What are the benefits of Tekla Structures, a BIM modeling software? I spoke with everyone yesterday, so let’s continue the discussion today about the significance of using BIM modeling software Tekla Structures.
For architects, their primary task during construction is to create CAD design drawings. When it comes to 3D BIM models, their main purpose is to give owners a more realistic visual representation of the building design. However, Tekla Structures is not as detailed in BIM design as software like Revit. As a result, importing BIM models created in Tekla offers limited benefits to architects.
Currently, one common way to overcome Tekla Structures’ limitations in producing realistic visualizations is to use SketchUp to create detailed models and then import them into Tekla. This workflow, however, is often cumbersome and time-consuming. Future development could focus on enhancing Tekla’s external design capabilities—such as creating a shared library of window interfaces—that would enable rapid generation of multiple realistic model appearances. This would allow architects to better leverage Tekla Structures’ BIM models, leading to a more refined and advanced building process overall.
For structural analysts, although architects may not frequently use Tekla’s BIM models during the design phase, Tekla models created later in the construction process can significantly save time. By transferring Link files, structural analysts can efficiently reanalyze the structure without starting from scratch.
Research shows that Tekla Structures can integrate with structural analysis software through Link files that transmit BIM model data via APIs. For example, only certain versions of SAP2000 (versions 14 to 17) and ETABS (2013) currently support this integration successfully. This indicates a limited range of compatible software versions.
Given the wide variety of structural analysis software used in the industry, maintaining Tekla Structures’ advantage in BIM integration depends heavily on the development of Link files. It’s essential to conduct thorough market research before developing such software to ensure that BIM models created in Tekla are highly valuable throughout the design and construction workflow.
For construction companies, Tekla Structures’ BIM models can help resolve common challenges and improve work efficiency. This includes interference checks of design elements, rapid and accurate access to building information, and automated report generation—each of which delivers tangible benefits during construction. One of the most significant advantages is Tekla’s ability to integrate with structural analysis software, enabling construction teams to analyze BIM model structures directly.
Currently, there is extensive research into combining Tekla Structures with structural analysis tools. However, because Tekla cannot analyze its own models independently, it must rely on external structural analysis software to validate the safety of its design models. This limitation can cause operational inconvenience.
If Tekla Structures were equipped with built-in capabilities to analyze BIM models, it would greatly benefit construction teams. When minor design changes are needed, construction teams could quickly confirm adjustments with architects without having to send updates back to structural analysts. This would reduce both time and costs associated with design revisions.
That concludes our overview of the significance of using BIM modeling software Tekla Structures. I hope this article provides valuable insights for everyone!
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