This document outlines a comprehensive software arrangement plan for Pro-Tech Infra-build encompassing all stages of pre-engineered buildings and steel structure projects. The plan caters to both commercial analysis and design needs, as well as shop drawing design and drafting processes. Since structural design is dependent on design codes and design is incomplete without detailing,
Here are some ideas and tips to create a software arrangement plan for Pro-Tech Infra-build catering to various stages of pre-engineered buildings and steel structure projects:
Software Selection and Integration:
- Commercial Analysis and Design: Core Software:?Choose a primary analysis software like SAP2000 or ETABS for complex structural analysis and code compliance checks. Integrate with Midas/Gen or Midas/FEA for advanced non-linear analysis and finite element modeling when needed.Additional Tools:?Consider PKPM for Indian code compliance, 3D3S for steel connection design, and YJK for seismic analysis if relevant.
- Shop Drawing Design and Drafting:Primary Software:?Opt for Tekla Structures for its BIM-integrated model creation, collaboration features, and direct output of fabrication drawings. Secondary Tools:?Utilize CSDI for specific Chinese code compliance, AutoCAD for simple drafting tasks, and CAD software like ProSteel or SolidWorks for 3D modeling and detail drawing generation.
- Concept Design: Utilize parametric capabilities of Tekla Structures or integrate with generative design software for rapid exploration of design options. Leverage analysis software for quick feasibility studies and early optimization of steel sections.
- Construction Drawing Design: Automate repetitive tasks with Tekla Structures macros and scripting. Implement drawing templates and standards to ensure consistency and quality. Integrate data from analysis models directly into shop drawings for accuracy and efficiency.
- Connection Design: Utilize dedicated software like 3D3S or Tekla software modules for automated connection design and detailing as per various codes. Integrate connection design results directly into shop drawings for fabrication ease.
- Optimization: Utilize optimization features within analysis software or dedicated optimization tools to find the most efficient steel sections and construction plans. Consider implementing cost estimating software to evaluate different design options based on material and fabrication costs.
- Shop Drawing Generation: Ensure seamless data transfer between analysis and shop drawing software for accurate and consistent model representation. Utilize Tekla Structures' automatic NC processing document generation and material list creation to streamline fabrication workflows.
- Structural Analysis and Temporary Structures: Leverage analysis software for detailed analysis of steel structures under various loading conditions. Utilize dedicated software or modules within existing software for temporary structure design, considering wind loads, construction sequences, and safety factors.
- BIM Technology Application: Implement a central BIM model as the single source of truth for all project data. Integrate all chosen software with the BIM platform to ensure data consistency and collaboration across disciplines. Utilize BIM functionalities like clash detection, constructability analysis, and 4D/5D simulation to optimize design, construction, and scheduling.
Additional Considerations:
- Training and Support:?Ensure proper training for all staff on the chosen software to maximize efficiency and avoid errors.
- Hardware and Infrastructure:?Invest in adequate hardware and IT infrastructure to support the chosen software and BIM workflows.
- Data Management and Security:?Implement robust data management practices and security measures to protect project data and intellectual property.
- Customization and Integration:?Consider customization options or custom software development to address specific needs and integrate seamlessly with existing workflows.
II. Deep Insight on Commercial Analysis and Design Software
- Primary Software:SAP2000: A highly versatile analysis and design software for various structures, including pre-engineered buildings and steel frames. Its open-section database and code compliance tools make it ideal for projects adhering to different international standards.?SAP2000 is a tool that allows engineers to generate complex models and run comprehensive tests. It is ideal for modeling structural systems for buildings, bridges, transportation infrastructure, dams, sports facilities, and offshore systems. SAP2000 is developed by csiamerica, a structural and earthquake engineering company.?According to one study, SAP2000 is easier to work with than STAAD Pro.?SAP2000. It is general purpose (unlike ETABS which is specifically targeted at building structures) and in my opinion has better modeling features and user interface than STAAD Pro and preferred software for earthquake analysis, nonlinear pushover analysis and nonlinear dynamic analysis.?SAP 2000 is used for Transportation, Sports and some complex types of structures very easily.STAAD Pro:?This software is used for analyzing and designing structures like bridges, buildings, towers, industrial, transportation, and utility structures. It's a structural analysis and design software application that's ideal for research before construction. It has an adaptable modeling environment, advanced features, and smooth data collaboration.?STAAD PRO is good over Etabs for the analysis of steel structures frames as the codes and user interface is better integrated in staad pro. ETABS: Another robust option for structural analysis and design, particularly adept at handling complex geometries and multi-story buildings. Etab is used for concrete structures analysis as well as designing of their members. Its integration with BIM software adds value to the workflow.?Industry nowadays is fast following Etab due to less software run time, design accuracy, globally accepted and more sophisticated software tools. ETABS is good over staad pro if you are designing a reinforced concrete structure.?The user interface is easy and the analysis values of RC structures are better and we get economical steel data from etabs compared to that of staad pro.?ETABS is reliable for reinforced concrete design as it provides inbuilt options for optimization, seismic analysis parameter calculations like p? analysis, non linear direct integration analysis, time histories, push over analysis.. It Even has options for wind analysis with loaded codes and can consider gust loads.?Few of the above options are not available with staad.
- Alternative Software:Midas/ Gen and Midas/ FEA: Offer advanced analysis capabilities for intricate structures and dynamic loading conditions.PKPM: A popular choice in India for steel structure design due to its familiarity and compatibility with local codes.3D3S and YJK: Provide cost-effective options for basic analysis and design needs.RISA:?RISA is a structural design software that helps engineers model, analyze, design, and document projects.? RISA software serves as?a centralized hub for engineers to model, analyze, design and document projects of any type and size?using a combination of materials including steel, concrete, timber, masonry, aluminum and cold-formed steel.? RISA-3D is a feature of RISA that allows engineers to quickly design structures using a wide range of materials. These structures can include buildings, bridges, tanks, and culverts
- Selection Criteria:Project complexity: Choose software appropriate for the structural intricacies and scale of the project.International codes: Ensure the software can handle relevant design codes (China, America, Europe, etc.)Team expertise: Select software the team is comfortable with, minimizing training time and ensuring efficient workflows.
Each software, STAAD, SAP, ETABS, RISA, RAM, etc has its own unique quirks and benefits, but the underlying engineering principles are the same, you need to have a very clear understanding what you need to put into your models, including
- Geometry?
- material properties
- boundary conditions
- loads
- load cases
- member releases
- member parameters (unbraced lengths, K factors, etc.)
- code checks (IBC, Steel code, Concrete code - these depend on your specific location and your projects location)
Once you understand these areas, the challenge to switch from one software to another is mostly just a matter of finding out where they've hidden the button for "xyz" feature compared to another software.
- Software may be selected according to your structures. STAAD PRO for steel structure sap2000 for concrete structures. ETAB can be used specially for buildings (high rise) and SAFE for slab & raft foundations.
- For steel structures, the choice is simpler because you can start with an assumed section and check whether the chosen section is safe and replace it with another one and repeat the analysis in order to carry out the design. In fact SAP2000 does this automatically if you choose a list of sections (SAP2000 calls it an Auto Select List) and assign it to a member instead of assigning a single section.
III. Shop Drawing Design and Drafting Software
- Primary Software:Tekla Structures: A BIM-based software specifically designed for steel detailing and fabrication. Its parametric modeling tools, automated drawing generation, and integration with analysis software streamline the shop drawing process.CSDI: Another BIM-enabled detailing software popular in India, offering strong compatibility with local fabrication practices.
- Alternative Software:AutoCAD and CAD: Traditional drafting software, suitable for smaller projects or specific tasks within the workflow.
- Selection Criteria:Project workflow: Consider software that integrates seamlessly with analysis tools and fabrication processes.Level of automation: Prioritize software offering automated drawing generation and detailing tools for efficiency.Fabrication needs: Choose software compatible with the capabilities and practices of your fabrication partners.
IV. Additional Considerations
- Optimization tools: Integrate software with optimization modules for material selection, connection design, and construction planning.
- 3D model generation: Ensure smooth export of 3D models from analysis software to shop drawing software for efficient detailing.
- Material and bolt lists: Automate the generation of accurate material and bolt lists from the 3D model for streamlined ordering and fabrication.
- Temporary structure design: Include specific software or modules for analyzing and designing temporary structures needed during construction.
- BIM adoption: Encourage BIM adoption across the workflow for improved collaboration, clash detection, and overall project efficiency.
- Software evaluation and selection: Conduct a thorough evaluation of software options based on the criteria outlined above.
- Training and support: Invest in training your team on the chosen software to ensure proficient usage and maximize its benefits.
- Data migration and standardization: Establish protocols for data exchange between different software packages and maintain standardized file formats.
- Quality control: Implement quality control measures throughout the design and detailing process to ensure accuracy and adherence to codes.
By following this plan and carefully selecting and implementing the right software tools, Pro-Tech Infra-build can optimize its pre-engineered building and steel structure project workflow, enhance accuracy and efficiency, and gain a competitive edge in the market.
Remember, this is a general framework, and the specific software choices and implementation details will need to be adapted to Pro-Tech Infra-build's unique needs and preferences.
