Structural design is a complex and multi-faceted science. To achieve the best results, you need the right tools. However, with the advancement of technology, comes a long way in providing efficient and accurate designs for various projects.
Thankfully, structural design software offers various tools and features to help you create effective plans for building structures like homes and bridges. Not only can this software provide precise calculations for spans, angles, and supports, but it can also help you plan out construction timelines and materials lists.
With the right software, you can create detailed 3D models that give you a realistic view of how your structure will look in its completed form. To make sure you get the most out of your structural design software investment, consider these seven groundbreaking options popular among engineers in 2023:
1. CSI ETABS
With over 45 years of constant development and refinement, this powerful platform has quickly become a valuable asset for any structural analysis and design project. From large to small, static to dynamic, ETABS has helped users to quickly and effectively create models for various scenarios.
The software’s great flexibility is bolstered by intuitive yet powerful graphical user interfaces, allowing you to customize your models easily. With CSI ETABS, you can simulate complex processes like wind loading and seismic forces in an efficient manner with full control over the structure’s design steps.
With its tried-and-tested features, this robust platform allows consistent updates of new features you can use as they become available. You can also try out ClearCalcs if you want a simpler online tool for structural design calculations.
2. CSI SAP2000
For over 45 years, this industry-standard structural design software from Computers and Structures Inc. SAP2000 has been used to design and analyze some of the world’s most iconic structures. This comprehensive software meets all the necessities for modern structural design, offering a wide scope of features that can handle even the most complex projects.
The SAPFire Analysis Engine, in particular, supports multiple 64-bit processors. A well-prepared advantage of parallel computing architectures, enabling users to handle larger models faster and more accurately than ever before. It also includes a powerful finite element analysis engine with linear and nonlinear capabilities.
With CSI SAP2000, you can benefit from its expansive range of built-in tools, such as 3D frame, shell, and solid element modeling capabilities. Through its advanced interactive graphical user interface (GUI), SAP2000 facilitates quick parameter selection and clear visualization of simulation results.
3. STAAD Pro
As one of the most widely utilized structural engineering software, STAAD Pro is a comprehensive structural finite element analysis and design application. This software features modules with remarkable accuracy for modeling and analyzing structures, such as frames or trusses. With STAAD Pro, you can decide from multiple codes of practice, depending on your requirements and project location.
The powerful visualization options in STAAD Pro allow displaying information in diverse forms, such as 3D color graphs for concrete structures and steels. Additionally, it can be integrated with several CAD programs to facilitate more efficient workflows while allowing you to make changes quickly.
4. Midas nGen
As the latest software released in the Midas series of superior engineering products, Midas nGen offers a fully automated and optimized building design and drawing solution. Midas nGen offers powerful features such as boundary nonlinear analysis, pushover analysis capabilities, seismic design checks, and much more for structural analysis.
From conceptual to detailed design, it allows you to access a vast library of building components easily. With advanced safety-related features, such as fire engineering calculations and thermal bridge analyses, it helps ensure structures are designed safely and effectively according to local regulations.
Through its comprehensive set of tools, Midas nGen allows you to create detailed designs quickly while ensuring compliance with industry standards.
5. SPACE GASS
As one of the best in the market, SPACE GASS can design beams, trusses, frames, and entire buildings. SPACE GASS has a comprehensive set of tools that allow you to quickly and easily model any structure, from small projects to large, complex ones.
It also offers features like automated graphics export options and advanced report-building capabilities. Additionally, it is easy to learn thanks to its step-by-step tutorial available on their website.
6. RISA-3D
Also known as Rapid Interactive Structural Analysis, this software incorporates a comprehensive CAD-like drawing environment with diverse design elements. Developed over 30 years ago, this software offers in-depth code compliance checks across all areas of structural design and error detection capabilities to ensure accuracy throughout the project lifecycle.
It can design steel and wood designs and provides optimization capabilities to help reduce material costs while maintaining structural integrity. RISA-3D’s ability to produce detailed designs at relatively lower costs makes it ideal if you’re looking for a reliable solution that can be adapted quickly to changing requirements.
7. Safe Software
If your focus is on building efficient and secure structures, then Safe Software deserves your attention. With over 20 years in the industry, SAFE presents a single-user interface for modeling, analysis, design, and reporting. In other words, what other programs might require, Safe Software can do it all from one place.
This not only drives for greater efficiency but also greater creativity and collaboration. From models to analytics and simulations, this highly customizable software encourages you to experiment freely when looking for the best design solution.
In addition, Safe Software offers an intuitive environment where you can easily collaborate while creating refined and resilient structures that will stand the test of time.
Aim For A Groundbreaking Option This 2023!
Selecting software with all these features can be tricky, but don’t let that stop you. As you evaluate your choices this 2023, consult some of these top picks for the best structural design software. With their advanced features and capabilities, you can create groundbreaking designs easily and efficiently. Focus on what truly matters. Produce premier structures that stand out from the crowd.
