Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Tutorial Texla
Tutorial Texla
Tutorial Texla
Lesson I – Lesson X
1
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Table of Contents
Lesson I – Evolution of BIM & About Tekla Structures ................................................................... 13
1. Evolution of BIM ............................................................................................................. 14
a. Manual Drafting .............................................................................................................. 14
b. Two Dimensional Computer Aided Design (2D CAD) .................................................... 15
c. 3D CAD – Solid Modeling................................................................................................. 15
d. Parametric Modeling ................................................................................................... 15
e. First BIM Software ....................................................................................................... 16
2. What is BIM .................................................................................................................... 17
3. Collaboration and Information Management .................................................................. 17
4. BIM Technology .............................................................................................................. 18
5. Why BIM? ....................................................................................................................... 18
6. BIM Is Not Everywhere.................................................................................................... 18
7. Tekla Structures BIM Software ........................................................................................ 19
8. One software solution, different configurations and environments ................................ 19
9. Other Tekla Products ...................................................................................................... 23
10. Key Benefits .................................................................................................................... 24
11. Main Features ................................................................................................................. 24
12. Starting Tekla Structures ................................................................................................. 26
13. Opening a Tekla Structures model .................................................................................. 29
a. Exercise........................................................................................................................... 29
14. Tekla Structures Interface ............................................................................................... 30
a. Zoom in and out .............................................................................................................. 31
b. Rotate the model ........................................................................................................ 31
c. Pan the model ................................................................................................................. 31
d. Exercise ....................................................................................................................... 31
15. Coordinate System .......................................................................................................... 31
a. Local Coordinate Symbol ................................................................................................. 31
b. Global Coordinate Symbol ........................................................................................... 32
c. Exercise........................................................................................................................... 32
16. Selecting Objects............................................................................................................. 32
2
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
4. Reinforcements............................................................................................................. 110
a. Reinforcing bar group ................................................................................................... 111
b. Creating a reinforcing bar group ................................................................................ 112
c. Distribution area ........................................................................................................... 113
d. Defining bar grade ..................................................................................................... 114
e. Distribution of bars .................................................................................................... 114
f. Omitting reinforcing bars .............................................................................................. 117
g. Defining hook for reinforcing bar .................................................................................. 118
h. Defining the reinforcing bar cover thickness .............................................................. 119
i. Reinforcing bar group types .......................................................................................... 119
j. Exercise......................................................................................................................... 120
Lesson V – Basic Detailing 2 & Numbering ................................................................................... 122
1. Splitting and combining parts ........................................................................................ 123
a. Splitting parts ................................................................................................................ 123
b. Combining parts ........................................................................................................ 123
2. Cutting a part ................................................................................................................ 124
a. Fitting ........................................................................................................................... 124
b. Line cuts .................................................................................................................... 124
c. Polygon cuts.................................................................................................................. 125
d. Part cuts .................................................................................................................... 126
3. Steel contour plate........................................................................................................ 126
a. Creating a steel contour plate ....................................................................................... 126
b. Adding a corner to a contour plate ............................................................................ 127
c. Corner chamfers ........................................................................................................... 127
4. Working with reinforcement ......................................................................................... 128
a. Attaching reinforcement to parts .................................................................................. 128
b. Modifying reinforcement........................................................................................... 129
c. Ungrouping a reinforcement ......................................................................................... 129
d. Group reinforcements ............................................................................................... 130
e. Adding points to a reinforcement .............................................................................. 130
f. Removing points from a reinforcement......................................................................... 131
7
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
l. Exercise......................................................................................................................... 190
m. Exercise (Optional) .................................................................................................... 190
Lesson IX – Interoperability ......................................................................................................... 192
1. Reference Models ......................................................................................................... 193
a. Inserting a reference model .......................................................................................... 193
b. Modifying visibility of a reference model ................................................................... 194
c. Detecting changes in a reference model ....................................................................... 194
d. Viewing reference model layers ................................................................................ 194
e. Clash detection between objects in reference model and Tekla Structures model..... 195
f. Converting IFC objects .................................................................................................. 195
g. Exercise......................................................................................................................... 195
2. Import and export ......................................................................................................... 196
a. Import DWG / DXF files ................................................................................................. 196
b. Exercise ..................................................................................................................... 198
c. Export DWG / DXF files ................................................................................................. 198
d. Exporting 3D DGN...................................................................................................... 199
e. Exporting BVBS .......................................................................................................... 199
f. Export DSTV .................................................................................................................. 200
g. CIS and CIMSteel ........................................................................................................... 200
h. Exercise ..................................................................................................................... 203
3. Analysis and design systems.......................................................................................... 203
a. Basics ............................................................................................................................ 204
b. Analysis and design direct links.................................................................................. 205
c. Robot ............................................................................................................................ 205
d. SAP2000 .................................................................................................................... 206
e. STAAD.Pro ................................................................................................................. 206
f. ISM ............................................................................................................................... 206
Lesson X – Open Discussion & Certification Examination ............................................................. 208
Appendix – Additional Exercise ................................................................................................... 209
1. Exercise 1 ...................................................................................................................... 210
2. Exercise 2 ...................................................................................................................... 211
11
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
12
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Lesson I
13
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
1. Evolution of BIM
a. Manual Drafting
Technical drawing is essential for communicating ideas in architecture,
engineering and construction (AEC) industries. To make the
drawings easier to understand, people use familiar symbols,
perspectives, units of measurement, notation systems,
visual styles, and page layout.
14
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Most CAD software programs were still 2D replacements for drafting, with the main benefits to
reduce drawing error and increase reusability of drawings.
d. Parametric Modeling
Parametric modeling represented a different approach to CAD compared to 2D drafting or 3D
modeling. It was often called Feature Based modeling. Parts were composed of features of positive
or negative space. A positive space could be an extruded boss, a negative space could be a hole or
segment that was cut away. Often the feature was sketched 2 dimensionally and extruded, revolved
or swept into a 3 dimensional object.
15
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
In 2D CAD designs were object driven. That meant if you changed the object the dimension would
change. In Parametric Modeling designs were dimension driven. Changed the dimension and the
object would change.
16
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
2. What is BIM
“With BIM (Building Information Modeling) technology, one or more accurate virtual models of a
building are constructed digitally. They support design through its phases, allowing better analysis
and control than manual processes. When completed, these computer-generated models contain
precise geometry and data needed to support the construction, fabrication, and procurement
activities through which the building is realized.”
This definition of Building Information Modeling in the Handbook of BIM (Eastman, Teicholz, Sacks
& Liston 2011, http://eu.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-0470541377.html)
encompasses a lot starting from a technology to embracing the whole construction process.
Working with others can be a pain point in a project. According to the NBIMS-US™ Project
Committee, “Buildings cost more than they should to design, build and sustain and they take too
long to deliver. We must do a better job of collaborating between the many stakeholders involved
in the building process.” In the US, a study by NIST
(http://fire.nist.gov/bfrlpubs/build04/art022.html) shows that lack of interoperability causes
owners an additional cost of 15.8 billion dollars every year. The construction industry could
definitely benefit from better communication and information management.
17
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
4. BIM Technology
BIM means automation of the use of information – creation of information became automated
already when CAD arrived. From software, BIM asks for accuracy and capability to handle lots of
information, and in practice also compatibility with other solutions as otherwise achieving a
collaborative workflow would be challenging at best. Tekla has chosen Open BIM and constructable
models as we want to make good BIM workflows achievable for our customers.
5. Why BIM?
The users list many benefits of BIM. Companies that utilize BIM, like Skanska
(http://group.skanska.com/BIM) and Barton Malow (http://www.bartonmalow.com/bim), have
reported benefits for scheduling, estimation and risk analysis, more collaborative processes and
better facility management. BIM also brings the opportunity to try out solutions in advance before
building the structure on site: with a constructable model, the structure can be prototyped virtually.
Project parties can understand and review the design more easily, which helps guarantee its
accuracy and completeness, and visualize and evaluate alternatives in terms of cost and other
project parameters. BIM has gathered compliments for improved communication between project
parties and generally better quality.
18
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Models created with Tekla software carry the accurate, reliable and detailed information needed
for successful Building Information Modeling and construction execution. Welcome smoother
workflow to your company with Tekla Structures and constructable models.
Tekla works with all materials and the most complex structures – you set the limits. Our customers
have used Tekla Structures to stadia, offshore structures, plants and factories, residential buildings,
bridges and skyscrapers.
Tekla also offers configurations of Tekla Structures for students for both home and classroom use.
For more information, visit www.tekla.com/solutions/students.
The help covers the content of the Full configuration, so the configuration you are using may not
contain all the described features.
Feature Map
Configuration Full Steel Detailing Precast Rebar Engineering Construction Primary Project Viewer Drafter
Feature Concrete Detailing Modeling
Detailing
Viewing ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Grids, ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
construction
lines, points
Building ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔1
elements
Assemblies ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
19
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Configuration Full Steel Detailing Precast Rebar Engineering Construction Primary Project Viewer Drafter
Feature Concrete Detailing Modeling
Detailing
Precast cast ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
units
Pour modeling ✔2 ✔2 ✔2 ✔2 ✔2 ✔2
Pour viewing ✔2 ✔2 ✔2 ✔2 ✔2 ✔2 ✔2 ✔2 ✔2
Cast in Place ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
cast units
Numbering ✔ ✔6 ✔ ✔3 ✔
Assigning ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
control
numbers
Conceptual ✔ ✔ ✔
components
Steel ✔ ✔ ✔
components
Concrete ✔ ✔ ✔5 ✔
components
Lotting ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Sequencer ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
User-defined ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔4
attributes
Project status ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
visualization
(4D)
Multi-user ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Locking ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Clash check ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔4 ✔4
manager
Task manager ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Organizer ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔4 ✔4
Printing and ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
plotting
Publish models ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
External editors
Symbol Editor ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Template ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Editor
Creating ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
general
arrangement
drawings (plan,
section,
erection)
Modifying ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
general
arrangement
drawings (plan,
section,
erection)
Creating steel ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
fabrication
drawings
20
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Configuration Full Steel Detailing Precast Rebar Engineering Construction Primary Project Viewer Drafter
Feature Concrete Detailing Modeling
Detailing
(single-part
drawings)
Modifying ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
steel
fabrication
drawings
(single-part
drawings)
Creating steel ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
fabrication
drawings
(assembly
drawings)
Modifying ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
steel
fabrication
drawings
(assembly
drawings)
Creating ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
precast
concrete
drawings (cast
unit drawings)
Modifying ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
precast
concrete
drawings (cast
unit drawings)
Creating cast- ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
in-place
concrete
drawings (cast
unit drawings)
Modifying ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
cast-in-place
concrete
drawings (cast
unit drawings)
Anchor bolt ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
plans
Reports ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Interoperability
Export CNC, ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
DSTV
Import 2D and ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
3D DWG, DXF
Export 3D ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
DWG, DXF,
DGN
Export ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
drawings (DXF,
DWG)
Import and ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
export CAD
and FEM
packages
21
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Configuration Full Steel Detailing Precast Rebar Engineering Construction Primary Project Viewer Drafter
Feature Concrete Detailing Modeling
Detailing
CIS/2 import ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
and export
EliPlan import ✔ ✔ ✔
and export
BVBS export ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
HMS export ✔ ✔ ✔
Unitechnik ✔ ✔ ✔
export
View reference ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
models
Attach ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
reference
models (DXF,
DWG, DGN,
3DD, IFC, XML,
PDF)
Analyzing
Create analysis ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
model
Analysis and ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Design
interface
Loads ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Open API
Open API ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔4
capabilities
✔1 = Limitation: 2500 parts, 5000 reinforcing bars + reinforcing bar groups, unlimited number of bolts.
✔2 = Pours are enabled by an advanced option.
✔3 = Numbering is limited to cast-in-place parts, cast units and reinforcing bars.
✔4 = View only.
✔5 = Only Cast in Place concrete components.
✔6 = Numbering is limited to steel parts and cast units.
Tekla Structures has 30 localized environments and 14 user interface language to make using and
implementing the software easier around the world.
22
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Sweden Switzerland
Taiwan United Kingdom
United States (Imperial) United States (Metric)
23
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
24
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Intelligent connections
25
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Custom component editor, that you can use to create your own parametric connections,
details and parts
26
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
27
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Click OK
28
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
a. Exercise
Open a Tekla Structures model “Lesson 1” that has been supplied to you.
29
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
1. This is your Tekla Structures model. If you are starting a completely new project, you will
only see the default model view and an empty grid at this point.
2. The box around the grid represents the work area. In a view, you can only see the parts that
are within this area. Objects that are outside the work area exist in the model, but they are
not visible. You can shrink and expand the work area to suit your needs. You can also hide
the work area box.
3. The coordinate symbol with the three axes x, y, and z represents the local coordinate system.
It also indicates the direction of the model.
4. The green cube symbol represents the global coordinate system and it lies at the global
origin (x=0, y=0, z=0).
5. The ribbon contains all the commands and other functions you will use when building your
model. You can hide some tabs if you do not need them in your current project.
6. If you cannot find the command you are looking for, search with Quick Launch.
7. When you create objects, the status bar will tell you how to proceed and when to pick points.
8. The File menu is where you manage your models. You can save models, print drawings,
and import and export models, among other things.
30
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
10. The snap switches control which positions you can pick when creating objects.
11. Use the side pane on the right-hand side of the screen to add reference models and
components.
d. Exercise
Open an existing model, try rotate, move and zoom the model.
31
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
The coordinate symbol follows the local coordinate system of the model
c. Exercise
Rotate the model and observe changes on the local and global coordinate symbol.
Tekla Structures highlights the selected objects. The number of selected objects and handles is
displayed in the bottom right corner of the status bar.
32
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Press H
Window-select:
o Hold down the mouse left button and drag the mouse from left to right
to select objects that are completely within that rectangular area
Cross-select:
o Hold down mouse left button and drag the mouse from right to left to
select objects that are completely or partly within that rectangular area
33
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
d. Exercise
Wireframe
o Part outlines are displayed, surfaces are not.
o Parts are transparent.
o Ctrl-1 for parts.
o Shift-1 for components.
Rendered Wireframe
o Parts outlines are displayed.
o Parts are transparent.
o Surfaces are rendered.
o Ctrl-2 for parts.
o Shift-2 for components.
34
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Ctrl-2, Shift-2
Grayscale
o Objects are shown in grayscale.
o Ctrl-3 for parts
o Shift-3 for components
Rendered
o Part surfaces are displayed
o Parts are not transparent
o Ctrl-4 for parts
o Shift-4 for components
35
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
b. Exercise
c. View list
A view is a representation of a model from a specific location and viewing angle. Each
view is displayed in its own window inside Tekla Structures window.
On the View tab, click View list to open the Views dialog box.
36
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
In Views dialog box, invisible named views are displayed on the left, and all
visible views are shown on the right.
d. Arranging views
Views can be manually arranged by dragging and dropping each view within Tekla
Structures window.
e. Exercise
Close all views, open and tile vertically the following views:
Plan 1F
37
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Roof Plan
Elevation 24
3d
g. Exercise
Open Roof Plan view, and switch the view between 3D and plane view
38
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
i. Exercise
39
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
j. Exercise
40
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Mouse right-click
Select Redraw view
l. Exercise
m. Exercise
Mouse right-click
Select Redraw view
41
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
o. Exercise
p. Exercise
42
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Select a view
o The mouse pointer changes into an arrow and a cross
o The arrow indicates the current flying direction
r. Exercise
43
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
c. Exercise
d. Bill of quantities
You can create accurate report of the information included in models.
To create reports:
44
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
e. Exercise
a. Repeating a command
To repeat the last command:
Press Enter
b. Ending a command
To cancel or end a command, do one of the following:
c. Undoing a command
To undo a command, do one of the following
Click
Press Ctrl + Z
45
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
d. Redoing a command
To redo a command, do one of the following:
Click
Press Ctrl + Y
In the Quick Launch box, type redo and press Enter
46
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Basic Modeling 1
Lesson II
47
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Create a separate model for each Tekla Structures project. Each model is stored in its own folder
under the TeklaStructuresModels folder.
Click Create.
o Tekla Structures creates the model and opens the default model view. The
contents of the model view may differ based on the model template you chose
earlier.
48
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
2. Grid
Grids are used as an aid in locating objects in a Tekla Structures model.
a. Exercise
49
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Hint:
Switching between 3D and plane view, Lesson 1
a. Grid Properties
50
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
1
2
6
4 3
51
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
It defines how far the grid lines extend in the directions Left/Below
and Right/Above
5 5. Labels
These are the names of each individual grid line.
a. Exercise
b. Grid Views
Grid views are views along the grid lines.
52
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Click Create
53
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
a. Exercise
Open views Grid 1, Plan +0, Grid K and 3d and tile them as shown in the picture below.
54
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
3. Pad Footing
a. Creating a pad footing
To create a pad footing:
a. Exercise
Create pad footings into positions L/1, L/3 and K/2 at 0.0m level.
55
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Use the Pad Footing Properties dialog box to modify the properties
Click Modify button
a. Exercise
56
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Class: 2
4. Steel Column
a. Creating a steel column
To create a steel column:
57
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Option Description
Part prefix and start number The part mark series of the column.
Assembly prefix and start The assembly mark series of the column.
number
Tekla Structures uses part names in reports and drawing lists, and
to identify parts of the same type.
58
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Option Description
Top The position of the second end of the column in the global z
direction.
Bottom The position of the first end of the column in the global z
direction.
c. Exercise
Size: UC152*152*23
Material: S275
Class: 3
59
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
5. Steel Beam
a. Creating a steel beam
To create a steel beam:
60
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Option Description
Part prefix and start number The part mark series of a beam.
Assembly prefix and start The assembly mark series of the beam.
number
Tekla Structures uses part names in reports and drawing lists, and
to identify parts of the same type.
61
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Option Description
Rotation How much a beam is rotated around its axis on the work plane.
End offset The offsets of beam ends, relative to the beam’s handles.
Number of segments The number of segments Tekla Structures uses when drawing a
curved beam.
c. Exercise
Class: 4
62
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
6. Copying an object
To copy an object:
63
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
a. Exercise
64
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
7. Mirroring an object
When you copy or move an object, you can mirror it through a plane that is perpendicular to the
plane and passes through a line you specify
To mirror an object:
a. Exercise
65
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Mouse right-click
66
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
a. Exercise
Create additional parts to the model by copy-rotate, as shown in the picture below.
Angle of rotation: 30 degree.
67
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
9. Steel Polybeam
A polybeam can contain straight and curved segments.
68
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
b. Exercise
Class: 5
69
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
70
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Basic Modeling 2
Lesson III-A
71
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Selection Switches
Main selection switches control whether you can select objects in a component or assembly
hierarchy. These switches have the highest priority.
Assemblies and cast units When you click any object in an assembly or a
cast unit, Tekla Structures selects the assembly
or cast unit and highlights all objects in the same
assembly or cast unit.
Objects in assemblies and cast units You can select single objects in assemblies and
cast units.
Use other selection switches to control which object types you want to select.
Any objects Turns all switches on. You can select all object
types, except for single bolts.
72
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Surface treatments and surfaces You can select surface treatments and surfaces.
Construction lines and circles You can select construction lines and circles.
Cuts and added material You can select line, part, and polygon cuts,
fittings, and added material.
Reinforcing bars You can select reinforcing bars and bar groups.
1. Snap switches
Use the snap switches to control which positions you can pick in the model or drawing. By using
snap switches, you can position objects precisely without having to know the coordinates. You can
use snap switches whenever Tekla Structures prompts you to pick a point.
Click the snap switches on the Snapping toolbar to switch them on or off. If there is more than one
point available to snap to, press the Tab key to cycle forward through the snap points, and Shift+Tab
to cycle backwards through them. Click the left mouse button to select the appropriate point.
73
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
The two main switches define whether you can snap to reference points or any other points on
objects. These switches have the highest priority. If both these switches are off, you cannot snap to
any positions, even if all the other switches are on.
Geometry lines and You can snap to any points on objects. Small
points
End points Snaps to end points of lines, polyline segments, and arcs.
74
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Line extensions Snaps to the line extensions of nearby objects, and reference
and geometry lines of drawing objects.
Nearest point Snaps to the nearest points on objects, e.g. any point on part
edges or lines.
Lines Snaps to grid lines, reference lines, and the edges of existing
objects.
2. Component
a. Concepts
Components are tools that you can use to connect parts in the model. Components automate tasks
and group objects so that Tekla Structures treats them as a single unit. You can save the properties
of a component and use them in other projects.
Components adapt to changes in the model, which means that Tekla Structures automatically
modifies a component if you modify the parts it connects. When you copy or move objects, Tekla
Structures automatically copies or moves all the associated components with the objects.
All components are stored in the Applications & components catalog. Click the Applications &
components button in the side pane to open the Applications & components catalog.
75
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
b. System components
Tekla Structures contains a wide range of predefined system components by default. There are
three types of system components:
Connection components connect two or more parts, and create all the required objects such
as cuts, fittings, parts, bolts, and welds.
For example, end plates, clip angles, and bolted gussets are connections.
Detail components add a detail or a reinforcement to the main part. A detail is only
connected to one part.
For example, stiffeners, base plates, and lifting hooks are steel details, and beam
reinforcement and pad footing reinforcement are concrete details.
Detailing components automatically create and assemble the parts to build a structure, but
do not connect the structure to existing parts.
You can also create your own components, custom components if you do not find a system
component that suits your needs. You can use custom components in the same way as system
components.
c. Discussion
• What is an assembly?
• What is a cast unit?
Connections and details have a main part that you select first. Connections also have one or more
secondary parts that you select after you have selected the main part. Detailing components do not
always have a main part and secondary parts. Instead, they automatically create and assemble the
parts to build a structure when you pick a position in the model.
76
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
If you use a component you are unfamiliar with, use the default properties of the component. Then
check what needs to be modified, and modify only few properties at a time to see how the
modifications affect the component. This is quicker than trying to set all the component properties
before seeing what the component actually creates.
Tekla Structures opens a command prompt when you add a component. Do not close the prompt
window, because it displays information on adding the component. This information can be useful
in problem situations.
1. Click the Applications & components button in the side pane to open the Applications
& components catalog.
To Do this
77
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Add a detailing Pick one to three positions to determine the location of the objects that
the detailing component creates.
component
a. Component status
When you have added the component, Tekla Structures shows the component status using the
symbols shown in the table below. Double-click the symbol to open the component properties.
Color Status
The green symbol shows that the component was created successfully.
The yellow symbol shows that the component was created, but has problems.
This often occurs when bolts or holes have an edge distance that is less than the
default value.
The red symbol shows that the component was not created.
Common reasons are that the properties are incorrect or that the up direction is not
appropriate.
Tekla Structures creates four views: front, end, top, and perspective.
The example image shows the default views of the End plate (144) connection.
78
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
79
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Click the Applications & components button in the side pane to open the Applications &
components catalog. You can also press Ctrl + F.
Components are stored in the Applications & components catalog and organized into two different
types of groups.
The groups are shown against different background colors in the catalog.
Recent contains the 12 components and applications that have most recently been
used in the model.
Ungrouped items contains the components and applications that are not in any
predefined groups.
Ungrouped items can be, for example, imported components that have not been
moved to any other group yet.
80
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Applications contains applications, macros and drawing plugins. If you create your
own macros, you can add them to this group.
Legacy catalog shows the folder structure of the Component Catalog used in
previous Tekla Structures versions if Component Catalog catalog definition files are
found in the standard folder search paths.
Depending on your environment, the catalog may also contain predefined groups for specific
usage, such as Steel > Beam to beam connections. You can create your own groups
according to your needs, for example, your own favorite connections.
Model-specific components are shown only in the model view and drawing-specific components are
shown only in the drawing view.
d. Exercise
81
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
e. Exercise
f. Exercise
82
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
g. Exercise
Apply system component Column seating (39) with details as shown in the pictures
Below.
4. Exploding components
Explode Components ungroups the objects in an existing component, you can then
remove and modify parts and other objects in the component.
To explode a component:
83
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Basic Modeling 3
Lesson III-B
84
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
5. Work area
Tekla Structures indicates the work area of a view using green, dashed lines.
You can define the work area to suit particular situations, for example, to concentrate on a particular
area of the model.
Objects outside the work area still exist, but they are not visible.
85
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
On the View tab, click Work area > Using two points
Pick the two points you want as corner points for the work area
86
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
6. View Plane
Each view has a view plane on which the grids are visible.
a. Basic views
Basic views are those parallel to the global basic planes (xy, xz and zy).
In basic views, two axes always define the view plane and the axes appear in the plane
name.
This third axis is perpendicular to the view plane. It does not appear in the plane name.
87
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
In the basic plane view, the model is shown from the direction of the third axis.
88
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
The view plane coordinate is the distance from the global origin in the direction of
the third axis.
Click Create
On the View tab, click New view > Using two points
On the View tab, click New view > Using three points
89
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
7. Work plane
The red coordinate arrow symbol indicates the work plane.
90
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
The red arrow symbol shows the xy plane. The z direction follows the right-hand rule.
On the View tab, click Work plane > Parallel to XY(Z) plane
91
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
The first point you pick is the origin, the second point defines the x direction, and the
third point defines the y direction of the work plane.
On the View tab, click Work plane > Using three points
Pick the origin for the work plane
Pick a point in the position x direction
Pick a point in the position y direction
On the View tab, click Work plane > Parallel to view plane
Select the view you want to modify
On the View tab, click Work plane > Work plane tool
Pick a point.
92
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Select Work plane from the second list box on the Snapping toolbar.
When modeling sloped parts, shifting the work plane helps you to place parts accurately.
On the View tab, click Work plane > Parallel to XY(Z) Plane
Set Plane to XY
Set Depth coordinate to 0
Click Change
h. Exercise
Open a Tekla Structures model “Lesson 1” that has been supplied to you. Do the followings:
93
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Create a “True Roof Plan” view. Set the Work Plane so that it is parallel to “True Roof Plan”
view.
94
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
8. Construction objects
Construction planes, lines and circles help you place other objects.
For example, you can easily pick the points at intersections of construction lines and circles.
The snap priority of construction objects is the same as with the other lines.
Construction objects remain in the model when you update or redraw views and windows. They do
not appear in drawings.
95
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
On the Edit tab, click Construction object > Circle using center point and radius
Create the construction circle by following the instructions on the status bar.
c. Points
You can create points to make it easier to place objects at positions where no lines or
objects intersect.
When you create points, Tekla Structures always places them according to the work
plane coordinate system.
Points located on the view plane are yellow, and points outside the view plane are red.
d. Creating a point
To create a point:
96
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
9. Advanced Snapping
a. Snapping to a position using coordinates
You can use coordinates when snapping to a position. Use the Enter a Numeric Location dialog box
to specify the coordinates.
For example, type 3000,0. When you start typing, Tekla Structures displays the Enter a
Numeric Location dialog box automatically.
Two If you omit the last coordinate (z) or angle, Tekla Structures assumes
coordinates that the value is 0.
97
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Polar A distance, an angle on the xy plane, and an angle from the xy plane <
coordinates separated by angle brackets.
Global The coordinates relative to the global origin and the global x and y !
coordinates directions.
This is handy, for example, when you have set the workplane to a wall
and want to snap to a position defined in the global coordinate system
without changing the workplane to global.
98
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
d. Lock X, Y or Z coordinate
You can lock the x, y, and z coordinates on a line. This is useful when you need to determine a point
to pick and the needed point does not exist on the line. When a coordinate is locked, you can snap
to points only in that direction.
99
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Basic Detailing 1
Lesson IV
100
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
1. Bolts
To create bolts, you can either create a single bolt group or apply a component that automatically
creates bolt groups.
You can define the work area to suit particular situations, for example, to concentrate on a particular
area of the model.
Objects outside the work area still exist, but they are not visible.
b. Exercise
Model two L profile as shown in picture below, and bolt them together at mid-length.
101
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
c. Bolt Properties
Option Description
Bolt size Bolt diameter
Bolt standard Bolt assembly standard / grade
Bolt type Defines whether the bolts are assembled on-site or in the shop
Connect Indicates whether you are bolting a secondary part or a sub-
part/assembly assembly
Thread in Indicates if the thread of the bolt can be inside the bolted parts.
material Tekla Structures does not use this value when calculating the
length of full-threaded bolts.
102
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Cut length Indicates which parts the bolt connects. The value defines the
area Tekla Structures should search for parts that belong to the
bolt group. Using cut length you can determine whether the bolt
will go through one flange or two.
Tekla structures searches for parts using half the cut length value,
in both directions from the bolt group plane.
In the example below, A is the cut length and B is the bolt origin.
Tekla Structures calculates the search area as A/2 in both
directions from point B.
If there are large gaps between the connected parts, the gap is
added to the length of the bolt.
Option Description
Extra Additional bolt length.
length
Increase the material thickness that Tekla Structures uses when
calculating bolt length. For example, you might need extra bolt length
to allow for painting. You can also build additional lengths into bolt
assemblies.
Shape Bolt group shape.
Tekla Structures uses the values of the Bolt dist X and Bolt dist Y fields
to determine how many bolts the bolt group contains:
103
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
ITEM NEEDED
On plane Moves the bolt group perpendicular to the bolt group x axis.
Rotation Defines how far the bolt group is rotated around the x axis, relative to
the current work plane.
For example, you can use this field to indicate on which side of the
connected parts you want the bolt head to be.
At depth Moves the bolt group perpendicular to the current work plane.
104
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Dx, Dy, Dz Offsets that move the bolt group by moving the bolt group x axis. Use
to change the position of the bolt group.
Select the bolt group to edit > mouse right-click > Bolt parts
e. Exercise
Create 2 plates using beam with profile PLT12*300, and a bolt group using the following
information.
105
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
2. Holes
Tekla Structures uses the same command for creating bolts and holes.
Before creating holes, you need to change some of the properties in the Bolt Properties dialog box.
If you want to create only holes without any bolts, clear all the Include in bolt assembly check boxes:
Mouse double-click the Create bolts icon to open the Bolt Properties dialog box
Optional: Modify the hole properties
If you do not want to create any bolts, clear all the Include in bolt assembly
check boxes
Click Apply to save the changes
Create the holes the same way you would in creating a bolt group.
106
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
3. Welds
a. Creating a weld between parts
107
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
c. Weld Properties
Option Description
Prefix a : Design throat thickness
s : Penetration throat thickness
z : Leg length
108
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
If you enter a zero or negative weld size, Tekla Structures creates the
weld, but does not display it in drawings.
Type
Length The length of a regular weld depends on the length of the connection
between the welded parts.
You can set the exact length of a polygon weld by, for example, defining
the start and end points of the weld.
Pitch The center-to-center spacing of welds for non-continuous welds.
To create a non-continuous weld, define the center-to-center spacing and
the pitch of the welds.
Tekla Structures calculates the distance between the welds as the pitch
minus the length of the weld.
109
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
d. Exercise
4. Reinforcements
You can add reinforcements to concrete parts.
110
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Tekla Structures creates reinforcing bar group using the properties in the Reinforcing Bar
Properties dialog box.
111
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
112
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
c. Distribution area
In addition to the shape of the reinforcing bars, you need to define the distribution area
of the reinforcing bars.
113
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
The distribution area points can be positioned on the outer contour of the concrete part.
Usually, the distribution area is perpendicular to the plane so the cover thickness on the
sides can be defined in the From plane box in the Reinforcing Bar Properties dialog box.
The selection order of the handles, which determines the cover area, is important when
the bars are placed. The bars are placed on the right side of a line that is defined by the
two selected handles.
The General tab in the Reinforcing Bar Properties dialog box contains the same options
for both a single reinforcing bar and a reinforcing bar group. However, the Group tab
contains additional options for defining the properties of a reinforcing bar group. If you
open the Reinforcing Bar Properties dialog box for a single reinforcing bar, the Group
tab is disabled.
e. Distribution of bars
You can define the way the bars are distributed over the cover area by selecting the
Creation method list.
114
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
115
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
By exact spacings
116
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
None
First
Last
117
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
118
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Type Description
Normal Not tapered
119
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
You can use the Group tab in the Reinforcing Bar Properties dialog box for selecting
and modifying the reinforcing group types.
j. Exercise
Create a concrete beam with reinforcement details as shown in the following page.
120
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
121
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Lesson V
122
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Tekla Structures retains the properties, attached objects, and connections even when parts are split.
a. Splitting parts
You can use splitting with straight parts, curved beams without offsets, or normal and
tapered reinforcing bar groups.
To split a part:
b. Combining parts
You can combine existing parts in Tekla Structures.
When combining, the part properties of the first selected part are used for the combined
part.
To combine parts:
123
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
If the centerlines of the parts are not in line with each other, centerlines are combined
by taking the largest distance between the start and end points from both parts.
2. Cutting a part
a. Fitting
You can fit the end of a part to a plane by creating a straight cutting line between two
points.
A fitting adjust the end of a beam on a plane, perpendicular to the view plane, which
passes through the cutting line you pick.
To create a fitting:
b. Line cuts
A line cut cuts the end of a beam on a plane that passes through the line you pick.
124
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
c. Polygon cuts
A polygon cut cuts a part using a polygonal shape.
Ensure that the work plane is on the plane you are cutting on
Click Polygon cut from Edit tab
125
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
d. Part cuts
You can cut a part using another part.
126
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
c. Corner chamfers
You can use the Chamfer command to
shape the following parts:
Tekla Structures creates chamfers using the active properties in the Chamfer
Properties dialog box. Mouse double-click an existing chamfer.
127
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Option Description
Type Defines the shape of the chamfer
x The dimension of the chamfer
y The second dimension of straight chamfers
dz1 Moves the top surface of the part corner in the local z direction of the part
dz2 Moves the bottom surface of the part corner in the local z direction of the
part
Example:
128
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Detaching rebar
To detach reinforcement from a part:
b. Modifying reinforcement
Moving reinforcement handles
Tekla Structures uses handles to indicate:
c. Ungrouping a reinforcement
You can ungroup reinforcing bar groups and reinforcement meshes.
To ungroup a reinforcement:
129
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
d. Group reinforcements
You can group single reinforcing bars into groups.
130
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
131
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
The combined reinforcement gets the same properties as the first selected bar.
To combine two single reinforcing bars or two reinforcing bar groups into one:
The invalid geometry is visualized in the model. Tekla Structures display a warning
message, and draws a thin line between the reinforcement handles. You can correct the
reinforcement geometry by selecting the line and modifying the reinforcement
properties.
l. Exercise
5. Basic Numbering
a. What is numbering
Tekla Structures assigns a mark to each part, assembly and cast unit in a model.
The mark includes part, assembly or cast unit prefix and position number.
Tekla Structures uses numbers to identify parts, cast units and assemblies when
producing drawings and reports, and exporting models.
b. Numbering objects
If numbering of a part, cast unit or assembly is not up to date, a question mark (?) is
displayed in the numbering label.
132
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
c. Numbering series
When you run numbering, Tekla Structures compares parts that belong to the same
series. All identical parts under the same numbering series are given the same part
number.
Create three identical columns with the numbering series prefix P and start
number 1
133
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Number the model. All columns have the part position number P1
Modify one of the columns, such as changing its column profile size or height.
Number the model. You should now have two columns P1 and one P2
Change back the column P2 to be identical to the others
Number the model. All columns are now having mark P1.
Change Start number of one of the column to 1000.
Number the model. You should have two columns P1 and one column P1000.
Investigate how pile cap and reinforcement sizes affect the numbering
d. Exercise
Open a Tekla Structures model “Lesson 1” that has been supplied to you. Examine the numbering
of various objects using one of the following methods:
Ribbon menu > Inquire Object
Drawings and Reports tab > Create Report > Assembly List, Cast Unit List, etc. > Create
from all OR Create from selected
134
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Makes changes to some objects, do the numbering and examine the result again.
135
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Basic Drawings 1
Lesson VI
136
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
2. Drawing Types
a. General Arrangement (GA) Drawings
You can create general arrangement (GA) drawings for:
Example of a GA drawing
137
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Creating GA drawings
To create GA drawings using default settings:
If you have not already done so, create the model views you need
If you want to switch between 3D view and plane view in the created view, press
Ctrl+P.
In Drawing & Reports tab > Create Drawing > GA Drawing...
In the Create General Arrangement Drawing dialog box, select the views for the
drawing
138
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Tick the Open drawing checkbox if you would like to have the drawing opened
after it is created
Click Create button
139
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Exercise 1
Exercise 2
140
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Cast unit drawings can be created only for concrete parts and cast-in embeds.
In modelling environment, select one or more cast units for the drawing creation.
In Drawing & Reports tab > Create Cast Unit Drawing
141
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Tekla Structures creates the drawings and adds them in the Drawing List.
Exercise:
Create cast unit drawing for a precast beam.
c. Assembly Drawings
Assembly drawings are typically workshop drawings showing fabrication information for
one assembly.
In most cases, an assembly consists of a main part and secondary parts. The secondary
parts are either welded or bolted to a main part.
142
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Tekla Structures creates the drawings and adds them in the Drawing List.
143
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
144
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Tekla Structures creates the drawings and adds them in the Drawing List.
e. Multidrawings
Multidrawings are workshop drawings that gather several single-part or assembly
drawings on one sheet.
Example of a multi-drawing:
145
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
To Do this
Create multi-drawings of the 1. Select the drawings from the Drawing List
selected drawings 2. Drawings & Reports > Multi-Drawing > Selected
Drawings
146
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Create multi-drawings of the 1. Select the drawings from the Drawing List
selected drawings, keeping the 2. Drawings & Reports > Multi-Drawing > Selected
layout of each selected drawing Drawings with Layout
To Do this
Create single-part drawings of the 1. Select the parts.
selected parts and place the drawings in a 2. Drawings & Reports > Multi-Drawing > New Single-
multi-drawing Part Drawings of Selected Parts
Create single-part drawings of the 1. Select the parts.
selected part, keep the layout of each 2. Drawings & Reports > Multi-Drawing > New Single-
drawing, and place the drawings in a Part Drawings of Selected Parts with Layout
multi-drawing
Create assembly drawings of the selected 1. Select the parts.
parts and place the drawings in a multi- 2. Drawings & Reports > Multi-Drawing > New Assembly
drawing Drawings of Selected Parts
Create assembly drawings of the selected 1. Select the parts
parts, keep the layout of each drawing, 2. Drawings & Reports > Multi-Drawing > New Assembly
and place the drawings in a multi-drawing Drawings of Selected Parts with Layout
You can search, sort, select and display drawings according to different criteria.
Drawing List dialog box helps in locating drawing parts in the model, and finding out if a part is
included in any of the drawings.
147
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
148
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
To Do this
Display a predefined set of drawings Select a set of
drawings from the
select drawing set list
149
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
To Do this
Select one drawing Click the drawing in the list
Select several consecutive drawings Click the first drawing, then hold down the Shift key
and click the last drawing.
Select several non-consecutive drawings Click the first drawing, then hold down the Ctrl key
and click the other drawings you want to select
Select all drawings in the list Press Ctrl-A
150
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Basic Drawings 2
Lesson VII
151
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
1. Renaming drawings
Tekla Structures names the drawing according to the name given in the drawing properties.
The drawing name is displayed in the Drawing List and in drawing templates.
To rename a drawing:
Tekla Structures shows the title in the Drawing List, drawing and report.
Click Modify
The direction of the detail view is the same as that of the original view.
Open a drawing
Click View > Create Drawing View > Detail View
Depending on the selected detail boundary shape, do one of the following:
o If the shape is Circle:
pick the centre point of the circle
pick a point on the circle
o if the shape is Rectangle:
pick corner points for the rectangle
Pick a position for the detail mark
Pick a position for the detail view
To modify properties of the detail view, mouse double-click the detail mark to display
the Detail symbol properties dialog box
153
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Open a drawing
Click View > Create Drawing View > Curved Section View
Pick three points on the cut plane
Pick two points to indicate the cut box
Pick a point to indicate the location of the curved section view
A symbol follows the cursor allowing you to see where you are about to place the curved
section view.
You can select the part plane (front, top, back, bottom) to use or create a 3D view.
Open a drawing
Click View > Create Drawing View > Of Parts in Drawing
Select one of the commands Front, Top, Bottom, 3D
Mouse double-click the view frame to open the View Properties dialog box.
154
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Open a drawing
Open a model view list by clicking Views > Model Views > Model View List…
Open a model view from the model view list
Click the open model view
To create a drawing view of a selected area in the model and add it in your drawing:
Open a drawing
Open a model view list by click View > Model Views > Model View List…
Open a model view from the model view list
Pick two corners in the model to define the x and y dimensions of the drawing
view.
The x and y directions use the coordinate system of the model view. The view depth
of the drawing view is the same as the depth of the model view.
Tekla Structures creates the drawing view using the current properties in the View
Properties dialog box.
Tekla Structures places the view in the lower left corner of the drawing.
Open a drawing
Click View > Create Drawing View > Of Selected Area in Drawing View
Select the area in the drawing view of which you want to make a new view
Select a position for the new view
A symbol representing the view that you are about to place follows the mouse pointer,
so it is easier for you to see where to place the view.
155
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
In the drawing view, select the parts of which you want to create a single-part
view
Mouse right-click and select Create single-part views.
Open a drawing
Open the Drawing List by pressing Ctrl+O
Select the drawing containing the view you want to copy.
You can select several drawings
Click View > Add Views from Other Drawing
Select Copy or Copy with Layout
When you move views to another drawing, the source drawing and the target drawing
will contain references to each other.
In an open drawing, select the frame of the drawing view you want to move
Mouse right-click > Move to drawing
Select the target drawing from the Drawing List
Click Move in the Move view to drawing dialog box
Close and save the source drawing.
Tekla Structures moves the selected view to the target drawing and creates
references between the source and target drawings.
Open the target drawing from the Drawing List
The Drawing List indicates that the drawing has been updated.
Arrange the drawing views, if necessary.
Save the target drawing
Open a drawing
Open the Drawing List by pressing Ctrl-O
Select the drawing containing the view you want to link.
You can select several drawings.
Click View > Add Views from Other Drawing
156
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
The view boundaries are not visible in the views that you create in the final drawing.
157
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
d. Aligning views
To align views vertically:
158
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
5. Adding Dimensions
a. Adding manual dimensions
Manual dimensions can be added by using commands on the Dimensioning tab
Button Description
Add horizontal dimension
Add vertical dimension
Add orthogonal dimension
Add free dimension
Add parallel dimension
159
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
160
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Result:
Each reinforcing bar group with identical spacing has a mark and dimension line. You can
define the contents of the marks yourself or use predefined dimension settings files.
To Do this
Create dimensions including Mouse right-click the reinforcing bar
dimension marks group
Select Add Mark > Dimension Mark
You can drag a reinforcement dimension line out of the reinforcing bar group.
162
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
When you do this, Tekla Structures draws a dashed line from the reinforcing bar to
the dimension line.
6. Editing dimensions
a. Moving the end of the dimension line
To move the end of the dimension line:
ITEM NEEDED
Add part marks for all Drawing > Part Marks > For All Parts
parts If you have deleted marks manually from the drawing, this
command will not create the marks.
Add part marks for Select the parts
selected parts Mouse right-click > Add Part Mark
b. Adding associative notes
163
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
An associative note is an extra mark that can include any additional information.
To modify content of the associative note, mouse double-click the associative note.
c. Change symbols
Tekla Structures highlights the marks and dimension marks that have changed due to
changes in the model.
164
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
a change symbol (by default, a cloud) is drawn around the old point, the new
point and the dimension values, or around the changed mark or note.
An arrow is drawn from the old dimension point to the new one.
To Do this
Remove all dimension Click Dimensioning > Review Dimensions > Remove
change symbols Dimension > Change Symbol > All
Remove the selected Select the change symbols to remove
dimension change symbols Click Dimensioning > Review Dimensions > Remove
Dimension Change Symbol > Single
Remove all mark change Click Annotating > Review Marks > Remove Mark Change
symbols Symbol > All
Remove the selected mark Select the change symbols you want to remove
change symbols Click Annotating > Review Marks > Remove Mark
Change Symbol > Single
Remove all associative note Click Annotating > Review Marks > Remove Associative Note
change symbols Change Symbol > All
Remove the selected Select the change symbols you want to remove
associative note change Click Annotating > Review Marks > Remove
symbols Associative Note Change Symbol > Single
165
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
a. Adding text
Create text along line Create text along line, arrow at start
point
166
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
c. Adding hyperlinks
To add a hyperlink:
Open a drawing to add a
hyperlink to
Drawing > Link
Modify the text color, height,
font and effect
Modify the frame line type
and color
Select if you want to scale
the link
In the File or URL text box,
enter an Internet address or
filename and path
If you need to locate the file, click Browse…
If you want to display text for the hyperlink instead of the hyperlink, enter the
text in the Text box
Click OK or Appy
167
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Pick one or two points in the drawings to indicate the corners of the hyperlink
frame.
9. Grids in drawings
a. Modifying grid and grid line properties
To modify grid properties:
168
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
switch selected
Click a grid label
Hold down Shift and drag the label by the label handle to a new position
a. Drawing level
Drawing level is the highest level of setting the drawing properties.
By setting properties on the drawing level, you can change the drawing properties of all
objects and elements in a drawing.
Mouse double-click the drawing area or select Edit > Drawing Properties
Click the buttons to open the sub-dialog boxes and make modifications
Click Modify
b. View level
You can modify the drawing properties on the view level. This means that the changes
you make apply only to the view that you have selected in the drawing
170
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Check the point square to open the sub-setting and make modifications
Click Modify
c. Object level
You can modify the drawing properties on the object level. Changes apply only to the
selected individual objects in the drawing.
1
defines which drawing tables to be included in a drawing
2
set the selection rules for drawing size.
3
set the scale of drawing views
171
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Tekla Structures selects the smallest defined drawing size which will fit the drawing views and the
table layout.
a. Table Layout
Table layout is a group of tables or templates included in a drawing of a certain type and
size.
Click Modify
b. Drawing size
To get Tekla Structures automatically asign fixed drawing size according to prededined
setting:
Click Modify
173
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
To manually specific drawing size and table layout according to predefined setting:
174
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Collaboration
Lesson VIII
175
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Click Copy
b. Exercise
Create a new model and copy all objects from model “Lesson 1”.
2. Multi-user mode
You can work on Tekla Structures models in either single-user or multi-user mode. Multi-user mode
allows several users to access the same model at the same time. Several users can work on the same
project and be aware of the others’ progress. This eliminates the need for copying and merging
models.
176
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Advantages
No duplicate models to control, track or store
Using only one model reduces on site errors
Erection plans based on a single master model
Bolt and material lists generated from a single master model
Ability to share the workload of large projects among many users
Ability to collect model history (see XS_COLLECT_MODEL_HISTORY)
Server shutdown
Users should save their working models to the master model before the Tekla Structures
multi-user server is shut down. If the server closes down before saving the working
models, simply restart it, then have users save their working models to the master model.
The multi-user model consists of a single master model. Each user can access this model and open
their own local view of the model. This local view is called a working model. The above image
shows one possible configuration of the multi-user system.
Any changes a user makes to his working model are local and are not visible to other users until he
saves the working model to the master model.
178
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
The multi-user system can contain several client computers, where users work on their working
models. The master model can be located anywhere on the network, including any of the client
computers.
When you open a multi-user model on a client computer, Tekla Structures makes a copy of the
master model and saves it locally on the client computer (a working model).
When you click Save to save your working model back to the master model, Tekla Structures:
1. Takes a new copy of the master model and compares your working model with it.
2. Saves the changes in your working model to the copy of the master model (locally).
3. Saves this copy back to the master model. (Other users can now see your changes.)
4. Takes a new copy of the master model and saves it locally as your working model. (You
can see your own changes and those uploaded by other users.)
Example
If three users are to model a project, User #1 could model columns, User #2 the 1st floor
beams, and User #3 the 2nd floor beams. In the following example, three users are
working on the same model. You can see how modeling and saving works in practice.
The master model contains columns and grids, as you can see here. Each user opens the
model in multi-user mode. All users are now working on working models, locally.
179
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
180
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
User #1 clicks Save to save to the master model. His working model now shows the base
plates he added and looks like this:
181
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
User #2 clicks Save to save to the master model. His working model now shows his 1st
floor framing and User #1’s base plates:
User #3 clicks Save to save to the master model. His working model now shows all three
users’ work:
To see the updated master model, Users #1 and #2 need to save to the master model
again to update their working models.
182
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
The file is in the format D0000123456.dg. dg files are part of the model, so you
can only open them using the Tekla Structures drawing editor.
dg files contain the locations of views, details of any editing done to the drawing, and
the positions of dimensions, part marks, and text. The dg filename does not contain any
reference to assembly, part, or multidrawing numbers.
If two users open and save the same drawing in their working models, then save their
changes to the master model, one set of changes will be lost. The master model will only
contain the changes of the user who most recently saved their working model to the
master model.
Action Recommendation
Saving drawings Periodically save your working model to the master model
(every 5–10 drawings).
Editing drawings Assign each user a different range of drawings to
edit.
Lock finalized drawings.
If Tekla Structures displays the message Database
write conflicts detected and a drawing ID number,
two or more users have opened and saved the same
drawing.
Checking drawings Only check locked drawings.
Printing drawings Make sure that no-one else is working with the same
drawing. If you print a drawing while someone else is
183
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
3. Tekla BIMsight
Tekla BIMsight is a tool for construction project collaboration.
All disciplines of the construction workflow can combine their models, check for clashes, markup
and share information under 3D environment.
Tekla BIMsight enables project participants to identify and solve issue already in the design phase
before actual construction.
184
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
d. Moving a model
To move a model:
e. Navigation
Rotating around a point
Click and hold mouse left button to rotate
185
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
f. Clip Planes
To add clip planes to focus on required details in the model:
g. Validating a model
Creating a conflict rule
You can create your own conflict rules to suit various conflict checks.
h. Markup
Redlining
You can draw redline on the model view to highlight important details on the model.
To add redlining:
187
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
To delete redlining:
Measure distances
To measure distances:
i. Commenting
Add a note
To add a note:
j. Documents
Add a document
You can add documents of your project and link them to
model object in Tekla BIMsight.
188
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
To add a document:
k. Exercise
189
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
l. Exercise
Open the Tekla BIMsight model “Lesson 8” that has been given to you. Examine the model and
answer the followings:
1. What application is used to create the architectural model?
2. What application is used to create the M&E model?
3. Where are all the HEB400 columns?
4. Where are all the conflicts between structural and MEP objects?
5. Add notes to some of the conflicts you have found.
m. Exercise (Optional)
Optional:
190
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Install Tekla BIMsight Note app on your Android/iOS device. Share the notes that you have done
on your (or other people) device.
191
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Lesson IX – Interoperability
Interoperability
Lesson IX
192
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
1. Reference Models
You may create a referencing link to an external file or model in Tekla Structures.
An architectural model, plant design model, or a mechanical and electrical model can be used as a
reference model.
Tekla Structures loads the reference model from the file each time you open your model. It
does not save the reference model when you save the current model.
193
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Pick a position to place the reference model into Tekla Structures environment
The point you pick defines the reference model’s origin.
194
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
g. Exercise
195
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Import 2D or 3D models created by other softwares, then detail them using Tekla
Structures. Once detailing is completed, export the model and return it to the architect
or engineer for review.
Export Tekla Structures models to use in analysis and design in several formats. Then
import the design and analysis results back to Tekla Structures.
Export date for use in the fabrication phase:
o CNC data for use by automated cutting, boring and welding machinery
o MIS (Manufacturing Information System) for fabricators can track project
progress
196
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
You will need to include the following additional information about the import file:
Create:
o Reference lines - displays parts in the model using their reference lines in
the original model.
o Parts - displays the full profile of parts in the original model, based on the
profile sizes in the Beam profile and Plate profile fields. You can only use
metric profiles with this option.
Check Use 2D import to import a two dimensional representation of the original
model. This is useful when you use the reference line option. Leave Use 2D
import blank to import the model in 3D.
197
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
b. Exercise
Create a new Tekla Structures model and import a DXF file “Space Frame.dxf” that has been
exported from STAAD.Pro using default settings.
Question: Do you see any problem? What is the difference between “import” and “reference”?
To export to 3D DWG/DXF:
198
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
d. Exporting 3D DGN
The 3D DGN export tool creates a model.dgn file in the current model folder.
e. Exporting BVBS
The result is a text file in ASCII format. The supported version of the BVBS format is
2.0 year 2000.
You can export bent reinforcing bars, reinforcing bar groups and polygonal or
rectangle not-bent meshes. The export of the hooks is also supported.
f. Export DSTV
DSTV format is an industrial standard defined by the German Steel Construction
Association. It is the format most recent NC machine can read.
This will create nc1 files for all selected parts and put them in the model folder.
The filename consists of a position number and the extension nc1.
There is one limitation: multi-material objects cannot be defined, because the standard
concentrates on steel objects.
200
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
4. Click OK.
5. Select the model from the list.
6. Click Properties... to open a dialog box where you can define the settings for the
import file type you selected.
7. On the Parameters tab, enter the following information:
Select the Model type, which can be Analysis, Design or SP3D.
Select CIS/1 or CIS/2 from the CIS version list.
Enter the name of the model file in the Input file box.
You can also browse for the file.
Set the origin coordinates to place the file in a specific location.
To combine several elements in the CIS model into one part in Tekla
Structures, set Combine members to Yes.
Use Max length for combining to define the maximum length for combining
parts (the maximum length of the combined parts together).
Set Ignore offsets Yes if you want Tekla Structures to use member offsets to
locate the physical members.
In Ignore forces, indicate how forces are imported.
To also import part GUIDS, set Import GUID (design model) to Yes.
8. On the Conversion tab, enter the conversion file names or browse for the
conversion files.
9. Click OK to go to the Import Model dialog box.
10. Click Import.
Tekla Structures displays the Import model info dialog box.
11. Select which version of parts to import.
12. Click Accept all.
If you have changed the model and want to re-import it, you can also reject all
changes by clicking Reject all, or accept or reject individual changes by clicking
Select individual....
13. Tekla Structures displays the message Do you want to save the import model
for subsequent imports? Click Yes.
Tekla Structures displays the import model in a model view.
14. Right-click the model view and select Fit work area to entire model to ensure
that the imported model is completely visible.
15. If parts are missing, check the View depth Up and Down values in the View
Properties dialog box and change them if necessary.
201
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
2. Select the objects to export using the appropriate selection switches or filters.
3. Click File > Export > CIMSteel > Analysis model....
4. Select the CIS version from the CIS version list.
CIS/1 generates a file that is compatible with the CIMsteel LPM4DEP1
schema declaration.
CIS/2 generates a file compatible with the CIMSteel CIS/2
(STRUCTURAL_FRAME_SCHEMA) schema declaration.
5. Enter a name for the export file in the Step file box or accept the default.
You can enter the path or browse for it. If you do not enter a path, Tekla
Structures creates the export file in the current model folder.
6. If required, enter the name and organization to identify who created the export
file.
7. From the Flavor list, select one of the following standards to apply to the export:
UK, EUROPEAN, or US.
8. Set units to metric or imperial in the Linear units (CIS/2 only) box.
Imperial is only available for CIS/2. CIS/1 is always exported in metric units.
9. Enter coordinate values in Origin X, Y, and Z boxes if you want to export the
model to a specific location.
The origin comes from the origin in Tekla Structures.
10. To split a part in the Tekla Structures model into several elements in the CIMsteel
model, set Split members to Yes.
For example, three columns may be connected to a beam in a model, so that one
column is in the middle and the others are at each end of the beam. With the
Yes option the beam is split into two equal elements in the CIMsteel model. With
the No option there will be one beam, a single linear element, and two nodes (a
node at each end) in the CIMsteel model.
11. Click Apply and Create.
Tekla Structures exports the CIMSteel analysis model to the current model folder,
or to another folder you specified, using the name you specified.
202
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
h. Exercise
Create a new Tekla Structures model and import a CIS/2 file called “Space Frame.stp”. Use
appropriate profile conversion file if necessary.
These types of applications make use of various forms of analysis from the traditional first order
static, second order p-delta, geometric non-linear or buckling analysis. They can also make use of
various forms of dynamic analysis from modal extraction to time history and response spectrum
analysis along with the sizing of steel, concrete and timber elements to the relevant national and
international design codes.
Some examples of these systems are CSC Orion, ETABS, STAAD.Pro, SAP2000, Robot, ISM, S-
Frame, MIDAS, Dlubal, SCIA, Powerframe, GTStrudl, Strusoft, and AxisVM.
203
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
a. Basics
1 Parts
2 Loads
3 Node
5 Analysis model
Physical model
A physical model includes the parts you have created in the model, and information
related to them. Each part in the physical model exists in the completed structure.
Load model
The load model contains information about loads and load groups. It also contains
information about the building code Tekla Structures uses in load combination.
204
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Analysis model
An analysis model is used when structural analysis is run. Tekla Structures generates the
required analysis members automatically for the physical model parts when you have
an analysis model selected in the Analysis & Design models dialog box. The following
analysis objects are generated:
Analysis application
Tekla Structures links with a number of analysis applications and also supports export
with them in several formats. The analysis application you use to run structural analysis
uses data from the analysis model to generate analysis results.
For more information on the analysis applications that you can use with Tekla Structures,
visit Tekla Extranet at https://extranet.tekla.com. You can also access Tekla Extranet
from Tekla Structures at Help > Online Support > Tekla Extranet.
The analysis and design direct links are created either using the Tekla Open API or the
older COM link (Common Object Model transfer technology). A number of direct links
are available including AxisVM, CSC Orion, Diamonds, Dlubal, ETABS, GTStrudl, ModeSt,
MIDAS, NISA, Powerframe, ISM, Robot, SAP2000, SCIA, S-Frame, STAAD.Pro, STRUDS,
and Strusoft. CSC Orion, ETABS, STAAD.Pro, SAP2000, Robot and ISM are available for
downloading on the Tekla Extranet. For the other applications, the links can be
downloaded from the vendor web sites or by contacting the vendor.
There are special 64-bit installations for STAAD.Pro, SAP2000, Robot and ISM. The other
direct links should only be used with 32-bit installations of Tekla Structures, which can
be loaded on a computer with a 64-bit operating system.
c. Robot
The Robot Millennium A&D application is owned by Autodesk Inc. Full product details can be found
on the Robot Millennium web site.
205
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
This application is suitable for basic interoperability, and it can export and import cis/2 files.
If you install Tekla Structures and Robot Millennium on the same computer, then a direct
link can be used.
Currently only the EC3, LRFD, CM66, E32 and ANS design codes are available in Robot when
using the direct link.
If you are upgrading to Robot 2012, you will need to uninstall Robot 2011 along with the
Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis link. Then install Robot 2012 and the link again. This way
you make Tekla Structures point to the Robot 2012 application.
d. SAP2000
The SAP2000 analysis & design application is written by Computers & Structures, Inc. Full product
details can be found on their website.
The SAP2000 analysis & design application can export and import cis/2 and ifc files, and
export SDNF files.
If Tekla Structures and SAP2000 are installed on the same computer, then a direct link can
be used.
It is important that you run SAP2000 for the first time as a standalone application before
your load the link. Just start SAP2000 and create a new model, save it and close SAP2000.
This will then update your registry which is needed by the link.
e. STAAD.Pro
The STAAD.Pro analysis and design application is owned by Bentley Systems, Incorporated. Full
product details can be found on their website.
STAAD.Pro can export and import CIS/2 files, along with their std format. It has become a
semi-industrial standard especially in the plant and heavy engineering segments.
If Tekla Structures and STAAD.Pro are installed on the same computer, then a direct link can
be used.
Profile mapping for different installation environments is achieved by mapping the profiles
used by Tekla Structures and Bentley in files called ProfileExportMapping.cnv and
ProfileImportMapping.cnv located in the TeklaStructures\TS_STAAD folder.
Currently these files are only used in import.
f. ISM
Bentley’s Integrated Structural Modeling (ISM) is a technology for sharing structural engineering
project information among structural modeling, analysis, design, drafting and detailing applications.
ISM is similar to Building Information Modeling (BIM), but focuses on the information that is
important in the design, construction and modification of the load bearing components of buildings,
bridges and other structures. Full product details can be found on their website.
206
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
The ISM link is different form the other analysis and design links in that the physical model is also
transferred at the same time as the analysis and design model and the ISM model can be imported
into an empty Tekla Structures model. The round-trip of model information is also controlled by a
synchronizer.
If Tekla Structures version 17.0, 18.0, 18.1 or later and an ISM enabled Analysis & Design application
or Bentley Viewer v8i are installed on the same computer then a direct link can be used.
In order to use the link the ISM Structural Synchronizer version 3.0 needs to be loaded before the
link.
207
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Lesson X
208
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
Additional Exercise
Appendix
209
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
1. Exercise 1
210
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
2. Exercise 2
211
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
3. Exercise 3
212
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
4. Exercise 4
213
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
5. Exercise 5
214
Tekla Structures Foundation Course 2017
6. Exercise 6
215