DWC LLC

Reseller in the Middle East Region for Prokon Software licensing,

technical support and training solutions – www.techiesoft.com
For Sales: sales@techiesoft.com For Technical Support: support@techiesoft.com
For Licensing: license@techiesoft.com

Home:

By Engineers, for Engineers:

PROKON® Structural Analysis and Design is a suite of over forty structural analysis,
design and detailing programs. The first PROKON programs were developed in 1989,
and today PROKON is used worldwide in over eighty countries. The suite is modular in
nature, but its true power lies in the tight integration between analysis, design and
detailing programs.

PROKON has been improving the lives of structural engineers everywhere for more
than two decades.

By Engineers, for Engineers

1
 DWC LLC

PROKON is developed and supported by a team of professional engineers and intended

for use by structural engineers and technicians. The software provides quick and
reliable answers to everyday structural engineering problems:

 Frame and finite element analysis

 Steel member design
 Steel connection design
 Reinforced and prestressed concrete design
 CAD and reinforced concrete detailing
 Timber member design
 Masonry design
 Other structural applications such as section properties calculation and
section database
A collection of geotechnical analysis modules is also available as part of
the PROKON suite.

The PROKON suite is modular, yet integrated. Some modules can be used stand-
alone, or in conjunction with others. The suite offers a powerful workflow from
structural analysis, steel and concrete design, and detailing.

You can use the Concrete Base Design module, for example, on its own or link to it
from the Frame Analysisresults to have all the design loads entered automatically.
Likewise, you can manually detail a concrete footing in Padds, or design the footing in
the Concrete Base Design module and have it generate a drawing and bending
schedule for you.

2
 DWC LLC

When it comes to ordering PROKON, you can tailor your license to your unique
requirements by including only those modules that you really need. You also have the
option of configuring two program sets in your license: each set with a unique selection
of modules. For example, one set in the license may be geared for the steel designers
in your office (e.g. Frame Analysis plus some steel design modules) and the other set
for the concrete designers and detailers (Frame Analysisplus some concrete design
modules and Padds). This flexibility allows you to minimise your financial expense
while still maintaining optimum work flow between team members.

Flexible Licensing
PROKON software uses a very flexible licensing scheme:

 Modular software: Every PROKON module can be used on its own, and most
modules work together to integrate your analysis, design and detailing workflow.
Being modular means you can order only the modules you need; no need to pay for
features you don't use.
 Short-term license option: In addition to the conventional way of purchasing
software, you can rent PROKON modules on an annual basis. You may have a
special project, for example, that requires certain design modules that you would
not normally use.
 Install anywhere: Install PROKON anywhere that you can access it: on a
network server, on a drive on your computer, or even on a USB flash drive.
 Access from anywhere: Log in and use a license from any computer that has
the PROKON installed or that can access a PROKON installation in the network.
Work at your desktop in the office, at a branch office, in the field, or at home.

 Concurrent use: Users in your organisation can share a license. The number of
simultaneous users is determined by the number of workstations contained in your
license.

Pricing Structure
 Annual rental: Modules are prices extremely reasonably for annual rental.
 Purchase: The purchase price of any given module is typically equal to three
times the annual rental price.
 Multi-workstation discount: Except for a few exceptions*, you qualify for
a 50% discount on any additional copies you order. If you purchase three copies of

3
 DWC LLC

a particular module, the first copy will be at the normal price and the second and
third copies at 50% each.
 Upgrades: When upgrading purchased software, the price is calculated at 20%
of the prevailing purchase price multiplied by the number of years since purchase or
last upgrade. If you purchased two years ago, for example, you can upgrade your
programs for a fee of 20% of the current price.
 Maintenance agreement: Clients with maintenance agreement for their
purchased programs pay a reduced annual upgrade fee of 15% of the prevailing
purchase price.

Software Maintenance
Depending on the status of your license, technical support and program updates
(collectively referred to as software maintenance) is available free of charge:

 Annual rental: Programs work for a period of 12 months. During the rental
period, you can obtain free technical support and program updates.
 Purchase: The programs are yours to used without any expiry date. Software
maintenance is available for a period on one year after purchase. After that date
you can buy an upgrade to extend your software maintenance by one year. You
can also enter into a maintenance agreement to ensure continuous software
maintenance at a preferential rate.
*
Note: Different pricing structures apply to Padds, and extensions developed
for AutoCAD® and Revit®. Refer to the relevant product pages for more information.

4
 DWC LLC

 Analysis
 Design
 Detailing
 BIM
 Web Apps

Analysis
Frame and Finite Element Analysis

PROKON Structural Analysis and Design includes several analysis modules for
calculating deflections and design forces in structural members. At the core lies Sumo
Structural Modeler and Frame Analysis, two general-purpose finite element
analysis packages that integrate with the PROKON steel, concrete and timber design
modules. Separate modules are also available for special or simple tasks: Plane
Stress/Strain Analysis, Single Span Beam Analysis and Beam on Elastic
Support Analysis.

Analysis-Design Integration
Summary of integration between analysis and design modules:

Design Link Design from Single

Module from Sumo and Span Beam
Frame Analysis Analysis
Steel Member Design
Member Design for Axial Stress x
Member Design for Combined
x x
Stress
Steel Connection Design
Base Plate Design x
Beam-Column Connection Design x
Apex Connection Design x
Hollow Section Connection Design x

5
 DWC LLC

Double Angle Cleat Connection

x
Design
Fin Plate Connection Design x
End Plate Connection Design x
Concrete Design
Continuous/Beam Slab Design x
Rectangular Column Design x
Circular Column Design x
Concrete Base Design x
Timber Design
Timber Member Design x

Sumo Structural Modeller

Sumo is a three-dimensional structural modeller and building information modelling

(BIM) software. With Sumo you can build 3D models of structures using physical
structural components such as beams, columns and slabs. Sumo shields you from the
complexities of finite element analysis while still keeping you in control of the finer
details.

6
 DWC LLC

Basic list of analysis features:

 Finite elements: Beam and shell finite elements.

 Static analysis modes: Linear, second-order, (geometric) non-linear, and
buckling analysis.
 Dynamic analysis modes: Modal (mode shapes and frequencies), harmonic
(cyclic loads) and seismic (response spectrum) analysis.
 Reinforced concrete design: Design of slabs and walls modelled using shell finite
elements.
 Design links: Design of steel members and connections, reinforced concrete
members and timber members via the PROKON design links.

When it was released in February 2012, Sumo included nearly all the analysis
functionality of Frame Analysis. Some advanced analysis features, such as the use of
solid finite elements, were still under development. Sumo can import and
export Frame Analysis models, making for seamless collaboration between team
members using either program. Sumo offers many advantages over Frame Analysis,
however, that will likely make it the analysis tool of choice for most PROKON users:

 Easier and faster input: By using structural components such as beam, columns
and slabs, Sumo shields the user from intricacies such as nodes and node
numbering, and finite meshing of slabs
 Easier access to detailed analysis output: One can filter analysis output using
multiple criteria, e.g. certain beam sections, or forces over a certain value.
 Member and connection design: Like Frame Analysis, Sumo integrates with
the PROKON the steel, concrete and timber design modules—analyse the model,
select one or more structural elements or connections, and transfer the geometric
and loading information to the relevant design module.

The Future of Frame Analysis

While Sumo is positioned to eventually replace Frame Analysis as the primary
analysis tool in PROKON, demand for Frame Analysis remains strong and will likely
continue to do so for many more years. Maintenance updates of Frame Analysis will
continue for as long as that is the case.

Availability
Sumo Structural Modeller is currently available as a "differential upgrade"
from Frame Analysis. Existing users of Frame Analysis that upgrade to Sumo pay

7
 DWC LLC

only the difference in price. Or for new orders, if you pay for Sumo then you
get Frame Analysis and all its add-on modules at no extra charge.

Frame Analysis
Frame Analysis performs frame and finite element analyses of 2D and 3D structures. It
can perform linear and non-linear static analysis of three dimensional structures
comprising. The program can also perform buckling, modal, harmonic and seismic
analyses of 3D models.

You use a combination of beams, shells, and

solid finite elements to build your model. The supports can be rigid or elastic. Loads are
entered in load cases and grouped in load combinations with separate SLS and ULS load
factors. You can choose to have the program calculate the structure's own weight
automatically; sections and material properties are linked from the Section
Database and Material Database. Advanced features include tension-only elements
(e.g. bracing slender elements), spring elements (elastic constraints between parts of
the model) and compression-only supports (uplift possible); all of these advanced
features require iterative solutions via second-order or non-linear analysis.

The program supports multiple ways for building a structural model; depending on your
preference, use any one or combination of the following methods:

 Table Editor: Manually enter of members, supports and loads in a tabular

environment reminiscent of Microsoft® Office Excel. You can copy and paste
information between the table editor and Excel and other tabular programs.
 Modeller: Draw the structure in a 3D CAD-like environment.
 Input Wizards: Generate models of typical building frame and trusses by
entering a set up parameters that defines the layout and loads. For more complex
layouts, you can use the Plate and Solid Mesh Generator to generate finite
element input.

Extendability

8
 DWC LLC

The basics Frame Analysis module is capable of linear analysis of 2D frames, e.g.
(vertical) plane frame and trusses, and (horizontal) grillages. Several add-on modules
are available to extend the program's functionality:

3D Module: Extend to full 3D analysis.

 Finite Element Module: Adds the ability to use shell finite
elements and solid finite elements (bricks).
 Second Order & Buckling Analysis Module: Adds the option to
perform second-order analysis (P-delta) and buckling analysis (global
instability).
 Non-linear Analysis Module: Allows the you to incorporate geometric non-
linearity and material non-linear behaviour in the analysis, and use and catenary
cable elements. This module also facilites stage analysis that account for elestic
and inelastic deformation during construction stages.

9
 DWC LLC

 Dynamic Analysis Module: Enables you to determine mode shapes and

natural frequencies of 3D structures, and also perform harmonic analysis(cyclic
loads) and seismic analysis (response spectrum).
When using shell finite elements to model concrete slabs and walls, Frame
Analysis can calculated reinforcement steel quantities. It can do this for bending
and/or in-plane stresses.

Frame Analysis has design links to the steel, concrete and timber design modules.
When sending analysis output to a design modules, the geometric and design load case
input data is entered automatically.

Third-party Integration

PROKON Structural Analysis and Design and Frame Analysis in particular, can
form an integral part of your Building Information Management (BIM) stragedy. Several
options are available fro sharing Frame Analysis models with other software:

 AutoCAD® and Revit®: Using the ProDESK module, you round-trip information
sharing for 3D structures of any complexity is possible between AutoCAD and Revit
on the one side, and Frame Analysis and Sumo Structural Modeller on the other
side. Build the model in AutoCAD or Revit (or modify the architect's model), and
send it to Frame Analysis or Sumo for analysis and design.
 RobotLink: A convenient interface for linking analysis results in Robot
Structrual Analysis with the steel and concrete design modules in PROKON
Structural Analysis and Design.
 Industry Standards: Integerate with models created by packages such as
ProSteel 3D and StruCad. You can import models from and export to CIS/2
(CIMSteel Integration Standard) and SNF (StruCad Neutral File) format.
 CAD Drawings: Import 2D and 3D drawings of structures saved in DWG or DXF
format. You can also use Padds to draw a frame and generate geometrical input
for Frame Analysis.

Plane Stress/Plane Strain Analysis

Finite element analysis using plane stress or plane strain theory. You use simple
polygins to enter complex geometries, and the program automatically generates a
suitable mesh for the analysis. Multiple load cases comprising point loads and UDLs can
be applied to the outline of the model.

10
 DWC LLC

General Structural Analysis

The PROKON suite includes a number of utilities that do not fall in any of the major
analysis and design categories:

 Section properties calulcation

 Wind pressure analysis
 Gutter size design
 Section and material databases
 PROKON Calcpad

Prosec - Section Properties Calculation

Calculate the bending and torsional section properties of any general shape. Sections
can have openings and thin walls.

Complex sections can be drawn in Padds (optionally important from AutoCAD) and
then traced. Amongst others, the following section properties are caclulated:

 Basic and bending section propeties: cross-sectional area, location of centroid

and orientation of major and minor axes, moments of inertia, deviation moment of
inertia, section modulus, plastic modulus, polar moment of inertia, radius of
gyration, length of outside perimeter, void ratio, and section efficiency factor.
 Torsional section properties: normalized shear stress, effective shear area,
location of shear centre, St. Venant torsional constant, mono-symmetry constant,
torsional modulus, and warping torsional constant
You can save custom sections (section properties as well as actual geometry) in
the Section Database for easy reuse elsewhere in PROKON

11
 DWC LLC

Wind Pressure Analysis

Calculate free stream velocity pressures, wind loads on various building geometries,
and frictional effects on cladding materials. Both input and output are include 3D
graphics for easy visualization of wind direction and pressure vectors.

12
 DWC LLC

Gutter and Downpipe Design

Using the requirements of BS 12056-3 - 2000, design gutters and down pipes to drain
roof of building structures for specified rain intensities and durations. The program
gives a 3D visualization of the roof segment under analysis, and a roof draining and
gutter draining diagram makes the interpretation of the result easy to understand. The
outflow characteristics of each gutter segment and each down pipe is summarized in
table form. Detailed design calculations are also provided.

Section Database
Central repository for sections used by the various analysis, design and detailing
modules. The database includes a comprehensive collection of standard steel, precast
concrete, and timber sections that are available in several countries.

13
 DWC LLC

You can extend the section database easily by entering new section; section properties
are calculated automatically (for entered dimensions) for standard profile types. You
can use Prosec to calculate properties of irregular shapes and add them as custom
sections.

Material Database
Properties for various grades of steel, concrete and timber available in several countries
to use with the Frame Analysis module. The material properties recognise different
approaches in design codes, e.g. concrete cylinder strength vs. cube strength. The
database also includes non-linear stres-strain curves that you can use for non-linear
analyses in Frame Analysis.

14
 DWC LLC

PROKON Calcpad
At the core of the PROKON suite lies Calcpad, from where you launch the various
analysis and design modules. You can use Calcpad to collect the output from the design
modules, build calculation sheets with design notes, drawings and equations.

Calcpad can act as your project database, containing all the output tables and graphs
of the various modules, as well as embedded input data. You can customise the layout
and appearance of your calcsheets, to make the appearance of your PROKON design
calculations match your corporate stationary.

Scripting
The scripting tool provides a programmable interface for Calcpad. Ut is based on the
popular Pascal programming language, extended with special functions to use with
PROKON. You can automated repetitive calculations with scripts, and make them user
friendly by adding graphics, input grids, equations, calculations, reference text and
much more.

15
 DWC LLC

Geotechnical Analysis
ROKON Geotechnical Analysis is a colaboration by Prokon Software
Consultantants and ARQ Specialist Engineers. The suite comprises a number of
modules for analysis stability and determining capacity.

For Engineers, by Engineers

The PROKON suite of analysis and design programs is developed and supported by a
team of professional engineers. A collection of geotecnical analysis modules are
distributed with PROKON Structural Analysis and Design (there is no need to order any
structural modules if your work is of purely geotechnical nature). Analysis modules are
available in the following categories:

Slope stability analysis

 Rock stability analysis
 Pile capacity

Deterministic Probabilistic Analysis

With the exception of the Pile Bearing Capacity module, all modules can
perform deterministic analyses as well as a probabilistic analyses. With a
probabilistic analysis you can take into account variations in material properties and
other parameters.
16
 DWC LLC

Distribution types that can be applied to material properties in a probabilistic analysis

include uniform, triangular, exponential, normal, log normal and beta distributions. You
can set the number of analysis iterations to perform and the required probability limit.

Generalised Slope Analysis

Slope stability analysis of generalized soil slopes using Bishop's Modified Method
(circular slip surface). Input options include:

 Any general slope geometry.

 Multiple layers of materials with differing shear strength properties.

 Material properties defined in terms of

shear strength parameters or an undrained shear strength profile.
 Water pressures defined by phreatic surfaces.
 External loadings
 Soil reinforcement
Analysis options:

 Analysis for user-defined slip circle.

 Search for the critical minimum factor of safety slip circle.

Generalised Non-circular Slip Analysis

Slope stability analysis of soil slopes using the non-

vertical slice method proposed by Sarma (non-circular slip). The user interface and
analysis options are almost identical to the Generalised Slope Analys is module

17
 DWC LLC

except for the ability to define a slip surface of any general shape. You can also include
faults and discontinuity planes in the slope definition.

Geotechnical Analysis

Tetrahedral Wedge Analysis

Stability analysis of a tetrahedral wedge that may form in a rock slope by the
intersection of two planar discontinuities, the slope face, and the upper slope with or
without a tension crack in the upper slope. The deterministic analysis mode is
supplemented by a probabilistic mode to evaluate the effect that the range of input
values have on the factor of safetey (FOS). The probability density function of the FOS
is obtained using simulation techniques.

Planar Failure in Rock Slopes

Determination of the factor of safety of a planar failure in rock.

18
 DWC LLC

Shear Strength of Jointed Rock Masses

Evaluation of the non-linear shear strength strength vs. normal stress failure envelope
that exist in rock masses, some granular soils and some dense sands. Analysis output
includes instantaneous cohesion and friction values, and the actual shear strength for a
given normal stress.

Shear Strength of Rough Joints in Rocks

Evaluation of the shear strength failure envelope for rough joints in rock. Supported
theories include those by Ladanyi and Archambault.

Pile Capacity

Determination of the bearing capacity of piles. The capacity calculations take into
account the effects of pile length and diameter, installation type and soil conditions.
Analysis output includes pile deformation calculations.

19
 DWC LLC

ProNET Water Network Analysis

ProNET is an extension for AutoCAD® Civil 3D that allows the user to add analytical
data to pressure network objects (pressure pipes, pressure fittings, and pressure
appurtenances) and perform an analysis using a modified 64-bit EPANET engine. The
anlysis is fast and performed directly within the AutoCAD® Civil 3D environment.

ProNET Overview
The ProNET workflow:

Step 1:
From the ProNET ribbon tab, add
analytical data to the pressure
network model, using AutoCAD® Civil
3D and the ProNET extension. This
analytical data can include typical
EPANET model components such
as junctions, reservoirs, tanks,
pumps, valves and pipes.

20
 DWC LLC

Step 2:
Launch
the
dynamic
analysis
interface
to view
the
analytical
data and
enay
errors
that may
exist in
the
model.

21
 DWC LLC

Step 3:
Perform
the
network
analysis!
The 64 bit
EPANET
analysis
engine
allows for
a lightning
fast
analysis,
and
immediate
result
reporting.

More functionality

22
 DWC LLC

What else can ProNET do?

 Review pressure object properties previously added with ProNET

 Define pump curve(s) and time patterns
 Import and export results, export to EPANET INP file format
 Link dynamically to the AutoCAD® Civil 3D model
 Publish analysis report results directly to Microsoft® Word
 Comprehensive error checking and reporting
 Useful charting functions which can be included in reports
 Use standard AutoCAD® Civil 3D features to display analysis results in the
model

23
 DWC LLC

DESIGN
Supported Design Codes
PROKON Structural Analysis and Design includes full support for British and South
African design codes. Most (but not all) modules also support European, United States,
Canadian, Australian and select Asian design codes.

Design Codes

Steel design codes

 AISC - 1989 ASD
 AISC - 1993 LRFD
 AS 4100 - 1998
 BS5950 - 1990
 BS5950 - 2000
 CSA-S16.1 - 1994
 CSA-S16 - 2001
 CSA-S16 - 2009
 CSA-S16 - 2014
 Eurocode 3 - 2005
 GBJ 17 - 1988
 IS800 - 1984
 IS800 - 2007
 SABS0162 - 1984
 SABS0162 - 1993
 SANS10162 - 2005

Concrete design codes

 ACI 318-1989
 ACI 318-2005
 ACI 318-2011
 ACI 318-2014

24
 DWC LLC

 AS3600 - 2001
 AS3600 - 2009
 BS 8110 - 1985
 BS 8110 - 1997
 CP 65 - 1999
 CSA-A23.3-2004 (R2010)
 CSA-A23.3-1994
 Eurocode 2 - 1992
 Eurocode 2 - 2004

 HK Concrete - 2004
 HK Concrete - 2013
 IS:456 - 2000
 NZS 3101 - 2006
 SABS 0100 - 2000

Timber design codes

 BS 5268 - 1991
 SABS 0163 - 2001
 SANS 10163-2 - 2003

Masonry design codes

 ACI 530 - 1999
 BS5628 - 1985
 SABS 0164 - 1992

25
 DWC LLC

Seismic design codes

 TMH 7
 UBC 1994
 SABS 0160 - 1989
 IS1893 - 2002
 SANS 10160
 Eurocode 8 - 2003

Wind design codes

 CP3 - 1972
 SABS 0160 - 1989
 SANS 10160-3:2011

Gutter and downpipe design

 BS 12056-3 - 2000

Reinforced concrete detailing codes

 BS 4466 - 1989
 BS 8666 - 2005
 SANS 282 - 2004
 SANS 282 – 2011

Units of measurement

All modules use metric units of measurement. Most (but not all) modules are capable
of using Imperial (English) units of measurement as well.

26
 DWC LLC

Where both sets of units are supported, program input is interchangeable between the
two systems. Modules that support Imperial units of measurement display basic design
results in Imperial units, but all detailed design calculation are given in metric units
only.

Steel Member Design

Page 1 of 4

The PROKON Structural Analysis and Design suite includes a number of modules with
which you can design most types of steel members. Some modules interact with Sumo
Structural Modeller, Frame Analysis and Single Span Beam Analysis, allowing
you to effortlessly post-process analysis results.

Analysis-Design Integration
Summary of integration between analysis and design and detailing modules:

Design Link from Design from Single

Module Sumo and Span Beam
Frame Analysis Analysis
Member Design for Axial Stress x
Member Design for Combined Stress x x

Truss and Frame Design

Two modules are available for design and optimisation of basic steel members. In most
case your will use these members design modules in conjunction with Frame Analysis.
After analysis, you will open the structural model in the design module, set the design
parameters, and then perform the design. You can also use the modules for interactive
design of steel members, entering the geometry and design loads manually.

27
 DWC LLC

 Member Design for Axial Stress (struts

and ties)
 Member Design for Combined Stress (beams and columns)
Given the different design scope of the two programs, you may often use both modules
to design different parts of the same structure, e.g. Member Design for Combined
Stress to check the main framing elements and Member Design for Axial Stress to
design the roof truss and cross-bracing.

When using the design modules, you can set up design tasks. Each task lists the
members to be designed, the design parameters such as effective length factors, and
the design approach. The design approach can be to either evelatuate the current
sections (as defined in Frame Analysis) or to optimise the section sizes, i.e. choose
the lightest sections that will resist the design loads. You can save the design tasks to a
file so that you can easily recall it later, e.g. after you have made changes to the model
and need to check the design again.

When designing simple beams, the Member Design for Combined Stress module
can use the analysis output from the Single Span Beam Analysis module.

The programs generate the following design output:

28
 DWC LLC

 Member Design for Axial Stress: Calcsheet with tabular design results listing
slenderness ratios, allowable stress and design stress for each member.
 Member Design for Combined Stress: Calcheet with summary or in-depth
design calculations for every member and graphs showing axial force and bending
moment distribution along the length of the member.

Plastic Frame Analysis

Plastic and optimisation design of plane frames. Availability of this program was
discontinued in 2007. Equivalent features and more are now available in Sumo
Structural Modeller and Frame Analysis with the Non-Linear Analysis add-on.

Crane Gantry Girder Design

Design and optimisation of crane gantry girders. The program supports several classes
of cranes, multiple steel sections, capping sections, and multiple cranes on a single
girder. It calculates the envelopes for all the required design forces (inlcuding vertical
loads and horizontal effects of the moving cranes), moments and deflections.The design
output includes deflection, bending moment and shear force diagrams, and calcsheets
with detailed calculations.

Plate Girder Design

Design of welded plate girders. The program is capable is designing I-shaped sections
with identical or different top and bottom flanges. You can also make the section
properties vary along the length of the girder to model a tapered element. Plate girders
are normally used to resist high bending moments and/or vertical shear forces;
correspondingly the program considers the effects of vertical load only. The design
output includes vertical and horizontal deflection, bending moment and shear force

29
 DWC LLC

diagrams, and also calcsheets with detailed calculations of all elements including
stiffeners.

Steel Connection Design

The PROKON steel member connection design modules are used primarily in
conjunction with Frame Analysis. After an analysis, you can link to the design
modules by simply clicking a connection or support node with the click of your mouse --
all information relating to the connection geometry and design loads will be exported to
the connection design module. However, you can also use the connection design
modules on their own, entering geometry and design loads manually.

The connection design modules have the ability to display connections in 2D or 3D. You
can export the pictures as drawings to Padds, AutoCAD and other CAD software.

Analysis-Design-Detailing Integration
Summary of integration between analysis, design and detailing modules:

Design Link from

Module
Frame Analysis
Base Plate Design
Beam-Column Connection Design
Apex Connection Design
Hollow Section Connection Design Design
Double Angle Cleat Connection Design
Fin Plate Connection Design
Drawing to CAD
Sumo and
or Padds
x x
x x
x x
x x
x x
x x
30
 DWC LLC

End Plate Connection Design x x

Base Plate Design

Design of base plates for steel columns. Base plates are rectangular in shape and
columns can be hollow sections, I or H sections (universal columns and universal
beams). The program performs calculations for stiffened as well as unstiffened base
plates, and the plates can be attached to the concrete substrate with studs or bolts.

The graphical design output shows the

bending moment in the base plate, compressive or tensile forces in the bolts, and the
distribution of the compressive stress under the plate in the concrete substrate (if
bolted).

Moment Connection Design

Design connections that transmit shear, moment and axial force. Only forces in the
plane of the connection are considered, i.e. vertical shear, axial compression or tension
and in-plane moment.

Two modules are available for design of moment connections:

 Beam to Column Connection Design

 Apex Connection Design
The two modules support all I and H sections (universal columns and universal beams)
in the Section Database. The connection can be bolted or welded. Beams can have
31
 DWC LLC

haunches and placed at any angle. An optimisation function is available to help you
determine a suitable layout, eg. web plates, stiffeners, bolt sizes and spacing. The
design output includes a calcsheet with full design calculations. You can view the
connections in 3D or 2D (e.g. elevation or plan) and save the pictures as CAD drawings.

Hollow Section Connection Design

Design of connections comprising welded structural hollow sections that transmit axial
forces. All members are that transmit axial force. All members are circular, square or
rectangular hollow sections with the exception of the main chord that may be an I or H
section (Universal Beam or Universal Column).

Supported connection layouts include K, T, N, X,

and Y joints and combinations thereof. The design calculations are based on Annex K of
Eurocode 3 - 1992.

Shear Connection Design

When a bolt group or weld group is loaded in its plane and the load does not work
through the centroid of the group, additional shear forces are caused in the bolts or
welds. The shear connection design modules calculate the maximum resistance of bolt
and weld groups.

Two shear connection design modules are available:

32
 DWC LLC

 Bolt Group Design (bearing or friction grip

connections)
 Weld Group Design (fillet welds)
When determining the bolt forces and weld stresses, you can choose to use either a
linear (polar moment) or non-linear (instantaneous centre of gyration) method of
analysis. To simplify input of welds, you can use a wizard tho place welds around the
outline of standard steel sections. The design output displays the bolt forces and weld
stresses graphically and provides calcsheets with design calculations. The programs can
determine the minimum bolt or weld size required to resist the design loads.

Simple Connection Design

Design connections that transmit end shear and axial force only. The designed
connections are considered simple connections that have negligible resistance to
rotation and is thus incapable of transmitting significant moments at ultimate limit
state.

Three modules are available for simple connection design (axial and shear forces only;
no moment transfer):

33
 DWC LLC

 Double Angle Cleat Design

 Fin Plate Design
 End Plate Design
The modules allow you to enter the sections and orientations with the relevant design
loads. You can then either check the design as entered, or use the optimisation
functions to improve the design. The design output includes calcsheets with complete
design calculations.

Concrete Design
The PROKON suite includes a series of modules for designing concrete elements:

 Reinforced concrete beams and slabs.

 Prestressed concrete beams and slabs.
 Rectangular and circular columns, and also columns with any general shape.
 Retaining walls.
 Rectangular bases.
 Design of beam and slab sections for flexure, shear and torsion.
 Crackwidth calculation.
 Punching shear of flat slabs.

34
 DWC LLC

Input of the geometry and/or load cases in some modules can be automated by linking
from the analysis results in Frame Analysis. The work flow is further enhanced by
semi-automatic generation of reinforcement bending schedules by most of the concrete
design modules. Bending schedules are stored as drawing files that can be opened with,
edited (if needed) and printed using Padds or AutoPadds.

Analysis-Design-Detailing Integration
Summary of integration between analysis, design and detailing modules:

Design Link from Design Link from Bending Schedule to

Module
Sumo Frame Analysis Padds and AutoPadds
Continuous/Beam
x x
Slab Design
Prestressed
Beam/Slab x
Design
Rectangular Slab
x
Panel Design
Rectangular
x x x
Column Design
Circular Column
x x x
Design
General Column
x x
Design
Concrete
Retaining Wall x
Design
Concrete Base
x x x
Design

Continuous Beam/Slab Design

Design and detailing of reinforced concrete beams and slabs. Cross-sections can include
a combination of rectangular, I, T and L-sections, and spans can have constant or
tapered sections. You can design a single span (simply supported, fixed or cantilever)
or many continuous spans. Spans can be supported on with or without rotational
restraints, e.g. columns below and/or above.

The design calculations incorporates automated pattern loading (of dead and live
loads). At ultimate limit state, moments and shears can be redistributed to a user
specified percentage. Both short-term (elastic) and long-term deflections are
calculated. The long-term deflection calculations take account of concrete cracking,
shrinkage and creep. For beams and one-way spanning slabs, you can manipulate long-
term deflections by editing the steel reinforcement.
35
 DWC LLC

Frame Analysis also provides a convenient way for generating input for this program.
When you model a building structure, you can use the design links function to select a
series if beam elements and export the analysis results (geometry together with the
bending moment and shear force envelopes) to Continuous Beam/Slab Design.

You can generate complete bending schedules (main bars and shear reinforcement) for
beams and slabs. A 3D picture helps you position the bars accurately and identify
conflicts. The program automatically adjusts the reinforcement detailing rules according
to the mode selected, e.g. beam or column strip of a flat slab. Using the rebar editor, it
is easy to modify the main and shear reinforcement -- diagrams display the entered
reinforcement together with the required amounts at ULS and minimum amounts
required by the design code. You can open the generated bending schedules
in Padds or AutoPadds for final editing (if needed) and printing.

Captain - Prestressed Beam/Slab Design

Design and detailing of prestressed concrete beams and slabs. The program's name,
Captain, is an acronym for Computer Aided Post-Tensioning Analysis Instrument. Its
workings is similar to that of Continuous Beam/Slab Design, but it adds additional
design features such as complex sections such as bridge decks, and user-specified load
combinations (as an alternative to pattern loading).

36
 DWC LLC

You can specify the characteristics of the prestressing tendons/cables, and use
parabolic or harped profiles. The program has a function for automatic generation of
tendon profiles that is based on balancing a specified percentage of dead load. You can
also place of additional (conventional) steel reinforcement to contain cracking, control
long-term deflection, and increase flexural or shear capacity at ULS. The program can
also perform punching shear design checks for slabs, and include the ability to use
column heads (drop panels).

Different to Continuous Beam/Slab Design, Captain can generate tendon profile

schedules. Schedules can be edited and printed using Padds or AutoPadds.

FESD - Finite Element Slab Design

FESD - Finite Element Slab Design

Design of flat slabs using shell finite element analysis. Availability of this program was
discontinued in 2008. Similar features and more are now available in Sumo Structural
Modeller and Frame Analysiswith the Finite Element add-on.

37
 DWC LLC

Rectangular Slab Panel Design

Design and detailing of rectangular flat slab panels. The four corners of the slab panel
are supported, e.g. columns) and you can specify the support conditions for each of the
four edges: free, supported and/or continuous. You can enter multiple load cases
comprising point loads, line loads and UDLs, and combine these with ULS load factors.

An automated reinforcement detailing allows you to edit reinforcement and generate a

bending schedule that you can edit and print using Padds or AutoPadds.

The PROKON suite includes three concrete column design modules: one for rectangular
columns, another for circular columns, and a third for designing columns with any
general shape. For rectangular and circular columns you can enter the geometry and
design loads manually, or automate data entry by linking from the analysis results
in Frame Analysis.

Rectangular Column Design

Design and detailing of rectangular columns. Columns can be short or slender in one or
both directions, and different fixity conditions at the bottom and top. You can enter
multiple load cases comprising axial load and moments about one or both axes at the
bottom or top of the column. The program compiles column design charts and provides
complete design calculation sheets.

38
 DWC LLC

Generating reinforcement bending schedules is

easy; the program provides full control over the main bars and the stirrups. You can
open the bending schedules in Padds or AutoPadds for final editing (if needed) and
printing.

Circular Column Design

Design and detailing of circular columns. The features and use of the program is similar
to the Rectangular Column Design module, except that it specifically caters for
circular columns.

General Column Design

Design and detailing of concrete columns with any

general shape. Data entry is similar to the Rectangular Column Design program, for
entering the column geometry: you enter the column outline and any openings, as well
as the position and size (if known) of each longitudinal reinforcement bar.

During the design, you have the option of evaluating the column capacity for the
reinforcement bars as entered, or to calculate the minimum bar size required to resist
the design loads.

You can generate a reinforcement bending schedule that you can edit and print
with Padds or AutoPadds.

Concrete Retaining Wall Design

39
 DWC LLC

Stability analysis, design and detailing of concrete

retaining walls for soil and surcharge loads, and seismic load conditions. The program
can consider cantilever, simply supported and propped cantilever walls. The host of
input parameters allows you to enter complex wall geometries like sloping walls and
toes.

The program allow you to choose between the Rankine and Coulomb theories, and can
also incorporate seepage in the analysis. A water table can be specified; it may even be
taken above the soil surface to model a liquid retaining wall.

Retaining walls are checked for stability (overturning and sliding at both SLS and ULS)
as well as strength (flexure and shear at various positions in the wall and base).

The most common use of the program is to analyse a wall with dimensions as entered.
However, functions are available to optimise certain wall dimensions, e.g. the depth of
the toe needed to resist sliding.

The program uses the calculated design moments in the wall and base to determine the
required reinforcement. This can be taken a step further to generate a bending
schedule that you can edit and print with Padds or AutoPadds.

Concrete Base Design

Design of rectangular column bases. The program can

design bases with columns, stub columns, or no column. You can enter up to columns
(or points of load application), each with multiple load cases. If the base forms part of a

40
 DWC LLC

larger structure that you have analysed in Frame Analysis, you can link the analysis
results with the Concrete Base Design program; this will extract the support reactions
and insert them as load load cases.

Design output includes diagrams of the bearing stress distribution, safety factors for slip
and overturning (at both SLS and ULS), linear shear and punching shear checks, and
required reinforcement for flexure.

A simple-to-use reinforcement bending schedule generator creates drawings with rebar

cutting lists that you can open and print with Padds or AutoPadds.

Crack Width Design

Section analysis and crackwidth calculation under bending moment, direct tension and
temperature loads. Calculations are performed for various combinations of
reinforcement diameter and spacing.

Concrete Section Design

Design of concrete sections for combined bending moment, shear and torsion. Sections
can be rectangular, T or L-shaped. Design output includes detailed calculations and
code references.

41
 DWC LLC

Punching Shear Design

Design of reinforced concrete flat slabs for punching shear. You can design slabs at
internal, edge and corner columns by specifying the distance from the support to the
slab edge; the program automatically determines the shear perimeters. You can also
enter the longitudinal reinforcement (that affects the shear capacity) in the two main
directions.

The design output gives the critical load case with corresponding amounts of punching
shear reinforcement needed for each perimeter.

Timber Design

PROKON Structural Analysis and Design currently includes a single timber design
module. A number of timber connection design modules are planned for future release.

42
 DWC LLC

Timber Member Design

Check and optimise wood member sizes. Members can be subjected to a combination of
axial and biaxial bending stresses, e.g. beams, frames and trusses. Sections can be
solid or glued laminated timber. The program primarily acts as a post-processor for
the Sumo Structural Modeller and Frame Analysis module, but you can also use it
stand-alone in an interactive mode for the quick design or checking of individual
members.

Masonry Design
The PROKON suite includes two modules for design of masonry sections and

walls.

Masonry Section Design

Design of masonry sections spanning

openings. Masonry units can have any
arbitrary dimension and nominal strength. The
program supports single-leaf, collar-jointed and
grouted cavity arrangements.

43
 DWC LLC

Masonry Wall Design

Design of bearing walls (axially loaded) and

wall panels (loaded normal to the plane of the
wall). Similar to Masonry Section Design,
masonry units can be of any dimension and
strength, and the same arrangements are
supported.

44
 DWC LLC

Detailing
Padds

The PROKON suite includes a full-featured CAD program, Padds, designed specifically
for structural engineers. It is intuitive to use and new users are usually pleasantly
surprised by its easy learning curve. Without the bloat of modern CAD systems, all that
remains is a lean and powerful tool for drawing and structural detailing.

The reinforcement detailing functionality of Padds is also available in AutoPadds, an

extension for AutoCAD®. Padds is further complemented by the
free PaddView drawing viewer.

Padds - Parametric Drawing and Detailing System

Concrete detailing, general purpose CAD and model generation for PROKON analysis
modules.

Al the basic CAD procedures are available to create or edit drawings. Elements like
lines, arcs, circles, splines, text, hatch, dimensions, blocks, and construction lines are
all supported with a host of editing functions. Using an innovative approach to layers
and scales, laying out details on a drawing sheet is very intuitive.

The program has a large number of reinforcement detailing functions. You can work
with reinforcement bending schedules created with the concrete design modules, or
create drawings and schedules from scratch. It support reinforcement shape codes
defined in the following codes of practice:

 BS 4466 - 1989
 BS 8666 - 2005
 SANS 282 - 2004
Note: The reinforcement detailing functionality of Padds is also available
in AutoPadds, an extension for AutoCAD® that is sold seperately. AutoPadds can
open Paddsdrawings, including bending schedules generated by the PROKON concrete
design modules. Padds is often looked upon as a tool for engineers and designers (i.e.
45
 DWC LLC

team members that don't necessarily use AutoCAD®), and AutoPadds as a tool for
draftsmen and technicians (i.e. people that do use AutoCAD® on a regular basis).
Depending on the specific requirements of your work environment, this will not
necessarily hold true for you.

Padds' powerful macro and scripting functionality (based on the Pascal programming
language), allows you to develop your own extensions. Included macro functions
include a complete staircase detailing function, and a function to combine multiple
bending schedules (A4 of letter size) onto a larger sheet.

46
 DWC LLC

Links with the Section Database to

enable you to draw standard profiles in section, elevation or plan. Creating welding
details is also easy given the included library of welding symbols. These features
gears Padds for basic detailing of structural steel.

A full library of commonly used structural and architectural entities is available and you
can expand this repository as needed.

Padds has the ability to generate geometrical input for other PROKON analysis
modules. Examples include drawing shapes for section property calculation in Prosecor
design in General Column Design, and taking complex slab geometries and
generating finite element meshes for Frame Analysis.

You can import drawings from and export to a variety of formats. Supported formats
include AutoCAD DWG, DXF and Caddie CEX.

PadView - Padds Drawing Viewer

Simple utility for viewing and printing Padds drawings. The program is provided free of
charge.

47
 DWC LLC

AutoPadds
 AutoPadds

 Reinforcement detailing using AutoCAD® and AutoPadds

 Using AutoCAD® in conjunction with Revit®

 Download and System Requirements

 All Pages
Page 1 of 4
AutoPadds is an extension for AutoCAD® that turns it into a full-featured reinforced
concrete detailing system. AutoPadds offers almost identical functionality
to Padds but in the AutoCAD® environment. (Padds is a CAD and detailing module that
forms part of PROKON® Structural Analysis and Design.)

With AutoPadds, you can detail reinforcement directly in AutoCAD®. You can
open Padds drawings and work with bending schedules generated by
the PROKON®concrete design modules. You can also link reinforcement layouts created
with AutoPadds into your Revit® model.

48
 DWC LLC

AutoPadds Features

AutoPadds is an extension for AutoCAD® with reinforcement detailing functionality

similar to that of Padds. AutoPadds complements and extends the reinforcement
functionality of Revit®.

49
 DWC LLC

Reinforcement Shape Codes

With AutoPadds, you can create your own libraries of reinforcement shape codes. Shape
codes for the following codes of practice are included by default:

 BS 4466 - 1989
 BS 8666 - 2005
 SANS 282 - 2004

Rebar Properties Palette

AutoPadds has a properties palette for rebar objects (similar to other AutoCad® object
such as lines and circles) for easy editing of rebar properties such as diameter, shape
code and dimensions. And like other objects, rebar objects can be filtered out of a
multiple object selection by selecting type “Rebar” from the type dropdown at the top of
the properties palette.

Schedule Palette
AutoPadds has a scheduling calculator is contained in a AutoCAD® docking palette,
making it easy to access. The palette's purpose is to read all the rebar objects in the
50
 DWC LLC

drawing, help you sort the information, and output it in tables on the
AutoCAD® drawing.

Using AutoCAD® in conjunction with Revit®

The fact that building contractors prefer working with simple 2D reinforcement placing
diagrams, suggests 2D reinforcement detailing will remain the preferred technique for
the foreseeable future. For this reason, AutoCAD® Revit® is currently marketed as "suite"
that includes AutoCAD® — reinforcement and other 2D detailing tasks are typically
performed in AutoCAD® and the drawings linked back to Revit®. To use AutoPadds for
detailing reinforcement in conjunction with a Revit® model:

 Build the model in Revit®.

 Use the Export function to export a slab or floor layout to CAD format.
 Open the exported drawing in AutoCAD®, and use the AutoPadds functions to
detail the slab.
 In Revit®, use the Import function on the File menu to import the CAD drawing
into the model.
Once linked this way, any changes made in the AutoCAD® drawing (including rebar
changes made using AutoPadds) will automatically reflect in the Revit® model.

System requirements
 Minimum: AutoCAD® 2015 64-bit or later
Recommended: AutoCAD® 2017 64-bit
 Minimum:Windows Vista 64-bit on a PC with 2GB RAM and 1,024 x 768 XGA
display
Recommended: Windows 10 Professional edition 64-bit on a PC with 4GB and 1,280
x 1,024 SXGA display
Note: AutoPadds is NOT compatible with Windows 10 S.

51
 DWC LLC

BIM
For as long as structural design and drafting software has existed, there has
been a need to transfer information between various systems. More recently,
the need for collaboration and information sharing amongst design professionals
has advanced to a higher level — Building Information Modelling (BIM).

Prokon's Prodesk package makes BIM possible — it seamlessly transfers

information between Autodesk® Revit® (world-leading modelling software)
and PROKON® Structural Analysis and Design.

Structural modelling in
Revit®
The power of BIM lies in the fact that one is no longer drawing lines in CAD, but
rather modelling objects like beams, slabs and columns. Detailed information
about these objects is stored in a model database. In the Revit® context, any
change made to an object, automatically reflects in all plans, sections,
elevations and schedules. In a broader context, BIM-enabled structural design
and fabrication software can use the same information and respond to changes
made to the model. The benefits of using BIM soon become obvious: early error
detection in the preliminary design phase, fewer errors during detail design, and
increased all round productivity.

Autodesk® Revit® enables one to create an incredibly detailed building model,

and apply point, line and area loads. It also has the ability to model complex
support conditions such as releases and springs. All of this information can be
transferred to a Sumo Structural Modeller or Frame Analysis model
using Prodesk, an add-on for Revit®.
52
 DWC LLC

Transferring a model to PROKON® Structural

Analysis and Design

In spite of the complex translation process

that goes on in the background, transferring the model a model from
Revit® to Sumo Structural Modeller and Frame Analysis is a simple
procedure with Prodesk:

 Open the model in Revit®.

 Click the Prodesk (transfer to PROKON) button on the toolbar, or
select it from the Prokon menu.
 Follow the prompts to convert the information into a sound structural
model in Sumo or Frame Analysis. Depending on the objects present in
the model, this may include setting parameters for finite element mesh
generation.

Beams and columns are transferred

directly with their correct section profiles and orientations. Pad and wall footings
are transferred as point or line supports. Slabs and walls are meshed using
quadrilateral shell finite elements.
53
 DWC LLC

The transfer procedure offers you a great degree of control and flexibility. When
transferring a concrete slab, for example, Sumo and and Frame Analysis'
advanced mesh generator will guide you through the process to ensure that a
suitable finite element mesh is created.

You have the option to transfer an entire model from Revit® to Sumo or Frame
Analysis or, if you wish, selected portions only. If you transfer a single floor
level only, columns passing through that level are modelled as supports
in Sumo and Frame Analysis.

Transferring a model from PROKON to Revit®

In some cases, it may be more convenient to build your model
in Sumo or Frame Analysis. Prodesk allows you to be flexible, and has the
ability to transfer models from Sumo and Frame Analysis models to Revit®. To
facilitate this interaction, ProDESK has a function for creating "family files" for
sections in the PROKON Section Database (which is directly available from
within Revit®) allowing you to add new sections on the fly. All of this
interoperability guarantees time savings and a standardised model transfer.

Once you have transferred a model from Revit® to Sumo or Frame Analysis,
you can proceed to detail design and reinforcement detailing, and finally
transfer the reinforcement back to the Revit® model.

Linking with the

PROKON® concrete design modules
54
 DWC LLC

The design and detailing workflow would typically be is as follows:

 Build the model in Revit®.

 Use ProDESK to transfer the model to Sumo or Frame Analysis.
 Make any needed modifications to the structural model, e.g. enter loads if
you have not done so in the Revit®model.
 Perform the frame analysis to determine the design forces.
 Use the Design Links function to generate design input for concrete
bases and columns.
 Perform the necessary design checks and generate reinforcement.
 Use ProDESK to transfer the 3D reinforcement layout back to
Revit® model.
This procedure can be used to reinforce groups of bases or columns (that are
similar in function and dimension) at the same time.

Note: You can open bending schedules generated with the concrete design
modules in AutoCAD® using the AutoPadds extension. AutoPadds extends
AutoCAD® and turns it into a full-featured 2D reinforcement detailing package.

Looking ahead — The future of BIM

In years to come, further improvements to Autodesk® Revit® will add to the
success of BIM. Support for integration formats such as Industry Foundation
Classes (IFC) and improved reinforcement modelling in Revit® would
undoubtedly provide for even smoother sharing of information between
Revit®, PROKON® Structural Analysis and Design and other engineering
software.

BIM is not yet a magic formula for all design projects, but amazing things are
on the horizon with a technology that is still maturing. While others are waiting
for that to happen, ProDESK is providing PROKON® Structural Analysis and
Design and Revit® users the much needed BIM link today.

System requirements
 Minimum: Revit® 2016
Recommended: Revit® 2018
 Minimum: Windows 7 64-bit on a PC with 3GB RAM and 1,280 x 1,024
SXGA display

55
 DWC LLC

Recommended: Windows 10 Professional edition 64-bit on a PC with dual

CPU cores, 8GB RAM and Nvidia Quaddro FX or quivalent graphics adaptor
Note: ProDESK is NOT compatible with Windows 10 S.

PROKON Web Apps

Welcome to PROKON Web Apps — free online analysis and design tools.

What is available:

 WebSec: Use the online version of ProSec to calculate the bending and
torsional section properties of any general shape. Sections can have
openings and thin walls. The complexity of the section is limited only by the
number of lines in the input table. (ProSec has "unlimited" input.)
 New features in the pipeline: Save and open data files to and from
your computer.
 More apps: Coming soon...

WebSec
Section Properties Calculation

Launch App

View Help

56
 DWC LLC

More Apps
Coming soon...

57