Tekla

MasterSeries facilitates importing models from Tekla Structures through BIM integration methods, primarily utilizing the MasterSeries-Tekla Structures link, IFC standard and the structural file format, STP DSTV 96.

MasterSeries-Tekla Structures Link

MasterSeries provides capabilities for direct model exchange with Tekla Structures through its MasterSeries-Tekla Structures Link.

Linking Capabilities: The MasterSeries-Tekla Structures interface allows for uni-directional and bi-directional linking of 3D entity-based models.
Exchange Process Control: This tool grants full control over your model exchange process by enabling you to review all changes in both the MasterSeries and Tekla models.
Review and Refine: The bi-directional model exchange allows you to review and refine the export/import process. With each subsequent model update, a list of changes is presented, detailing modifications such as changes to section sizes, member positions, and any clashes between the Tekla model and the MasterSeries model. You can then decide whether to keep or discard these changes.

Importing via IFC Files

MasterSeries can import structural models via the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) standard. However, specific requirements must be met, especially when exporting from Tekla Structures.

Tekla Structures Export Requirement

When generating an IFC file using Tekla Structures for import into MasterSeries, a crucial setting must be applied:

The default export type must be changed to Coordination View 2.0.
Failing to set the export type to Coordination View 2.0 will result in the model being exported as a series of surfaces without anything defining their relationships to one another.
Procedure in Tekla Structures: To change the export type in Tekla Structures, go to File > Export > IFC, select the dropdown next to the Export Type field, choose “Coordination View 2.0”, and then export the IFC file.
Minimum Version: The minimum IFC version required for producing valid structural models importable into MasterSeries is IFC 2x3, in accordance with Coordination View 2.0.

IFC Element Requirements for MasterSeries

MasterSeries is only interested in a small number of shapes included within the broader IFC specification.

Elements representing structural members (IfcMember, IfcColumn, IfcBeam) should be one-dimensional line elements, which must be represented as IfcExtrudedAreaSolid.
MasterSeries uses the IfcExtrudedAreaSolid to determine the line of the prismatic section.
The system uses the IfcProfileDef within the file to determine the shape and dimension of the section; without these profiles, the elements cannot be imported.
MasterSeries supports standard IFC profile definitions for common sections like UBs/UCs (IfcIShapeProfileDef), Channels (IfcUShapeProfileDef), and CHSs (IfcCircleHollowProfileDef).
Two-dimensional elements like slabs (IfcSlab) and walls (IfcWall) are imported as finite element surfaces into MasterFrame.

Importing via Specialised Files (STP DSTV 96)

MasterCAD allows for the import of 3D models from various third-party applications, including Tekla (referenced historically as XSteel), using the STP DSTV 96 format file.

This import function transfers Geometry, Section Sizes, and orientations.
The licensing for these import functions is controlled by MasterCAD, but they are accessed outside MasterCAD from the main MasterSeries menu because the MasterSeries file has not yet been created.
The general import process involves selecting the input file, selecting the output file, selecting the elements to import (Multi Steel only), and then loading the file into MasterFrame.
Post-Import Validation: After importing, it is critical to check the validity of the model in the MasterFrame Editor, especially concerning the translation of section properties. It is considered impossible for MasterCAD to be 100% compatible with third-party applications at all times regarding section properties.

Related Videos

This video demonstrates MasterSeries Software's Building Information Modelling (BIM) capabilities, focusing on its integration with other industry-standard tools. The software facilitates the import and analysis of IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) files, converting detailed fabrication models into simplified analytical models for structural engineers. Crucially, it showcases a "bi-directional link" with Revit, allowing users to seamlessly exchange and update structural models between MasterSeries and Revit. This integration, managed through a "link manager," enables a round-trip workflow, meaning changes made in one program can be reflected in the other, enhancing collaboration and design iteration. The software also offers the ability to generate General Arrangement (GA) drawings, directly exporting them into AutoCAD with detailed labels and gridlines.