In today’s fast-paced construction industry, Tekla Automation for Structural Engineers is revolutionizing the way engineers work. It saves time, boosts productivity, and reduces errors in structural engineering projects.
Whether you are designing steel structures, concrete buildings, or bridges, Tekla’s automation tools simplify complex tasks and streamline workflows with precision.
As demand for faster construction and error-free documentation grows, Tekla’s automation features become increasingly critical. Structural engineers now rely on advanced automation to meet tight deadlines and maintain high-quality standards across all phases of design and construction.
What is Tekla Automation
Tekla Automation refers to the process of using automated scripts, components, templates, and custom tools in Tekla Structures, a powerful BIM software developed by Trimble. This automation enables engineers to design, detail, analyze, and document structural models more efficiently than ever before.
You can think of Tekla Automation like having an intelligent assistant or digital co-pilot that does repetitive work for you. Instead of manually modeling thousands of beams, bolts, or connections, Tekla can do it for you based on rules, logic, and templates that you set up.
This not only reduces the time spent on repetitive tasks but also increases consistency across all your projects.
Why Structural Engineers Should Use Tekla Automation
1. Saves Time and Effort
- Automates repetitive tasks like placing connections, creating schedules, or numbering parts.
- Significantly reduces drawing production time, allowing for more time for design review.
- Reduces manual modeling work by offering reusable components and automated placement tools.
- Eliminates the need for repetitive data entry across documents, drawings, and reports.
2. Improves Accuracy
- Uses predefined rules and design logic to avoid human errors commonly made during manual modeling.
- Ensures model consistency throughout the project lifecycle.
- Prevents data mismatch and provides consistent naming conventions, measurements, and annotations.
3. Increases Productivity
- Let’s engineers focus on critical design and analytical tasks instead of modeling basics.
- Encourages efficient task delegation, where automation takes over repetitive modeling.
- Faster project delivery leads to increased client satisfaction and a higher return on investment.
4. Reduces Rework
- Less chance of missing structural elements or making detailing mistakes.
- Built-in clash detection prevents costly on-site corrections.
- Saves time by highlighting design inconsistencies early in the modeling phase.
5. Supports Complex Projects
- Handles large and complicated structures, including bridges, industrial buildings, and towers.
- Integrates seamlessly with other design and analysis software tools, such as Revit, AutoCAD, SAP2000, and ETABS.
- Offers advanced scripting capabilities for modeling custom or parametric structures with ease.
How Tekla Automation Works
1. Custom Components
Engineers can create and reuse custom components, such as stairs, handrails, joints, and bracing systems. These elements can be automatically inserted into the model based on geometry, location, and structural rules.
With custom components, you ensure uniformity across multiple models and reduce repetitive detailing.
2. Macros and Scripts
Tekla enables the use of macros to record tasks and scripts, automating workflows through the Tekla Open API (Application Programming Interface). This helps automate complex functions like:
- Auto-generating numbering sequences and part IDs.
- Batch exporting fabrication or shop drawings.
- Applying standard connection templates across multiple floors or frames.
- Creating geometry-based logic to assign structural elements based on project standards.
3. Templates and Rules
Engineers can develop templates for common structural assemblies, detailing rules and output formats.
Once set, these can be reused across multiple projects with minimal adjustments. Templates improve both speed and quality by standardizing practices throughout the design team.
4. Clash Detection
Tekla’s clash detection tools automatically identify overlaps and conflicts in the model, such as a column intersecting with an HVAC duct. This feature enables the real-time resolution of design clashes before fabrication or construction, thereby saving time and money.
5. Reports and Drawing Automation
Tekla Automation helps engineers and drafters generate:
- Material take-off reports.
- Assembly and single-part drawings.
- General Arrangement (GA) drawings.
- Bolt and weld lists.
- Concrete volume and rebar schedules.
These documents can be exported in bulk, filtered, and formatted to suit client or fabrication requirements.
Use Cases of Tekla Automation for Structural Engineers
Steel Structure Modeling
- Automatically apply bolts, welds, and connection plates.
- Generate fabrication-ready shop drawings and CNC files for use in manufacturing.
- Model trusses, frames, and towers faster with parametric tools.
Concrete Detailing
- Auto place rebars in beams, slabs, columns, footings, and walls.
- Generate bend schedules and rebar lists with a single click.
- Enhance accuracy with 3D rebar visualization.
Bridge Design
- Model curved or inclined bridge elements using parametric geometry.
- Use automation to create formwork drawings and reinforcement layouts.
- Customize bridge elements based on highway standards and loading conditions.
Precast Element Production
- Assign cast units, lifters, and joints automatically.
- Generate complete shop drawings for casting yard and factory production.
- Track production, delivery, and installation using automated reports.
Benefits of Using Tekla Automation in Real Projects
1. Faster Project Turnaround
One engineer shared how a month-long modeling job was completed in just 2 weeks using Tekla automation.
By utilizing macros and prebuilt templates, the project team was able to deliver the design early, saving time and earning the client’s trust.
2. Better Coordination
With automation, it’s easier to maintain design consistency across teams. Structural, architectural, and MEP teams can collaborate on a shared BIM platform. Everyone sees updated models in real-time, reducing communication gaps and enhancing teamwork.
3. Cost Savings
By reducing errors, drawing revisions, and site rework, Tekla Automation helps cut project costs. Engineers also save time on documentation and material estimation, leading to optimized budgeting.
4. Greater Flexibility
Whether you’re working on residential towers, shopping malls, or bridges, Tekla Automation can be tailored to meet your specific needs. From small tasks to full-scale model automation, the system is highly flexible and customizable.
Tekla Automation vs Manual Modeling
| Feature | Manual Modeling | Tekla Automation |
|---|---|---|
|
Time Required |
High, tedious tasks |
Low, quick processing |
|
Errors |
More likely |
Less likely due to rules |
|
Rework |
Frequent due to inconsistencies |
Minimal with automation |
|
Flexibility |
Limited to user speed |
High with templates and scripts |
|
Learning Curve |
Easier to start |
Slightly steeper, but worth it |
Getting Started with Tekla Automation
1. Learn the Basics of Tekla Structures
- Begin with basic modeling tools, including beams, slabs, columns, grids, and footings.
- Learn how to navigate the interface, modify properties, and work with views.
- Explore drawing creation, part numbering, and model organization.
2. Watch Tekla Webinars and Tutorials
- Visit the Tekla User Assistance site for step-by-step guides and tutorials.
- Follow YouTube tutorials to learn by doing.
- Participate in forums to ask questions and get support from the community.
3. Practice with Sample Projects
- Try automating simple tasks, such as numbering or template usage.
- Create and test custom components for stairs, railings, and joint assemblies.
- Document your steps to build reusable processes for your team.
4. Use the Tekla Open API
- Learn basic C# programming to write custom tools and automation scripts.
- Use the API to automate data exchange, element placement, or report generation.
- Explore open-source Tekla plugins and contribute to the developer community.
5. Collaborate with Tech Experts
- Hire or partner with Tekla developers if coding is not your area of expertise.
- Use prebuilt automation add-ons available from Trimble or third-party providers.
- Train your in-house team with certified Tekla courses.
Tips to Make the Most of Tekla Automation
- Start small: Begin with automating basic tasks and build from there.
- Document your steps: Keep records of macros and templates for reuse.
- Standardize practices: Ensure all team members follow consistent rules.
- Reuse components: Build a library of frequently used custom components.
- Stay updated: Upgrade to the latest version of Tekla for enhanced features and functionality.
- Collaborate: Share your knowledge with colleagues and encourage team learning.
Future of Tekla Automation for Structural Engineers
The future of Tekla Automation for Structural Engineers is bright. With emerging technologies like AI, Machine Learning, and Cloud Collaboration, the possibilities are expanding rapidly.
- AI and Machine Learning: These technologies can help suggest design improvements, predict potential clashes, and optimize material usage.
- Cloud-based models: Enable real-time collaboration and faster updates among global teams.
- Parametric automation: Helps model organic and complex structures with ease.
- IoT and BIM integration: Real-time monitoring and feedback will drive next-gen construction automation.
Shortly, engineers may rely heavily on automation to manage massive infrastructure projects with minimal manual intervention.
Conclusion
Tekla Automation for Structural Engineers is no longer optional—it’s essential for staying competitive. It saves time, cuts down human errors, enhances design quality, and makes structural engineering more productive and scalable.
Whether you’re working on a high-rise, bridge, or factory, Tekla’s automation tools make your job easier. With the proper knowledge and approach, even beginners can tap into the power of automation and transform their workflows.
Don’t wait to start. Begin learning Tekla Automation today, experiment with small projects, and see the massive difference it makes in speed, accuracy, and quality.
