The application supports all basic AutoCAD concepts and functions. When running on its own CAD platform, the application provides the same capabilities as running on AutoCAD. The Advance Steel CAD platform serves both as a graphic engine and an object oriented database. Compliancy is assured between versions of Advance Steel running on its own CAD platform and running on AutoCAD. The Advance Steel information is stored in DWG format. The application includes AutoLisp and COM programming interfaces. This means that users can create their own customized macros for specialist requirements. Advance Steel imports and exports to the following file formats:
GTC
DWG
IFC 2x3
CIS/2
SDNF
PSS
KISS
DSTV
DXF
The main functions of Advance Steel concern:
Creation of 3D model using a library of construction elements
Automatic creation of lists / bills of materials and NC files
Multi-user technology - all users involved in a project can work simultaneously and securely on the same model, without errors.
Advance Steel provides instruments for modeling complex structures such as straight and spiral stairs, railings, and ladders. The program creates all necessary documents for the stair fabrication.
Specific features
Parametric steel connections Advance Steel has a library of more than 300 preset parametric steel connections to connect Advance elements grouped in the following categories: beam end to end joints, base plate joints, general bracing joints, cantilever beam to column joints, plate joints, clip angle joints, pylon joints, tube brace joints, purlin joints, stiffener joints, and turnbuckle bracings. The user creates all connecting elements by a single operation. At the same time, the connected elements are processed. The software allows users to customize the connections:
Transfer the properties from one steel connection to another
Update the steel connection
Joint Design engine The software dimensions and checks joints according to Eurocodes 3 standards and AISC North American standards. A design report can be created. Drawing styles Based on a 3D model, dimensioned and labeled 2D general arrangement and shop drawings can be automatically created using drawing styles. The drawings are created in separate DWG files; however, they are linked to track changes. Thus, the drawings can be updated after any model modifications and the drawing revision can be managed. The software has a variety of predefined drawing styles for the creation of general arrangement drawings and shop drawings for single parts and assemblies. A drawing style is a set of rules used to create a detail drawing and defines the elements that are displayed including labeling and dimensioning preferences. Drawing styles provide the option to automatically create drawings and to modify the layout exactly to user requirements. Drawing styles are used in a similar way to AutoCAD dimension styles, line styles, etc. The predefined drawing styles are different for each installation and country. Custom drawing styles can also be defined.
