struct.calcpack - User Guide

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. System Requirements
  3. Installation and Setup
  4. Features Overview
  5. Detailed Function Guide
  6. Tips for Effective Use
  7. Troubleshooting
  8. Support

Introduction

Welcome to struct.calcpack, a structural engineering automation tool crafted to simplify and accelerate the complex calculations involved in structural design. This guide provides in-depth details on each function, ensuring you can make the most out of struct.calcpack’s capabilities.

System Requirements

To achieve the best experience with struct.calcpack, ensure your system meets the following:

  • Operating System - Windows 10/11
  • Processor - Single-core Intel i3 Series or above, Xeon or AMD equivalent
  • Memory - 8GB of RAM and above
  • Disk Space - 200MB or more free space for installation
  • Internet Connection - required for license checking
  • Microsoft Word/Excel active subscription
  • Tekla Tedds active subscription
  • Autodesk Robot active subscription

Installation and Setup

Running struct.calcpack

struct.calcpack is a packaged executable file. Simply download, launch, and follow these steps:

  1. Download the .exe file provided by struct.digital.
  2. Double-click to run the application.
  3. Configure Preferences in Settings to establish default file paths, output formats, and calculation settings.

Features Overview

struct.calcpack offers a comprehensive suite of tools for structural engineers:

  • File Importing: Supports multiple file formats and batch processing.
  • Customizable Parameters: Fine-tune calculations with detailed input fields.
  • Error Detection: Alerts users to incorrect data entries.
  • Export Options: Save results in PDF, CSV, or XML formats for easy sharing.
  • Real-Time Preview: Get immediate feedback on input changes.
  • Batch Processing: Automate multiple calculations at once, saving time and effort.

Detailed Function Guide

Upload and Import Files

The Upload feature allows users to import structural data and specifications.

Steps:

  1. Click Upload on the main toolbar.
  2. Choose files from your local drive. struct.calcpack supports .pdf, .csv, and .txt files.
  3. Use the preview pane to confirm uploaded files, ensuring correct formatting for calculations.

Tip: Use .csv files for tabulated data, as struct.calcpack can automatically detect and format tables from these files.

Single Calculation Mode

This mode is ideal for single-structure or component analysis. You can input all necessary parameters, configure the desired outputs, and receive results specific to one design scenario.

Steps:

  1. Select Single Calculation Mode from the toolbar.
  2. In the Calculation Pane, choose the type of calculation (e.g., Load Calculation, Moment Analysis).
  3. Enter relevant parameters:
    • Material Properties (e.g., steel grade, modulus of elasticity)
    • Dimensions (e.g., length, width, depth)
    • Forces and Loads (e.g., axial load, shear force)
  4. Click Calculate to view results in the Results Window.

Batch Processing Mode

This mode enables multiple calculations across several files. struct.calcpack processes each file and compiles results in a single exportable document.

Steps:

  1. Select Batch Mode from the toolbar.
  2. Upload multiple files or drag-and-drop them.
  3. struct.calcpack automatically runs calculations on each file. Review results in the Results Window.
  4. Adjust individual parameters if needed or apply a default set across all files.

Tip: Ensure that all files follow a similar formatting to ensure batch processing accuracy.

Customizable Parameters

struct.calcpack provides customizable parameters for calculations, allowing precise tailoring based on project specifications.

Key Parameters:

  1. Material Properties: Set values like density, elasticity, and tensile strength.
  2. Load Configurations: Specify axial, bending, and shear loads.
  3. Geometric Inputs: Define dimensions, sections, and orientations.
  4. Calculation Methods: Select preferred methods for load distribution, stability, or stress-strain relations.

Real-Time Calculation Preview

The Real-Time Preview gives instant feedback as you adjust input parameters. This is especially useful for testing design limits and adjusting specifications on-the-fly.

Steps:

  1. Enter values in the Calculation Pane.
  2. Check the Preview Window on the side to view real-time calculation outputs.
  3. Modify any parameters and see instant updates in the preview.

Error Validation and Checking

struct.calcpack’s validation system helps ensure accurate inputs. Warnings will display if an input is out of range or incompatible with selected calculation types.

Error Validation Features:

  • Input Range Checks: Alerts when parameters are out of standard engineering tolerances.
  • Compatibility Warnings: Flags incompatible materials or structural configurations.
  • Auto-Adjust Suggestions: For certain parameters, struct.calcpack may suggest optimal values.

Tip: Always check for validation notifications before finalizing calculations.

Exporting Results

After calculations, export results in various formats for documentation or sharing.

Supported Formats:

  • PDF: Ideal for finalized, uneditable reports.
  • CSV: Export tabular data for further analysis in spreadsheets.
  • XML: Useful for integration with other software or databases.

Steps:

  1. Click the Export button.
  2. Choose the desired format and specify a file path.
  3. Review the exported file for any specific project requirements.

Tips for Effective Use

  • Save frequently used configurations: You can save configurations for rapid setup on recurring projects.
  • Leverage Batch Mode: For multiple calculations, batch mode reduces repetitive setup.
  • Utilize Preview: The real-time preview can help fine-tune calculations without fully executing them.

Troubleshooting

Common Issues

  1. Application Not Opening: Ensure you have the latest version of Windows. Run the .exe file as an administrator.
  2. Calculation Errors: Confirm that all inputs are valid and within the engineering tolerance.
  3. Export Fails: Make sure the output directory has write permissions.

If you encounter other issues, contact support@struct.digital for assistance.

Support

For further support, visit the struct.digital website or email our support team:

This guide should provide a comprehensive understanding of struct.calcpack’s functionalities, ensuring users have the tools they need to efficiently automate structural engineering calculations.