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Version: 18

Joint export

Joint types for export​

At the Structural Members tab, when creating a joint, users can choose from three distinct joint types. The first type is the Consteel Joint, which is described in detail in the previous chapters. The other two options enable users to either export all joint information to an Excel file for further processing or establish a live connection with IDEA StatiCa Connection.

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1. Fictive Joint​

This function allows the export of internal forces of joints into .csv format. It utilizes the advantages of placed joints, meaning that a fictive joint can be positioned at multiple locations within the model if they share geometric similarity. The internal forces from all placements will be collected and exported together, ensuring a comprehensive data set.

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The exported .csv files can be opened in Excel, allowing the data to be organized according to specific user’s needs and used for connection design. In addition to the .csv file, two images are generated during the export:

  • One displaying the joint geometry
  • One illustrating the interpretation of internal forces and local coordinate system alt text

2. IDEA StatiCa Connection​

IDEA StatiCa Connection (versions 22.1, 23.0, 23.1, and 24.0) can be accessed from the Structural Members tab under Joint Actions by selecting the joint in the model, creating a direct link between the two software programs. alt text

After selecting the IDEA StatiCa Connection type and pressing the Create button, IDEA StatiCa Connection will automatically open, and two new folders will be created in the same location where the Consteel model is stored: IDEA JOINT and IDEA IOM.

The new joint can be accessed from its folder (IDEA JOINT) or directly from the Consteel model, just like any other joint, via the Structural Members tab by opening the Edit Joint window. alt text It can also be placed in the model in the usual manner using the Place Joint function alt text or immediately after creation.

Whole Model Export with Integrated Joints​

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1. IDEA StatiCa Checkbot​

The entire model, including analysis results, can be exported in .xml format, which can then be imported into IDEA StatiCa Checkbot using the IOM import feature for connection design.

To export your model:

  • Complete your model design.
  • Navigate to the File menu and select Export.
  • Choose IDEA StatiCa Checkbot from the list of export options.
  • Select the destination path for the open model file, where the IOM file will be saved.
  • Click Export.

To open the exported model in IDEA StatiCa:

  • Launch IDEA StatiCa and select the Checkbot module.
  • Create a new project.
  • In the initial window, select the Import IOM option.
  • Locate and select the previously saved IOM file.
  • Wait for the structural model to be imported, then begin your connection design.

For more detailed information about the IDEA StatiCa Checkbot workflow, please visit their Support Center.

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info

This is a one-way link, not a live interface, and is only compatible with IDEA StatiCa 24.1. Additionally, the export is only possible when there are no SLS results in the model.

Due to certain limitations and potential issues, this feature is released as a beta version.

2. Joint export into detailing software​

All joints can be exported to TEKLA Structures steel detailing software. See chapter File handling for more detailed information.

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