Software for Generating and Applying Design Loads
Software for Generating and Applying Design Loads
(OP)
Every time I begin a project in Revit and start developing loads, I get so frustrated!
We follow code procedures (ASCE 7) and generate loads based on the buildings geometry and material. If I just spent all this time to put together a model for drafting and coordination with the Architect, why not use the model for something more to save time?
I'm not looking for analysis programs... I'm looking for software that develop loads based on the model, taking the dead loads (based on the material of the model)/live loads/snow loads down through beams/walls/foundations while applying wind/seismic through the diaphragms rigidity.
I understand this is our job as structural engineers but couldn't we be more efficient? We have so much potential with computers to do accomplish this. Someone please tell me this software exists!!
We follow code procedures (ASCE 7) and generate loads based on the buildings geometry and material. If I just spent all this time to put together a model for drafting and coordination with the Architect, why not use the model for something more to save time?
I'm not looking for analysis programs... I'm looking for software that develop loads based on the model, taking the dead loads (based on the material of the model)/live loads/snow loads down through beams/walls/foundations while applying wind/seismic through the diaphragms rigidity.
I understand this is our job as structural engineers but couldn't we be more efficient? We have so much potential with computers to do accomplish this. Someone please tell me this software exists!!






RE: Software for Generating and Applying Design Loads
I'm not sure why you say "I'm not looking for analysis programs" and then ask specifically for a program that does analysis.
RE: Software for Generating and Applying Design Loads
(And of course, if the program can do the analysis as well, even better.)
RE: Software for Generating and Applying Design Loads
RE: Software for Generating and Applying Design Loads
RE: Software for Generating and Applying Design Loads
RE: Software for Generating and Applying Design Loads
RE: Software for Generating and Applying Design Loads
Now that I am self-employed, I just use all my Excel that I have developed over 2 decades (basically a total design workbook for custom houses). It isn't as automatic as what you are looking for, but it helps enormously to prevent burn-out.
There is software that automatically designs (from AutoCad) structural components for the entire wood building, but it was developed offshore and is very buggy.
RE: Software for Generating and Applying Design Loads
Anyone here use (used) Tekla Structures?
RE: Software for Generating and Applying Design Loads
AELLC, that's pretty much what I'm feeling too. I feel like I'm duplicating efforts and creating something that has so much potential but just gets shoved aside because I'm not an "engineer if I don't use paper". I've been told several times over to not use Risa and do things by hand. I might as well bust out an abacus and chisel while I'm at it...
RE: Software for Generating and Applying Design Loads
When appropriate, I like computer programs as design aids. But when it takes 10 minutes to enter data, or 2 lines on a piece of paper- paper wins. Part of being an engineer is finding the most efficient methods, not just the one with the most bells and whistles.
RE: Software for Generating and Applying Design Loads
On the other hand, if you have a major steel or concrete building, then automation begins to make sense.
RE: Software for Generating and Applying Design Loads