Standardize steel connection design

Don't be afraid of parametric design

When you say "parametric design," many engineers get their hair on end because they see how they link their FEM tools to Grasshopper or similar tools. However, parametric design can work much more simply. And it's certainly nothing to be afraid of. 

The parametric templates have been a hot topic for IDEA StatiCa developers over the past year. So, what exactly are they?

In simple terms, parametric templates are connection templates that have been coded with common terminology. We have developed five templates for AISC users, based on Design Guide 39 and the AISC manual terminology. 

In the video below, you can see an animation of how the template is implemented. 

The parameters are set up in the operations line. For example, if you change the number of bolts above the flange, the size of the end plate adjusts automatically. 

These parametric templates were developed to help users become familiar with the concept. However, the main goal is to demonstrate that parametric templates can be created directly within the application using developer tools.

Custom parametric templates can help you to create:

• Custom company connections: Standardize repetitive simple connections in your company projects.
• Smart templates: Use the developer tools to program operations so that every time you change a parameter value, other related values are automatically modified.
• Speed the modeling learning curve for simple connections: Every user in your company can use the software to design simple connections without learning to model everything from scratch. Maximize your assets.

How to start? 

There are three tutorials about how to create parametric templates. These are step-by-step guides:

Tutorial: Flush moment end plate connections

Parametric design in IDEA StatiCa Connection - Basics (01)

Parametric design in IDEA StatiCa Connection - Advanced

If you prefer video tutorials, start with the video that covers creating your first shear tab parametric template. The tutorial begins at min 12.07.

Why parametric templates matters to you

If you’ve ever spent too long adjusting simple connection designs or double-checking calculations for something routine, you know how important it is to simplify this process. IDEA StatiCa Connection now caters to all aspects of steel connection design – whether complex or simple – without sacrificing precision or compliance with industry standards.

By utilizing Parametric Templates, you’re speeding up the design process by standardizing and unifying the design workflows.

It allows you to quickly select the most valid pre-defined template or easily create your own tailor-made one. Whether it’s base plates, simple beam-to-column connections, or gussets, the predefined templates let you handle these routine connections with just a few clicks.

And all this will save you hours and days spent on connection design projects.