AceCad Software

AceCad Software is a leading supplier of software solutions to the international structural steel industry. AceCad is the sole owner and developer of StruCAD steel detailing system and the StruMIS fabrication management system

New and Improved Modelling Facilities

Clash Positions & Highlighting

New commands have been introduced to aid the visual identification of clashes and to explain related solid clashes, while still providing detailed information such as joint coordinates. Clash symbols are now selectable entities; selection is by right clicking on an individual clash symbol or selecting a group of them using a crossing box or window.

Clashes may be highlighted visually on command or via a text based report to provide physical coordinates where visual referencing may not be adequate.

Managing Clashes

In addition to new commands which assist in the understanding and resolving of clashes, StruCad V14 sees the introduction of new clash management features. These new features allow the user to change the status of a clash, effectively hiding or removing clashes from the model.

This can be used to simply hide all clashes in a section of the model that is not being checked, or could be used to remove a clash that the detailer has deemed as acceptable.

StruWalker

The StruWalker now only contains clashes for the selected members and fittings. No more unwanted clashes are carried through to the Struwalker file.

Enhanced Bolt Positioning

StruCad V14 has enhanced bolt positioning features to provide the detailer with a wider variety of options when positioning bolts. It is possible to select an insertion point at any one of the outside corners, the middle or absolute centre of bolt rows.

Default Hole Diameter

On selecting a bolt diameter the hole diameter is automatically set to the default hole size specified in the bolts file. This speeds up the process of inserting a bolt - by in many cases removing the need to set the hole diameter.

Integrate Engineering with StruConnect

Following the overwhelming success of StruConnect - AceCad's moment connection design software released within StruCad V13, the product range has been expanded at the request of our valued users. StruConnect allows the user to design and model the key types of moment connection for a typical frame from within the StruCad model.

StruConnect Features include:-

  • Real time connection design to BS5950 - 1:2000 & the SCI Green Books.
  • Connection design for Beam to Column, Apex & Column Base connections.
  • Full integration into the StruCad 3D modelling application.
  • Instant modelling of connections in the StruCad model.
  • Geometry & Code Checking - warns of possible problems with the connection.
  • Design Help prompting the user with advice on possible solutions to connection failures.
  • Easy to use Graphical User Interface.
  • Connection detail preview updated in real time.
  • Design output available in summary and full modes.



Connection Preview

The connection preview shows a real time, scaled preview of the connection. This preview can be modified to show various levels of detail including full/part haunch, dimensions and loading directions etc, as well as showing bolt and stiffener positions. Any changes made to the connection's geometry, components or settings are reflected in the connection preview in real time.

Connection Analysis & Output

Connection analysis results are displayed in summary or full form at the bottom of the StruConnect window. The Summary panel will display the unity ratios for each member, highlighting the unity values in black or red indicating a pass or fail. To assist with the resolution of failures when analysing the connection, the design help dialog can be activated, providing advice on properties / settings that may relate to the given failure.

Simple Connection Design

StruCad V14 sees the introduction of improved Simple Connection design to certain connection macros.

Enhanced Member Loads

To use the design facilities provided with the Simple Connection macros loads are applied to the member ends. Commands have been enhanced to utilise a Graphical User Interface making the input of loads easier whilst also providing visual assistance to understand load directions.

Ultimate Streamlined Fabrication Output

StruCad V14 introduces major enhancements to StruCad CNC download facilities and Post Processors.

  • New & Enhanced Post Processors - Latest updates included.
  • Improved CNC Downloads - Machine Lists for easier access.
  • Graphical User Interface for rapid editing of Post Processor parameters.

2D Drawing Explorer - Additional Shape Column

To complement the CNC additions and improve functionality a new column has been added to the drawing explorer grid interface. The 'Shape' column displays the shape of an item such as UB, UC, PFC, RSA, FLAT etc.

Advance Column Sorting

StruCad V14 sees the introduction of the 'Sort' function to the drawing explorer. This feature allows the columns to be sorted in a specific order either ascending or descending across multiple columns, eg; Sort all fabrication drawings by Phase, then Lot and then Mark Number. This feature improves the accessibility of the drawing information and makes the distribution of data via print, CNC, conversion etc, both easier and quicker.

Nested Drawings - Combined Material Lists

The Nested Drawings facility has been enhanced to incorporate a 'Combined' material list feature. This feature which is activated on command combines the material list from each individual drawing into one list, with the drawing range selectable by the user.

Additional Updates & Enhancements

StruCad V14 contains numerous additional enhancements and new features that benefit the user in terms of added functionality and increased system flexibility.

For a complete breakdown of StruCad V14 content please contact sales@acecad.co.uk