New for our 2025 software releases, we introduce a new approach for creating analysis models in Tekla Structural Designer from models originating in Tekla Structures. This approach is specifically aimed at engineers using Tekla Structures for analysis and design during the early stages of design.

The overall transfer is based on the geometric part location in Tekla Structures. The integration uses a file-based transfer, meaning that Tekla Structural Designer and Tekla Structures do not need to be on the same computer.

To perform the initial export process, use the Publish to Tekla Structural Designer extension, which you can download from Tekla Warehouse.

The focus of this version is on steel structures, covering the integration of main structural members, such as beams, columns, and braces.

On import to Tekla Structural Designer, the analysis model is generated to create a connected, solvable model that is available for immediate use. No preparatory work is required in Tekla Structures.

In Tekla Structural Designer, the use of reference models allows for an accurate visual representation of the BIM model. This representation can be used for manual modeling processes, or as the basis for our generated analysis and design model.

The conversion of member categories, profile sizes, and material grades is completed automatically. Part name categories can be filtered to ensure that only structurally significant parts of the model are imported. Profile conversion is based on the regional settings and the geometrical cross sections. All this leads to a quick and accurate transfer without the need for mapping files or manual intervention.

The result is a seamless integration process that is fast and accurate, and meets the requirements of the engineer.

Analysis and design can be performed in Tekla Structural Designer, or the generated analysis model can be exported using existing native links.

Tekla Structures 2025 has been improved with the ability to transfer relevant construction and fabrication information. This information can now be integrated as user-defined attributes (UDAs) from Tekla Structural Designer to Tekla Structures. This enhancement improves communication and the integration experience between the engineer and the detailer.

Information saved to the user-defined attributes in Tekla Structural Designer can be directly imported to Tekla Structures.

The UDA information can subsequently be made available for the construction and fabrication model. This workflow also includes user-generated attribute information, and is fully customizable to suit the requirements of the Tekla Structures modeler.

For engineers, the automated integration process reduces manual rework and is flexible enough to meet their overall project requirements. Integrated UDA information is automatically assigned to the imported parts and can be viewed using the Inquire command.

User-defined attribute parameters, including custom parameters, can be added to the Tekla Structures objects.inp file. This allows the attributes to be directly visible in the part properties dialogs and provides a flexible user experience for the detailer.

This information can then be carried forward to any created documentation and included in digital model transfers as required.

Tekla Structures 2025 has been updated with some important changes to the display of connection forces. Connection forces added to the model database can be shown on the new Connection forces or Base plate forces tab in the analysis properties dialog of each part.

This functionality can be used by all third-party developers to transfer design force data to the Tekla Structures model, avoiding basic enveloping of forces and potential overdesign of analysis elements. Connection forces are included for all integrated parts, covering all design cases and combinations. This improvement directly leads to enhanced workflows for connection design.

Filter maximum and minimum connection forces using the quick and easy-to-use checkboxes in the part's analysis properties dialog.

This filtering can be further enhanced by including coincident force values.

For column parts, base plate forces are shown on the Base plate forces tab, providing accurate values required for connection and foundation design.

Connection forces are automatically populated by the import from Tekla Structural Designer. The transfer covers all integrated members from the Tekla Structural Designer model and supports all analyzed load combinations.

Tekla Structures automatically shares and stores design data and connection forces by design case. This is a significant benefit for detailers in connection design, providing a single point of truth for all this information.