StructaThe answer
Start by deciding what you need to deliver: floor plans, frame elevations, member sections or reinforcement details. StructaCAD uses the ETABS model to generate these views. Check them against the model before exporting to DXF; importing geometry alone does not produce a complete drawing set.
Put it into practice
Check that the ETABS model has consistent story, grid, and section assignments.
Bring the model into a drawing-automation tool that understands structural objects.
Generate the drawing views instead of exporting only raw lines.
Open the DXF in AutoCAD and apply office standards, notes, and final checking.
An example of the output
Explore the drawing ↗Example output from StructaCAD. Your drawings will depend on the model and the options you choose.
Before you export
- Compare grids, stories, units and sections against the source model.
- Open the DXF and check dimensions, text and layers in your CAD application.
- Add your notes and review project-specific details before issuing the drawings.
Continue with the complete workflow
See the model inputs, drawing scope and editable output before trying the transfer with your project.
ETABS to AutoCAD: workflow and drawing examplesA little more detail
Do I need AutoCAD to use StructaCAD?
You can work in StructaCAD without AutoCAD open. To keep editing an exported drawing, use a CAD application that supports DXF. If your deliverable needs to be DWG, open the DXF in AutoCAD and save it in that format.
What happens when my model changes?
Bring in the updated information and regenerate the affected drawings. Compare versions before issue. Review any edits made to the DXF in AutoCAD separately when replacing an export.