What's New in StruCad V12 - Computer Control Systems
What's New in StruCad V12 - Computer Control Systems
What's New in StruCad V12 - Computer Control Systems
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What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong><br />
<strong>StruCad</strong><br />
The World’s Lead<strong>in</strong>g 3D<br />
Structural Steel Detail<strong>in</strong>g System
The World’s Lead<strong>in</strong>g 3-D Structural Steel Detail<strong>in</strong>g System<br />
What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong><br />
Important System Changes ........................................................................... 2<br />
Supported Operat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>Systems</strong> .......................................................................................... 2<br />
<strong>StruCad</strong> Version Password Change.................................................................................. 2<br />
CNC Post Processor Dongle <strong>Control</strong> ................................................................................ 2<br />
Important Changes for <strong>StruCad</strong> Version 13 and beyond................................................... 3<br />
<strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong> Features & Enhancements ...................................................... 4<br />
View Manipulation & Rendered Solids .............................................................................. 4<br />
Dynamic View Manipulation .............................................................................................. 5<br />
Rendered Solids................................................................................................................ 7<br />
The L<strong>in</strong>k Command ........................................................................................................... 9<br />
Enhanced Cutt<strong>in</strong>g............................................................................................................ 10<br />
Enhanced PutLib ............................................................................................................. 11<br />
Undo & Redo................................................................................................................... 12<br />
Improved Stair Macro ...................................................................................................... 12<br />
Improved Cam & DSTV Scrib<strong>in</strong>g ..................................................................................... 13<br />
AutoCad Interoperability.................................................................................................. 13<br />
ACAD Viewer .................................................................................................................. 14<br />
Improved XRef’s.............................................................................................................. 14<br />
Enhanced DPS – AutoView............................................................................................. 15<br />
Enhanced DPS – Detail................................................................................................... 16<br />
StruWalker Enhancements.............................................................................................. 17<br />
Joist Macros ....................................................................................................................18<br />
Vernon Tube Macro & Cam Output................................................................................. 18<br />
K<strong>in</strong>gspan MetlCon Cold Rolled System Updates ............................................................ 18<br />
K<strong>in</strong>gspan (Ireland) Cold Rolled System Updates ............................................................ 18<br />
SPF Viewer Scale Pr<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g .............................................................................................. 19<br />
Australian Data Set ......................................................................................................... 19<br />
<strong>V12</strong> Bug & Enhancements .............................................................................................. 20<br />
What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong> Page 1
Introduction<br />
The World’s Lead<strong>in</strong>g 3-D Structural Steel Detail<strong>in</strong>g System<br />
As a result of cont<strong>in</strong>ued development, <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong> offers significant additions and<br />
enhancements <strong>in</strong> many areas. This document is designed to expla<strong>in</strong> the new features and<br />
added functionality of <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong>. For more detailed <strong>in</strong>formation please refer to the onl<strong>in</strong>e<br />
help with<strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong>.<br />
Important System Changes<br />
IMPORTANT – Please read the onl<strong>in</strong>e help for the latest <strong>in</strong>formation.<br />
Version Compatibility<br />
A <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong> model cannot be opened <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> V11.2 or earlier.<br />
An earlier <strong>StruCad</strong> version model opened <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong> cannot thereafter be opened <strong>in</strong><br />
<strong>StruCad</strong> V11.2 or earlier.<br />
If you need to exchange models with<strong>in</strong> or outside your organisation you must therefore make<br />
sure everyone <strong>in</strong>volved will be upgrad<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong> at the same time.<br />
Import<strong>in</strong>g a model from an older version <strong>in</strong>to <strong>V12</strong> may cause mark numbers to change.<br />
Please do not import a model if it has been issued or you do not wish the mark numbers to<br />
change.<br />
Supported Operat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>Systems</strong><br />
<strong>StruCad</strong> Version 12 no longer Supports Microsoft W<strong>in</strong>dows NT4. Support for this operat<strong>in</strong>g<br />
system was withdrawn by Microsoft <strong>in</strong> 2002 and due to system changes can no longer be<br />
supported by AceCad. If you are us<strong>in</strong>g a W<strong>in</strong>dows NT4 system, or have any questions<br />
regard<strong>in</strong>g this matter, please contact your local AceCad Office or distributor for further<br />
assistance or <strong>in</strong>formation.<br />
<strong>StruCad</strong> Version Password Change<br />
To improve security with<strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong>, the Version 12 Password procedure has changed.<br />
Please read the supplementary documentation provided with your <strong>V12</strong> CD or consult the<br />
onl<strong>in</strong>e help via the <strong>StruCad</strong> Workspace once <strong>in</strong>stalled.<br />
CNC Post Processor Dongle <strong>Control</strong><br />
<strong>StruCad</strong> CNC Post Processors are now controlled by the dongle options 49 to 77. Please<br />
contact your local AceCad Office for action codes to activate your Post Processors.<br />
Page 2 What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong>
The World’s Lead<strong>in</strong>g 3-D Structural Steel Detail<strong>in</strong>g System<br />
Important Changes for <strong>StruCad</strong> Version 13 and beyond<br />
In this section you will f<strong>in</strong>d important <strong>in</strong>formation regard<strong>in</strong>g future releases of <strong>StruCad</strong>. You<br />
may wish to act now to take advantage of <strong>StruCad</strong> V13 and beyond.<br />
OpenGL® Compatibility<br />
When <strong>StruCad</strong> Version 13 is released <strong>StruCad</strong> will be fully reliant upon OpenGL®. The use of<br />
a non OpenGL® graphics display system will no longer be supported by <strong>StruCad</strong>.<br />
Should you wish to clarify if your system will support OpenGL® & <strong>StruCad</strong> V13, or should you<br />
wish to purchase an OpenGL® compatible graphics card, please contact AceCad Support via<br />
your local distributor or visit http://www.cad2.com/strucad_workstation.htm for more<br />
<strong>in</strong>formation.<br />
OpenGL® is a registered trademark of Silicon Graphics, Inc. <strong>in</strong> the United States and/or other<br />
countries worldwide<br />
What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong> Page 3
The World’s Lead<strong>in</strong>g 3-D Structural Steel Detail<strong>in</strong>g System<br />
<strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong> Features & Enhancements<br />
In this section we will be look<strong>in</strong>g at the new features & enhancements <strong>in</strong>troduced for<br />
<strong>StruCad</strong><strong>V12</strong>.<br />
View Manipulation & Rendered Solids<br />
<strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong> sees the <strong>in</strong>troduction of OpenGL® technologies <strong>in</strong>to both the Wireframe and 2D<br />
environments, thus allow<strong>in</strong>g features such as the ‘Dynamic View Manipulation’ and ‘Rendered<br />
Solids’ which proved popular <strong>in</strong> the <strong>in</strong>teractive environment, to be <strong>in</strong>troduced.<br />
To activate these features you will need to have ‘OpenGL®’ enabled <strong>in</strong> the environment you<br />
are us<strong>in</strong>g.<br />
1. To turn these features on or off you must first exit from <strong>StruCad</strong> leav<strong>in</strong>g only the<br />
‘Workspace’ open.<br />
2. Select ‘Tools’ > ‘Options’ from the drop down menu to open the ‘<strong>StruCad</strong> Options’<br />
dialog.<br />
3. On the ‘General Sett<strong>in</strong>gs’ tab check or uncheck the required option, Click ‘Ok’ and<br />
open the required environment. This will activate or de-activate the OpenGL® Graphics<br />
features such as Dynamic View manipulation and rendered solids.<br />
Page 4 What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong>
The World’s Lead<strong>in</strong>g 3-D Structural Steel Detail<strong>in</strong>g System<br />
Dynamic View Manipulation<br />
Your mouse can now be used to dynamically alter the direction from which the wireframe, 2D<br />
& Interactive environments are viewed. This provides three ma<strong>in</strong> mouse controls, view<br />
direction, zoom<strong>in</strong>g & pann<strong>in</strong>g.<br />
View Direction <strong>Control</strong><br />
The view direction or rotation of your screen view is controlled by a comb<strong>in</strong>ation of mouse<br />
buttons and the keyboard. <strong>StruCad</strong> uses the mouse po<strong>in</strong>ter and buttons to provide entity<br />
selection and on screen menus, therefore a comb<strong>in</strong>ation of keyboard and mouse controls is<br />
used to alter the screen view.<br />
Below you will f<strong>in</strong>d a list of keyboard and mouse comb<strong>in</strong>ations used to dynamically alter your<br />
view of the model, jo<strong>in</strong>t and draw<strong>in</strong>g.<br />
Press & Hold ‘Shift’ + Press & Hold Left Mouse Button<br />
This allows you to rotate the model to be viewed from a different direction <strong>in</strong> the wire frame,<br />
2D and Interactive environments. Dragg<strong>in</strong>g the mouse around the screen controls the view<br />
direction. Move your mouse ‘Up’ the screen to view from a lower angle (below) or ‘Left’ to<br />
rotate the view clockwise.<br />
Tip : Try us<strong>in</strong>g the ‘View’ command to quickly save and restore specific views.<br />
Press & Hold ‘Shift’ + Double click left Mouse Button<br />
This sets the centre po<strong>in</strong>t about which the view rotates. When you double click the screen a<br />
po<strong>in</strong>t is selected <strong>in</strong> the current view direction. For a more precise centre po<strong>in</strong>t selection such<br />
as the <strong>in</strong>tersection of wires at a jo<strong>in</strong>t use the ‘Target’ command.<br />
Press & Hold ‘Shift’ + Press & Hold ‘Left Ctrl’ + Press & Hold Left Mouse Button<br />
This locks the rotation around the current ‘Z’ axis of your UDS. This means that if the ‘Z’ is<br />
vertical on the screen that the view will only rotate clockwise or anti-clockwise it will not move<br />
up or down.<br />
Press & Hold ‘Shift’ + Press & Hold ‘Right Ctrl’ + Press & Hold Left Mouse Button<br />
This locks the rotation about a presumed horizontal axis across the middle of the screen.<br />
Mov<strong>in</strong>g the mouse left to right will have no affect but mov<strong>in</strong>g it up or down will change the<br />
view direction from above to below or vice-versa.<br />
What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong> Page 5
The World’s Lead<strong>in</strong>g 3-D Structural Steel Detail<strong>in</strong>g System<br />
The Target Command<br />
To aid with the manipulation of the view direction the command ‘Target’ has been<br />
<strong>in</strong>troduced. When the command is <strong>in</strong>voked you will be asked to select a po<strong>in</strong>t. This po<strong>in</strong>t is<br />
then used as the centre po<strong>in</strong>t about which the view is rotated.<br />
Zoom<strong>in</strong>g<br />
The mouse wheel or middle mouse button can be used to zoom <strong>in</strong> and out while <strong>in</strong> the<br />
Interactive, Wireframe & 2D environments.<br />
When us<strong>in</strong>g a mouse with a wheel button mov<strong>in</strong>g the mouse wheel ‘Up’ will zoom <strong>in</strong> and<br />
‘Down’ will zoom out.<br />
When us<strong>in</strong>g a 3 button mouse with no wheel, hold the Middle mouse button down and drag<br />
the mouse cursor up the screen to zoom <strong>in</strong> and down to zoom out.<br />
This zoom function has 2 modes for specify<strong>in</strong>g the centre po<strong>in</strong>t of the zoom.<br />
If you zoom <strong>in</strong> or out us<strong>in</strong>g the mouse wheel, the current mouse cursor position is taken as<br />
the centre po<strong>in</strong>t of the zoom.<br />
If the ‘Shift’ key is held down while the mouse wheel is used to zoom <strong>in</strong> or out, the centre<br />
po<strong>in</strong>t of the zoom will be taken as the current centre po<strong>in</strong>t of the screen.<br />
When us<strong>in</strong>g a 3 button mouse without a wheel, the zoom centre po<strong>in</strong>t is always the centre of<br />
the screen.<br />
AutoFit on <strong>New</strong> View<br />
The option ‘AutoFit on <strong>New</strong> View’ has been added to ‘CadModes’ and controls whether the<br />
model is zoomed out when the view direction is changed. When set to ‘No’ the current level of<br />
zoom will be ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong>ed when the view direction is change us<strong>in</strong>g a command such as View -><br />
ISO. When set to ‘Yes’ the model will be zoomed to fit the visible entities when the view<br />
direction is changed.<br />
Pann<strong>in</strong>g<br />
The view can be moved up/down/left/right or panned by press<strong>in</strong>g & hold<strong>in</strong>g the ‘Shift’ key<br />
while press<strong>in</strong>g and hold<strong>in</strong>g the right mouse button.<br />
Page 6 What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong>
The World’s Lead<strong>in</strong>g 3-D Structural Steel Detail<strong>in</strong>g System<br />
Rendered Solids<br />
Rendered solid has now been <strong>in</strong>troduced to the ‘Solid Display’ <strong>in</strong> the Wire Frame. Previously<br />
only the edges of modelled solids would be displayed, now the faces are rendered to provide<br />
a true 3D solid display. The ‘Display’ Command is still used to display or un-display the solid.<br />
The <strong>in</strong>troduction of Rendered solids has necessitated several new commands and functions.<br />
The Display and UnDisplay commands function the same as previously with the exception of<br />
the new options to switch the Solid / Wire Frame on or off. These two options have been<br />
added to a new type of toolbar icon on the left hand side tool bar.<br />
SolToggle<br />
Toggles the solid rendered Display ‘On’ and ‘Off’. When the icon<br />
is depressed the Solid is visible.<br />
Toggles the wire frame display ‘On’ and ‘Off’. When the icon is<br />
WireToggle<br />
depressed the wireframe is visible<br />
When the solid display is rendered it can be difficult to use snaps for <strong>in</strong>putt<strong>in</strong>g wires or<br />
select<strong>in</strong>g member ends when apply<strong>in</strong>g end types etc. We have <strong>in</strong>troduced two modes of<br />
render<strong>in</strong>g. These modes are known as ‘Work Mode’ and ‘View Mode’. Each mode has its own<br />
sett<strong>in</strong>gs for the level shad<strong>in</strong>g or transparency. Each mode is used <strong>in</strong> different circumstances.<br />
Work Mode is used whenever a command or part of a command requires the selection of an<br />
entity or po<strong>in</strong>t. This could also be referred to as a pick mode. Hav<strong>in</strong>g a lower level of<br />
transparency makes it far easier to use a select command but stills allows for the full rendered<br />
What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong> Page 7
The World’s Lead<strong>in</strong>g 3-D Structural Steel Detail<strong>in</strong>g System<br />
display to be used where required. No user <strong>in</strong>put is needed to swap from one mode to the<br />
other, however the ‘F3’ button can be used to toggle the display between Work & View mode<br />
when <strong>in</strong> the wireframe.<br />
Auto-Update<br />
The ‘Auto-Update’ option has been added to ‘CadModes’. If set to ‘Yes’ the update command<br />
is run after any command which adds, modifies or removes entities from the wire frame such<br />
as add<strong>in</strong>g or edit<strong>in</strong>g members.<br />
The Shad<strong>in</strong>g Command<br />
The shad<strong>in</strong>g command is used to control the shad<strong>in</strong>g or transparency sett<strong>in</strong>gs for the ‘View’<br />
and ‘Work’ modes.<br />
Click the Shad<strong>in</strong>g icon to <strong>in</strong>voke the<br />
‘Shad<strong>in</strong>g’ command. You will then be<br />
prompted to select a level of shad<strong>in</strong>g for<br />
each mode.<br />
There are 6 levels of shad<strong>in</strong>g rang<strong>in</strong>g<br />
from 0 which is no shad<strong>in</strong>g or completely<br />
transparent to 5 which is fully solid.<br />
The ColSol Command<br />
The ‘ColSol’ command is used to control the Solid<br />
Display colour. The user can def<strong>in</strong>e whether colour of<br />
members, fitt<strong>in</strong>gs, bolts & welds are controlled by the<br />
standard $ layer colours such as cyan for members etc,<br />
or the wire colour can be used.<br />
When us<strong>in</strong>g the wire colour the fitt<strong>in</strong>gs are coloured<br />
accord<strong>in</strong>g to the standard $ layer colours. Two options<br />
are available to def<strong>in</strong>e whether the fitt<strong>in</strong>gs, bolts and<br />
welds are coloured by the colour of the member they are shopped to and the member they<br />
are def<strong>in</strong>ed off.<br />
This gives the user the option to run the equivalent of the command ‘HiFit’ while <strong>in</strong> the wire<br />
frame without hav<strong>in</strong>g to load a jo<strong>in</strong>t.<br />
Bolt Representation<br />
Bolt representation has been modified to show the shank,<br />
nut and the gap for the washer. This will help to identify the<br />
bolt direction through solids.<br />
Page 8 What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong>
The World’s Lead<strong>in</strong>g 3-D Structural Steel Detail<strong>in</strong>g System<br />
The L<strong>in</strong>k Command<br />
The ‘L<strong>in</strong>k’ command allows the user to l<strong>in</strong>k jo<strong>in</strong>ts together. This means that when you have a<br />
situation where two wires do not touch and adjust<strong>in</strong>g the wireframe position is not possible<br />
you can still create a jo<strong>in</strong>t with the required member ends present. This removes the need <strong>in</strong><br />
many cases for the use of dummy members and connections.<br />
The command works by select<strong>in</strong>g a ‘Subord<strong>in</strong>ate’ jo<strong>in</strong>t and then a ‘Master’ jo<strong>in</strong>t. The<br />
Subord<strong>in</strong>ate jo<strong>in</strong>t can be a member end or any po<strong>in</strong>t along a wire member, and the Master<br />
jo<strong>in</strong>t can be a member end or any po<strong>in</strong>t along a member.<br />
The l<strong>in</strong>k between jo<strong>in</strong>ts is <strong>in</strong>dicated by a s<strong>in</strong>gle l<strong>in</strong>e with a 4 axis arrow represented at the<br />
middle.<br />
You can l<strong>in</strong>k multiple Subord<strong>in</strong>ate jo<strong>in</strong>ts to one master jo<strong>in</strong>t and so br<strong>in</strong>g several nonconnect<strong>in</strong>g<br />
members together.<br />
Load<strong>in</strong>g a l<strong>in</strong>ked jo<strong>in</strong>t is exactly the same as a normal jo<strong>in</strong>t, select either the jo<strong>in</strong>t, the l<strong>in</strong>k or<br />
another member <strong>in</strong> the jo<strong>in</strong>t to see all of them.<br />
The l<strong>in</strong>k itself has entity properties so that it can be copied or moved from one location to<br />
another, just as if it were a dummy member.<br />
Commands such as ‘endpo<strong>in</strong>t’ and ‘edprop’ can be used on the l<strong>in</strong>k entity to change its start<br />
and f<strong>in</strong>ish locations, or colour / layer properties.<br />
What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong> Page 9
The World’s Lead<strong>in</strong>g 3-D Structural Steel Detail<strong>in</strong>g System<br />
Enhanced Cutt<strong>in</strong>g<br />
Cutt<strong>in</strong>g Cont<strong>in</strong>uous Members<br />
While <strong>in</strong> a loaded jo<strong>in</strong>t which conta<strong>in</strong>s a cont<strong>in</strong>uous member, that is to say a member that<br />
does not have either end <strong>in</strong> this jo<strong>in</strong>t, it was previously impossible to cut the cont<strong>in</strong>uous<br />
member. It is now possible to cut the cont<strong>in</strong>uous member and save the cut to the end of<br />
another member <strong>in</strong> the jo<strong>in</strong>t. The cutt<strong>in</strong>g process is exactly the same as cutt<strong>in</strong>g a member<br />
end. The options for sav<strong>in</strong>g the cuts are controlled through new options <strong>in</strong> the ‘PutLib’<br />
command expla<strong>in</strong>ed later.<br />
Cutt<strong>in</strong>g Tapered Members<br />
Previously it would be necessary to model a tapered or full length cut <strong>in</strong> the jo<strong>in</strong>ts at each end<br />
of the member. It is now possible to cut a member along its full length from either end. The<br />
process of cutt<strong>in</strong>g the member is exactly the same as a normal cut except you will be<br />
prompted to select the side of the cut you wish to keep.<br />
Page 10 What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong>
The World’s Lead<strong>in</strong>g 3-D Structural Steel Detail<strong>in</strong>g System<br />
Enhanced PutLib<br />
The PutLib dialog has been completely<br />
redesigned to make work<strong>in</strong>g with<br />
cont<strong>in</strong>uous members easier and to allow<br />
the user full access to all PutLib options <strong>in</strong><br />
one w<strong>in</strong>dow.<br />
The tick box option ‘Over-Write exist<strong>in</strong>g’<br />
has been added, as well as the new<br />
sections ‘Current Member’ & ‘Object off a<br />
Cont<strong>in</strong>uous Member’.<br />
As can be seen <strong>in</strong> the lower image all<br />
<strong>in</strong>teractive objects are now highlighted to<br />
<strong>in</strong>dicate their status relat<strong>in</strong>g to the current<br />
member be<strong>in</strong>g putlib’d.<br />
The member which is be<strong>in</strong>g putlib’d is<br />
highlighted <strong>in</strong> a sandy / cream colour. All<br />
other members appear <strong>in</strong> the typical cyan<br />
blue.<br />
If an <strong>in</strong>teractive item is def<strong>in</strong>ed off or<br />
already associated with the current<br />
member then it will appear <strong>in</strong> purple. If the<br />
item is def<strong>in</strong>ed off or associated with<br />
another member it appears <strong>in</strong> dark grey.<br />
Any items appear<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> white are<br />
unassigned and created from a cont<strong>in</strong>uous<br />
member.<br />
You can add and remove objects from the<br />
current putlib selection by tick<strong>in</strong>g the<br />
options ‘Add or Remove’ <strong>in</strong> the current<br />
member and cont<strong>in</strong>uous member boxes.<br />
Once you click ok you will be given the<br />
option to select extra objects to add to the<br />
current endtype or to select an exist<strong>in</strong>g<br />
object to remove it.<br />
The Auto option allows <strong>StruCad</strong> to decide<br />
which member end, items created off the<br />
cont<strong>in</strong>uous members are saved. By tick<strong>in</strong>g the ‘Add or Remove’ option you can manually<br />
overwrite these sett<strong>in</strong>gs. Please see the onl<strong>in</strong>e help for further details and a practical<br />
example.<br />
What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong> Page 11
Undo & Redo<br />
The World’s Lead<strong>in</strong>g 3-D Structural Steel Detail<strong>in</strong>g System<br />
<strong>StruCad</strong> Version 12 now supports the ability to undo & redo multiple commands up to a<br />
maximum of 50 commands.<br />
Undo & Redo are available from the Toolbars us<strong>in</strong>g the icons (undo) & (redo) or<br />
by us<strong>in</strong>g the keyboard shortcuts, R for Redo and U for Undo.<br />
Certa<strong>in</strong> commands such as update, mark, issue etc cannot be undone or redone but <strong>StruCad</strong><br />
is able to bypass these commands and go back to the command before. The same applies to<br />
redo.<br />
Clos<strong>in</strong>g the model or load<strong>in</strong>g a jo<strong>in</strong>t will clear the current undo list and start a new one. The<br />
wireframe, 2D and <strong>in</strong>teractive environments have their own undo and redo lists.<br />
For a full list of commands supported/bypassed or that clear the undo redo list, please see the<br />
onl<strong>in</strong>e help.<br />
Improved Stair Macro<br />
The stair cad macro has been completely rewritten to<br />
support significantly more features and resolve issues with<br />
the previous version. The new macro utilizes the latest<br />
advances <strong>in</strong> the StruMac system. Listed below are the key<br />
features <strong>in</strong> the improved stair macro.<br />
Intuitive and user friendly keyboard controls. Allows<br />
stair flights and land<strong>in</strong>g to be added, orientated and<br />
edited us<strong>in</strong>g the cursor keys.<br />
Multiple flights and land<strong>in</strong>gs can be added <strong>in</strong> one<br />
operation of the stair macro and previous saved<br />
stair configurations can be loaded.<br />
User configuration for each flight/land<strong>in</strong>g with<br />
consideration of the impact to other land<strong>in</strong>gs/flights<br />
that are part of the same stair.<br />
Gui Macro <strong>in</strong>terface accessible for each flight and<br />
land<strong>in</strong>g. Gives the user control over the sett<strong>in</strong>gs for<br />
each section of the stair.<br />
Logic checks for m<strong>in</strong>imum and maximum go<strong>in</strong>g<br />
and rise.<br />
Page 12 What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong>
The World’s Lead<strong>in</strong>g 3-D Structural Steel Detail<strong>in</strong>g System<br />
Improved Cam & DSTV Scrib<strong>in</strong>g<br />
The Cam program (AutoCam & Camem) has been completely re-written to improve<br />
performance, precision and functionality. The Cam system can now be easily modified by<br />
AceCad to support new shapes us<strong>in</strong>g customizable templates. The cam system also provides<br />
support for scrib<strong>in</strong>g.<br />
The most significant change with regards to post processors is the <strong>in</strong>troduction of scrib<strong>in</strong>g<br />
data to the DSTV output. This facility allows scrib<strong>in</strong>g data to be added to the DSTV output file.<br />
The scrib<strong>in</strong>g facility allows CNC mach<strong>in</strong>ery support<strong>in</strong>g this functionality to mark the location or<br />
contours of fitt<strong>in</strong>gs us<strong>in</strong>g a scrib<strong>in</strong>g tool. This will speed up the fabrication process and help to<br />
limit mistakes. This feature has been implemented with the support of Kaltenbach & Ficep.<br />
<strong>New</strong> Cam and DSTV parameter files have been created to support these features.<br />
Further details are available <strong>in</strong> the onl<strong>in</strong>e help.<br />
AutoCad Interoperability<br />
To make the process of communicat<strong>in</strong>g us<strong>in</strong>g AutoCad file formats easier we have created<br />
two new commands which can be used <strong>in</strong> wireframe and 2D environments.<br />
ACADIN & ACADOUT import and export to a wide variety of AutoCad formats.<br />
ACADIN & ACADOUT support the follow<strong>in</strong>g list of file formats.<br />
DXF DWG DWF<br />
AutoCad 9 AutoCad 11-12 4.2 ASCII<br />
AutoCad 10 AutoCad 13 4.2 B<strong>in</strong>ary<br />
AutoCad 11-12 AutoCad 14 4.2 Compressed B<strong>in</strong>ary<br />
AutoCad 13 AutoCad 2000-2 5.5 ASCII<br />
AutoCad 14 AutoCad 2004-6 5.5 B<strong>in</strong>ary<br />
AutoCad 2000-2 5.5 Compressed B<strong>in</strong>ary<br />
AutoCad 2004-6 6.0 Compressed ASCII<br />
6.0 B<strong>in</strong>ary<br />
Batch conversion of <strong>StruCad</strong> SPF draw<strong>in</strong>gs is also available to all formats and versions <strong>in</strong> the<br />
table above but without the need to download and/or <strong>in</strong>stall any other software. Batch<br />
conversion is run from the <strong>StruCad</strong> Draw<strong>in</strong>g Explorer <strong>in</strong> exactly the same way as previous<br />
versions.<br />
What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong> Page 13
ACAD Viewer<br />
The World’s Lead<strong>in</strong>g 3-D Structural Steel Detail<strong>in</strong>g System<br />
In previous versions the AutoDesk VoloView application was l<strong>in</strong>ked to the Draw<strong>in</strong>g Explorer<br />
and used for view<strong>in</strong>g and pr<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g AutoCad draw<strong>in</strong>gs. This facility has now been replaced with<br />
our own AutoCad viewer us<strong>in</strong>g the same technologies as the ACADIN & ACADOUT<br />
commands.<br />
To open the AutoCad viewer click the DWG Viewer icon <strong>in</strong> the Draw<strong>in</strong>g Explorer. Select<br />
the location and File format you wish to view. Then use the zoom, layers and pr<strong>in</strong>t tools.<br />
Improved XRef’s<br />
The XRef command now supports SPF, DXF, DWG & DWF files <strong>in</strong> the versions<br />
specified <strong>in</strong> the table on the previous page. These can be attached to the Wireframe & 2D<br />
environments.<br />
We have added a ‘Move’ button to the XRef w<strong>in</strong>dow. This allows you to move an XRef once it<br />
has been <strong>in</strong>serted, <strong>in</strong>stead of attach<strong>in</strong>g and detach<strong>in</strong>g it.<br />
Select the XRef you wish to move from the list at the top and click ‘Move’. You will be<br />
prompted for a base po<strong>in</strong>t and then a new po<strong>in</strong>t.<br />
DXF, DWG & DWF are native file formats and trademarks of Autodesk Inc.<br />
Page 14 What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong>
The World’s Lead<strong>in</strong>g 3-D Structural Steel Detail<strong>in</strong>g System<br />
Enhanced DPS – AutoView<br />
We have added three new options to the AutoView command. These are to control the<br />
labell<strong>in</strong>g of mark numbers.<br />
Label Member Marks<br />
If this option is set ‘Yes’ the member marks are labelled. This is the same as previous version<br />
except that the marks are now labelled on the correct end of the member. This is the same<br />
end as the ‘Erection Mark’ on the Fabrication and Assembly draw<strong>in</strong>gs.<br />
Label Field Free Fitt<strong>in</strong>gs<br />
If this option is set to ‘Yes’ any Site Fitt<strong>in</strong>gs which are def<strong>in</strong>ed as ‘Field Free’ <strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong>teractive will<br />
be labelled on the draw<strong>in</strong>g.<br />
Label Field Another Fitt<strong>in</strong>gs<br />
If this option is set to ‘Yes’ any Site Fitt<strong>in</strong>gs which are def<strong>in</strong>ed as ‘Field Current’ or ‘Field<br />
Another’ <strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong>teractive will be labelled on the draw<strong>in</strong>g.<br />
We have now enabled the option to display all user attributes from 0 – 49 on General<br />
Arrangement draw<strong>in</strong>gs.<br />
What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong> Page 15
The World’s Lead<strong>in</strong>g 3-D Structural Steel Detail<strong>in</strong>g System<br />
Enhanced DPS – Detail<br />
We have added four new option to the Detail Command. These are to control the Display of<br />
Bolts, Grids & Hidden details.<br />
Bolt Graphics<br />
This option has three sett<strong>in</strong>gs. None, Symbol & Full. When set to<br />
‘None’ no bolt graphics will be displayed. When set to ‘Symbol’ the 2D<br />
block def<strong>in</strong>ed <strong>in</strong> the Bolttype file is used. When set to ‘Full’ the full bolt<br />
detail is displayed <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g the head and Nut.<br />
Hole Graphics<br />
This option has three sett<strong>in</strong>gs. None, Symbol & Full. When set to<br />
‘None’ no hole graphics will be displayed. When set to ‘Symbol’ the<br />
2D block def<strong>in</strong>ed <strong>in</strong> the Holetype file is used. When set to ‘Full’ the<br />
full hole detail is displayed.<br />
Grid L<strong>in</strong>es<br />
This option <strong>Control</strong>s whether or not to show Grid L<strong>in</strong>es on a detail view.<br />
Hidden L<strong>in</strong>es<br />
This option has three sett<strong>in</strong>g. Off, On & Full. When set to Off no<br />
hidden detail will be shown. When set to On only hidden plates, bolts<br />
cleats etc will be shown. When set to Full all hidden detail will be<br />
shown such a member’s web.<br />
We have also fixed numerous bugs with the detail command and the<br />
production of detail views.<br />
Page 16 What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong>
The World’s Lead<strong>in</strong>g 3-D Structural Steel Detail<strong>in</strong>g System<br />
StruWalker Enhancements<br />
Perspective View<br />
Click<strong>in</strong>g the Perspective icon will change the StruWalker View from the standard 3D<br />
view to a Perspective view. Click<strong>in</strong>g it aga<strong>in</strong> will change it back. This feature can be used with<br />
StruWalker .bsw files created <strong>in</strong> older versions of <strong>StruCad</strong>.<br />
StruWalker Fly<strong>in</strong>g Mode<br />
StruWalker now has a ‘Fly<strong>in</strong>g’ mode. This is controlled by the mouse po<strong>in</strong>ter and mouse<br />
wheel, allow<strong>in</strong>g the user to move around and through the StruWalker model <strong>in</strong> any direction.<br />
Click the Fly icon to activate fly<strong>in</strong>g mode. Use the mouse wheel to move forward or<br />
backwards at vary<strong>in</strong>g speeds. The ‘Space Bar’ can be used to stop the forward or backwards<br />
motion.<br />
Click and hold the left mouse button to rotate the view direction while mov<strong>in</strong>g or stationary.<br />
Move the mouse up to view up and down to view down etc. The Z axis is always fixed as<br />
vertical so you won’t end up upside down. Use the cursor keys on the keyboard to pan the<br />
view or move it up / down / left / right.<br />
What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong> Page 17
Joist Macros<br />
The World’s Lead<strong>in</strong>g 3-D Structural Steel Detail<strong>in</strong>g System<br />
We have created a new Joist macro system designed for<br />
modell<strong>in</strong>g US joist assemblies. The new connection macros<br />
BJB & BJC have been created along with new member sizes<br />
for the trusses and can be found under Bar Joists <strong>in</strong> the<br />
American section of the catalog.<br />
BJB details truss end connections to beams and BJC details<br />
truss end connections to columns.<br />
Apply the BJB or BJC macro to the end and use the GUI macro <strong>in</strong>terface to customize the<br />
connection. Try us<strong>in</strong>g the ‘Joist’ default snf file to get you started.<br />
Vernon Tube Macro & Cam Output<br />
The Vernon Tube Macro has now been <strong>in</strong>troduced to allow the modell<strong>in</strong>g of tube member<br />
ends. This is run <strong>in</strong> conjunction with the Vernon cadmacro to produce PMP data for runn<strong>in</strong>g<br />
Vernon tube cutt<strong>in</strong>g mach<strong>in</strong>es.<br />
K<strong>in</strong>gspan MetlCon Cold Rolled System Updates<br />
K<strong>in</strong>gspan MetIcon have made several changes to their system.<br />
Revised their section nam<strong>in</strong>g convention.<br />
Added new multichannel depths.<br />
Changed multichannel flange dimensions.<br />
This has required a number of modifications to connection macros, the section catalogue and<br />
ColdCam V3 databases.<br />
K<strong>in</strong>gspan (Ireland) Cold Rolled System Updates<br />
K<strong>in</strong>gspan (Ireland) have made several changes to their system.<br />
Modified the backmarks and hol<strong>in</strong>g of their MC, MTC and Multicleat fitt<strong>in</strong>gs.<br />
Legsize of the Multibracket KS-MB1A and KS-MB1B and the MTC cleats have been<br />
altered. The KSEBC and KSMC macros have also been updated<br />
The ColdCam V3 database has been changed to reflect the new cleat details.<br />
Page 18 What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong>
The World’s Lead<strong>in</strong>g 3-D Structural Steel Detail<strong>in</strong>g System<br />
SPF Viewer Scale Pr<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g<br />
The SPF Viewer freeware now has the ability to pr<strong>in</strong>t to scale.<br />
Australian Data Set<br />
We have now <strong>in</strong>troduced an Australian data set to <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong>. This will be available when<br />
us<strong>in</strong>g the English Language.<br />
When creat<strong>in</strong>g a new model select ‘Australia’ from the DataSet List.<br />
Note : Users who have already <strong>in</strong>stalled the Australian data <strong>in</strong>to V11 or below will need to<br />
alter the Model Parameters (model.par) with the local par folder and replace the %DATASET<br />
= UK l<strong>in</strong>e with %DATASET = AU to use the model <strong>in</strong> <strong>V12</strong>.<br />
What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong> Page 19
The World’s Lead<strong>in</strong>g 3-D Structural Steel Detail<strong>in</strong>g System<br />
<strong>V12</strong> Bug Fixes & Enhancements<br />
Type No. Description<br />
Analysis F0033006 Portal BS5950 Horizontal Load Cases 1-3 Removed and Disabled.<br />
Analysis F0033003 Regression capability added. It is now possible to save all output<br />
<strong>in</strong>formation for comparison with later versions.<br />
Analysis F0032251 Fixed problem with load cases dialog not appear<strong>in</strong>g when selected<br />
from the analysis menu.<br />
Analysis F0032224 Fixed issue with the member check be<strong>in</strong>g different for symmetrical<br />
tw<strong>in</strong> span frames over 35m when the load<strong>in</strong>g was the same.<br />
MatRTF F0032838 Various enhancements to the Dutch language version of MatRTF.<br />
Macro CPAS macro has been corrected to work at column tops requir<strong>in</strong>g<br />
a fillet to the corners.<br />
Macro CPA macro has been corrected to use the right bolts when<br />
multiple member are present. The slot which did not drill through<br />
the member correctly has been fixed.<br />
Macro FP macro has been modified to allow the bottom flange to be<br />
notched, coped or not affected.<br />
Macro FEP Altered GUI macro <strong>in</strong>terface to be more user friendly<br />
Macro F0032214 Albion ASPR macro no longer applies a slotted hole for cleader<br />
angles as this is no longer required.<br />
Macro F0032778 K<strong>in</strong>gspan (Ireland) : KSEBC & KSMC updated to support need for<br />
back marks and hol<strong>in</strong>g arrangements.<br />
Macro F0032777 K<strong>in</strong>gspan Metlcon : Modifed multichannel sizes and nam<strong>in</strong>g<br />
conventions.<br />
ColdCam F0032208 Albion ColdCam V3 updated to correct various problems and<br />
<strong>in</strong>clude updated section references.<br />
ColdCam F0032778 K<strong>in</strong>gspan (Ireland) : ColdCam database updated to reflect macro<br />
changes.<br />
ColdCam F0032778 K<strong>in</strong>gspan Metlcon : ColdCam database updated to reflect section<br />
size and nam<strong>in</strong>g convention changes.<br />
DPS F0032669 Fixed problem with Anchor Bolt Plan where grid l<strong>in</strong>es are<br />
positioned <strong>in</strong>correctly or grouped <strong>in</strong> the bottom left corner.<br />
Macro F0032577 Vern Macro now supports UB support member profiles.<br />
Macro F0032577 Vern Macro Setup file modified for improved clarity.<br />
MatRTF F0032579 Fixed problem with section sizes be<strong>in</strong>g sorted numerically <strong>in</strong>stead<br />
of by the order <strong>in</strong> the section catalog.<br />
DPS F0032382 Fixed problem with AutoNest crash<br />
2D Cad F0032285 Full support for Ch<strong>in</strong>ese characters added. Various issues with<br />
character spac<strong>in</strong>g and redundant characters have been resolved.<br />
2D Cad Various issues resolved with the DXFIN / DXFOUT command<br />
2D Cad Fixed issues with plott<strong>in</strong>g DXF files conta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g text and l<strong>in</strong>e widths<br />
be<strong>in</strong>g ignored.<br />
Shapes F0032146 Added the CREB7D shape. This is the same as CREB7 but allows<br />
the bottom lip to po<strong>in</strong>t down.<br />
Page 20 What’s <strong>New</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>StruCad</strong> <strong>V12</strong>
Local Distributor<br />
AceCad Software Ltd, Truro House, Stephenson’s Way, Wyvern Bus<strong>in</strong>ess Park, Derby DE21 6LY United K<strong>in</strong>gdom<br />
Tel: +44 (0) 1332 545800 Fax: +44 (0) 1332 545801<br />
www.acecad.co.uk<br />
sales@acecad.co.uk