parameters tab.................................................................................................................... 250Plotter data tab.................................................................................................................... 252

5

Data content tab..................................................................................................................253

26 BVBS............................................................................................ 25526.1 Export to the BVBS format........................................................................... 25526.2 Export settings...............................................................................................256

Parameters tab.................................................................................................................... 256Advanced tab....................................................................................................................... 259Checking tab.........................................................................................................................261

26.3 Reinforcing bar length calculation in BVBS export................................... 262

27 Unitechnik.................................................................................. 26427.1 Export to the Unitechnik format.................................................................26627.2 Unitechnik export: Main tab........................................................................26727.3 Unitechnik export: TS configuration tab....................................................27227.4 Unitechnik export: Embeds tab...................................................................28127.5 Unitechnik export: Reinforcement tab...................................................... 28727.6 Unitechnik export: Validation tab...............................................................29627.7 Unitechnik export: Reinf. data specification tab...................................... 29827.8 Unitechnik export: Data specification tab.................................................30127.9 Unitechnik export: Mounting part data specification tab....................... 30227.10 Unitechnik export: Line attributes tab...................................................... 30327.11 Unitechnik export: Pallet tab...................................................................... 30727.12 Unitechnik export: Log files tab.................................................................. 308

28 Layout Manager.........................................................................30928.1 Create a group in Layout Manager..............................................................310

Define numbering settings for groups in Layout Manager............................................ 311Define a local coordinate system for a group in Layout Manager................................ 312

28.2 Create a layout point.................................................................................... 31228.3 Create a layout line.......................................................................................31328.4 View groups, layout points and layout lines in Layout Manager............ 31428.5 Export layout data from Layout Manager..................................................315

Define default export settings in Layout Manager..........................................................317Define the drawing scale in Layout Manager...................................................................317

28.6 Import layout data to Layout Manager......................................................318Define point file columns in Layout Manager..................................................................320Measured points in Layout Manager................................................................................ 321

29 Tekla Web Viewer.......................................................................32429.1 Publish a model as a web page....................................................................32429.2 Customize Web Viewer tooltips...................................................................32529.3 Web templates in Web Viewer.....................................................................32629.4 Send Web Viewer models............................................................................. 32629.5 Create a named view in Web Viewer...........................................................32729.6 View a model in Web Viewer........................................................................328

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30 Tekla BIMsight............................................................................33030.1 Import reference models from Tekla BIMsight..........................................33030.2 Import additional reference models from a Tekla BIMsight project...... 33130.3 Publish a model to Tekla BIMsight.............................................................. 331

31 Tekla Structural Designer......................................................... 33231.1 Example workflow of integration between Tekla Structures and

Tekla Structural Designer.............................................................................33331.2 Import with Tekla Structural Designer integrator.................................... 33431.3 Re-import with Tekla Structural Designer integrator...............................33631.4 Export with Tekla Structural Designer integrator.....................................337

32 Tekla Warehouse........................................................................339

33 Trimble Connector.....................................................................34133.1 Download a reference model from and upload a reference model

to Trimble Connect........................................................................................34133.2 Launch Trimble Connect and Trimble Connect from ribbon or

Quick Launch................................................................................................. 34233.3 Link a Tekla Structures model to a Trimble Connect project...................34333.4 Download a reference model from a Trimble Connect project to a

Tekla Structures model ................................................................................34433.5 Download a reference model update from a Trimble Connect

project to a Tekla Structures model............................................................34433.6 Upload a Tekla Structures reference model to a Trimble Connect

project ............................................................................................................34533.7 Upload a Tekla Structures reference model update to a Trimble

Connect project ............................................................................................ 34533.8 Export Tekla Structures model objects as an .ifc reference

model to a Trimble Connect project ...........................................................34533.9 Use base point instead of alignment offset...............................................34633.10 ToDos.............................................................................................................. 346

34 Analysis and design systems....................................................35234.1 Analysis and design direct links.................................................................. 35234.2 Robot...............................................................................................................35334.3 SAP2000.......................................................................................................... 35334.4 STAAD.Pro....................................................................................................... 35434.5 ISM...................................................................................................................35434.6 S-Frame...........................................................................................................355

The process of importing to and exporting from S-Frame.............................................355

35 Disclaimer...................................................................................357

7

1 What is interoperability?

Interoperability is often seen as the missing link between different softwaresystems. It allows best-of-breed applications to share common objects,geometry and properties between applications. Interoperability is a process,which allows diverse systems and organizations to work together. This allowscommon 3D models to be built or information and geometry defined in onesystem to be used in another. An example of this would be a 3D structuralframe from a modeling application being transferred and used by an Analysis& Design system. Another example would be an Architectural model beingused within a structural modeling system.

What is interoperability? 9

2 Industry standards

There are many industry standard file transfer formats. The principle onessupported by Tekla Structures are IFC, CIS/2, DSTV, SDNF, DGN, DXF, DWG,IGES, and STEP. Older formats are also included. For a tighter integration, youcan link to Tekla Structures using the Tekla Open API technology.

The file name extension normally informs the user which format it is basedupon. If you do not know what format it is, or the file does not import, thenyou will need to open the file in a text editor to look at the header information,where the file type and the authoring application is usually noted. With CIS/2files the authoring application and version number is sometimes written at theend of the file.

See also

Compatible formats (page 11)

Industry standards 10

3 Compatible formats

You can import and export several formats in Tekla Structures.

The following table lists many of the different formats you can use in TeklaStructures to import and export data (page 30).

For information about software connected to the formats, see Compatiblesoftware (page 13).

To find out more about the various import and export tools, see Import to andexport from Tekla Structures (page 30).

Format Import ExportaSa (.TEK) XAutodesk (.dwg) X XAutodesk (.dxf) X XBentley ISM X XBIM Collaboration format (.bcf) X XBVBS (.abs) XCadmatic models (.3dd) X CIS/2 LPM5/LPM6 analytical (.stp,.p21,.step) X XCIS/2 LPM5/LPM6 design (.stp,.p21,.step) X XCIS/2 LPM6 manufacturing (.stp,.p21,.step) XCPIxml XDSTV (.nc,.stp,.mis) X XEJE XElematic ELiPLAN, ELiPOS (.eli) X XEPC XFabsuite (.xml) X XFabTrol Kiss File (.kss) XFabTrol MIS Xml (.xml) X X

Compatible formats 11

Format Import ExportHigh Level Interface File (.hli) X XHMS (.sot) XIBB Betsy (.fa, .f, .ev) XIFC2x2 (.ifc) ** X IFC2x3 (.ifc) ** X XIFC4 (.ifc) ** X IFCXML 2X3 (.ifcXML) ** X XIFCZIP 2x3 (.ifcZIP) ** X XInitial Graphics Exchange Specification (IGES)(.iges,.igs)

X X

LandXML (.xml) X Microsoft Project (.xml) X XMicrostation (.dgn) X XOracle Primavera P6 (.xml) X XPlant Design Management System (.pdms) XSAP, Oracle, ODBC, etc. X * X *SketchUp (.skp) X XStaad ASCII file (.std) X XSteel Detailing Neutral Format (.sdf,.sdnf, .dat) X XSteel12000 XSTEP AP203 (.stp,.step) XSTEP AP214 (.stp,.step) X XStruM.I.S X XTekla BIMsight project file (.tbp) X XTekla Collaboration file (.tczip) X XTekla-FabTrol Report (.xsr) XTekla Structural Designer neutral file (.cxl) X XTekla Structures shape (.tsc) X XTrimble Field Link .tfl X XTrimble LM80 (.txt,.cnx) X XTubeNC (.xml) XUnitechnik (.uni, .cam) X

* Tekla OpenAPI used

**For a list of IFC applications certified by buildingSMART international, seeCertified Software.

Compatible formats 12

http://buildingsmart.org/compliance/certified-software/

4 Compatible software

The following table lists Tekla Structures compatible software and the formatsthat you can import to and export from (page 30)Tekla Structures.

Many of the compatible interoperability applications, application links, ordirect links are available on Tekla Warehouse.

For information about formats connected to the software, see Compatibleformats (page 11).

For a list of IFC applications certified by buildingSMART international, seeCertified Software.

To find out more about the various import and export tools, see Import to andexport from Tekla Structures (page 30).

Product Company Import to TeklaStructures

Export from TeklaStructures

3D+ Trimble Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)Steel Detailing NeutralFormat (.sdf, .sdnf)

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)

3ds Max Autodesk Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IGES (.iges, .igs)


3ds MaxDesign/VIZ

Autodesk Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IGES (.iges, .igs)


A+ Software ArmaPlus BVBS (.abs), Soul(.xml), aSa (.TEK)

Adapt AdaptCorporation



ADConX ADConX Direct Link

Compatible software 13

https://warehouse.tekla.com/http://www.buildingsmart.org/compliance/certified-software/



AdvancedSteel,AdvancedDesign/Engineering

Autodesk CIS/2 LPM5 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)IFC2X3 (.ifc)Steel Detailing NeutralFormat (.sdf, .sdnf)

CIS/2 LPM5 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)IFC2X3 (.ifc)Steel Detailing NeutralFormat (.sdf, .sdnf)

Allplan/Planbar

Nemetschek

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IFC2X3 (.ifc)Microstation (.dgn)


ANSYS ANSYS IGES (.iges, .igs) IGES (.iges, .igs)ArchiCAD Graphisoft

/Nemetschek

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IFC2X3 (.ifc)IFCXML 2X3 (.xml)IFCZIP (.ifczip)Coordinated view v1

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IFC2X3 (.ifc)IFCXML 2X3 (.xml)IFCZIP (.ifczip)Coordinated view v1

ArchonCAD ArchonCAD Ltd.

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IGES (.iges, .igs)


Armaor Ariadis BVBS (.abs)Artube Adige STEP (.stp, .step)

IGES (.iges, .igs)IFC (.ifc)

aSa Rebar AppliedSystemsAssociatesInc

aSa Rebar file (.TEK)

ASI AppliedScienceInternational LLC

Staad ASCII file (.std)

AutoCAD Autodesk Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)


AutoCADArchitecture

Autodesk Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)





IFC2X3 (.ifc)IGES (.iges, .igs)

IFC2X3 (.ifc)Microstation (.dgn)

AutoCAD Civil3D

Autodesk Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)Microstation (.dgn)LandXML files (.xml)


AutoCAD MEP Autodesk Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IFC2X3 (.ifc)


AutoPLANT Bentley Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)


AutoVue Oracle Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IFC2X3 (.ifc)STEP AP214(.stp, .step)

Aveva E3D AVEVA Microstation (.dgn)Steel Detailing NeutralFormat(.sdf, .sdnf, .dat).ifc based TeklaCollaboration files(.tczip)

Microstation (.dgn)Steel Detailing NeutralFormat(.sdf, .sdnf, .dat).ifc based TeklaCollaboration files(.tczip)

AviCAD Progress/EBAWE

Unitechnik (.cam),BVBS (.abs)

AxisVM Inter-CADKft.

Direct Link Direct Link

IFC2X3 (.ifc)BeamMaster AGT Direct LinkBentleyArchitecture

Bentley Direct Link (ISM)

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IFC2X3 (.ifc)

Direct Link (ISM)





Microstation (.dgn)STEP AP203/AP214(.stp, .step)

Microstation (.dgn)STEP AP214(.stp, .step)

BentleyBuildingElectricalSystems

Bentley Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IFC2X3 (.ifc)Microstation (.dgn)STEP AP203/AP214(.stp, .step)

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IFC2X3 (.ifc)Microstation (.dgn)STEP AP214(.stp, .step)

BentleyBuildingMechanicalSystems

Bentley Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IFC2X3 (.ifc)Microstation (.dgn)STEP AP203/AP214(.stp, .step)


BentleyInroads

Bentley LandXML files (.xml)

BentleyStructural

Bentley Direct Link (ISM)

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)CIS/2 LPM6 design(.stp, .p21, .step)IFC2X3 (.ifc)Microstation (.dgn)Steel Detailing NeutralFormat (.sdf, .sdnf)STEP AP203/AP214(.stp, .step)

Direct Link (ISM)


Betsy IBB Consultants &Engineers

Betsy .fa, Betsy .f,Betsy .ev

BIMCollaborationFormat

BuildingSMART

BCF 1.0 (.bcf)BCF 2.0 (.bcf)

BCF 1.0 (.bcf)BCF 2.0 (.bcf)




Cadmatic Cadmatic Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)Cadmatic models (.3dd)IFC2X3 (.ifc)


CADmep+ MAPSoftware /Autodesk

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IFC2X3 (.ifc)IFCXML 2X3 (.xml)IFCZip (.ifczip)

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IFC2X3 (.ifc)IFCXML 2X3 (.xml)IFCZip (.ifczip)

CADPipe AECDesignGroup



CADWorx Plant Intergraph/ Hexagon

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp,.p21,.step)CIS/2 LPM6 design(.stp,.p21,.step)

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp,.p21,.step)CIS/2 LPM6 design(.stp,.p21,.step)

CAESAR II Intergraph/ Hexagon

Autodesk (.dwg) Autodesk (.dwg)

CATIA Dassault Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IGES (.iges, .igs)Steel Detailing NeutralFormat (.sdf, .sdnf)STEP AP203/AP214(.stp, .step)

Steel Detailing NeutralFormat (.sdf, .sdnf)STEP AP214(.stp, .step)

Concrete Pro LAP LaserGmbH

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)Unitechnik (.cam)

ConSteel ConSteelSolutionsLimited

ASCII

Corobs MllerOpladen

TubeNC (.xml)




CYPECAD Cype Direct LinkDaystarSoftware

DaystarSoftwareInc.

Autodesk (.dxf)Steel Detailing NeutralFormat (.sdf, .sdnf)


DDS-CAD DDS IFC2X3 (.ifc) IFC2X3 (.ifc)Diamonds Buildsoft Direct Link Direct LinkDigital Project Gehry

Technologies

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IGES (.iges, .igs)Steel Detailing NeutralFormat (.sdf, .sdnf)STEP AP203/AP214(.stp, .step)

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)Steel Detailing NeutralFormat (.sdf, .sdnf)STEP AP214(.stp, .step)

DuctDesigner3D

QuickPen /Trimble



ebos Progress/EBAWE

Unitechnik (.cam)

elcoCAD HannappelSOFTWARE GmbH



ELiPLAN Elematic ELiPLAN (.eli) ELiPLAN (.eli)ELiPOS Elematic ELiPLAN (.eli)EliteCAD Messerli

InformatikIFC2X3 (.ifc)Autodesk (.dxf)

IFC2X3 (.ifc)Autodesk (.dxf)

ETABS Computers&Structures, Inc.

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)Steel Detailing NeutralFormat (.sdf, .sdnf)

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)Steel Detailing NeutralFormat (.sdf, .sdnf)STEP AP214(.stp, .step)

FabPro Pipe UHPProcessPiping Inc.






Fabsuite Fabsuite Direct Link

KISS (.kss)Direct Link

KISS (.kss)FabTrol MRP FabTrol FabTrol MIS XML (.xml) FabTrol MIS XML (.xml)

FabTrol KISS File (.kss)Tekla-FabTrol Report(.xsr)

FactoryCAD Siemens Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)


FelixCAD SofTec Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)


FEM Design StruSoft Direct Link

IFC2X3 (.ifc)Direct Link

IFC2X3 (.ifc)Floor Pro Adapt

Corporation



FormZ AutoDesSys, Inc.

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IGES (.iges, .igs)STEP AP203/AP214(.stp, .step)

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)STEP AP214(.stp, .step)

FXTube Mazak STEP (.stp, .step)IGES (.iges, .igs)IFC (.ifc)

GSA Oasys CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)

CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)

GT Strudl GT Strudl Direct Link

Autodesk (.dxf)CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)

Direct Link

Autodesk (.dxf)

HMS HMS HMS (.sot)HOOPS Tech Soft

3D Autodesk (.dwg)

Autodesk (.dxf)




Inventor Autodesk Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IGES (.iges, .igs)STEP AP203/AP214(.stp, .step)


IronCAD IronCAD Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IGES (.iges, .igs)STEP AP203/AP214(.stp, .step)


iTWO RIBSoftwareAG

CPIxml (.xml)

Joints For Tekla ProgettoArchimede

Direct Link

KeyCreator Kubotek Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IGES (.iges, .igs)STEP AP203/AP214(.stp, .step)


Lantek Lantek Direct Link Direct LinkLEIT2000 SAA Unitechnik (.cam)LP-System Lennerts &

Partner BVBS (.abs)

MagiCAD Progman Autodesk (.dwg)IFC2X3 (.ifc)

Autodesk (.dwg)IFC2X3 (.ifc)

MasterFrame MasterSeries

DSTV96(.nc, .stp, .mis)

DSTV96(.nc, .stp, .mis)

Maxon Cinema4D

Nemetschek



Maya Autodesk Autodesk (.dxf)IGES (.iges, .igs)

STEP AP214(.stp, .step)Autodesk MayaAutodesk (.dxf)

MeridianProlog

Trimble Direct Link




Mesh Welding EVG(Filzmoser)

Unitechnik (.cam),BVBS (.abs)

Mesh Welding A.W.M. Unitechnik (.cam)Mesh Welding Progress /

EBAWE Unitechnik (.cam)

MicrosoftOffice Project

Microsoft Project (.xml) Project (.xml)

Microstran Engineering SystemsPty Limited

Autodesk (.dxf) Autodesk (.dxf)

Microstation Bentley Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IGES (.iges, .igs)Microstation (.dgn)STEP AP203/AP214(.stp, .step)

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IGES (.iges, .igs)Microstation (.dgn)STEP AP214(.stp, .step)

Midas Gen MIDAS Direct Link Direct LinkModeSt Tecnisoft Direct Link Direct LinkMultiframe Daystar

SoftwareInc.



Nastran MSCSoftwareCorporation

Autodesk (.dwg)IGES (.iges, .igs)

Autodesk (.dwg)IGES (.iges, .igs)

NavisWorks Autodesk Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)IFC2X3 (.ifc)Microstation (.dgn)

NISA CranesSoftwareInternational Ltd. /CSC





NX (Unigraph) Siemens Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IGES (.iges, .igs)STEP AP203/AP214(.stp, .step)


PDMS AVEVA Microstation (.dgn)Steel Detailing NeutralFormat(.sdf, .sdnf, .dat)Tekla Collaborationfiles (.tczip)

Microstation (.dgn)Steel Detailing NeutralFormat(.sdf, .sdnf, .dat)Tekla Collaborationfiles (.tczip)

PDS Intergraph/ Hexagon

Microstation (.dgn)Steel Detailing NeutralFormat (.dat)

Microstation (.dgn)Steel Detailing NeutralFormat (.dat)

PEMAWeldControl

Pemamek Direct Link

PipeCAD Mc4Software


PipeDesigner3D

QuickPen /Trimble



Pipelabo Maruhide Direct LinkPlancal Plancal

Ag /Trimble



Plant-4D CEATechnology

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)Microstation (.dgn)

PowerConnect Buildsoft Work in progress Work in progressPowerFrame Buildsoft Direct Link Direct LinkPRIAMOS GTSdata CPIxml (.xml),

Unitechnik (.cam)Primavera Oracle P6 (.xml) P6 (.xml)ProCAM HGG Direct Link Direct Link




ProStructures Bentley Steel Detailing NeutralFormat (.sdf, .sdnf)ISM

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)Microstation (.dgn)Steel Detailing NeutralFormat (.sdf, .sdnf)ISM

Pro/Engineer PTC IGES (.iges, .igs)STEP AP203/AP214(.stp, .step)

STEP AP214(.stp, .step)

ProFit Progress/EBAWE

BVBS (.abs)

Pro-Fit Zeman Direct LinkProkon Prokon CIS/2 LPM6 analytical

(.stp, .p21, .step)CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)

PythonX LincolnElectric

DSTV

Qnect Qnect Direct LinkRAM (CADStudio)

Bentley Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)CIS/2 LPM6 design(.stp, .p21, .step)ISM

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)CIS/2 LPM6 design(.stp, .p21, .step)ISM

Raptor Peddinghaus

Direct Link

RevitArchitecture/MEP

Autodesk Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IFC2X3 (.ifc)Microstation (.dgn)

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IFC2X3 (.ifc)Microstation (.dgn)Tekla Collaborationfiles (.tczip)

Revit Structure Autodesk Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)CIS/2 LPM6 design(.stp, .p21, .step)

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)CIS/2 LPM6 design(.stp, .p21, .step)




IFC2X3 (.ifc)Microstation (.dgn)

IFC2X3 (.ifc)Microstation (.dgn)Tekla Collaborationfiles (.tczip)

RFEM Dlubal Direct Link

CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)IFC2X3 (.ifc)

Direct Link


Rhinoceros McNeelNorthAmerica

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IGES (.iges, .igs)Microstation (.dgn)STEP AP203/AP214(.stp, .step)Geometry Gym link

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)Microstation (.dgn)STEP AP214(.stp, .step)Geometry Gym link

RinasWeld Kranendonk

IFC

RISA 3D (Suite) RisaTechnology

Autodesk (.dxf)CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)CIS/2 LPM6 design(.stp, .p21, .step)Steel Detailing NeutralFormat (.sdf, .sdnf)

Autodesk (.dxf)CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)CIS/2 LPM6 design(.stp, .p21, .step)

RisaConnection

RisaTechnology

Direct Link (USmarket)

Direct Link (USmarket)

RobotMillenium

Autodesk Direct Link

CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)CIS/2 LPM6 design(.stp, .p21, .step)

Direct Link

CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)CIS/2 LPM6 design(.stp, .p21, .step)

RSTAB Dlubal Direct Link


Direct Link





SACS EngineeringDynamicsInc.

Autodesk (.dxf)Steel Detailing NeutralFormat (.sdnf)

SAFE Computers&Structures,Inc.

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)IGES (.iges, .igs)

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)

SAM BestechLimited


SAP2000 Computers&Structures,Inc.

Direct Link


Direct Link


SchnellSoftware

SchnellSoftware

BVBS (.abs),Unitechnik (rebar/mesh)

SCIA Nemetschek

Direct Link

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf).ifc

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf).ifc

SDS/2 DesignData

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)CIS/2 LPM6 design(.stp, .p21, .step)Microstation (.dgn)

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)CIS/2 LPM6 design(.stp, .p21, .step)CIS/2 LPM6manufacturing(.stp, .p21, .step)Microstation (.dgn)

S-FRAME S-FRAMESoftwareInc.

Direct Link

Autodesk (.dxf)Direct Link

Autodesk (.dxf)




Sicam ControlledAutomation

Direct Link

SketchUpMake

Trimble SketchUp (.skp) SketchUp (.skp)

SketchUp Pro Trimble SketchUp (.skp)Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)

SketchUp (.skp)Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)

Smart 3D(SmartPlant /SmartMarine)

Intergraph/ Hexagon

CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)CIS/2 LPM6 design(.stp, .p21, .step)Microstation (.dgn)IFC2X3 (.ifc), withSmartPlant 3D

CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)CIS/2 LPM6 design(.stp, .p21, .step)Microstation (.dgn)

Solibri ModelChecker/ModelViewer

Solibri IFC2X3 (.ifc)

SolidEdge Siemens Autodesk (.dxf)Microstation (.dgn)IGES (.iges, .igs)STEP AP203/AP214(.stp, .step)

Autodesk (.dxf)Microstation (.dgn)STEP AP214(.stp, .step)

SolidWorks Dassault Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IGES (.iges, .igs)IFC2X3 (.ifc)STEP AP203/AP214(.stp, .step)

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)IFC2X3 (.ifc)STEP AP214(.stp, .step)

Soul SoulSoftwareInc.

.xml, BVBS (.abs)

SPACE GASS SPACEGASS






SpaceClaim SpaceClaim Co.



STAAD.Pro Bentley Direct Link

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)Steel Detailing NeutralFormat (.sdf, .sdnf)ISM

Direct Link

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)CIS/2 LPM6 analytical(.stp, .p21, .step)Staad ASCII file (.std)ISM

Steel ProjectsPLM

SteelProjects


Steel SmartSystem

AppliedScienceInternational, LLC



StructureWorks

StructureWorks LLC.


STEP AP214(.stp, .step)

STRUDS SoftTech Direct Link Direct LinkStruM.I.S StruM.I.S Direct Link .bswxTekla BIMsight Trimble Tekla BIMsight Project

(.tbp)Tekla BIMsight Project(.tbp) *Autodesk (.dwg)Microstation (.dgn)IFC2X3 (.ifc)IFCXML 2x3 (.ifcXML)IFCzip (.ifcZIP)

Tekla Field3D Trimble .ifc




Tekla Civil Trimble Direct Link

LandXML files (.xml)Direct Link.ifc

TeklaCollaboration

Trimble Tekla Collaborationfiles ( .tczip)

Tekla Collaborationfiles ( .tczip)

TeklaStructuralDesigner

Trimble Neutral XML file .cxl Neutral XML file.cxl

TrimbleBusinessCentre

Trimble LandXML files (.xml)

TrimbleConnect

Trimble Direct Link.ifc

Direct Link.ifc

Trimble FieldLink

Trimble .tfl .tfl

Trimble LM80 Trimble Autodesk (.dxf)LM80 (.cnx, .txt)

Autodesk (.dxf)LM80 (.cnx, .txt)

Trimble LM80Desktop

Trimble Autodesk (.dxf)LM80 (.cnx, .txt)

Autodesk (.dxf)LM80 (.cnx, .txt)

TurboCAD IMSIDesign

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)Microstation (.dgn)STEP AP203/AP214(.stp, .step)

Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)Microstation (.dgn)STEP AP214(.stp, .step)

UniCAM Unitechnik Unitechnik(.cam, .uni)

Unigraphics SiemensPLMSoftware

IGES (.iges, .igs)

Vacam Voortman Direct LinkVernon Lincoln

Electric TubeNC (.xml)

VectorWorks Nemetschek

IFC2X3 (.ifc)IGES (.iges, .igs)


Vico Office Trimble Direct Link Autodesk (.dwg)




Autodesk (.dxf) IFC2X3 (.ifc)IfcXML 2X3 (.xml) IfcXML 2X3 (.xml) Microstation (.dgn).xls .xls

Vico SchedulePlanner

Trimble

Direct Link.xml

Direct Link.xml

Volo View Autodesk Autodesk (.dwg)Autodesk (.dxf)



5 Import to and export fromTekla Structures

Tekla Structures has several tools you can use to import and export physicaland reference models and the information they contain.

For details about compatible software in import and export, see Compatiblesoftware (page 13).

NOTE The import and export functionality is not available in all Tekla Structuresconfigurations. For more information, see Tekla Structures configurations.

You can use import and export in Tekla Structures for several purposes:

You can import reference models to Tekla Structures. For example, you canimport an architectural model, a plant design model, or a heating,ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC) model as a reference model.Reference models can also be simple 2D drawings that are imported andthen used as a layout to directly build the model on.

You can import 2D or 3D models created by other software, then detail ormanipulate the structural objects using Tekla Structures. Once the model iscomplete, you can export it, and return it to the architect or engineer forreview.

You can create reports from the imported models from most of theformats.

You can export Tekla Structures models for use in Analysis & Design(several formats). Then you can import the Analysis & Design results backto the Tekla Structures model.

Various model transfers can be completed for the engineering andcontractor phase of the project.

You can import shapes from many formats. Shapes are used in definingitems.

Import to and export from Tekla Structures 30

You can export data for use in manufacturing information systems and inthe fabrication phase:

You can export CNC data (Computer Numerical Control) for use byautomated cutting, drilling and welding CNC machinery.

You can export to MIS (Manufacturing Information Systems) so thatfabricators can track project progress, for example.

Click the links below to find out more about the various types of import andexport:

Reference models and compatible formats (page 46)

IFC (page 75)

SketchUp (page 111)

DWG and DXF (page 112)

LandXML (page 148)

NC files (page 204)

PDF (page 150)

DGN (page 143)

CAD (page 151)

FEM (page 172)

ASCII (page 182)

Attribute import (page 186)

CIS and CIMSteel (page 193)

MIS (page 199)

FabTrol XML (page 201)

HMS (page 241)

ELiPLAN (page 246)

BVBS (page 255)

Unitechnik (page 264)

Layout Manager (page 309)

Tekla Web Viewer (page 324)

Tekla BIMsight (page 330)

Tekla Structural Designer (page 332)

Trimble Connector (page 341)

In addition to these built-in import and export tools you have a variety of linksto other applications available in Tekla Warehouse that you can download.

Import to and export from Tekla Structures 31

https://warehouse.tekla.com/

6 Conversion files

Conversion files map Tekla Structures profile, twin profile, and material nameswith names used in other software. Conversion files are simple text files,containing the Tekla Structures name in the first column, and the name usedin the other software package in the second column. Columns are separatedby a space. All parametric profiles must be entered in the profile conversionfile.

You can use the same conversion file both when importing and exportingmodels, and you can specify the location of conversion files in most of theimport and export tools.

If you enter a conversion file name without a path, Tekla Structures searchesfor the file in the current model folder. If you leave the box empty, TeklaStructures searches for the file indicated by the advanced option XS_PROFDBin File menu --> Settings --> Advanced options --> File Locations . This isalso the case, if the tool does not allow you to define the path and conversionfile.

Tekla Structures has several conversion files in the standard installation, andyou can also create your own. Standard conversion files are located in the

Conversion files 32

\environments\\profil folder. All conversion files havethe .cnv extension.

See also

Twin profile conversion files (page 33)

Create conversion files (page 34)

6.1 Twin profile conversion filesTekla Structures contains separate conversion files for twin profiles, and itreads the twin profile conversion file before the profile conversion file, so youmust include the profiles from the original model in the import.

The twin profile conversion file is a text file containing the profile prefix(characters only) and the distance between the profiles in mm, separated by aspace. Tekla Structures converts all profiles with the specified prefix to twinprofiles.

The twin profile conversion file could be named twin_profiles.cnv and itcould contain lines such as the one below:

DL 20The distance between the profiles is the same for all profiles with the sameprofile prefix. For example, profiles with the prefix DL will always have thesame spacing. If you want different spacing values, then you need to use adifferent profile prefix.

You also need to add the twin profile to the profile conversion file to get the DLprofile converted to L-profile:

L200*20 DL200/20-20

Limitations

Twin profile conversion cannot be used for profiles that start with anumber. This means that you cannot define double angles as 2L. Instead,you need to use DL as the prefix for a twin profile, for example: DL200/20-20.

Twin profile conversion does not work for FEM import. We recommend thateach angle is modeled separately rather than as twin profiles, as SP3D doesnot control the gaps between members in the same way as TeklaStructures and there are, for example, various conversion and mappingdifficulties. Ii is easier to convert members that are modeled as twomembers.

Conversion files 33 Twin profile conversion files

See also

Conversion files (page 32)

Create conversion files (page 34)

6.2 Create conversion filesYou can create your own conversion files if the ones that come with TeklaStructures installation do not suit your needs.

1. Open an existing conversion file using any standard text editor.

By default, conversion files are located in ...\ProgramData\TeklaStructures\\environments\\profil.

2. Save the file with another name.

If the export/import tool allows you to define the path to the conversionfile, you can save the file where you like. If this is not the case, save the filein a location defined by the advanced option XS_PROFDB in File menu -->Settings --> Advanced options --> File Locations .

3. Modify the file: enter profile names recognized by Tekla Structures in thefirst column, and the corresponding name recognized by the othersoftware in the second column.

While modifying, ensure that:

You do not have blank material definitions (" ", empty quotationmarks).

You do not have spaces in the profile position strings. For example,enter "Hand_ Rail" not Hand Rail".

4. Save your changes.

NOTE All the three files (profile, twin profile and material) are not needed if thedifferences in the profile name is just concerning * X or x formats, becausethese are normally handled automatically. For example, if you wanted toimport UC254x254x73 to be UC254*254*73, the lower case "x" isautomatically changed to "X" so the format of the conversion file would beUC254*254*73 254X254X73.

If you have problems importing the model, check any error messages inthe Tekla Structures log file, and check the conversion files.

Example

Below are some examples of conversion files:

! Profile name conversion Tekla Structures -> SDNF!

Conversion files 34 Create conversion files

! If Converted-name does not exist, it will be the same! as Tekla Structures-name.

! Tekla Structures-name Converted-name

C10X15.3 C10X15.3C10X20 C10X20C10X25 C10X25C10X30 C10X30C12X20.7 C12X20.7C12X25 C12X25C12X30 C12X30C15X33.9 C15X33.9C15X40 C15X40C15X50 C15X50C3X4.1 3X4.1! Profile name conversion Tekla Structures -> DSTV!! If Converted-name does not exist, it will be the same! as Tekla Structures-name.

! Tekla Structures-name Converted-name

C10X15.3 C10X15.3C10X20 C10X20C10X25 C10X25C10X30 C10X30C12X20.7 C12X20.7C12X25 C12X25Below there is first an example of an incorrect conversion file and then of acorrect one, errors are highlighted:

00100782 4 0 2 "brace" "Tread 4" 1 "TREAD4.5" "" 0.000000 0 0 0.000000 1.000000 0.000000 16.250000 13.154267 3.85714315.500000 13.154267 3.857143 0.000000 0.000000 0.000000


0.000000 0.000000 0.000000 0.000000 0.000000 0.0000000.000000 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 000100782 4 0 2 "brace" "Tread_4" 1 "TREAD4.5" "A36" 0.0000000 0 0.000000 1.000000 0.000000 16.250000 13.154267 3.85714315.500000 13.154267 3.857143 0.000000 0.000000 0.0000000.000000 0.000000 0.000000 0.000000 0.000000 0.0000000.000000 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0


7 Base points

The base points allow you to use another coordinate system needed forinteroperability and collaboration. You can use another coordinate system forinserting reference models and exporting IFC models. When you use basepoints, you can keep the coordinates small and locate the model whereverneeded. You can create as many base points as you need, and select one ofthose to be the project base point. You can also use base points in drawings,and in reports and templates.

Note the following:

Reference model should not have any additional lines to the origin.

Reference models should not include objects that are very far from eachother because otherwise using the model may get difficult.

Tekla Structures native objects including reference models should not beinserted very far from the Tekla Structures model origin.

7.1 Define a base pointYou can define base points in Project properties. To create a base point, youneed to know the coordinates of the reference model that you are importing,or the coordinates that you want to use in IFC export.

1. Open a Tekla Structures model where you want to add a base point.

2. Click File --> Project properties --> Base points to open the Base pointdialog box.

3. Fill in the needed information:

Base points 37 Define a base point

name, Description Enter a name and a description for the basepoint.

Coordinate System Enter the name of the coordinate system youare using.

East coordinate (E) Enter the East coordinate (E) that representsthe corresponding X coordinate point in theother coordinate system.

North coordinate (N) Enter the North coordinate (N) that representsthe corresponding Y coordinate point in theother coordinate system.

Elevation Enter the Elevation that represents thecorresponding Z coordinate point in the othercoordinate system.

Latitude,Longitude Enter the Latitude and Longitude of the basepoint to be used in the IFC export.

Latitude and Longitude is additionalinformation, which some software can use. Inthe IFC file this is written to IFCSITEinformation.


If the total number of digits in Longitude ismore than 15, the value is rounded up to thenearest if it is > 99.999999999999999999.

To convert Latitude and Longitude informationbetween decimal format and degree/minute/second (DMS) format, see Convert Latitude/Longitude to decimal.

Location in the model Pick or enter a location for the base point in theTekla Structures model. The location needs tobe near the Tekla Structures origin, preferablyless than 1000 m from the origin.

Angle to North Pick or enter the Angle to North, which is theangle between Y and North. Angle to North is 0if North is equal to Y in the other coordinatesystem. The maximum number of decimals forthe angle is 13.

Project base point If you want to set a coordinate system as theproject base point, select a base point from thelist at the top and then select the Project basepoint check box.

4. Click Modify to save the base point.

A blue symbol is added in the model.

If you later on make changes to the base point, the base point location inthe model changes according to the location or rotation changes youmake in the Base point dialog box when you press Enter or click anotherinput field, and there is no need to click Modify.


http://andrew.hedges.name/experiments/convert_lat_long/http://andrew.hedges.name/experiments/convert_lat_long/

Now you can insert a reference model, or export an IFC model using thedefined base point.

7.2 Set a coordinate system as the project base pointOne base point can be set to be as the project base point. Model origin is thedefault project base point value if the model does not contain any base points,or if none of the existing base points has been set to be the project base point.You can check and change the current project base point through File -->Project properties --> Location by.

Note that it is not recommended to change the project base point temporarilyduring a project.

1. Click File --> Project properties.

You can see the current project base point in the Location by box.

2. To change the project base point, click Edit, and select a new project basepoint from the Location by list.

3. Click Apply.

TIP You can also set a base point as the project base point in the Base pointdialog box by selecting a base point from the list at the top and thenselecting the Project base point check box.

Base points 40 Set a coordinate system as the project base point

7.3 Insert a reference model using a base pointBefore you can insert a reference at the base points, you need to create a basepoint in your model. To create the base point, you need to know thecoordinates of the reference model that you are importing.

1. Open the Reference Models list by clicking the Reference Models button

in the side pane .

2. In the Reference Models list, click the Add model button.

3. In the Add model dialog box, if you have any previously created referencemodel properties files, load the desired file by selecting the file from theproperties file list at the top.

4. Browse for the reference model by clicking Browse....

5. In Group, select a group for the reference model, or enter a name for anew group.

If you do not enter a name for the group, the reference model is insertedin the Default group.

6. In Location by, select the base point you want to use.

7. Click the Add model button. Tekla Structures inserts the reference modelrelative to the selected base point by using the coordinate system values,elevation and angle in the base point definition in the model Projectproperties.

Base points 41 Export an IFC model using a base point

7.4 Export an IFC model using a base pointBefore you can export an IFC file using a base point, you need to create a basepoint in your model.

1. Click File --> Export --> IFC to open the Export to IFC dialog box.

2. In Location by, select a base point that you have created.

3. Fill in other necessary IFC export information.

4. Click Export. The base point option exports the IFC model relative to thebase point using the coordinate system values, elevation, latitude,longitude and angle in the base point definition in the model Projectproperties.

7.5 Base points in drawingsIt is possible to use base-point-defined coordinate system values in drawings.If you change the project base point Z or the elevation value, the level valuewill change accordingly when a drawing is opened.

Base point data can be used in drawing and view level to set the coordinatesystem. The base point can be used instead of datum offset.

When the base point is set, level attributes and template attributes inmarks provide values in the specific base-point-defined coordinate system.

This setting affects level marks and attributes that end with _BASEPOINT. When the base point is set at the drawing level, the _BASEPOINT template

attributes can be used in drawing templates.

You can set Location by in drawing view properties to use model origin,project base point or any base point defined coordinate system. Location byuses the project base point as the default value.

To change the Location by value:

1. In an open drawing, double-click the drawing view frame to open the ViewProperties dialog box.

2. On the Attributes 2 tab, set Location by to a new base point, or to themodel origin.

3. Click Modify.

Example of base point usage in a drawing

In the following example, you have:

Created a slab with a thickness of 200 mm with the slab's top at the level 0in the model.

Created a new base point "Base point 2" with elevation offset 20000.

Base points 42 Base points in drawings

Created a GA drawing.

On the Attributes 2 tab, you have set Location by to the new base point(Project base point) "Base point 2" and clicked Modify.

Added a level mark using the following template attributes:

COG_Z COG_Z_PROJECT COG_Z_BASEPOINT

Reopened the drawing.

Note that changing the value does not update the template attributeautomatically but after reopening the drawing.

7.6 Base point in reports and templatesYou can inquire project base point and current base point value in reports andtemplates.

The following table lists the template attributes where you can use _PROJECTand _BASEPOINT at the end, for example, ASSEMBLY_BOTTOM_LEVEL_PROJECT or ASSEMBLY_BOTTOM_LEVEL_BASEPOINT.

Content type AttributesASSEMBLY, CAST_UNITand PART

ASSEMBLY_BOTTOM_LEVELASSEMBLY_BOTTOM_LEVEL_UNFORMATTED

Base points 43 Base point in reports and templates

Content type AttributesASSEMBLY_TOP_LEVELASSEMBLY_TOP_LEVEL_UNFORMATTEDBOTTOM_LEVELBOTTOM_LEVEL_UNFORMATTEDBOUNDING_BOX_MIN_XBOUNDING_BOX_MIN_YBOUNDING_BOX_MIN_ZBOUNDING_BOX_MAX_XBOUNDING_BOX_MAX_YBOUNDING_BOX_MAX_ZBOUNDING_BOX_XBOUNDING_BOX_YBOUNDING_BOX_ZCOG_XCOG_YCOG_ZSTART_XSTART_YSTART_ZEND_XEND_YEND_ZTOP_LEVELTOP_LEVEL_UNFORMATTEDLOCATION_BREAKDOWN_STRUCTURE.LBS_FLOOR_ELEVATIONASSEMBLY.LOCATION_BREAKDOWN_STRUCTURE.LBS_FLOOR_ELEVATION

REFERENCE MODEL, REFERENCE OBJECT and REFERENCE_ ASSEMBLY

BOUNDING_BOX_MIN_XBOUNDING_BOX_MIN_YBOUNDING_BOX_MIN_ZBOUNDING_BOX_MAX_XBOUNDING_BOX_MAX_Y


Content type AttributesBOUNDING_BOX_MAX_ZLOCATION_BREAKDOWN_STRUCTURE.LBS_FLOOR_ELEVATION

POUR OBJECT BOTTOM_LEVELBOTTOM_LEVEL_UNFORMATTEDTOP_LEVELTOP_LEVEL_UNFORMATTEDLOCATION_BREAKDOWN_STRUCTURE.LBS_FLOOR_ELEVATION

CONNECTION ORIGIN_XORIGIN_YORIGIN_Z

HIERARCHIC OBJECT LOCATION_BREAKDOWN_STRUCTURE.LBS_FLOOR_ELEVATION


8 Reference models andcompatible formats

A reference model is a file that helps you to build a Tekla Structures model. Areference model is created in Tekla Structures or another software ormodeling tool and imported to Tekla Structures.

For example, an architectural model, a plant design model, or a heating,ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC) model can be used as a referencemodel. Reference models can also be simple 2D drawings that are importedand then used as a layout to directly build the model on. You can snap toreference model geometry.

Tekla Structures loads reference models only when they are needed, not everytime you open a model. Tekla Structures does not save the reference modelwhen you save the current model, but it saves the link to the reference model.The filename extension of a saved reference model properties fileis .rmip.json. The values of Code, Title, Phase and Description cannot besaved in the standard properties file.The following file types are supported:

AutoCAD files.dxf AutoCAD files .dwg (supported version ACAD2014 and earlier) Cadmatic files .3dd IFC files .ifc, .ifczip, .ifcxml IGES files .igs, .iges LandXML files .xml MicroStation files.dgn, .prp PDF files .pdf Tekla Collaboration files .tczip SketchUp files .skp (supported version SketchUp 2017 and earlier) STEP files .stp, .STEP

Reference models and compatible formats 46 Base point in reports and templates

Some reference models are automatically subdivided or split into referencemodel objects.

TIP You can disable the roll-over highlight, which should speed up zooming.

Reference models in drawings

You can show reference models in drawings and adjust their visibility settings:Show reference models in drawings.

See also

Import a reference model (page 47)

Modify reference model details (page 53)

Lock reference models (page 54)

View reference models (page 49)

Detect changes between reference model versions (page 55)

Define a comparison set for reference model change detection (page 60)

Export change detection results to Excel (page 64)

Reference model objects (page 68)

Inquire reference model contents (page 67)

Examine reference model hierarchy and modify reference model objects(page 69)

8.1 Import a reference modelYou can import reference models in a Tekla Structures model. You can use thereference models to overlay different discipline models with your own model.These disciplines can be architect, plant engineer, services engineer or otherstructural disciplines.

1. Open a Tekla Structures model where you want to insert the referencemodel.

2. Open the Reference Models list by clicking the Reference Models button

in the side pane .

3. In the Reference Models list, click the Add model button.

4. In the Add model dialog box, if you have any previously created referencemodel properties files, load the desired file by selecting the file from theproperties file list at the top.

5. In the Add model dialog box, browse for the reference model file byclicking Browse....

Reference models and compatible formats 47 Import a reference model

You can also drag reference models from Windows Explorer, and importseveral models at a time.

For a list of compatible formats, see Reference models and compatibleformats (page 46).

6. Select a group for the model or enter the name of a new group.

If you do not enter a name for the group, the reference model is insertedin the Default group.

You can also drag models to an existing group or create a new group lateron.

7. In Location by, select one of the following options:

Model origin inserts the model relative to 0,0,0.

Work plane inserts the model relative to the current work planecoordinate system.

Base point: inserts the model relative to thebase point by using coordinate system values East coordinate, Northcoordinate, Elevation, and Angle to North from the base pointdefinition (page 37) in Project properties.

8. Select where you want to place the reference model. You can entercoordinates in the Offset boxes or pick a position for the reference modelorigin.

The maximum number of decimals for coordinates is 13.

9. Set the Scale of the reference model if it is different from the one in theTekla Structures model.

Note that you need to set the scale for a DWG or a DXF file already inAutoCAD. When you define the measurement unit for a DWG or a DXF fileand save the file in AutoCAD, the unit is recognized in Tekla Structures,and the reference model is scaled correctly.

The maximum number of decimals for scale is 13.

10. You can rotate the model around model Z axis by picking a location in themodel or entering the desired value in the Rotation box.

The maximum number of decimals for the rotation value is 7.

11. Click More to show more details and add the Code, Title, Phase andDescription of the reference model.

By default, the title is the same as the name of the imported referencemodel. You may want to use the name of the discipline or the companyinstead, for example. The code could be a site number, project number, oraccounting number. Write the description according to the company

Reference models and compatible formats 48 Import a reference model

conventions. The phase is the design phase of the reference model (notthe phase in the Tekla Structures model).

Below is an example of these details when you inquire the referencemodel.

You can also modify all the details after you have inserted the model.

12. Click Add model.

13. If the inserted reference model lies outside the work area and is not fullyor at all visible in the model view, Tekla Structures displays the "Objectsoutside the work area" warning message. Click Expand to extend the workarea to see the reference model in the model view.

The reference model is inserted in the current phase of the TeklaStructures model.

Note that for IFC reference models the elevation offset value is not readfrom the imported reference model.

When a reference model is imported or updated, reference model data iscopied to Tekla Structures model internal data storage located in the\datastorage\ref folder. The reference model isvisible even if the original file is removed from its original location. Thereference model data in this folder should not be touched.

NOTE Do not import the same reference model to the Tekla Structures modelseveral times. If there are duplicate reference models, there are also duplicateGUIDs.

When you want to update the reference model, do not delete the oldreference model from an open Tekla Structures model and replace it with anew one, because then you would lose the work done on reference objects inthe old model. Use the change detection functionality instead.

See also


8.2 View reference modelsThere are many ways you can select what you want to show about thereference models and how.

Reference models and compatible formats 49 View reference models

To: Do this:Open theReference Modelslist

Click the Reference Models buttonin the side pane on the right side of theTekla Structures main window.

Hide and show referencemodels

Click the eye button next to themodel you want to hide.

The button changes to and thereference model is hidden in the 3D view.

Click the eye button again to show themodel.

Hide and show a group ofreference models

Click the eye button next to thegroup you want to hide. The group eyebutton and the reference model eye

buttons all change to , and all thereference models included in the groupare hidden in the Tekla Structures model.

Click the eye button again to show all themodels in the group.

If a group contains both hidden andvisible models, the eye button for the

group looks like this .

If there are no reference models in agroup, the eye button looks like this .

Highlight the reference modelin the 3D view

Click the reference model in theReference Models list.

Show reference model details Double-click the reference model in theReference Models list.

Show reference model objectdetails

1. Double-click the reference model in theReference Models list.

2.Ensure that the Select assemblies

selection switch (for assemblies) or Select objects in assemblies selectionswitch (for parts) is active.

3. Point the reference model in the modelview, hold down Shift and scroll to the


To: Do this:hierarchy level where the desiredreference model object is located.

4. Point the object and double-click it toopen the reference model object details.

Rotate the reference modelaround model Z axis.

In the reference model details, enter thedesired value in the Rotation box. Youcan also pick the rotation.

Hide and show referencemodel layers

1. Double-click the reference model in theReference Models list to open thedetails.

2. Click the small arrow on the Layers rowto show the list of layers.

3. You can show and hide individual layersor all layers:

To hide all layers, click the eye button

on the Layers row.

To hide individual layers, click the eye

buttons of the individual layers.

To hide several layers, holding downCtrl, click the desired layers and thenclick the eye button of one of theselected layers.

If the Layers list contains bothhidden and visible layers, the eyebutton for the Layers row looks like

this .

If you hide all layers, the eye button

for the Layers row changes to .

If you hide individual layers, the eyebutton for the hidden layers changes

to .Detect changes betweendifferent versions of referencemodels

For details about change detection, seeDetect changes between reference modelversions (page 55).

For details about comparison sets, seeDefine a comparison set for reference modelchange detection (page 60).


To: Do this:Refresh all reference models If the file name or path has not changed,

open the Reference Models list and click

the Refresh button.

All models that are not up to date arereloaded. If a reference model is not

found, a warning sign is displayed.

If the file name or path has not changed,open reference model details, browse forthe new file and click Modify.

You can also refresh locked referencemodels, if you have set the advanced option XS_REFRESH_ALSO_LOCKED_REFERENCE_MODELS to TRUE in File --> Settings -->Advanced options --> Import.

Refresh a single referencemodel

1. Double-click the reference model in theReference Models list to open thedetails.

2.Click the Refresh button.

The model is reloaded. If the reference

model is not found, a warning sign isdisplayed.

View user-defined attributes 1. Double-click the reference model in theReference Models list to open thedetails.

2. Click the small arrow on the User-defined attributes row to show the listof user-defined attributes.

3. The user-defined attributes that arespecified for reference models in theobjects.inp file are listed in the User-defined attributes list. Enter or select avalue from the list. By default, theobjects.inp is located in ..\ProgramData\Tekla Structures\\environments\common\inp. You may also have someobjects.inp files that you modify andkeep in firm or project folders. Thesefiles are read in certain order.


See also


Reference model objects (page 68)

Examine reference model hierarchy and modify reference model objects(page 69)

Lock reference models (page 54)

8.3 Modify reference model detailsAfter you have inserted a reference model, you can modify its details.

Limitation: Coordinates given in the Details section are always relative tomodel coordinates. You can modify the coordinate system only if modelcoordinate system is used in the reference model.

1. Click the Reference Models button in the side pane on the right ofthe Tekla Structures main window.

2. In the Reference Models list, double-click the reference model that youwant to modify.

3. Click the arrow on the Details row, and change the desired details:

Change Code, Title, Phase and Description of the reference model.

The code could be a site number, project number, or accountingnumber. By default, the title is the same as the name of the importedreference model. You may want to use the name of the discipline orthe company instead, for example. Write the description according tothe company conventions. The phase is the design phase of thereference model (not the phase in the Tekla Structures model).

You can import another version of the reference model using the Filebox. For more information about version handling, see Detect changesbetween reference model versions (page 55).

In the Group box, you can select a new group for the reference model.

You can also change the Location by selection.

If the reference model is inserted by using a base point, and youchange the Location by, the offset values are relative to the basepoint. When you click Modify, the model position changes according toEast coordinate, North coordinate and Elevation setting differences.

You can change the Offset by entering new coordinates or by picking anew offset.

You can change the Rotation by entering a new value or picking a newlocation.

Reference models and compatible formats 53 Modify reference model details

Click the arrow on the User-defined attributes row, and enter valuesfor the user-defined attributes.

You may enter strings (texts), select dates or enter numericinformation depending on the type of the user-defined attribute. Thereference model user-defined attributes are defined in their ownsection in the objects.inp file. If you have several objects.inpfiles, they are read in a specific reading order, for more information,see Customizing user-defined attributes.

4. Click Modify. The changes that you made are implemented in thereference model.

See also

Import a reference model (page 47)

8.4 Lock reference modelsYou can prevent reference models from moving and from detail updates bylocking the reference models.

1. Click the Reference Models button in the side pane on the right ofthe Tekla Structures main window.

2. Move your mouse over the desired reference model in the ReferenceModels list.

The Lock button is displayed.

3. Click the Lock button.

Now the reference model is locked. You can only add values for user-defined attributes and work with layers, but you cannot modify the detailsin any other way or move the model.

To lock multiple reference models, select the models from the list and click

the Lock button of one of the reference models.

Reference models and compatible formats 54 Lock reference models

To unlock the reference model, click the Lock button again.

See also

Reference models and compatible formats (page 46)


8.5 Detect changes between reference model versionsYou can check the changes between different IFC reference model versions inTekla Structures using change detection. You can use change detection todetect changes between reference models from different disciplines, such asengineer or detailer. Changes are detected on object level. You can alsocompare Tekla Structures models if you have exported a Tekla Structuresmodel into IFC format at least twice.

Tekla Structures stores versions of the reference models for change detection.Versioning is also needed for visualizing sharing changes and objectconversion change management.

Limitations

Property comparison works only for IFC or IFC-based reference models.The following formats are supported:

.ifc .ifcxml .ifczip .tczip

Deleted objects are not highlighted and cannot be selected.

Change detection

You can show changes between two stored reference model versions orbetween stored version and browsed reference model file version. In both ofthese cases you need to activate change detection:

1. Open the Reference Models list by clicking the Reference Modelsbutton in the side pane.

2. Open a reference model by double-clicking the model in the ReferenceModels list.

Reference models and compatible formats 55 Detect changes between reference modelversions

3. Open the Change detection list by clicking the arrow on the Changedetection row.

Change detection between stored version and browsed model file version

The file path box has automatically the full file path to the current referencemodel original file. If a reference model file with the same name has changed,you can run the change detection and skip steps 1 and 3 below .

1. Click ... and browse for an earlier version of the reference model.

2. Select the This model is newer check box next to the file path if you wantto define that the file shown in the box is newer.

3. Ensure that you have both the original reference model and the browsed

reference model version visible by setting the eye buttons active inthe Change detection section.

4. To change the comparison set if needed, click the ... button and define theset you want to use. Then click Update view. The comparison set containsthe properties that you want to use in version comparison.

You can do any of the following in the changes list and in the property detailslist:

Export change detection results to Excel by clicking Export to Excel.The exported Excel file contains all or changed properties that are visible inthe changes list. The information is exported in the current language.

Click a row in the changes list to open the related property details list in theside pane. The content of the property details list depends on thecomparison rules that you are using. The details list also indicates how the

Reference models and compatible formats 56 Detect changes between reference modelversions

individual properties have changed in the Old value and New valuecolumns.

To show the object in the model, select the Select objects in the modelcheck box, and then click a row in the changes list. Note that you cannotselect deleted objects.

The older state of an object is drawn to the model view when you select thecorresponding object in the changes list.

To highlight the object in the changes list, select the Get selected objectsfrom model check box, and then click an object in the model.

To zoom to the selected object in the model, select the Zoom to selectedcheck box, and then click a row in the changes list. You can also zoom todeleted objects.

The older state of a reference model object is drawn to the 3D view inorange color when you select the corresponding object.

To show only changes in the property details list, select the Show onlychanges check box, and then click a row in the changes list.

You can search for specific items using the

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