Inspiration for Strand7 API (Application Programming Interface) Module 1

nwr9 · Mar 1, 2018

Hello,

(this is my first post on this forum FYI)

I'm looking for inspiration on the Strand7 API to develop a business case for adopting the module at my work place. I work at a civil and infrastructure consulting engineering company who use Strand7 extensively. I think the company would benefit greatly from the module but i need to be able to demonstrate the capacity for an adequate ROI if my company is to purchase the license. I understand Arup used the module to "optimise" beam sections of the Beijing Water Cube as one example. I'm hoping people can post ways in which they use the module at their firms, the more descriptive the better

We would most likely use Python or Excel VBA as the programming language to interface with the Strand7 DLL. If it helps, my company does a lot of bridge design, temporary works design, steel building design and jetty/wharf design.

Thanks in advance.

Regards,
Nick

IDS · Mar 2, 2018

I use the Strand7 API regularly. It is certainly a non-trivial task getting the system up and running, but once done the benefits are enormous.

I use the API through Excel VBA to generate Strand7 models, adjust data between runs or in staged analyses, and to read and plot output data from multiple files and/or load cases. I have a free sample spreadsheet available at:

https://newtonexcelbach.com/2012/02/19/strand7-api-getnode-functions/

and general information on using the API at:

https://newtonexcelbach.com/2011/09/23/using-the-strand7-api/

The download file has open source code, but is limited to functions accessing node data only, and needs a licenced copy of the API module to work.

The main benefits in use of the API are:
It is relatively simple to link an Excel spreadsheet to generate a complete model, so complex models can be generated automatically.
For non-linear staged analyses member properties can be automatically adjusted after each analysis stage.
Multiple member properties and layout and/or loading details can be quickly generated, and all the input files run automatically.
Generating output data from multiple load cases and/or multiple different models is easily automated.

Doug Jenkins
Interactive Design Services

http://newtonexcelbach.wordpress.com/

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Inspiration for Strand7 API (Application Programming Interface) Module 1

nwr9

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IDS

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