AutoCAD^® Revit^® Structure allows one create an incredibly detailed building model, and apply point, line and area loads. It also has the ability to model complex support conditions such as releases and springs. All of this information can be transferred to a PROKON^® Frame Analysis model using ProDESK, an add-on for Revit^® Structure

Transferring a model to PROKON^® Structural Analysis and Design

In spite of the complex translation process that goes on in the background, transferring the model a model from Revit^® to Frame Analysis is a simple procedure with ProDESK:

• Open the model in Revit^® Structure.
• Click the ProDESK (transfer to PROKON) button on the toolbar, or select it from the Prokon menu.
• Follow the prompts to convert the information into a sound structural model in Frame Analysis. Depending on the objects present in the model, this may include setting parameters for finite element mesh generation.

Beams and columns are transferred directly with their correct section profiles and orientations. Pad and wall footings are transferred as point or line supports. Slabs and walls are meshed using quadrilateral shell finite elements.

The transfer procedure offers you a great degree of control and flexibility. When transferring a concrete slab, for example, Frame Analysis' advanced Mesh Generator will guide you through the process to ensure that a suitable finite element mesh is created.

You have the option to transfer an entire model from Revit^® to Frame Analysis or, if you wish, selected portions only. If you transfer a single floor level only, columns passing through that level are modelled as supports in Frame Analysis.

Transferring a model from PROKON to Revit^®

In some cases, it may be more convenient to build your model in Frame Analysis. ProDESK allows you to be flexible, and has the ability to transfer models from Frame Analysis models to Revit^®. To facilitate this interaction, ProDESK has a function for creating "family files" for sections in the Prokon Section Database. The Section Database is also directly available from within Revit^®, allowing you to add new sections on the fly. All of this interoperability guarantees time savings and a standardised model transfer.