S-Frame

Tekla Structures
2021
Tekla Structures

S-Frame

S-Frame Analysis is owned and developed by S-FRAME Software Inc. It is a complete 4D structural modeling, analysis and design solution for steel, concrete, linear and non-linear structural models.

  • The Tekla API link allows you to write code to connect to an open model in Tekla and query or manipulate the model. The link was established by using both the S-Frame and Tekla APIs. It uses a library database to manage items between Tekla Structures and S-Frame.

  • S-Frame can export and import .dxf files. If Tekla Structures and S-Frame are installed on the same computer, then a direct link can be used. A copy of the link and instructions on using the link can be requested from https://s-frame.com. Descriptions regarding the link can be found here: Building information modeling (BIM) links.

  • In some areas S-Frame used to be distributed by CSC, in which case the installation points to different folders. The model name must not include spaces as this currently is an issue as the analysis and design frame is not created if spaces are included.

The whole process involves the following steps: importing to S-Frame, displaying imported items, and exporting from S-Frame. This process is described below.

Importing objects to S-Frame and displaying the objects

  1. The S-Frame software checks to see if there is an open model in Tekla Structures using the Tekla API.
  2. If a connection can be established, the Tekla Structures model is queried for a list of model objects, such as modeled members or panels.
  3. The returned objects are iterated through, recognized types are processed, and equivalent S-Frame objects are added or updated to a library database.
  4. The IDs from Tekla Structures are stored so that items can be mapped back and forth between Tekla Structures and S-Frame.
  5. Once the objects have been iterated through, the library database is queried, and the updated or created objects referenced in the library are displayed in S-Frame display window.

Exporting from S-Frame

  1. The S-Frame is queried for objects that are displayed in the S-Frame display window.
  2. The library is iterated through for types of known objects (members and panels) that can be mapped back and forth between Tekla Structures and S-Frame.
  3. Using the unique IDs stored in the import, the Tekla Structures model is queried to see if items exist. If they do not, they will need to be created, and the library will be updated.
  4. Items can then be added or updated to Tekla Structures to match what is in S-Frame.
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