IDEA StatiCa continues to impress with its seamless integration capabilities with FEA and CAD software. The new IDEA StatiCa 24.1, featuring Checkbot, takes this to the next level. From importing detailed connection models from platforms like Revit and Advance Steel to seamlessly integrating load effects (not imposed loads) from tools such as Robot Structural Analysis, the functionality is truly remarkable.
However, these advanced features are exclusive to license holders. For those without a license, IDEA StatiCa still offers excellent tools like the free IDEA StatiCa Viewer, available as both a plugin for Revit and Advance Steel, and as an online platform.
The IDEA StatiCa Viewer Plugin can be downloaded directly from Autodesk’s App Store for Revit. For Advance Steel, a separate installer is required. Once installed, the plugin integrates with your Revit or Advance Steel interface, enabling users to export connection models to the Viewer. From there, users can create an IDEA StatiCa Connection file to share with designers, who must have an IDEA StatiCa Connection license to proceed.
Steps to use the Viewer:
- Launch the Viewer and initiate the connection import process.
- Select either Bulk or One, then return to the CAD package (e.g., Revit 2024) to choose the connections you want to import.
- Create the IDEA StatiCa Connection file.
The resulting connection file can be shared with the designer or opened in IDEA StatiCa Connection (if licensed). While the Viewer doesn’t include load effects and requires some corrections, it offers incredible collaboration opportunities. Modellers and designers can efficiently work together without additional subscriptions, simplifying workflows across consultants.
Kudos to IDEA StatiCa for fostering collaboration and innovation with these tools!
