Transferring drawing sets between Tekla Structures models is a common requirement in collaborative projects, version control, and when leveraging existing designs for new projects. The process involves extracting drawing data from a source model and importing it into a target model, preserving the drawing’s content and associations as much as possible. An example would be reusing standard connection details drawings from a previous project for a new, similar structure.
The ability to move drawing data facilitates standardization, reduces drafting time, and ensures consistency across projects. It allows teams to leverage proven solutions, avoiding the need to recreate drawings from scratch. Historically, this process was more cumbersome, requiring manual adjustments and potentially leading to errors. Modern Tekla Structures features have streamlined this transfer, minimizing manual intervention.
This article will outline the established methods for transferring drawing information, discussing various options and their implications, and explaining best practices to ensure a seamless and accurate transition.
1. Drawing export options
The selection of appropriate drawing export options fundamentally determines the success of transferring drawing data between Tekla Structures models. These options dictate the format, content, and degree of fidelity preserved during the transfer, directly impacting the usability and accuracy of the drawings in the target model.
-
Single Drawing Export
This option allows individual drawings to be exported as .dg files. It provides granular control for transferring specific drawings but is less efficient for large drawing sets. When employing this method, ensure the target model has corresponding object IDs, as the drawing will reference these. Failure to do so will result in drawing objects not being associated to model objects.
-
Selected Drawings Export
Enables the batch export of multiple drawings as .dg files based on user selection. This streamlined method is advantageous when transferring subsets of drawings. Careful selection based on drawing type or project phase ensures relevant information is transferred. For instance, exporting only fabrication drawings early in the process and assembly drawings later on.
-
Entire Drawing Set Export
Exports all drawings within the source model into .dg files. This is suitable for complete model transfers or archiving purposes, but it is important to note the size of the export file can become substantial. It is imperative to have enough storage when working with this kind of exporting method. Before proceeding make sure to consider model size and available system resources.
-
Using the “Copy to another Model” functionality
This is an advanced method used for specific types of drawings that allows drawings to be copied, with all of their links and settings, directly to another Tekla Model. It is important to note that not all drawing types can be exported through this functionality.
Ultimately, the selected export option must align with the project’s objectives and the nature of the drawing data being transferred. Each method presents trade-offs between control, efficiency, and data fidelity. An informed selection, coupled with a thorough understanding of the target model’s configuration, is essential for achieving a successful transition of the drawings. In particular, using the Copy to Another Model Functionality, while limited, can be the optimal solution for certain drawing types when a complete transfer of all data is required.
2. Target model setup
The configuration of the target Tekla Structures model directly influences the success of transferring drawing data. Inadequate target model preparation can lead to drawing errors, broken links, and a significant loss of data integrity, thereby negating the efficiency gained by transferring the drawings in the first place. A properly configured target model acts as a stable foundation, ensuring the imported drawings function as intended.
A critical aspect involves ensuring identical catalogs, specifically profile, material, bolt, and weld catalogs, exist in both the source and target models. Discrepancies can result in drawing objects displaying incorrect profiles or material grades, leading to fabrication errors. For example, if a drawing references a profile “HEA300” that is not defined in the target model, the drawing will either display an error or substitute an incorrect profile. Furthermore, customized settings such as drawing templates, view settings, and rule sets must be present in the target model to maintain visual consistency and drawing functionality. The absence of these elements can alter drawing appearances and impede automated drawing updates.
In conclusion, the preparation of the target model is not a preliminary step, but an integral component of the drawing transfer process. Thorough verification of catalog consistency, template availability, and custom setting alignment minimizes the risk of data loss and ensures drawings retain their accuracy and functionality within the new model environment. Ignoring these prerequisites can transform a time-saving measure into a source of errors and rework.
3. Drawing number conflicts
Drawing number conflicts represent a significant challenge during the process of transferring drawings between Tekla Structures models. These conflicts arise when the target model already contains drawings with identical numbers to those being imported. The consequences can range from drawing overwrites and data loss to the creation of redundant drawings, each referencing different model objects.
The root cause often lies in differing numbering schemes or project conventions between the source and target models. For example, a drawing numbered “A-101” in the source model may already exist in the target model, potentially representing a different structural element or assembly. Without proper management, the import process may inadvertently overwrite the existing drawing “A-101,” resulting in the loss of its associated information. Conversely, the import may create a duplicate drawing with the same number but linked to different objects, leading to confusion and potential fabrication errors. Resolving such conflicts requires a systematic approach. Options include renumbering drawings in either the source or target model before the transfer, or using Tekla Structures’ drawing management tools to automatically resolve numbering clashes during the import process. Failure to address these issues undermines the integrity of the drawing data and can negate the benefits of transferring the drawings in the first place.
The effective handling of drawing number conflicts is therefore paramount when transferring drawings. Understanding the numbering conventions used in both models, coupled with proactive use of Tekla Structures’ conflict resolution tools, is crucial for maintaining data integrity and ensuring a seamless transition. Ignoring these considerations can lead to substantial rework and potential errors in fabrication and construction.
4. Object association integrity
Object association integrity is paramount when transferring drawings between Tekla Structures models. Drawings contain annotations, dimensions, and other information linked directly to specific model objects. The process of transferring a drawing necessitates maintaining these links. When links break, dimensions may become detached, annotations may lose their references, and the drawing effectively becomes useless. Object association integrity is crucial in ensuring that drawings accurately represent the model after the export and import procedure. A loss of object association causes information disconnects and therefore reduces the integrity of the drawing.
The principal cause of broken object associations stems from discrepancies between the source and target models. Differences in object IDs, altered model geometry, and variations in profile or material catalogs will disrupt the established links. For example, if a column in the source model has an ID of “123” and is referenced in a drawing, that same column must exist in the target model with an identical ID and geometry. If the column is missing, or has a different ID, the drawing will lose its association. The correct mapping of user-defined attributes and the transfer of custom components and connections are also vital to maintaining object association integrity. Proper data mapping, object ID matching, and catalog consistency during import are all critical components in maintaining the drawings’ reliability and usability within the new model environment.
In summary, successful transfer of drawings hinges upon preserving the relationships between drawings and the corresponding model elements. Upholding this integrity requires meticulous attention to model consistency, object identification, and data mapping, guaranteeing that transferred drawings are not merely visual representations, but functional documents tied to the model’s components. Failure to prioritize object association integrity results in significant rework, compromised data accuracy, and a disruption to project workflows. Understanding and addressing these potential issues is therefore crucial for any project involving the exchange of drawings between Tekla Structures models.
5. Template adjustments needed
When transferring drawings between Tekla Structures models, modifications to drawing templates are often a necessary consequence. This requirement arises from variations in model settings, project standards, or client-specific requirements between the source and target environments. Failure to address these discrepancies can lead to drawings exhibiting incorrect formatting, inaccurate information, or non-compliance with established guidelines. For example, the title block in the source model’s drawings might contain project-specific information, such as client logos or project numbers, that are not applicable or accurate in the target model. Therefore, adjustments to the title block template become essential for reflecting the correct project context.
Furthermore, differences in profile and material catalogs between the models can affect the way information is displayed within the drawings. If the target model utilizes a different naming convention for materials, the template needs to be adjusted to correctly interpret and display this information. Similarly, custom properties and user-defined attributes (UDAs) implemented in the source model might not exist in the target model, necessitating template modifications to either map these properties to existing fields or accommodate new ones. Real-world scenarios often involve projects adhering to specific industry standards, such as those related to welding symbols or dimensioning practices. If the target model’s default settings deviate from these standards, template adjustments are crucial to ensure compliance and avoid potential errors in fabrication or construction.
In conclusion, the need for template adjustments is an intrinsic part of transferring drawings between Tekla Structures models. Addressing these modifications proactively is crucial for ensuring drawings are accurate, consistent, and compliant with the target model’s environment and project requirements. A failure to do so introduces the risk of errors, inconsistencies, and potentially costly mistakes during the downstream processes of fabrication and construction. Prioritizing template adjustments serves to maintain drawing integrity, streamlining the overall workflow and minimizing the potential for miscommunication.
6. Custom property mapping
Custom property mapping is a critical element in the successful transfer of drawings between Tekla Structures models. The consistent and accurate representation of project-specific information often relies on user-defined attributes (UDAs), which are custom properties attached to model objects. When drawings are transferred, the preservation of these UDAs, and their correct interpretation in the target model, hinges upon proper mapping.
-
Definition and Purpose of Custom Properties
Custom properties, or UDAs, are user-defined fields that store additional information about model objects beyond the standard properties provided by Tekla Structures. These properties can capture data such as fabrication status, material coating specifications, or project-specific identifiers. In the context of transferring drawings, the accurate mapping of these custom properties ensures that all relevant information is retained and displayed correctly in the target model drawings. Without proper mapping, crucial information may be lost or misinterpreted, leading to errors and rework.
-
Challenges in Mapping Custom Properties
The primary challenge in mapping custom properties arises from differences in the configurations of the source and target models. The target model may lack the specific UDAs defined in the source model, or the UDAs may exist but have different names or data types. These discrepancies necessitate a mapping process where each custom property in the source model is linked to its corresponding property in the target model, or a new property is created if necessary. The absence of a clear mapping strategy can lead to data loss or the misinterpretation of information in the transferred drawings, which undermines the purpose of using custom properties in the first place.
-
Methods for Implementing Custom Property Mapping
Tekla Structures offers several methods for implementing custom property mapping during drawing transfer. This includes utilizing the “Import Properties” functionality to bring in UDAs from the source model into the target model. Users must manually define the correspondence between properties in both models. Additionally, custom scripts or macros can be developed to automate the mapping process, especially when dealing with a large number of properties or repetitive transfer tasks. The selected method should ensure that all relevant custom properties are accurately transferred and linked to the appropriate objects in the target model, preserving the integrity of the drawing information.
-
Impact on Drawing Accuracy and Information Integrity
Accurate custom property mapping directly impacts the accuracy and information integrity of transferred drawings. When custom properties are correctly mapped, drawings in the target model will display the same information as those in the source model, ensuring consistency and minimizing the risk of errors. Conversely, incorrect or incomplete mapping can lead to drawings that lack crucial data or display incorrect values, which can compromise the fabrication and construction processes. Therefore, meticulous planning and execution of custom property mapping are essential for maintaining the reliability and usability of transferred drawings.
In conclusion, custom property mapping is an indispensable step in the process of transferring drawings. By carefully mapping UDAs and employing the appropriate mapping methods, project teams can ensure that all relevant information is retained and accurately displayed in the target model drawings. This meticulous approach safeguards data integrity, minimizes the potential for errors, and facilitates a seamless transition, ultimately contributing to the successful completion of the project.
7. Drawing update after import
The process of transferring drawings between Tekla Structures models culminates not in the import itself, but in the subsequent drawing update. This step is crucial for aligning the imported drawings with the target model, reflecting any discrepancies or modifications that may exist between the source and destination environments. Failure to update drawings post-import negates many of the benefits of the transfer, potentially leading to inaccuracies and errors in fabrication and construction.
-
Model Object Modifications and Drawing Synchronization
When drawings are imported into a Tekla Structures model, they retain their original links to model objects. However, if these objects have been modified or no longer exist in the target model, the drawings will reflect these discrepancies. Updating the drawings synchronizes them with the current state of the target model, ensuring that dimensions, annotations, and other drawing elements accurately represent the updated geometry. For example, if a beam profile has been changed in the target model, updating the associated drawing will automatically adjust the dimensions and annotations to reflect the new profile size. This synchronization is essential for preventing errors and maintaining data integrity.
-
Template and Setting Application
During the transfer process, drawings may be imported without inheriting the specific templates and settings of the target model. Updating the drawings allows these templates and settings to be applied, ensuring visual consistency and adherence to project standards. This is particularly important for title blocks, revision clouds, and other drawing elements that are governed by project-specific templates. By updating the drawings, these elements are automatically adjusted to conform to the target model’s standards, ensuring a uniform and professional appearance.
-
Addressing Drawing Number Conflicts and Revisions
As previously discussed, drawing number conflicts can arise during the import process. Updating the drawings after import provides an opportunity to address these conflicts and ensure that each drawing has a unique and appropriate number. Furthermore, the update process can generate revision marks and revision histories, documenting any changes that have been made to the drawings. This is critical for maintaining a clear audit trail and tracking modifications throughout the project lifecycle. The ability to efficiently manage drawing numbers and revisions is paramount for maintaining document control and preventing confusion.
-
Verifying Object Associations and Resolving Errors
Despite best efforts, some object associations may be broken during the transfer process. Updating the drawings allows for a final verification of these associations, highlighting any missing or incorrect links. This provides an opportunity to manually re-associate objects or correct any errors that may have occurred. Additionally, the update process can identify any other drawing-related issues, such as overlapping annotations or incorrect dimensioning, allowing them to be resolved before the drawings are used for fabrication or construction. This verification step is crucial for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the drawings.
In summary, updating drawings after import is not merely a supplementary step, but an integral part of the process of transferring drawings between Tekla Structures models. It serves to synchronize the drawings with the target model, apply project-specific settings, manage drawing numbers and revisions, and verify object associations. By prioritizing this crucial step, project teams can ensure the accuracy, consistency, and reliability of transferred drawings, ultimately minimizing errors and streamlining the overall project workflow.
8. Clash check for revisions
The integration of clash checking into the revision management process is a vital aspect of transferring drawings between Tekla Structures models. This process ensures the drawings, after transfer and any subsequent updates, accurately reflect the coordinated state of the design, preventing downstream errors.
-
Identifying Geometric Conflicts Arising from Model Changes
When a Tekla Structures model undergoes modifications after drawings have been exported and then imported into another model, geometric conflicts may arise. These conflicts occur when elements occupy the same physical space, potentially leading to constructability issues. A clash check, executed after drawings are updated in the target model, identifies these instances. For example, a drawing of a steel connection detail, transferred from one model to another, might not accurately represent the current placement of a supporting beam if the beam’s location was changed in the destination model. The clash check would then reveal this discrepancy, alerting the user to a necessary revision. The integrity of the transferred drawing is then restored to match the updated state of the Tekla model.
-
Ensuring Drawing Accuracy in Multi-User Environments
In collaborative projects, multiple users may be working on different parts of a structure simultaneously. This increases the likelihood of clashes occurring as design decisions evolve. The drawings of these individual elements must be checked to ensure that they do not create a conflict. A clash check integrated into the drawing transfer process serves as a quality control measure, validating that the imported drawings accurately reflect the coordinated design. For instance, if a detailer adjusts the positioning of a pipe support after the corresponding drawings have been extracted, a clash check against other structural components will detect any interference, triggering a drawing revision to resolve the conflict before fabrication.
-
Facilitating Revision Management and Communication
The results of a clash check provide valuable feedback for the revision management process. Detected clashes serve as triggers for updating drawings and communicating required changes to stakeholders. By incorporating clash checking into the workflow, the drawing transfer process becomes more proactive in identifying and resolving potential issues. For instance, if a clash is detected between a steel beam and a concrete wall, the structural engineer and architect can collaborate to adjust the design accordingly. The revised drawing, reflecting the updated design, is then disseminated to all relevant parties, ensuring everyone is working with the most current and accurate information.
-
Compliance and Regulations
A proper clash check post-drawing transfer helps ensure compliance with regulatory standards and construction codes. Often, these standards dictate minimum clearances between components or mandate specific design practices to prevent structural failures. Integrating clash detection into the revision process validates that the transferred drawings adhere to these requirements. For example, drawings depicting fire protection systems must meet specific clearance requirements around structural elements. A clash check ensures these clearances are maintained after the drawings have been updated, demonstrating compliance with fire safety regulations.
In conclusion, clash checking for revisions is an integral step in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of drawings transferred between Tekla Structures models. The integration of clash detection helps identify potential problems, facilitates communication among project stakeholders, and ultimately contributes to a smoother and more efficient construction process. Omitting this step increases the risk of costly errors and delays, underscoring its importance in the drawing management workflow.
9. Model origin consistency
Model origin consistency is a foundational element when transferring drawings between Tekla Structures models. Inconsistent model origins will introduce geometric inaccuracies in the transferred drawings, rendering them effectively useless. The relative coordinates of all model objects are defined relative to the model origin. If that origin differs, the location of elements, and consequently the dimensions on drawings, will be skewed.
-
Geometric Accuracy and Drawing Placement
If the origin is inconsistent between models, drawings may appear to be correctly linked to objects, but the objects will be positioned incorrectly in the drawing view. This leads to dimensions that are wrong and objects that are not aligned with each other as they should be. For example, a drawing of a steel beam detail might show the correct connections, but the beam itself may be placed several meters away from its intended location relative to the gridlines shown on the drawing. This severely undermines the usability of the drawing for fabrication and erection purposes.
-
Impact on Coordinate Systems and Shared Reference Points
When multiple models are linked together, they typically rely on a shared coordinate system defined by a common origin. If the models intended for drawing transfer use different origins, aligning these models becomes exceedingly complex, often requiring manual adjustments and transformations. For example, a drawing transferred from a model using a local coordinate system may not align with a drawing from a model using a global coordinate system, resulting in misalignments and errors when both drawings are viewed side-by-side for coordination purposes. Maintaining a consistent model origin guarantees that drawings generated from linked models seamlessly integrate within the shared coordinate space.
-
Drawing Template and Annotation Placement
The placement of drawing templates, title blocks, and annotations is also tied to the model origin. An inconsistent model origin will cause these elements to be positioned incorrectly relative to the model objects in the drawing view. This can lead to annotations that overlap objects, title blocks that are misaligned, and an overall unprofessional appearance. For instance, a drawing template designed to be centered on the drawing sheet may be shifted to one side if the model origin is different, resulting in a visually unbalanced and confusing drawing. Maintaining consistency in the model origin assures that drawing templates and annotations are positioned correctly, enhancing the clarity and readability of the transferred drawings.
-
Compatibility with External Applications and Data Exchange
Many external applications, such as CNC machines and BIM platforms, rely on consistent coordinate systems and origins. If the drawings transferred from Tekla Structures models with inconsistent origins, these external applications may misinterpret the data, leading to fabrication errors or data exchange failures. For example, a CNC machine may cut a steel plate to the wrong dimensions or location if the drawing data is based on an incorrect model origin. Maintaining model origin consistency ensures that transferred drawings can be seamlessly integrated with external applications, facilitating efficient data exchange and minimizing the risk of downstream errors.
Model origin consistency is not merely a technical detail but a fundamental requirement for successfully transferring drawings. Addressing model origin is an essential consideration when dealing with “how to export drawings from one tekla model to another,” leading to geometrically sound and reliable drawings for use throughout the project lifecycle. Failure to maintain it compromises the integrity of the design data and increases the likelihood of costly errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the process of transferring drawings between Tekla Structures models. The following questions and answers provide clarity on critical aspects of this operation.
Question 1: What is the primary cause of drawing inaccuracies after transfer between Tekla Structures models?
The primary cause is inconsistency in model origins. If the model origin is inconsistent between the source and destination models, geometric inaccuracies in the transferred drawings will exist.
Question 2: How are custom properties handled when transferring drawings between Tekla Structures models?
Custom properties, or user-defined attributes (UDAs), are mapped to corresponding properties or created within the target model. Failure to map UDAs can lead to data loss and drawing inaccuracies.
Question 3: What steps are essential to prepare the target Tekla Structures model before importing drawings?
The target model must possess identical profile, material, bolt, and weld catalogs. Furthermore, customized settings such as drawing templates, view settings, and rule sets must be present to maintain visual consistency and drawing functionality.
Question 4: What are the implications of drawing number conflicts during the transfer process?
Drawing number conflicts can result in drawing overwrites, data loss, or the creation of redundant drawings, each referencing different model objects. Renumbering drawings or utilizing Tekla Structures’ conflict resolution tools is necessary.
Question 5: Why is it necessary to update drawings after importing them into a new Tekla Structures model?
Updating drawings synchronizes them with the current state of the target model, reflecting any discrepancies or modifications. It also applies project-specific templates and settings.
Question 6: How does clash checking contribute to the accuracy of transferred drawings?
Clash checking identifies geometric conflicts arising from model changes, ensuring that the transferred drawings accurately reflect the coordinated state of the design and comply with regulatory standards.
Key takeaways include the importance of model origin consistency, custom property mapping, target model preparation, conflict resolution, drawing updates, and clash checking for maintaining accuracy and data integrity when transferring drawings between Tekla Structures models.
The next section will present a summary of best practices and recommendations for a successful drawing transfer process.
Essential Practices for Drawing Transfer
Adhering to specific guidelines optimizes the process of transferring drawings between Tekla Structures models. These recommendations mitigate potential errors and facilitate a seamless transition.
Tip 1: Validate Model Origin Consistency. Prioritize verifying that the model origins in both the source and target models are identical. Inconsistencies will introduce geometric inaccuracies into the transferred drawings. Confirm alignment before initiating any export processes.
Tip 2: Thoroughly Map Custom Properties. Meticulously map all user-defined attributes (UDAs) from the source model to corresponding properties in the target model. Ensure data types and units align to prevent misinterpretation. Create new properties in the target model if direct equivalents are absent.
Tip 3: Prepare the Target Model with Precision. Replicate all relevant catalogs (profile, material, bolt, weld) in the target model to match the source. Install all necessary custom components, connection details, and plugins used in the source model to assure that the detail is reflected and will work in the new model.
Tip 4: Proactively Resolve Drawing Number Conflicts. Implement a strategy for managing drawing number conflicts before initiating the transfer. Options include renumbering drawings in either model or utilizing Tekla Structures’ automated conflict resolution tools. Resolve all clashes to prevent overwrites or data loss.
Tip 5: Execute Drawing Updates Post-Import. Immediately update all transferred drawings within the target model. This action synchronizes the drawings with the current state of the target model and applies the model’s specific templates and settings.
Tip 6: Integrate Clash Checking into the Revision Cycle. Incorporate clash detection into the post-transfer workflow to identify geometric conflicts. Validate that all transferred drawings, especially revised ones, accurately reflect the coordinated design and comply with all applicable standards.
Tip 7: Confirm Object Association Integrity. Review object associations to ensure that all dimensions, annotations, and links are correctly connected to model elements in the target model. If not, then the process must be verified again until the issue is resolved.
Consistently applying these practices guarantees a more efficient, accurate, and reliable transfer of drawings. The integration of these actions into a standard protocol minimizes the risk of data corruption and drawing defects. Proper following of these tips can lead to reduced risk of errors and better transfer rate of your model’s drawings.
The concluding section summarizes the key elements of this guide.
Conclusion
The process of transferring drawings from one Tekla Structures model to another is a multifaceted operation, critical for project collaboration and data reuse. The preceding discussion has underscored essential elements: maintaining model origin consistency, diligently mapping custom properties, thoroughly preparing the target model, proactively addressing drawing number conflicts, mandating drawing updates post-import, integrating clash checking into revision cycles, and confirming object association integrity. These measures mitigate risks associated with data loss, geometric inaccuracies, and compliance violations.
Mastering these techniques empowers project teams to leverage existing designs, streamline workflows, and ensure accuracy across project phases. Consistent application of these principles is paramount to uphold the integrity of structural data and promote efficient construction practices. Continued vigilance in the application of these best practices is essential for all Tekla Structures users seeking to maximize the benefits of model-based collaboration and information sharing.
