ProSteel V17 2 Modeling Tutorial PDF

Bentley Building Training
ProSteel 3D STRUCTURAL
17.2 Edition
Bentley Institute Course Guide
TRN001250-1/0001
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Bentley ProSteel 3D STRUCTURAL

User Guide Copyright © 2007 Bentley Systems, Incorporated Do Not Duplicate
7/5/2007
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7/5/2007 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................... 1-1

WHAT IS PROSTEEL 3D STRUCTURAL? .................................................................... 1-2
TRAINING SETUP CHECKLIST .................................................................................... 1-2
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................... 1-2
SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................. 1-3
TRAINING ROOM INSTRUCTIONAL AIDS ........................................................... 1-3
FIRST DAY OF TRAINING ..................................................................................... 1-3
COPYRIGHTS ........................................................................................................ 1-3
TRAINING COURSE OVERVIEW.................................................................................. 1-4
CLASS CONFIGURATION ..................................................................................... 1-4
COURSE GOALS ................................................................................................... 1-4
COURSE PREREQUISITES .................................................................................. 1-4
COURSE FORMAT ................................................................................................ 1-4
ABOUT THIS MANUAL .................................................................................................. 1-5
DOCUMENTATION CONVENTIONS ............................................................................ 1-6
2 TEMPLATE AND MODEL SETUP ............................................................................................ 2-1

LESSON 1: PROGRAM STARTUP AND TEMPLATE FILE CREATION ....................... 2-2
OBJECTIVES ......................................................................................................... 2-2
EXERCISE 1: STARTING PROSTEEL 3D STRUCTURAL ................................... 2-2
EXERCISE 2: INITIALIZING THE STRUCTURAL APPLICATION ......................... 2-3
EXERCISE 3: SETTING THE SYSTEM VARIABLES AND SAVING
A DWT TEMPLATE ................................................................................................ 2-3
LESSON 2: THE STRUCTURAL OPTIONS (DEFAULT SETTINGS) ............................ 2-4
OBJECTIVES ......................................................................................................... 2-4
EXERCISE 1: ACCESSING THE SETTINGS ........................................................ 2-4
3 VIEWING AND MOVING AROUND THE MODEL ......................................................................... 3-1

LESSON 1: UTILIZING STRUCTURAL VIEW TOOLS .................................................. 3-2
OBJECTIVES ......................................................................................................... 3-2
EXERCISE 1: CHANGING MODEL VIEW ............................................................. 3-2
EXERCISE 2: SWITCHING TO AN OBJECT VIEW (OBJECT VIEW TOOLS)...... 3-3
EXERCISE 3: SWITCHING THE UCS TO AN OBJECT (OBJECT UCS TOOLS). 3-3
LESSON 2: UNDERSTANDING AND MANIPULATING CLIPPING PLANES ............... 3-4
OBJECTIVES ......................................................................................................... 3-4
EXERCISE 1: WHAT ARE CLIPPING PLANES..................................................... 3-4
EXERCISE 2: TOGGLING CLIPPING PLANES ON AND OFF ............................. 3-5
EXERCISE 3: CHANGING CLIPPING PLANE DISTANCES ................................. 3-5
4 DRAWING AND EDITING SHAPES AND WORKFRAMES ............................................................. 4-1

LESSON 1: GRIP EDITING............................................................................................ 4-2
OBJECTIVES ......................................................................................................... 4-2
EXERCISE 1: EDITING A SHAPE'S PROPERTIES .............................................. 4-2
EXERCISE 2: VIEWING A STRUCTURAL WORKFRAME'S PROPERTIES ........ 4-4
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Structural User Copyright © 2006 Bentley Systems, Incorporated Do Not Duplicate
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Table of Contents
LESSON 2: DRAWING STEEL SHAPES IN THE MODEL ............................................ 4-5

OBJECTIVES ......................................................................................................... 4-5
EXERCISE 1: THE STRUCTURAL SHAPES DIALOG .......................................... 4-5
EXERCISE 2: INSERTING STEEL SHAPES INTO OUR MODEL. ....................... 4-8
LESSON 3: EDITING STEEL SHAPES AND PLATES ................................................ 4-12
OBJECTIVES ....................................................................................................... 4-12
EXERCISE 1: THE ELEMENT MODIFICATION DIALOG ................................... 4-12
EXERCISE 2: USING THE MODIFY FUNCTIONS ON STEEL SHAPES
AND PLATES ....................................................................................................... 4-14
5 CREATING A WORKFRAME ................................................................................................... 5-1

LESSON 1: CREATING A WORKFRAME AND REVIEW ITS SETTINGS .................... 5-2
OBJECTIVES ......................................................................................................... 5-2
EXERCISE 1: CREATING THE SYMMETRICAL WORKFRAME .......................... 5-2
EXERCISE 2: VIEWING AN EXISTING WORKFRAME'S SETTINGS .................. 5-4
EXERCISE 3: VIEWING PROPERTIES OF AN EXISTING WORKFRAME .......... 5-4
EXERCISE 4: CREATING A NON-SYMMETRICAL WORKFRAME ..................... 5-5
LESSON 2: CREATING AND MANIPULATING DISPLAY CLASSES ........................... 5-8
OBJECTIVES ......................................................................................................... 5-8
EXERCISE 1: CREATING DISPLAY CLASSES AND ASSIGNING
OBJECTS TO THEM. ............................................................................................. 5-8
EXERCISE 2: CONTROLLING THE VISIBILITY OF THE DISPLAY CLASSES. 5-10
6 INSERTING AND MANIPULATING SHAPES ............................................................................... 6-1

LESSON 1: INSERTING STEEL SHAPES USING THE LINE ....................................... 6-2
OBJECTIVES ......................................................................................................... 6-2
EXERCISE 1: CREATING A TEMPLATE FILE TO MINIMIZE THE
SHAPE TABLES..................................................................................................... 6-2
EXERCISE 2: INSERTING STEEL SHAPES USING THE LINE METHOD ........... 6-4
EXERCISE 3: MODIFYING STEEL MEMBERS WITH THE DIVIDE COMMAND . 6-5
LESSON 2: ASSIGNING STEEL MEMBERS TO A DISPLAY CLASS .......................... 6-7
OBJECTIVES ......................................................................................................... 6-7
EXERCISE 1: ASSIGNING SHAPES TO A DISPLAY CLASS USING
THE DISPLAY CLASS DIALOG ............................................................................. 6-7
EXERCISE 2: ASSIGNING SHAPES TO A DISPLAY CLASS USING
GRIP EDITING ....................................................................................................... 6-7
LESSON 3: INSERTING STEEL SHAPES USING THE 2 POINT METHOD ................ 6-8
OBJECTIVES ......................................................................................................... 6-8
EXERCISE 1: INSERTING STEEL SHAPES USING THE 2 POINT METHOD ..... 6-8
EXERCISE 2: INSERTING REMAINING STEEL SHAPES ................................... 6-9
7 CREATING CONNECTIONS BETWEEN ELEMENTS .................................................................... 7-1

LESSON 1: CREATION OF A BASIC END PLATE CONNECTION .............................. 7-2
OBJECTIVES ......................................................................................................... 7-2
EXERCISE 1: CREATING A BASIC END PLATE CONNECTION ........................ 7-2
EXERCISE 2: CREATING AN END PLATE CONNECTION WITH AN
INHERENT GUSSET PLATE ................................................................................. 7-5
EXERCISE 3: CREATING AN END PLATE CONNECTION WITH TWO
INHERENT GUSSET PLATES ............................................................................... 7-8
EXERCISE 4: CREATING END PLATE CONNECTIONS AT THE REMAINING
INTERSECTIONS .................................................................................................. 7-9
LESSON 2: MODIFYING CONNECTIONS USING GRIP EDITING ............................ 7-11
OBJECTIVES ....................................................................................................... 7-11
EXERCISE 1: USING GRIPS TO MODIFY AN EXISTING END PLATE
CONNECTION ..................................................................................................... 7-11
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EXERCISE 2: MANUALLY MODIFYING ELEMENTS TO CHANGE A

CONNECTION...................................................................................................... 7-13
LESSON 3: ADDING THE NEW ENDPLATES TO THEIR DISPLAY CLASSES ........ 7-16
OBJECTIVES ....................................................................................................... 7-16
EXERCISE 1: ADDING THE NEW PARTS TO THE DISPLAY CLASSES .......... 7-16
8 CREATING CROSS BRACING AND BASE PLATES ................................................................... 8-1

LESSON 1: CREATION OF DYNAMIC AND STATIC BRACINGS ................................ 8-2
OBJECTIVES ......................................................................................................... 8-2
EXERCISE 1: PREPARING TO CREATE DYNAMIC CROSS BRACING ............. 8-2
EXERCISE 2: DEFINING AND INSERTING DYNAMIC CROSS BRACING ......... 8-4
EXERCISE 3: PREPARING TO CREATE STATIC BRACING............................... 8-8
EXERCISE 4: DEFINING AND INSERTING STATIC BRACING ........................... 8-9
LESSON 2: CREATING BASE PLATES ON COLUMNS ............................................. 8-13
OBJECTIVES ....................................................................................................... 8-13
EXERCISE 1: USING THE BASE PLATE COMMAND TO INSERT BASE
PLATES AT COLUMNS ....................................................................................... 8-14
EXERCISE 2: PREPARING THE ELEMENT FOR A MANUAL BASE PLATE .... 8-16
EXERCISE 3: CREATING A BASE PLATE USING THE PLATES COMMAND .. 8-16
LESSON 3: DRILLING THE BASE PLATE TO ACCOMMODATE ANCHOR BOLTS . 8-19
OBJECTIVES ....................................................................................................... 8-19
EXERCISE 1: DRILLING THE BASE PLATE ....................................................... 8-19
9 CONSTRUCTION GROUPS .................................................................................................... 9-1

LESSON 1: PROSTEEL STRUCTURAL GROUPING ................................................... 9-2
OBJECTIVES ......................................................................................................... 9-2
EXERCISE 1: INVOKING THE GROUPS DIALOG................................................ 9-2
EXERCISE 2: DETERMINING WHAT PARTS ARE IN A GROUP ........................ 9-5
EXERCISE 3: CONTROLLING MODEL DISPLAY VIA THE GROUPS
FUNCTION ............................................................................................................. 9-5
EXERCISE 4: ADDING COMPONENT PARTS TO A GROUP.............................. 9-7
10 PURLIN COURSES, WEB ANGLES, & SHEAR PLATE CONNECTIONS ................................ 10-1
LESSON 1: CREATING THE PURLINS ....................................................................... 10-2
OBJECTIVES ....................................................................................................... 10-2
EXERCISE 1: PREPARING THE MODEL FOR THE PURLIN ............................ 10-2
EXERCISE 2: CREATING THE PURLINS ........................................................... 10-3
EXERCISE 3: PREPARING THE PURLINS FOR THE JOINT DETAILING
PROCESS ............................................................................................................ 10-6
LESSON 2: COPING THE PURLINS AND ADDING WEB ANGLE CONNECTIONS . 10-8
OBJECTIVES ....................................................................................................... 10-8
EXERCISE 1: COPING THE BEAMS .................................................................. 10-8
EXERCISE 2: ADDING A WEB ANGLE CONNECTION.................................... 10-10
EXERCISE 3: ADDING A WEB ANGLE AND COPE SIMULTANEOUSLY ....... 10-13
LESSON 3: ADDING SHEAR TAB AND END PLATE CONNECTIONS TO TIE
THE PURLINS ............................................................................................................ 10-15
OBJECTIVES ..................................................................................................... 10-15
EXERCISE 1: ADDING A SHEAR PLATE CONNECTION AT THE BEAM
INTERSECTIONS.............................................................................................. 10-15
11 STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS ............................................................................................ 11-1

LESSON 1: CREATING THE HANDRAIL .................................................................... 11-2
OBJECTIVES ....................................................................................................... 11-2
EXERCISE 1: PREPARING THE MODEL FOR THE HANDRAIL ....................... 11-2
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EXERCISE 2: CREATING THE HANDRAIL ........................................................ 11-2

EXERCISE 3: ATTACHING THE HANDRAIL TO THE STRUCTURE ................. 11-6
LESSON 2: CREATING THE STAIRS ....................................................................... 11-10
OBJECTIVES ..................................................................................................... 11-10
EXERCISE 1: CREATING THE STAIR .............................................................. 11-10
EXERCISE 2: CUTTING THE STAIRS INTO OUR STRUCTURE .................... 11-16
EXERCISE 3: MODIFYING THE STAIR STRINGER WHERE IT
INTERSECTS GRADE ....................................................................................... 11-18
LESSON 3: THE LADDER AND FRAME STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS AND
CREATING CUSTOM WORKFRAMES ..................................................................... 11-20
OBJECTIVES ..................................................................................................... 11-20
EXERCISE 1: CREATING A LADDER ............................................................... 11-20
EXERCISE 2: CREATING A FRAME ................................................................. 11-24
EXERCISE 3: CREATING A CUSTOM FRAME (VIEW) .................................... 11-29
12 POSITIONING AND MATERIAL TAKEOFFS....................................................................... 12-1

LESSON 1: POSITIONING THE MODEL .................................................................... 12-2
OBJECTIVES ....................................................................................................... 12-2
EXERCISE 1: SETTING THE DEFAULTS FOR POSITIONING .......................... 12-2
EXERCISE 2: DEFINING POSITION FLAGS ...................................................... 12-6
EXERCISE 3: POSITIONING THE MODEL ....................................................... 12-10
LESSON 2: CREATING A PARTS LIST .................................................................... 12-12
OBJECTIVES ..................................................................................................... 12-12
EXERCISE 1: CREATING THE PARTS LIST .................................................... 12-12
EXERCISE 2: EDITING THE PARTS LIST DATA AND FORMAT ..................... 12-14
EXERCISE 3: GENERATING THE REPORT .................................................... 12-16
LESSON 1: LOADING AND REVIEWING THE 2D DETAIL CENTER ........................ 13-2
OBJECTIVES ....................................................................................................... 13-2
EXERCISE 1: LOADING THE DETAIL CENTER ................................................. 13-2
EXERCISE 2: THE LAYOUT OF THE 2D DETAIL CENTER ............................... 13-3
EXERCISE 3: LOADING A DETAIL STYLE ......................................................... 13-5
LESSON 2: ASSIGNING A FRAME TO A STYLE AND CREATING A 2D
DELIVERABLE DRAWING........................................................................................... 13-7
OBJECTIVES ....................................................................................................... 13-7
EXERCISE 1: ASSIGNING THE FRAME TO A DETAIL STYLE ......................... 13-7
EXERCISE 2: PROCESSING THE FRAME THROUGH THE DETAIL
CENTER ............................................................................................................... 13-8
EXERCISE 3: PREPARING THE DELIVERABLE DRAWING TO ACCEPT
OUR DETAIL BLOCK ........................................................................................... 13-9
EXERCISE 4: INSERTING OUR FRAME DETAIL INTO OUR
DELIVERABLE DRAWING ................................................................................. 13-10
EXERCISE 5: INSERTING AN ELEVATION VIEW INTO OUR DETAIL
SHEET ................................................................................................................ 13-11
LESSON 3: CREATING MANUAL DETAILS WITHOUT A FRAME........................... 13-14
OBJECTIVES ..................................................................................................... 13-14
EXERCISE 1: PREPARING THE MODEL FOR THE MANUAL DETAIL ........... 13-14
EXERCISE 2: PREPARING THE DETAIL CENTER FOR THE MANUAL
DETAIL AND PRODUCING THE DETAIL VIEW ............................................... 13-15
EXERCISE 3: DIMENSIONING THE DETAIL AND FINISHING THE
PROCESS .......................................................................................................... 13-16
LESSON 4: MODIFYING THE MODEL AND AUTOMATICALLY UPDATING
THE DETAIL DRAWINGS .......................................................................................... 13-22
OBJECTIVES ..................................................................................................... 13-22
EXERCISE 1: MODIFYING THE MODEL .......................................................... 13-22
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1 Introduction
This chapter provides standard Bentley ProSteel course setup instructions. An overview of the
course is also provided.
WHAT IS PROSTEEL STRUCTURAL? 1-2
TRAINING SETUP CHECKLIST 1-2
TRAINING COURSE OVERVIEW 1-4
ABOUT THIS MANUAL 1-5
DOCUMENTATION CONVENTIONS 1-6
Bentley ProSteel 3D
STRUCTURAL User Copyright © 2006 Bentley Systems, Incorporated Do Not Duplicate
7/5/2007 1-1
What is Prosteel 3d STRUCTURAL?
WHAT IS PROSTEEL 3D STRUCTURAL?

Bentley ProSteel STRUCTURAL is a 3D steel construction application for AutoCAD. If you have
previously used traditional AutoCAD tools or other 2D applications to create steel construction
drawings, you will need to adjust to a new method of creating drawings. ProSteel Structural allows
you to model your actual structure in a manner similar to actual erection of the structure. This
model is then used by the program to automatically generate the required 2D shop drawings.
The standard set of AutoCAD commands and menus are available during the design session.
AutoCAD provides graphic symbology, while ProSteel STRUCTURAL provides state of the art
Object ARX technology with our own custom objects. This equates to steel shapes being fully
intelligent but still can be treated as standard AutoCAD elements. This means that if a member is
"stretched" to increase its length, the shape knows that it has been lengthened. If this shape has
been cut along another shape, it knows to adjust its cutting edges. Right-click on the shape and you
can change all of the characteristics and features of the shape.
TRAINING SETUP CHECKLIST

This checklist will assist you in setting up and organizing your facility's training room for an
ProSteel training session. It describes system requirements, software requirements and
installation, as well as training room instructional aids and "First Day of Training"
recommendations. Adherence to these guidelines will help provide students with a positive
learning environment and an opportunity to utilize this certified training to its fullest.
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
Bentley requires a personal computer for each student in order to realize the maximum benefit of
the training courses. Maximum class size is 8 students. The following are system requirements for
optimal software performance.
Processor Intel Pentium-based PC

Operating System Microsoft Windows 2000, Service Pack 4 or later OR
Microsoft Windows XP Professional, Service Pack 1a or later
Microsoft Office Microsoft Office Professional Edition (Access and Excel 2000 or XP)
Internet Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 or greater
Memory 512MB (More memory typically results in better performance.)
Hard Disk 1.5GB minimum free hard disk space
Input Device Any industry-standard input device supported by Windows
Output Device Any industry-standard output device supported by Windows
Video Graphics Any industry-standard video card/monitor
Card
CAD Engines AutoCAD: 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008
Databases Supports Oracle 8.1.6, 8.1.7 and 9i
SQL Server 7.0, 2000, or 2005
MS Access 2000 or XP and MSDE 2000 databases.
Before you install the Bentley ProSteel software, you should confirm that you have adequate
hardware and software capabilities to install and use the product.
Bentley ProSteel 3D
STUCTURAL User Copyright © 2006 Bentley Systems, Incorporated Do Not Duplicate
7/5/2007 1-2
Training Setup Checklist
SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS
 All systems must have AutoCAD software fully installed. AutoCAD does not need to be
authorized beyond evaluation mode. The AutoCAD application should be launched at least
once before ProSteel is installed.
 All required modules from the ProSteel Structural product suite should be installed and
executed in order to set the operation of the software into evaluation mode. This will
authorize the software for a 10-day period. It is preferred that the evaluation mode NOT be set
prior to 1-2 days before the training session is scheduled to begin. If systems are unable to be
set to evaluation mode, you must contact the consultant prior to arrival so the required
temporary licenses can be obtained and brought to your facility.
 In many instances, a working ProSteel project that includes the drawing files used in this
training session will also be provided.
TRAINING ROOM INSTRUCTIONAL AIDS

 An LCD projector that can be connected to a laptop computer. Projector should deliver a
screen resolution of 1024 x 768 or better.
 A white board with dry erase markers, or large easel-mounted notepad for the instructor.
 All training materials received from Bentley.
 Power strip/extension cord for instructor's laptop computer.
FIRST DAY OF TRAINING

 Please arrange early access to the facility for the Bentley consultant to ensure proper
application installation and setup of the training room. Time may be needed to verify the
installation of software and modules, licensing of the training systems, and installation of all
necessary training files by the Bentley consultant.
 Promptly assemble all students to ensure time for introductions and training course overview.
Ensure that the training materials are available for the students.
 Provide a contact with phone number in case of system/network problems.
 If special security measures are in place, please work with the Bentley consultant to arrange
for entry and exit from building, as well as access to and from restroom facilities.
COPYRIGHTS
It is a violation under the copyright laws of the United States and other countries to copy,
distribute, or use for other purposes than intended manuals and materials registered by Bentley
Systems.
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Training Course Overview
TRAINING COURSE OVERVIEW
CLASS CONFIGURATION
To provide optimum trainer to student ratio and to ensure hands-on learning experiences for each
student, Bentley recommends the following class configuration:
 Eight (8) students maximum
 One (1) workstation per student
COURSE GOALS
This course is intended for new and existing users. Our goal is to train students to begin using
ProSteel Structural successfully on a project. A user experienced with previous versions of
ProSteel software will learn the modeling concepts introduced with the new product as quickly as
possible.
COURSE PREREQUISITES
This course assumes the following experience:
 AutoCAD 2D and 3D
 Students should have a minimum of six months experience with AutoCAD 2D and some
familiarity with 3D commands and concepts.
COURSE FORMAT
 Lecture: The instructor will introduce and explain a concept or procedure. Students should
listen carefully and take notes of key points. This is not an appropriate time to use the
workstation in any way!
 Example: The instructor will demonstrate an example of the feature or procedure just
described. Students should watch the steps carefully during this section.
 Exercise(s): Students will perform the exercise on their individual workstations. During this
session the instructor will circle the classroom and resolve problems encountered by the
students.
 Summary: Be sure all your questions are answered before the instructor moves on to the next
topic. Ask Questions!
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About This Manual
ABOUT THIS MANUAL

This section provides a brief description of the content in each chapter of this Basic Training
Manual.
 Chapter 1: This chapter provides an overview of the course format and system requirements.
 Chapter 2: This chapter provides instructions that describe how to start and load the software,
create a Bentley ProSteel STRUCTURAL model template file, and set ProSteel
STRUCTURAL Options and/or default settings.
 Chapter 3: This chapter previews the various Structural tools available to view and move
around the drawing as well as changing the UCS and clipping planes.
 Chapter 4: This chapter introduces the various methods of drawing, grip editing and
manipulating steel shapes and workframes.
 Chapter 5: In this chapter, we will create a structural "Workframe", learn how to modify it and
learn to control how objects and shapes are displayed while modeling.
 Chapter 6: In this chapter, we will be inserting steel shapes into the drawing and learning how
to modify them and assign them to "Display Classes".
 Chapter 7: In this chapter, we will learn to create and modify joint connections and investigate
the impact of "Grouping" connection components for easier display and detailing control.
 Chapter 8: This chapter will contain information on creating Cross bracing utilizing both
"Static" and fully "dynamic" methods. We will also insert base plates and use the drilling
function inherent in the ProSteel Structural software.
 Chapter 9: This chapter will contain information on grouping interconnected parts into
"Construction Groups."
 Chapter 10: This chapter contains information on creating purlin courses within our structure.
Once created we will modify these to split them into individual pieces. We will then modify
the pieces by adding copes using the Coping function, Web Angles and Shear tabs.
 Chapter 11: In this chapter we will add structural elements to our drawing such as Stairs,
Handrails, Frames and Ladders.
 Chapter 12: In this chapter we will learn to "Position" the model and generate reports.
 Chapter 13: In this chapter we will be introduced to the 2D Detail Center and will learn to
create our frame deliverable drawings.
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Documentation conventions
DOCUMENTATION CONVENTIONS
A number of conventions are maintained throughout ProSteel documentation to improve the
identification and understanding of the information presented.
CONVENTION DESCRIPTION
NOTE: Precedes information of general importance.
HINT: Precedes optional time saving information.
WARNING: Precedes information about actions that should not be performed under normal
operating conditions.
FILENAMES Directory paths and file names are italicized.
Example: \PROSTEEL 3D directory, AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
Program Code Excerpts from text or basic script files and script variables and statements appear in the
font shown.
INPUT Commands or information that must be manually entered is bolded in the font shown.
Menu & Menu commands and dialog buttons appear in a Sans Serif font that stands out from
Buttons normal body text.
Example: After selecting Setup > Drawing Preferences from the Tools menu, press
the OK button in the dialog.
Dialogs Dialog and database table names are italicized.
Field_Names Example: The Preferences dialog.
Select Indicates that the command must be executed from a menu or dialog.
Pick Indicates an item (component or point) that may be picked on a drawing.
Throughout this manual, the menu command sequence required to execute a
command will be explicitly defined in the text, while the associated toolbar button is
presented in the margin.
Note The various dialogs, toolbars etc. illustrated throughout this tutorial were captured running
ACAD 2008 in the Windows XP environment.
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2 Template and Model
Setup
This chapter covers the creation of an AutoCAD "DWT" template file used when starting a new
Bentley ProSteel model. In addition, you will learn how to set ProSteel options and/or default
settings.
There are two (2) lessons in this chapter. Each lesson begins with a list of objectives that define the
information that you will learn in that lesson. A number of exercises are provided in each lesson
that are designed to teach the student the topics listed in the Objectives section at the start of each
lesson.
LESSON 1: PROGRAM STARTUP AND TEMPLATE FILE

CREATION 2-2
LESSON 2: THE PROSTEEL OPTIONS (DEFAULT SETTINGS) 2-5
Bentley ProSteel 3D
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Lesson 1: Program Startup and Template File Creation
LESSON 1: PROGRAM STARTUP AND TEMPLATE FILE CREATION
OBJECTIVES
The objectives of Lesson 1 are as follows:
 Learn how to start the ProSteel software.

 Learn how to initialize the application.
 Learn how to set the AutoCAD system variables.
 Learn how to create an AutoCAD "DWT" file to save the system variables.
EXERCISE 1: STARTING PROSTEEL 3D

In this exercise, you will learn how to start the ProSteel 3D software. The main application menu
and toolbar are also introduced.
 TO START PROSTEEL
1. Install, configure, and authorize the software as instructed in the Installation and
Configuration Guide that came with your CD.
2. Start ProSteel (Windows Start menu > Programs > ProSteel 3D v17.2 > ProSteel 3D v17.2 for
AutoCAD 2008).
AutoCAD will start and load the ProSteel 3D menu and toolbars, which provides access to an
integrated set of ProSteel Design applications and supplemental utilities as shown below.
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Note If the AutoCAD Startup dialog loads first, select the Start from Scratch option, followed
by the OK button to load the ProSteel Design Applications.
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EXERCISE 2: INITIALIZING THE PROSTEEL APPLICATION

In this exercise, you will learn how to initialize the ProSteel application in order to make its
commands active.
Note If you want to work on an existing drawing, you can either open it before you start, or if
you are already in ProSteel, you can simply open it from there.
 TO START PROSTEEL
1. Start ProSteel (Programs>ProSteel 3D v17.2> ProSteel 3D v17.2 for AutoCAD 2008).
The ProSteel application will load and the ProSteel menu will appear with the other AutoCAD
menus.
2. Next, initialize the application (ProSteel > Zoom/Views > Isometric Overview).
EXERCISE 3: SETTING THE SYSTEM VARIABLES AND SAVING A DWT TEMPLATE

In this exercise you will learn how to set AutoCAD system variables that are relevant to a ProSteel
drawing session and how to save these settings as a DWT file template. This template may then be
used to create future ProSteel models.
 SETTING THE AUTOCAD SYSTEM VARIABLES

1. When the ProSteel application is initialized, the Measurement Unit dialog displays to enable
you to set the unit of measurement to be used in your project. Enable the Metric radio button
and then press OK.
2. Open the Drawing Units dialog (Type ddunits and press Enter).
Set the Length Type to Decimal and the Units to scale inserted content to Millimeters by selecting
these values from their respective drop down lists. Press OK to apply these settings and close
the dialog.
3. Turn off the display of AutoCAD proxy graphics. Type Proxygraphics at the command line
and press Enter. Type 0 then Enter to turn this setting OFF.
 SAVING THE VARIABLES TO A DWT TEMPLATE FILE.

1. Save the drawing template (File menu > Save As…).
From the Files of Type drop down select AutoCAD Drawing Template File (*.dwt). Type
3D_PROMET in the File Name field and then press Save. When prompted for a Template
Description type ProSteel Base Metric Template, then press OK.
2. Exit AutoCAD (File menu > Exit).

3. Start ProSteel (Windows Start menu > Programs > ProSteel 3D v17.2 > ProSteel 3D v17.2 for
ACAD 2008).
4. Select File > New.
5. Select the 3D_PROMET template from the Select Template dialog.
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Lesson 2: The ProSteel Options (Default Settings)
6. Refresh the display view to initialize the ProSteel application. (ProSteel menu > Zoom/Views >
Isometric Overview).
7. Save the new drawing (File menu > Save As…).
Select the default directory, then type Steel in the File Name field and press Save.
Note This Template file should contain all layering, text styles and dimensions styles to be
used in the production of your models and deliverable drawings. For our training session
we will focus only on the "base" settings listed above.
LESSON 2: THE PROSTEEL OPTIONS (DEFAULT SETTINGS)
OBJECTIVES
The objectives of this Lesson are as follows:
 Learn how to access the ProSteel Options dialog.

 Learn what is controlled by the settings in this dialog.
EXERCISE 1: ACCESSING THE SETTINGS

1. Open the ProSteel Options (ProSteel menu > ProSteel 3D Options) dialog shown below.
Hint You can also access the dialog by right-clicking within the current ProSteel model
drawing area, and selecting ProSteel 3D > Options from the context menu.
This multi-tabbed dialog contains the default settings data, or global settings information for
the model. Assign the Grips tab parameters as illustrated below.
2. Assign the Shapes tab parameters as illustrated below.
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3. Select the Shape Label option. Assign the label parameters as shown below, then press OK.
4. Select the Sketch display button. Assign the section parameters as shown below, then press
OK.
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5. Assign the Plates option parameters as shown below.
6. Select the Plate Label option. Assign the label parameters as shown below, then press OK.
7. Select the Plate Description option. Assign the parameters as shown below, then press OK.
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8. Assign the Bolts tab parameters as shown below.
9. Assign the Work Frame tab parameters as shown below.
10. Assign the Values tab parameters as shown below.
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11. Assign the LogLinks tab parameters as shown below.

Note - the “allow additional data” checkbox only affects DetailCenter
12. Assign the Revision Check tab parameters as shown below.

Note – do not set these to “Ask to delete position numbers” as it becomes very annoying.
13. Assign the Options tab parameters as shown below
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14. Assign the Colors1 tab parameters as shown below.
15. If you click in a field and press the Pick Color button, the following dialog displays providing
you with a color palette to assist you in choosing a color for that field. Close this dialog
without making any changes
16. Assign the Colors2 tab parameters as shown below.
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17. Assign the Monitor colours tab parameters as shown below.
18. When all of the settings have been set, press OK to apply all of the settings to the ProSteel
model.
19. Save the model (File menu > Save).
Hint AutoCAD options must have the "Right Mouse Button Click" set to be the AutoCAD
context menu. Additionally the selection method must have Noun/Verb selection enabled.
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3 Viewing and Moving Around the Model
In this chapter, you will learn about ProSteel’s view manipulation functions. The ProSteel tools
provided to adjust the AutoCAD UCS will also be covered.
There are two (2) Lessons in Chapter. Each Lesson begins with a list of objectives that define the
information that you will learn in that Lesson. A number of Exercises are provided in each Lesson,
which are designed to teach you the stated objectives.
LESSON 1: UTILIZING PROSTEEL VIEW TOOLS 3-2
LESSON 2: UNDERSTANDING AND MANIPULATING CLIPPING

PLANES 3-4
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Lesson 1: Utilizing Structural View Tools
LESSON 1: UTILIZING STRUCTURAL VIEW TOOLS
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to change the view of the model.

 Learn how to center a shape in the view.
 Learn how to place the UCS on a shape either at a point or centered on the shape.
EXERCISE 1: CHANGING MODEL VIEW

In this exercise, you will learn how to change the view of the model utilizing ProSteel's Overview and
Choose View commands.
 CHANGING THE VIEW WITHIN THE MODEL

1. Open the VIEWMOD.DWG training drawing (File menu > Open).
Browse to the training file directory. Select VIEWMOD.DWG drawing file and then press Open.
2. Display the model in an isometric view (ProSteel 3D menu > Zoom/Views > Isometric Overview).
3. Try out the other view tools in this menu. Additional view commands are provided in the ProSteel
Zoom / View toolbar. When you are finished, return the drawing to the Isometric Overview view.
4. Another very effective method of changing the view on the model is by using the Choose View
command. This function contains predefined views, which are automatically created when a
workframe is created. This simplifies the process of viewing a model from any of the standard
directional views (e.g., Front, Right, Left etc.).
5. Open the Select View dialog (ProSteel menu > Zoom/Views > Choose View…).
6. Select the F11_TOP view, and then press the Set the Current View button. Notice how the view is
changed to match the selected view name. Execute the Overview command and switch back to the
Overview 1 view.
7. Select the Choose View command again. Select the TOP view and then press Set UCS. Notice how
the UCS is changed to the view but the view of the model does not change.
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Lesson 1: Utilizing Structural View Tools
EXERCISE 2: SWITCHING TO AN OBJECT VIEW (OBJECT VIEW TOOLS)

In this exercise, you will learn how to switch the view in the model so a selected shape will be set as
the current view and will have the AutoCAD UCS set to this shape.
 SETTING THE VIEW TO A SHAPE

1. Open the BASICS_01.DWG training drawing (File menu >Open).
Browse to the training file directory. Select the BASICS_01.DWG file and press Open.
2. Change to view to the cross section of the beam (200 UC 52) (ProSteel 3D menu > Zoom/Views >
Object View centered).
Pick the beam located at the angle whose part name is displayed (200 UC 52). When prompted with
the multi-coloured direction indicator, pick the axis highlighted in yellow and then click your left
mouse button to accept the selection.
3. Notice how the UCS is now centered in the shape and the model view is changed to the cross
section of the beam. Experiment with this option by picking a different axis when prompted with
the direction indicator. Notice the change in the model view.
EXERCISE 3: SWITCHING THE UCS TO AN OBJECT (OBJECT UCS TOOLS)

In this exercise, you will learn how to move the AutoCAD UCS to an object at a specific point without
changing the model view.
 SETTING THE AUTOCAD UCS TO AN OBJECT

1. Reset the view to the standard isometric view (ProSteel 3D menu > Zoom/Views > Isometric
Overview).
2. Center the UCS on the 200 UC 52 member (ProSteel 3D menu > Zoom/Views > Object UCS
centered). Pick the same 200 UC 52 member as above, then pick the same left hand axis (yellow).
This time notice how the UCS moves to the object but the view does not change.
3. Try this again and this time pick a different axis and note the change of the UCS location and
plane.
Hint In both exercises 2 and 3 above, the UCS may not adjust its rotation so that the Positive-X
and Positive-Y axis are in the standard default directions. In order to correct the UCS
orientation after the view or the UCS has changed, immediately press Enter to repeat the last
command. Then press Enter again and the UCS or View will be adjusted.
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Lesson 2: Understanding and Manipulating Clipping Planes
LESSON 2: UNDERSTANDING AND MANIPULATING CLIPPING PLANES
OBJECTIVES
 Learn what Clipping Planes are and how they effect the view of the model
 Learn how to turn clipping planes on and off.
 Learn how to change the clipping plane distances so as to change the resultant view.
EXERCISE 1: WHAT ARE CLIPPING PLANES

In this section, you will learn specifically what a Clipping Plane is and how it affects what you see in
the model.
Working with a 3D model can quickly become complex, especially if many parts are spatially stacked
or overlap one another. By using AutoCAD "Clipping Planes," ProSteel offers a command to hide
parts in front of and behind the current work plane, or the so-called cutting plane.
This simplifies the construction process significantly since only those objects approximately in the
same work plane are visible. This prevents the accidental manipulation of stacked shapes. The term
approximately is used here in the sense that only the objects within the Clipping Planes created are
visible to the front and rear.
If one of the defined views or an object view is selected, the hide option is activated as the default
setting unless the command has been deactivated globally.
This command can be selectively activated or deactivated to permit viewing the depths of all parts
simultaneously for a general overview of the component parts of the model. More on this in a later
exercise.
 CLIPPING PLANES
1. Continuing with the VIEWMOD drawing, change back to the standard isometric view (ProSteel 3D
menu > Zoom/Views > Isometric Overview). Notice the two front-to-rear connecting members. The
element on the left side of the frame is lower in elevation than the element on the right side of the
frame.
2. Change to the left side view F11_SIDE_L (ProSteel 3D Menu > Zoom/Views > Choose View…).
Select the F11_SIDE_L view from the dialog displayed and then press Set View. Notice that when
the model regenerates you are now in the left-hand view, but are unable to see the member on the
right side of the frame. This is because the clipping plane distance for the left frame view is set to
500mm and the member located on the right side of the frame is outside of this range.
3. Change to the right side view F11_SIDE_R (ProSteel 3D Menu > Zoom/Views > Choose View...).
Select the F11_SIDE_R view from the dialog and then press Set View. Notice that the member on
the left side of the frame is not visible. Once again this is because the left-hand member is outside
of the clipping distance set for the right-hand view.
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Lesson 2: Understanding and Manipulating Clipping Planes
EXERCISE 2: TOGGLING CLIPPING PLANES ON AND OFF

In this exercise you will learn how to toggle the state of the clipping planes using the Flip command.
 TOGGLING CLIPPING PLANES ON/OFF

1. Change to the left side view F11_SIDE_L (ProSteel 3D Menu > Zoom/Views > Choose View...).
Select the F11_SIDE_L view from the dialog displayed and then press Set View. Notice that the
members located on the right side of the model are not visible.
2. Toggle the clipping planes OFF (ProSteel 3D Menu > Zoom/Views > Clipplane >Flip).
Notice how the clipping planes are deactivated and the members on the right side of the model are
now visible.
3. Repeat the Flip command several times noting the change in the view of the model.
EXERCISE 3: CHANGING CLIPPING PLANE DISTANCES

In this exercise you will learn how to change the clip plane distance so that even though the clip planes
are still ON, the view in the model will change to show members that were originally outside of the
clipping planes.
 MODIFYING THE CLIPPING PLANE DISTANCE

1. Change to the left side view F11_SIDE_L (ProSteel 3D Menu > Zoom/Views > Choose View...).
Select the F11_SIDE_L view from the dialog displayed and then press Set View.
2. Change the clipping planes so that the view displays the members located on the right side of the
model (ProSteel 3D Menu > Zoom/Views > Clipplane > Distance).
On executing the clipplane distance command, the “Current Clipping Plane Distances” dialog is
invoked. Enter a value for the rear clip plane, type 5000 and press Enter. When prompted to enter
a value for the front clip plane, type 500 and press Enter. Note that the view now shows the
members located on the right side of the model.
Note You will learn later how to set the clip planes at the time the workframe is generated.
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4 Drawing and Editing Shapes and Workframes
In this chapter, students will learn about ProSteel's "Grip" edit function used to edit and manipulate
steel shapes and plates and other elements.
There are three (3) Lessons in this Chapter. Each Lesson begins with a list of objectives that define the
information that you will learn in that Lesson. A number of Exercises are provided in each Lesson that
are designed to teach the student the topics listed in the Objectives section at the start of each Lesson.
LESSON 1: GRIP EDITING 4-2
LESSON 2: DRAWING STEEL SHAPES IN THE MODEL 4-5
LESSON 3: EDITING STEEL SHAPES AND PLATES 4-12
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Lesson 1: Grip Editing
LESSON 1: GRIP EDITING

In this Lesson, you will use AutoCAD grips to edit steel shapes in order to change size, length, shape,
type and display options. You will also use grips to edit ProSteel Objects.
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to activate the grips and invoke the ProSteel Properties (ProSteel 3D Properties)
function.
 Learn how to change various shape properties such as size, type and length.
 Learn how to modify STRUCTURAL Objects such as workframes.
EXERCISE 1: EDITING A SHAPE'S PROPERTIES

In this exercise, you will learn how to activate a component's grips and subsequently display the Shape
Properties dialog. This dialog enables you to modify the properties that define a shape.
 ACTIVATING A SHAPE'S GRIPS AND MODIFYING ITS PROPERTIES

1. Open the BASICS_01.DWG training model (File menu > Open).
Browse to the training file directory. Select the BASICS_01.DWG file and press Open.
2. Open the Shape Properties dialog.
Zoom in on the wide flange beam labeled 200 UC 52. Using the left mouse button, pick the element
to invoke its AutoCAD grips (which should appear as blue squares).
With the grips of the element still highlighted, click your right mouse button and select PS 3D
Properties from the context menu. The Shape Properties dialog will display as shown below.
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3. A brief description of the shape property tab settings is provided below.

 Layout Tab: contains the display options for the shape.
 Shape Type: contains the shape type, class, and size of the shape.
 Position Tab: contains information relating to shape's insertion point and orientation.
 Data Tab: contains parts list data.
 Values Tab: contains dimensional and weight information.
 Cuts Tab: contains information with regard to cuts on the shape.
 Loglinks Tab: contains the setting for links between elements.
 Conical Tab: contains data pertaining to the slope of a shape placed in the drawing.
 Assignments Tab: contains data for detailing the part and displaying the part in relation to the
model and other shapes in the model.
 Analysis View: Analysis Effective Centerlines are a parallel view of the CAD model used for
structural analysis. This tab defines endpoints of these lines and whether they are automatic
or user defined.
4. Change the shape size. Select the Shape Type tab on the Shape Properties dialog. Select 310 UC 97
from the Shape Size drop down. Notice the change of the shape in the model.
Note ProSteel uses "non-modal" dialogs. This is a major benefit when editing a shape or other
object as the changes made in the dialog are immediately reflected in the actual model.
5. Switch to the Layout tab and locate the Layout group box in the upper left hand corner of the
dialog. Move the dialog box off to the side so you can see the shape being edited. Cycle through
the various display methods and note the changes in the shape and how it changes in the model.
Return the display to the Edge Inside mode.
6. In the Options group box on the right hand side of the Layout tab, experiment with the display
options of the shape and note the changes in the model. Disable the Part Label option and notice
how the part name associated with the shape is no longer displayed in the model.
7. Switch back to the Shape Type tab and select the Shape Class drop down and change the shape to
a AS_EA_Angle shape. In the Shape Size drop down scroll through the list and change the size to
an 50x50x6 angle. Notice the change in the model.
8. Finally, switch to the Values tab and change the value in the Length field to 3000. Notice the
change in length of the shape.
9. Return the values to their original settings and close the dialog.
Note Modification with more precision and in relation to other ProSteel objects will be covered in
more depth in Chapter 5.
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EXERCISE 2: VIEWING A STRUCTURAL WORKFRAME'S STRUCTURAL PROPERTIES

In this exercise you will learn how to grip edit the Structural workframe in the BASICS_01 model.
 GRIP EDITING THE WORKFRAME

1. You can edit a Structural element such as a workframe in the same manner as you edit a shape.
Pick a yellow element in the model by clicking on one of the yellow grid labels.
2. With the Structural element highlighted, right-click the mouse and select PS 3D Properties from
the context menu.
3. The ProSteel 3D Workframe dialog is displayed as shown below. This dialog contains
dimensional data and information on the actual 3D grid or workframe.
Press OK to close the dialog. You will explore this dialog further when you actually create a
new workframe grid later in this class.
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Lesson 2: Drawing Steel Shapes in the Model
LESSON 2: DRAWING STEEL SHAPES IN THE MODEL
OBJECTIVES
 Become familiar with the Shapes dialog box.

 Learn various methods of inserting Steel Shapes in a model.
EXERCISE 1: THE PROSTEEL SHAPES DIALOG

There are several methods of inserting shapes into a model, including: insertion via a line in the model,
picking 2 points in the model, and the selection of multiple lines. You can also insert a shape in a cross
section, where the shape is drawn in the negative Z-Axis from the current X-Y plane.
The two most common methods of inserting shapes are the Line method and the 2 Point method. For
our training purposes we focus on these methods.
This section provides an overview of the ProSteeel 3D Shapes dialog.
 SHAPE SELECTION/INSERTION
1. Open the ProSteel 3D Shapes dialog (ProSteel 3D menu > Shapes) and click on the Straight Shapes
tab if it is not opened.
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The shape selection dialog contains 3 tabs as shown in the above figure. Together they control the
shape type and size as well as its orientation, length, offset, material and method of insertion. The
options provided in this dialog are described in the following table.
STRAIGHT SHAPES TAB
FIELD DESCRIPTION
Shape Type Shows the shape tables available for the use in the model. The options displayed in this
depend on which selection (Standard shapes, User shapes, Combination shapes and
Roof and Wall shapes) is current in the drop down above it
Resolution List the available shape display resolutions
Shape Class List the shape sizes available for the currently selected Shape Type. Additionally, it
controls the display directly to the right of the size list.
Shape Size List the shape sizes available for the currently selected Shape Class. Once a specific size
member is selected an image of that shape will appear indicating the possible insertion
points with the selected insertion point highlighted in RED. Also indicated by the image is
the current rotation of the shape about its axis of insertion.
Key Displays the current shape that will be inserted if any one of the insertion methods at the
bottom of the dialog were to be selected. This is the actual shape that gets inserted and
can be different than the shape shown in the Shape Type and Shape Size sections of the
dialog.
Material The material that will be assigned to this member at the time of insertion.
Layer Provides a drop down list of available layers for the elements.
Part Family If family classes have been defined, you can set them here. The selection of the family
class can influence the colour of the part.
Detail Style If detailing styles have been defined, you can set them here.
Display Class If display classes have been defined, you can set them here.
Area Class If area classes have been defined, you can set them here.
Description If general parts descriptions have been defined, you can set them here. The selection of
the description can influence the colour and the layer.
Delta X The insertion offset in X-direction; this field can only be entered, if you have selected the
position ‘Free’ as insertion point (this is the biggest displayed insertion point).
Delta Y The insertion offset in Y-direction; this field can only be entered, if you have selected the
position ‘Free’ as insertion point (this is the biggest displayed insertion point).
Item No. An item number can be entered directly here.
Length Specify the length of the shape. This is important if you want to insert shapes in the cross-
section. Inputs in this field overwrite the length specified by the insertion points.
Turn The shape will be rotated about its insertion axis this value.
Create Group This option creates a group out of the shape after insertion.
Click this button to open the following dialog where all relevant shape data are displayed.
All inserted shapes are still connected with the dialog, so that subsequent modifications
can also be transferred to already inserted shapes.
If you don’t want this option, you can interrupt the connection using this button. However,
the shape is not deleted in this case.
Swap Shape: All inserted shapes, which are still connected with the dialog, are mirrored
along their Y-axis. You will obtain this by exchanging the insertion points.
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Rotate Shape: The shapes are turned either positive (turned left in shape direction) or
negative (turned right in shape direction) around their insertion point using the entered
value.
Allows the user to pick one line and then set the orientation of the shape about that line.
Prompts the user to pick a start point and end point of a shape.
Enables you to insert a shape diagonally between two points.
Prompts the user to pick a start point, an end point and an axis of rotation for the shape.
Allows you to select multiple lines. Upon selecting the lines the program will place one
shape on each line picked.
For this method of insertion, the orientation of the shape is based on a point and entered
angle value. The length of the shape is assigned based in the value you entered in the
LENGTH field of the dialog. You will be prompted to pick a point first and then will be
prompted to enter an angle.
You can use this option if you have indicated a fixed shape length. You are prompted for
an insertion point and for an alignment. Then the shape will be inserted on the current XY-
plane of the UCS with the corresponding length to the back (into the depth).
Displays the Shape Catalog dialog allowing you to customize the shapes that are
displayed for selection in the Shape Classes section.
Displays the Shape Modification dialog allowing you to add bent or straight segments to a
straight or already bent shape.
Enables the insertion of secondary beams between two existing main beams.
Enables you to insert multiple secondary shapes between primary shapes
Enables insertion of beams at gridlines. With Alt selection is via polygon, with Control
Lines in all Levels are used, otherwise only the ones at the current UCS Plane.
Enables insertion of columns at selected points.
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EXERCISE 2: INSERTING STEEL SHAPES INTO OUR MODEL.

In this exercise, you will learn the Line and 2 Point methods of inserting shapes into the model.
 INSERTING SHAPES INTO A MODEL

1. Open the ProSteel 3D Shapes dialog (ProSteel 3D menu > Shapes).
2. Open the Straight Shapes tab and set the parameters as shown in the figure below. Make sure to
pick the top center insertion point in the image of the shape. This will insert the shape at the TOS
center point.
3. Next, switch to the Options tab and set the parameters as follows:
The options provided in this dialog are described in the following table.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Height Specify insertion height above current XY plane.
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Start Offset Specify offset of shape from start point.

End Offset Specify offset of shape from end point.
Radius Specify arc radius for bent shapes created from polyline.
Scale Specify scale of 2D shapes.
Horizontal Offset The distance of the shapes if a shape class has been selected permitting an offset of several
shapes in horizontal direction.
Vertical Offset The distance of the shapes if a shape class has been selected permitting an offset of several
shapes in vertical direction.
Angular Insertion List of available insertion points for angle. Determines the insertion point if Insert with Length
under Angle is selected.
Insert in XY Plane Enable insertion of shapes current XY plane.
Orientate Enable orientation of shapes during insertion using right-mouse click.
Dynamic Enables dynamic insertion of shapes.
Insert Ref Points Enable reference point creation from insertion points.
3-Point Face Enable insertion with 2 planes.
Insert as 2D Shape Enable 2d Shape creation.
Close Dialog Enable dialog closure after shape insertion.
Keep Length Enable persistence of length field after dialog closure.
Secondary Beam Connect AEC Lines: Enables connection of AEC lines of beams with AEC lines of main
elements.
Cope: Enable addition of cope to secondary beams. If selected, enables you to select a cope
template from the drop down list below.
Opens the Structural Cope dialog allowing you to edit a cope style.
4. Switch back to the Straight Shapes tab and place the shape using the Line insertion method. (Press
the Line button near the bottom of the dialog).
5. The prompt:
Pick the Desired point <Line>
is displayed. Pick the back left vertical frame line at column location 1B.
6. The prompt:
Click Left-Hand Mouse Button to Rotate the Shape in Position or Enter to Accept
is displayed. Click the left mouse button until the shape rotates into the position shown below.
When the shape is in the correct position, press Enter to end the insertion of the shape, and then
press Enter again to end the command.
7. When the Structural Shapes dialog displays, press OK to close the dialog.
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8. Insert another shape using the Line method (ProSteel 3D menu > Shapes).
9. Define the shape as shown in the following figure.
10. Set the parameters in the Options tab the same as before and insert the shape (Press the Line
button).
11. The prompt:
Pick the Desired point <Line>
will appear. Pick the top line located between columns 1B and 2B near the rear of the structure.
12. When prompted to:

"Hit Left-Hand Mouse Button to Rotate the Shape in Position or Enter to Accept"
press Enter to accept the shape orientation, and then press Enter again to end the command.
13. Press the Accept current Shape to prevent further changes button. This will allow you to place
additional shapes using different settings from this dialog without losing the settings of the shape
just placed.
14. To finalize the basic structure, you will insert one more shape running between the columns
located at grid coordinates 1A and 1B. Define the shape as shown in the following figure.
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15. Use the 2 Point method to insert the shape. In conjunction with this you will learn how to use one
of ProSteel's Osnap commands. (Press the 2 Point button).
16. The prompt:
Pick the Shape Start Point
is displayed. Press the PS Shapepoint icon located in the ProSteel Osnap tool bar shown below.
17. The prompt:

Pick the Shape Start Point: of
is displayed. Pick a point near the top of the column located at grid coordinate 1A. As you move
nearer the top of the column a Tool Tip will appear showing the "Shape Mid/End". When this
appears click the left mouse button to accept this point as the first insertion point of the new shape.
18. The prompt:

Pick the Shape End Point
is displayed. Press the PS Shapepoint icon located in the ProSteel 3D Osnap tool bar.
19. The prompt:

Pick the Shape End Point: of
is displayed. Pick a point near the top of the column located at grid coordinate 1B. As you get
nearer the top of the column a Tool Tip will again appear showing the "Shape Mid/End". When
this appears click the left mouse button to accept this point as the second insertion point of the
new shape.
20. When prompted to rotate the shape into place press Enter twice to accept the default orientation
and complete the placement.
21. Finally, press OK to close the ProSteel Shapes dialog.
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Lesson 3: Editing Steel Shapes and Plates
LESSON 3: EDITING STEEL SHAPES AND PLATES
OBJECTIVES
 Become familiar with the Element Modification dialog and its inherent functions.
 Modify steel shapes and plates using the Element Modification dialog commands.
EXERCISE 1: THE ELEMENT MODIFICATION DIALOG

Shapes and plates can be lengthened, shortened, coped, notched, divided, joined, angle cut and have
boolean operations performed on them. There are several methods available to modify shapes and
plates other than by grip editing. Manipulation commands are available in the main Structural Modify
Element dialog that is accessed through the Structural > Manipulate menu.
This section covers the Element Modification dialog.
 SHAPE MANIPULATION COMMANDS / FUNCTIONS

1. Open the Element Modification dialog shown below (ProSteel 3D menu > Manipulate > Dialog).
This dialog is divided into six functional tabs. The options in the Common tab are described in the
following table. In the next exercise, you will execute some of these functions on the shapes in the
BASICS_01.DWG model.
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NAME DESCRIPTION
Extend/Trim
At Line: The shape is cut at a line. This can be an AutoCAD line as well as an imaginary
line that can be created on fly by entering the letter "P" when prompted to pick the line upon
which to cut. When you enter a value in the Distance field in the main dialog the shape will be
gapped from the line this amount.
At Object: The shape is cut or extended at another shape. In order for the cut to take
place the centerline of the object to be cut must intersect some part of the shape upon which you
are cutting back to. When you enter a value in the Distance field in the main dialog the shape will
be gapped from the cutting element this amount.
Distance: Offset to cutting line or cutting element.
Creates Straight Cut: Creates a straight cut at a line or object, no matter how these are
positioned to the cut object.
Divide/Connect
Divide: By using this function a shape can be divided into two shapes. The cutting line
may be any line or object. Pick the shape to be divided and then the dividing line or point. When
you have entered a value in the Distance field in the main dialog BOTH new ends will be
shortened this amount.
Connect: This function allows two shapes of the same type to be joined as one. They
must be exactly aligned.
Distance: Distance between elements after division.
Separate on Level: If this option has been activated, you are asked for three points, which have
to form a plane. The parts are divided along this plane.
Other
Using this function, you can insert simple geometrical shapes of outlets and countersunk
parts into your shapes. You can create square, wedge-type, and circular shapes using the dialog
which displays upon selecting this option.
Polycuts
Pick: Press the Pick button then pick the shape to be cut. Next, pick the point of the
polyline defining the boundaries of the cut. The Complete, Only Upper Half and Only Lower Half
settings decide where to apply the cut. If a value is entered in the Gap field, an offset from the cut
line will be maintained equal to the value entered in the Gap field.
Polyline: Press the Polyline button then pick the shape to be cut. Next, you pick the
polyline that defines the boundaries of the cut. In this case the polyline must be drawn with
AutoCAD and be drawn prior to initiating the polycut command. The Complete, Only Upper Half
and Only Lower Half settings decide where to apply the cut. If a value is entered in the Gap field
an offset from the cut line will be maintained equal to the value entered in the Gap field.
Subtract: This button is used to subtract the volume of one shape from the volume of
another. Press the Subtract button, then pick the shape to be cut, then the shape to act as the
boundary shape. The Complete, Only Upper Half and Only Lower Half settings decide where to
apply the cut. If a value is entered in the Gap field an offset from the cut line will be maintained
equal to the value entered in the Gap field.
2. After reviewing the options of the Element Modification dialog, press Cancel to close it.
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EXERCISE 2: USING THE MODIFY FUNCTIONS ON STEEL SHAPES AND PLATES

In this section, you will use the options in Structural’s Element Modification dialog to modify steel
shapes and plates.
 SHAPE MANIPULATION
1. Open the Element Modification dialog (ProSteel 3D menu > Manipulate > Dialog).
2. Click on the Shape tab. You will shorten shape 200 UC 52 to 300. Type 300 in the Default field in
the Shorten section of the dialog as shown below.
The table below provides descriptions of the option available in the Shapes tab.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Shorten Shapes
By Pick: Allows you to shorten a shape by picking the distance. Initiate the command
and begin by picking the shape to be shortened. Pick a starting point then an end point of the
shortening and the shape is shortened by this distance.
By Dimension: Allows you to shorten a shape by a distance equal to a set value. Pick
the shape then, when prompted, type in a value and the shape is shortened by this amount.
By Default: Shortens the shape a distance equal to the value entered in the Default
field. Type a value in the Default field and initiate the command. Pick the shape to be
shortened near the end you want reduced and the shape will automatically be shortened this
amount. If you continue to pick the same element the shape will continue to be shortened the
default value.
Lengthen Shapes
By Pick: Same as the Shorten Shapes By Pick except the shape is lengthened by the
distance picked.
By Dimension: Same as the Shorten Shapes By Dimension except the shape is

lengthened by the dimension entered.
By Default: Same as the Shorten Shape By Default except the shape is lengthened by
the default value.
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Cope/Notch
Cope: Copes one shape where it meets another shape. The shapes must intersect.
Once the command is initiated pick the shape to be coped followed by the shape upon which
to cut. After picking the shapes, a dialog displays giving you additional options controlling the
actual cope distances and parameters.
Mitre Cuts
Angle Bisect: This function allows for mitering two shapes that are of the same size
and type. Additionally you can define a Gap between the two mitered shapes by entering a
value in the Gap field.
Outside Edge: This function allows for mitering two shapes that may not be the same
size and type. Additionally you can define a Gap between the two mitered shapes by entering
a value in the Gap field
Insert bend: Performs a miter and replaces the beveled edge with a shape section
with a radius as specified in the Radius field.
3. Press the By Default button. The prompt:
Pick Shape at End to be Shortened
is displayed. Pick the 200 UC 52 shape near its left end. Notice that the shape shortens. Press OK to
close the dialog and end the command.
5. Angle miter the two 200 UC 60 shapes that are angled adjacent to each other. In the Miter Cuts
section of the dialog, press the Angle Bisect button.
6. The prompt:
Select First Shape for Angle Cut
is displayed. Pick one of the two 200 UC 60 shapes that are angled adjacent to each other.
7. The prompt:
Select Second Shape for Angle Cut
is displayed. Pick the other 200 UC 60 shape and note the miter that is applied to the two shapes.
8. Press OK to close the dialog.

10. Now you will cut one shape back from another. Press the At Object button in the Extend Trim
section of the dialog.
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11. The prompt:

Select Shape to Cut or ESC for more Shapes to Cut
is displayed. Select the 250 U 26 shape that tees into the flange of the 250 UB 31 shape.
12. The prompt:

Select Shape on Which to Cut
is displayed. Pick the intersecting 250 UB 31 shape. Notice the cutback that is applied to the beam.
13. At this time, take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the other manipulation functions then
press OK to close the dialog.
Note More information on the other functions can be found in the ProSteel 3D help.
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5 Creating a Workframe
In this chapter, students will learn how to create ProSteel 3D Workframes, modify them, and
create a Display class in which to add the frames.
There are two (2) Lessons in this Chapter. Each Lesson begins with a list of objectives that define
the information that you will learn in that Lesson. A number of Exercises are provided in each
Lesson that are designed to teach the student the topics listed in the Objectives section at the start
of each Lesson.
LESSON 1: CREATING A WORKFRAME AND REVIEW ITS

SETTINGS 5-2
LESSON 2: CREATING AND MANIPULATING DISPLAY

CLASSES 5-8
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Lesson 1: Creating a Workframe and Review its Settings
LESSON 1: CREATING A WORKFRAME AND REVIEW ITS SETTINGS
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to create a symmetrical Workframe.

 Learn how to create a non-symmetrical Workframe.
 Edit the Workframe to change its properties and dimensional settings.
EXERCISE 1: CREATING THE SYMMETRICAL WORKFRAME

In this exercise, you will learn how to create and edit a workframe.
 CREATING YOUR FIRST WORKFRAME

1. Create a new drawing using the template created in Chapter 2 and set the view to Isometric
Overview 1.
2. Display the ProSteel 3D Workframe dialog and place a workframe
(ProSteel 3D menu > Additions > Workframe).
3. The prompt:
Select Origin of Workframe or Enter for UCS Origin
is displayed. Click the right mouse button to accept the standard AutoCAD 0,0,0 location.
4. The prompt:
Specify X – Axis for Workframe or Enter for UCS X Axis
is displayed. Press Enter.
5. The ProSteel 3D Workframe dialog displays as shown below. Set the size and number of
divisions as shown in the dialog below.
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6. Next switch to the Views tab and set the parameters as follows:
7. Now set the parameters in the Text X and Text Y tabs as shown in the following figures:
8. Finally, switch to the Options tab and set the values as shown and press OK to create the
workframe:
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EXERCISE 2: VIEWING AN EXISTING WORKFRAME'S SETTINGS

In this exercise, you will learn how to edit a workframe's dimensional settings.
 VIEWING THE WORKFRAME SETTINGS

1. Set the model to the Overview 1 view (ProSteel 3D menu > Zoom/Views > Isometric Overview).
Zoom into the front left corner of the workframe just created and pick the yellow colored Axis
Description. Once the AutoCAD grips are active, right-click your mouse to access the context
menu. Select the PS 3D properties option. This will open the ProSteel 3D Workframe dialog.
This is the same dialog used to create the workframe. From this dialog you are able to change
the workframe's length, width, height, number of divisions, grid system, grid size etc.
Note Once steel members have been placed on a workframe and the workframe is modified
the shapes WILL NOT update to match the new dimensions of the workframe.
2. Leave the workframe values unchanged. Press OK to return to the model. If the grips are still
active, press Esc twice to deactivate them.
The dimensional portion of a Workframe is what is known as a 'Structural Object'. This portion of
the workframe contains all of the dimensional data necessary to define its size and location. In
addition to the dimensional data there is specific frame data associated with every face (top, left,
right, front, back and all faces in between) of the workframe. Each one of these faces is
independent of the others and can be modified separately. These individual frames are also what
constitute the frame sections that are automatically processed by the 2D Detail Center. In the next
exercise you will view and modify one of these frames.
EXERCISE 3: VIEWING PROPERTIES OF AN EXISTING WORKFRAME

In this exercise, you will learn how to view/edit a workframe's properties.
 VIEWING THE WORKFRAME PROPERTIES

1. With the model in the Overview 1 view, window into the front left corner of the workframe
we created.
2. Open the Layer Properties Manager and turn off the PS_OBJECT layer.
3. Now, pick on the bottom front magenta colored frame . Once the AutoCAD grips are active
right click the mouse to access the Context menu. Browse the menu and select the PS 3D
properties option. This will open the Workframe Properties dialog. Each tab within the dialog
allows you to view/modify various properties of the workframe as shown below:
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4. From within this dialog we can change the display of this workframe. We have the ability to
change the name, size and spacing of the workframe axis. We can also set the clip plane
distances on the front and back (or above and below) of the workframe. We can turn on the
Area Name as well as re-name the complete frame, set the Camera location and view location
etc.
5. Leave the Workframe Properties unchanged and press OK to close the dialog.
EXERCISE 4: CREATING A NON-SYMMETRICAL WORKFRAME

In this exercise you will use the Axis Distance method to create the non-symmetrical workframe
FR2. When using Axis distances you will assign each axis (Length, Width, Height) a series of
distances to form the frame.
 CREATING THE SECOND WORKFRAME

1. Set the model to the Overview 1 view (ProSteel 3D menu > Zoom/Views > Isometric Overview).
2. Add another workframe (ProSteel 3D menu > Additions > Workframe).
3. The prompt:
Specify Origin of Workframe or Right Mouse Button for UCS Origin
displays. Use the AutoCAD endpoint snap and pick lower back left corner of workframe FR1.
4. The prompt:
Specify X-Axis of Workframe or Enter UCS X-Axis
displays. Press Enter.
5. Click on the Layout tab and make sure the Workframe Layout is set to Rectangular. Make sure
the options in the Dimensions and Divisions section are all disabled.
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6. Set the Length, Width, and Height values as shown in the following figure.
Note: Both the Width and Height have multiple values to produce 2 bays wide and 2
levels high.
7. Switch to the Views tab and make sure all other settings are set as shown below:
8. Next, switch to the Text X and Text Y tabs of the dialog and set the axis description values to
match the figures below.
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9. Finally, set the parameters in the Options tab as shown below:
10. When the settings are as shown above, press OK to close the dialog.
11. To finalist the Workframe, you will add additional construction lines for an awning from grid
3 between columns B and C. Zoom into the corner of the workframe at B3.
12. Set Current Layer to PS_FRAME
13. Start the AutoCAD Line command
14. The prompt:
Pick first point
Is displayed. Select the PS_RELATIVEPOINT icon located in the PS_3D Osnap tool bar.
Now select the midpoint at the bottom edge of the column at B3.
15. The prompt:
Specify Second Point for Relative Point:
Is displayed. Enter @0,3000,0
16. The prompt:
Specify next point:
Is displayed. Enter @3000<-10. Click the right mouse button to finish this command.
17. Repeat the above for column at C3
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Your Model should appear as below:
LESSON 2: CREATING AND MANIPULATING DISPLAY CLASSES
OBJECTIVES
 Learn what Display Classes are.

 Create Display Classes
 Assign our Workframe to the Display Classes.
 Cycle the Display Classes to control the view in the model.
In this section, you will learn what Display Classes are and how to create them. Additionally we
will learn how to assign structural elements and objects to them to make viewing the model easier
in the case of complex models.
DISPLAY CLASSES
Display Classes is an ProSteel 3D tool used to separate a model into object visibility classes. The
Display Classes command allows you to organise objects (Shapes and Structural Objects) from
different AutoCAD layers into visibility groups that are independent from the layers they reside in.
Contrary to "freezing" layers in AutoCAD, which turns off the display of the complete layer,
(resulting in numerous layers to control display) Display Classes allows you to select entire groups
or just a few objects and make them visible or hidden. This will help simplify the view of the
model displayed on the screen. Each element can exist in only one class at a time. This means
that it will be removed from one class if it is assigned to another.
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Lesson 2: Creating and Manipulating Display Classes
EXERCISE 1: CREATING DISPLAY CLASSES AND ASSIGNING OBJECTS TO THEM.

In this section, you will learn how to create display classes. Some of the display classes you create
will be used later in the modeling process.
1. Open the ProSteel 3D Display Classes dialog (ProSteel 3D menu > Display Classes > Dialog).
2. We need to assign names to our Display Classes. In order to assign a name double click on
one of the empty list entries and enter a name in the input field. The first Display Class will be
named Workframe.
3. Continue assigning names to Display Classes giving them the following names: Axis 1, Axis 2,
Axis 3, Axis A, Axis B, Axis C, Bracing, Decking, Hand Rails, and Stairs. When complete, the
list should appear like the figure below.
4. Now that we have the Display Classes defined we will assign the workframes to the proper
class. From within the ProSteel 3D Display Classes dialog select the Workframe Class Name
to make it active.
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Lesson 2: Creating and Manipulating Display Classes
Note: To ensure WorkFrame is selectable, make sure that the layer PS_FRAME is
unlocked
5. With the name of the display class highlighted press the Assign button and when prompted to:
Select Objects
use a crossing window and pick all elements of the workframes FR1 and FR2 followed by a
return to end the selection process.
6. Press OK to close the Structural Display Classes dialog.
EXERCISE 2: CONTROLLING THE VISIBILITY OF THE DISPLAY CLASSES.

 Open the ProSteel 3D Display Classes dialog (ProSteel 3D menu > Display Classes> Dialog).
 Select the Workframe Class Name to make it active.
 Press the Hide Classes button. Note how the display changes and the Workframe is removed or
hidden from the display. Also note that the Status of the Workframe is OFF.
 To turn on/off the display for multiple Display Classes at the same time, hold down the CTRL
key when selecting them from the list. With multiple Display Classes active press the Display
Classes button to turn them back on. Pick the OK button to end the function.
 Save the model (File menu > Save).
Enter the drawing file name TRNMODEL.DWG.
Hint Also available from within the Display Classes dialog is a Hide Parts button. This can be
used to selectively hide parts simply by picking them. This selection process is
independent of Display Classes. The shapes, plates etc. that have been turned off can
be displayed again by accessing the Display Classes dialog and pressing the Display All
button.
Hint To simplify the use of and addition to display classes be sure to add components to the
respective classes as you progress through the modeling phase.
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6 Inserting and Manipulating Shapes
In this chapter, students will learn how to insert steel into a Workframe using the Line and 2 Point
methods. After insertion we will edit the steel further so we can detail the joints in later chapters.
information that you will learn in that Lesson. A number of Exercises are provided in each Lesson that
are designed to teach the student the topics listed in the Objectives section at the start of each Lesson.
This section will also reference four drawings located in the Appendix of this manual.
LESSON 1: INSERTING STEEL SHAPES USING THE LINE 6-2
LESSON 2: ASSIGNING STEEL MEMBERS TO A DISPLAY CLASS 6-7
LESSON 3: INSERTING STEEL SHAPES USING THE 2 POINT

METHOD 6-8
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Lesson 1: Inserting Steel Shapes Using the LINE
LESSON 1: INSERTING STEEL SHAPES USING THE LINE
OBJECTIVES
 Create a Steel Shapes Template to minimize the shape selection.

 Learn how to insert steel shapes on a Workframe.
 Introduce the Divide command from the Manipulate menu.
EXERCISE 1: CREATING A TEMPLATE FILE TO MINIMIZE THE SHAPE TABLES

In this exercise, you will learn how to create a template file of the Australian steel shapes.
 CREATING A TEMPLATE FILE OF AS STEEL SHAPES

1. Open the TRNMODEL.DWG file.
2. Change to the standard isometric view (ProSteel 3D menu > Zoom/Views > Isometric Overview).
3. You will begin by inserting the columns on the FR1 workframe (ProSteel 3D menu > Shapes).
4. Before we place a shape we need to minimize the number of shape types displayed within the
dialog. To do this we will create a template file and save this so we can recall it later. From within
the ProSteel 3D Shapes dialog press the Display button.
5. As you can see the Shapes Catalog shown below is divided into three main sections.
The sections on the left of the dialog contain the list of shape tables shipped with the product on
the far left and the List of Available Shapes for each table displayed to the right of it. The Current
Shape Classes section on the right contains only the shapes you want to see when you invoke the
Shapes Insert command. We will alter the Current Shape Classes to show only the AS steel shapes
and have them display in METRIC units.
6. To begin press the << button to remove all the shapes from the Current Shape Classes section.
7. Next, disable all of the options in the catalog section except for the AUSTRALIAN. The List of
Available Shapes to the right will reflect the change.
8. Now press the >> button to add all of the shapes in the List of Available Shapes section to the
Current Shape Classes list.
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9. From the middle of the dialog select the METRIC radio button to set the units of the display to
imperial. The dialog should now appear as shown below.
10. To save the new settings we pick the Template button. When the ProSteel 3D Template Manager
dialog appears, create a new folder named TRAIN, then add a template to the folder named AS.
The dialog should appear as shown below. Press Enter to return to the previous dialog and press
OK to return to the Steel shape insertion dialog.
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EXERCISE 2: INSERTING STEEL SHAPES USING THE LINE METHOD

In this exercise, you will learn how to insert steel shapes on our workframe using the Line method.
 INSERTING SHAPES.
1. From within the ProSteel 3D Shapes dialog set the Shape Class to AS_UB and the Shape Size to a
310 UB 46. Set the insertion point to the "center of steel" by picking the node on the center of the
shape image. Click on the Options tab and make sure the Orientate after insertion option is
enabled.
2. Press the Insert shape on Selected Line button. The prompt:

Pick the Desired Point <Line>
displays. Select the vertical line of the workframe located at grid coordinate A1 in the workframe
FR1.
3. The prompt:
Click Left-Hand Mouse Button to Rotate the Shape in Position or Enter to Accept
displays. Click the left mouse button to turn the shape in the direction shown below.
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4. When the shape is orientated correctly, click the right mouse button twice to end the command and
return to the dialog.
5. Press the OK button to close the ProSteel 3D Shapes dialog.
6. Repeat this command and insert the same type and size shape (310 UB 46) at grid line A2. At all
remaining vertical grid lines, insert 360 UB 45 shapes.
Note When selecting the vertical grid lines in Frame FR2, be sure to pick the vertical grid lines near
the top of the frame so as not to select the FR1 grid lines.
7. Next, return to the ProSteel 3D Shapes Selection Straight dialog. Keep the Shape Type as AS_UB,
and set the size to 530 UB 82. Using the Line method, insert and orient the beams on the horizontal
lines as shown in the following figure. Make sure that the beams are inserted using the top center
"TOS" insertion point.
Your model should appear as shown below.
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EXERCISE 3: MODIFYING STEEL MEMBERS WITH THE DIVIDE COMMAND

In this exercise, you will learn how to divide a steel shape by dividing it into multiple shapes at column
intersections.
Now that you have some elements inserted in our model we will need to divide some of these where
they intersect a column. In order to do this we will use the Manipulate/Divide command along with the
Shape Point command from the ProSteel 3D Osnap toolbar.
 TO DIVIDE SHAPES
1. Open the Element Modification dialog (ProSteel 3D menu > Manipulate > Dialog…).
2. Press the Divide button in the Common tab.
3. When prompted to select the shapes to be divided, choose the 530 UB 82 beam located between
coordinates B1 to B3. Accept the selections by right clicking the mouse.
4. When prompted to pick the dividing point or line, go to the ProSteel 3D Osnap toolbar and choose
the PS Shapepoint icon.
5. When prompted to pick a shape point, choose the column located at coordinate B2. The snap will
locate a point on the centroid axis to use as the dividing point.
6. Press OK to complete the command.
7. Repeat the same process for the 530 UB 82 beam coordinates C1 to C3.
8. Zoom into one of the 530 UB 82 shapes at the intersection with the columns and note that the
element is now divided into two pieces.
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Lesson 2: Assigning Steel Members to a Display Class
LESSON 2: ASSIGNING STEEL MEMBERS TO A DISPLAY CLASS
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to assign members to a Display class from within the Display class dialog.
 Learn how to assign shapes to a display class globally by Grip editing shapes.
EXERCISE 1: ASSIGNING SHAPES TO A DISPLAY CLASS USING THE DISPLAY CLASS

DIALOG
In this exercise, you will learn how to place shapes into a display class using the display class dialog
"assign" feature.
 ASSIGNING SHAPES TO A DISPLAY CLASS

1. Open the Display Classes dialog (ProSteel 3D menu > Display Classes > Dialog…).
2. Select the Axis A class to make it active, then press the Assign button.
3. The prompt:
Select objects you wish to add to the Display Class
displays. Pick the two columns located at coordinates A1 and A2. Right click to return to the
Display Classes dialog.
4. Select the Axis B class to make it active then press the Assign button.
5. The prompt:
Select objects you wish to add to the Display Class
displays. Choose the three columns located at coordinates B1, B2, and B3. Right click to return to
the Display Classes dialog.
6. Follow the same procedure as above to assign the three columns located at coordinates C1, C2,
and C3 to the Axis C display class.
7. Press OK in the Display Class dialog to return to the model.
EXERCISE 2: ASSIGNING SHAPES TO A DISPLAY CLASS USING GRIP EDITING

 ASSIGNING SHAPES TO A DISPLAY CLASS
1. Select the two 530 UB 82 beams located along Axis 1 to highlight their Grips. Right click and
access the ProSteel 3D Properties.
2. When the Shape Properties dialog appears switch to the Assignments tab.
3. Next to the Display Class pick box select the drop down arrow and from the list of available
display classes select the Axis 1 display class. Select OK to return to the model.
4. Add the remaining shapes to the respective display class in the same manner. (i.e.- Beams located
along Axis 2 into the Axis 2 class and the beams along Axis 3 into the Axis 3 display class etc).
Continue adding the beams long the "lettered" axis into their respective display classes.
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Lesson 3: Inserting Steel Shapes Using the 2 Point Method
LESSON 3: INSERTING STEEL SHAPES USING THE 2 POINT METHOD
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to insert shapes in a model using the 2 Point method.
EXERCISE 1: INSERTING STEEL SHAPES USING THE 2 POINT METHOD

 INSERTING THE SHAPE USING THE 2 POINT METHOD
2. From within the Structural Shapes dialog set the Shape Type to be AS_UB and the Shape Size to
530 UB 82. Set the insertion point to the "top center of steel" by picking the node on the center of
the top flange on the shape image. Click on the Options tab to make sure the Orientate after
insertion option is enabled.
3. Select the 2 Point method of insertion and using an AutoCAD transparent zoom, zoom in on the
intersection of the column at coordinate B2 and the existing beams.
4. When prompted to select the insertion point of the shape use, the AutoCAD Midpoint snap and
choose the mid-point of the upper flange of the intersecting beam (running along Axis B) at B2.
For the second end insertion point, transparently zoom to the column at coordinate C2 and use the
AutoCAD Midpoint snap and choose the mid point of the upper flange of the intersecting beam
(running along Axis C.)
5. Accept the rotation of the shape by right clicking. Right click again to return to the dialog, then
press OK to end the command. Your model should now appear as in the diagram below.
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Lesson 3: Inserting Steel Shapes Using the 2 Point Method
EXERCISE 2: INSERTING REMAINING STEEL SHAPES

In this exercise, you will insert the remaining steel shapes using either the Line or 2 Point methods.
 INSERTING SHAPES
2. Using either the Line method or 2 Point method insert the following shapes into your model. These
beams are in the TOP frame of our FR2 workframe. Beams Along Axis "B" and "C" are to be 410
UB 54 and beams along Axis "1", "2", and "3" to be 360 UB 45. All members should be inserted
with the Top center of steel as the insertion point.
3. After inserting shapes use the divide command to split the beams along the "B" and "C" axis at the
center columns.
4. Add the awning beams, as 250 UB 31, from columns B3 and C3, using the previously drawn
construction lines.
5. Assign these beams to their respective display classes.
6. Save your model.
Your model should now appear as shown below:
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7 Creating Connections Between Elements
There are three (3) Lessons in this Chapter. Each Lesson begins with a list of objectives that define
of each lesson.
LESSON 1: CREATION OF A BASIC END PLATE

CONNECTION 7-2
LESSON 2: MODIFYING CONNECTIONS USING GRIP

EDITING 7-11
LESSON 3: ADDING THE NEW ENDPLATES TO THEIR

DISPLAY CLASSES 7-16
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Lesson 1: Creation of a Basic End Plate Connection
LESSON 1: CREATION OF A BASIC END PLATE CONNECTION
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to create an End Plate connection.
 Learn what each data field controls in the design of the End Plate.
 Learn how to add additional design features to an End Plate connection.
EXERCISE 1: CREATING A BASIC END PLATE CONNECTION

In this exercise, you will learn how to create a basic End Plate connection.
1. If not already loaded, open the TRNMODEL.DWG drawing file.

2. Zoom to the standard isometric view (ProSteel 3D menu > Zoom/Views > Isometric Overview).
3. You will begin by zooming into the joint between the column (310 UB 46) and Beams (530
UB 82) at coordinate A1.
4. Place an end plate (ProSteel 3D menu > Connections > End Plates > Endplates Normal).
5. The prompt:
Select the Shape to Connect
is displayed. Pick the 530 UB 82 member running along Axis A.
6. The prompt:
Select support shape or <RETURN> for no support shape
is displayed. Select the column the beam is to be connected to. The ProSteel 3D Endplates
dialog will display. Set the parameters as per the following figure and press OK to place the
end plate. Repeat the same procedure and place the same end plate on the opposite end of the
530 UB 82 beam.
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A description of the fields within the different tabs of the ProSteel 3D Endplates dialog shown
above is provided in the following tables.
LAYOUT TAB
Layout of Plate This option list the following connection types to choose from:
Automatic: The program makes the distinction between a spliced / butt or normal plate connection.
An angle of approx. 45° is assumed to be the critical angle.
Splice: The connection is always a splice connection.
Normal: The connection is always a normal plate connection.
Flange: The connection has a plate welded to its flanges.
Plate Dimensions Specify the basic dimensions of the connecting plate.
Width: means the width of the plate (in case of I shapes: parallel to the shape flange).
Thickness: means the thickness of the plate.
Length: means a fixed length of the plate independent of the shape height. Entering the value 0 for
the length, you can enter the plate length variably in the Offset Top/Offset Bottom fields as distance
from the upper and lower edge of the selected shape.
Gap: specifies that an indicated space is left between the supporting shape and the plate. This
allows you to consider finishing tolerances.
Double Plate: means that two connecting plates of the same size are created.
As Polyplate Select if plates are created using a flat steel or polyplates
Rotate Connection Rotates connection upside down.
Plates Equal When the Double Plates option is enabled, this forces both plates to be identical in form.
Press this button to retrieve the dimension of the plate from a shape.
Press this button to set the dimensions of the second plate to those of the first plate.
Plate Offset Horizontal: means the complete plate connection is shifted parallel to the flange of the connecting
shape.
Vertical: means the complete plate connection is shifted parallel to the web of the connecting shape.
Bentley ProSteel 3D
STRUCTURAL User Copyright © 2006Bentley Systems, Incorporated Do Not Duplicate
7/5/2007 7-3
HOLES TAB
Without Holes Without Holes: The connecting plate is entered without drill holes if this field is selected.
Vertical Here, you determine the number of vertical drill holes in the plate.
Asymmetrical: If this field is checked, you can determine the distances of the holes as you like.
Otherwise, a symmetrical distribution is determined according to the defaults.
Number: You determine the number of drill holes in vertical direction. You can select between 1 and
10 drill holes.
(Vertical Hole Pattern): The drill hole spacing in a vertical direction (height) is determined.
Depending on the entry, the values have different meanings. Examples are given at the end of the
command description.
You can enter the distance of the upper row of holes from the plate's upper edge in the Upside field.
If this value is 0, and the value in the box Downside is also 0, the only entry that will be used is in
the Middle field. You can enter the distance of the first and second row of holes from the upper and
lower plate edge in the Middle field. The holes will be distributed uniformly between the two outer
holes if this value is 0. The other rows of holes will be arranged in the same manner if the number is
greater than 4. You can enter the distance of the lowest row of holes from the plate's lower edge in
the box Downside. Only the entry in the Middle box will be used if the value in the Downside and
Upside field is 0. You can enter a simultaneous shifting of all rows of holes with respect to the plate
upper edge in the Offset field. Shifting will be carried out with respect to the plate lower edge when
entering negative values. If you have selected the Asymmetrical option, the structure of the hole
pattern input changes and a list with an input field appears. Depending on the number of holes, you
can determine each distance individually by clicking the position in the list and by specifying the
distance in the input field. Additionally, you can determine whether the distribution starts from upper
or lower plate edge, depending on the checked field upper edge or lower edge.
Horizontal Here, you determine the number of horizontal drill holes in the plate.
Number: You determine the number of drill holes in horizontal direction (width) in the list. You can
select 1, 2, or 4 drill holes. Thus, 1 to 40 hole patterns can be created.
(Horizontal Hole Pattern): The drill hole spacing in a horizontal direction (width) is defined here.
Examples are given at the end of the command description. The distance between the outer left row
of holes and the central left row of holes, if the number of rows is 4, is entered in the Left field. The
distance between the two inner rows of holes is entered in the Middle field. The rows of holes are
generally arranged centrally, unless they are offset by an entry in the Offset field. The distance
between the outer right row of holes and the central right row of holes, if the number of rows is 4, is
entered in the Right field. Simultaneous shifting of all rows of holes with respect to the right plate
edge is entered in the Offset field. When entering negative values, shifting will be carried out with
respect to the left plate edge.
Measured from If the Asymmetrical option is enabled, this provides a list of options to determine where the hole
offsets are measured. The available options are Upper Edge Plate, Upper Edge Shape, and Lower
Edge Shape.
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CONNECT TAB
Bolt Settings The Bolt Style allows you to select the type of bolts (e.g., 8.8S) to be used for the connection. The
Edit Style button next to this field displays a dialog allowing you to create new Bolt styles and edit
existing ones.
You can enter the bolt diameter for the connection in the Dia field and the required hole diameter of
the bolted connection, in most cases +2 mm in the Workloose field.
Weld Settings The Weld Style allows you to select the type of weld to be used for the connection. The Edit Style
button next to this field displays a dialog allowing you to create new weld styles and edit existing
ones.
You can enter the welding seam thicknesses by enabling the Weld Flange Side Weld Web Side
options and in entering the thickness in the corresponding fields. Welding marks can be
subsequently assigned to the welding seams.
GROUP TAB
Group and Cope If the Create Group option is enabled, the plate and the shape to be connected are arranged to form
a group in this field. The plate is allocated to another group, if the shape is already part of that
group. The same applies to the supporting shape and the associated stiffeners.
The bolts or welds for the shape to be connected are also assigned to the group in With Bolts or
With Welds fields.
Safety Copes Top Left: Leaves a gap in the angle in the upper left side.
Top Right: Leaves a gap in the angle in the upper right side.
Bottom Left: Leaves a gap in the angle in the bottom left side.
Bottom Right: Leaves a gap in the angle in the bottom right side.
EXERCISE 2: CREATING AN END PLATE CONNECTION WITH AN INHERENT

GUSSET PLATE
In this exercise, you will learn how to create an End Plate connection with a gusset plate on the
lower surface of the beam.
1. To place a connection plate, first, zoom to the intersection of the three 530 UB 82 beams with
the 360 UB 45 column located at coordinate B1.
3. The prompt:
is displayed. Pick the 530 UB 82 member running along Axis B.
4. The prompt:
is displayed. Pick the column to display the ProSteel 3D Endplates dialog shown below. Set
the parameters per the figures below then press OK.
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The following table will give a description of the fields within the Bt. Train tab of the ProSteel 3D
Endplates dialog.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Select Haunch Specify the position of the haunch as well as any additional stiffeners.
If the Top Haunch field is checked, the haunch is created on the topside of the shape to be
connected.
If the Bottom Haunch field is checked, the haunch is created on the bottom side of the shape to be
connected.
Coped Shape Creates the bottom train from a coped shape
Rectangular Plate Creates a rectangular web plate.
Normal to Column Cuts the web plate parallel to the supporting shape. Only available when the Coped Shape option is
enabled.
As Polyplate Creates the flange of the bottom train as Polyplate.
Stiffener in If the Support Shape field is checked, stiffeners are added to the support shape. These stiffeners
Support Shape are created in addition to those created together with the connection.
Stiffener in If the Connection Shape field is checked, additional stiffeners are added to the connection shape.
Connect Shape
Shape Size Specify the haunch plates (plates).
If the Coped Shape field is checked, the haunch is not created from individual plates but from one
cropped shape. The shape size corresponds with the connection shape. All other shape size fields
are then insignificant.
Flange Width is the width of the haunch flange if the haunch is designed from plates.
Flange Thickness is the thickness of the haunch flange if the haunch is designed from plates.
Web Thickness is the thickness of the haunch web plate if the haunch is designed from plates.
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Dimensions Specifies the exterior haunch dimensions. A bitmap illustrating the dimensions is available by
pressing the Hide Graphics button at the bottom of the dialog. Different illustrations will
display depending on the type of shape size you select. The dimension numbers will correspond
with the field numbers in the dialog.
Haunch Length: Sets the length of the bottom train.
Cut Width: Sets the cut height in the connecting shape.
Top Height: Sets the top of the height of the web plate.
Flange Width: Sets the width of the flange of the bottom train.
Flange Thickness: Sets the thickness of the flange of the bottom train.
Plate Thickness: Sets the web plate thickness.
Facet Size: Sets the facets on the web plate on the inner edges.
Facet Horizontal: Sets the horizontal facet on the outer edge of the web plate. Only available when
the Rectangular Plate option is enabled.
Facet Vertical: Sets the vertical facet on the outer edge of the web plate. Only available when the
Rectangular Plate option is enabled.
Supp. Plate Width: Sets the width of the supporting plate underneath the coped shape.
Supp. Plate: Enables the Input of the strength plate underneath the coped shape.
Supp. Plate Thickness: Sets the thickness of the supporting shape underneath the coped shape.
Supp. Shape as Poly: Creates a supporting plate as polyplate.
 PLACE ANOTHER END PLATE

1. Repeat the previous exercise to place another end plate with haunch on the other end of the
same beam.
2. Set your model to a FR2_FRONT view and it should appear as shown below.
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EXERCISE 3: CREATING AN END PLATE CONNECTION WITH TWO INHERENT

GUSSET PLATES
In this exercise, you will learn how to create an End Plate connection with a gusset plate on the
upper and lower surface of the beam.
1. Return to an Overview 1 view then zoom to the intersection of the three 530 UB 82 beams
with the 360 UB 45 column located at coordinate B2.
3. The prompt:
is displayed. Pick the 530 UB 82 member running along Axis B.
4. The prompt:
is displayed. Pick the column to display the ProSteel 3D EndPlates dialog shown below. Set
the parameters per the figures below. When finished, press OK to place the plates.
5. After setting the parameters in the Bt. Train tab for the Top Haunch, enable the Bottom
Haunch input the same values as the Top Haunch. This will insert haunches above and below
the 530 UB 82 beam.
6. Repeat the procedure and place another end plate with gusset plates on the other end of the
same beam. Your model should appear as shown below. (FR2_FRONT view)
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EXERCISE 4: CREATING END PLATE CONNECTIONS AT THE REMAINING

INTERSECTIONS
In this exercise, you will finish building End plate connections between beams and columns.
1. At the intersection of all 530 UB 82 beams with the column WEBS create an End Plate
connection with the following parameters (ProSteel 3D menu > Connections > End Plates >
Endplates Normal).
2. After setting the parameters above, switch to the Group tab and enable the Create Group and
With Bolts options. The other parameters in this dialog should remain unchanged.
3. At the Intersection of the 360 UB 45 (Located in the TOP elevation of Workframe FR2) with
the column WEBS create End Plate connections with the following parameters (ProSteel 3D
menu > Connections > End Plates > Endplates Normal).
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4. The remaining settings for these endplates will remain unchanged, so after setting the Layout
parameters as shown, press OK to place the endplate.
5. At the intersection of the 530 UB 82 and 410 UB 54 beams with the column FLANGES create
End Plate connections with the following parameters. The parameters in the remaining tabs
will be unchanged. (ProSteel 3D menu > Connections > End Plates > Endplates Normal).
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Lesson 2: Modifying Connections using Grip Editing
LESSON 2: MODIFYING CONNECTIONS USING GRIP EDITING
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to use grip editing to modify an existing End Plate connection.
 Manually modify a connection and add "common" bolts to two back to back End Plate
connections.
 Introduce the BOLTING command.
EXERCISE 1: USING GRIPS TO MODIFY AN EXISTING END PLATE CONNECTION

2. Zoom into the joint between the column (310 UB 46) and Beams (530 UB 82) at coordinate
A1.
3. Pick the 530 UB 82 beam running along Axis A to highlight its grips.
4. Right-click and select PS 3D Properties.
5. From the Shape Properties dialog migrate to the LogLinks tab.
6. Search the LINK until you find the End Plate located at this intersection. This can be
accomplished by using the arrow buttons at the bottom of the LogLinks tab.
Note The number and description of the link changes as you cycle through the available links.
Also note that in the model, as you move from end plate to end plate, the intersecting
column at the connection will highlight. This is your indication that this is the joint that will
be edited.
7. Once the End Plate connection at the displayed end is located hit the Edit button to invoke the
dialog needed to EDIT the connection.
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8. Edit the connection as indicated in the figure below. We will change the Offset Bottom in the
Plate Dimension section to –350.
9. Press the OK button to close the dialog and apply the changes.
10. While still in the Shape Properties dialog use the arrows and cycle to the end plate connection
located at the other end of the same beam, then modify it in the same manner.
11. Set your model to a FR1_FRONT view and the front frame should appear as shown below.
Hint The offset value will be a Negative number when the desired result has the plate extend
beyond the limits of the beam. This is true in all cases including an offset on the top side
of the beam. Positive numbers are used only when the plate needs to be Smaller in
height than the intersecting beam.
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EXERCISE 2: MANUALLY MODIFYING ELEMENTS TO CHANGE A CONNECTION

1. Return to an Overview 1 view then zoom to the joint between the beams and the column
located at coordinate B1.
2. Use the AutoCAD erase command to erase the bolts that exist between the connections of
both beams on Axis 1 and the column.
Note Each connection that was created at this location added a set of bolts to the connection.
3. Now that the bolts have been manually deleted we need to bolt the connection together using
the correct length bolt. The new length needs to be long enough to accommodate both end
plates and the column web thickness. Select Bolts from the ProSteel 3D menu. This will load
the ProSteel 3D Bolt Styles dialog. Click on the Bolting tab and set the dialog to reflect the
values shown below. We will review fields in the Bolting tab below.
The following table will give a description of the fields in the dialog shown above.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Bolt Style Contains the bolt type (e.g., 8.8S) for the bolted connections. The different bolt types are
filed in databases, which allows you to add self-defined types.
Single Hole Bolt When enabled, bolts are also defined for single holes. Normally, two opposite drill holes
with their tolerances defined in Geometry Setting are necessary for bolting.
Create dynamic If this field is checked, all involved elements are created with a logical link. Thus the bolting
Connection can be automatically adapted if a component is modified.
Bolt Settings In the Diameter field, enter the diameter for the bolt(s) to be used in the connection.
In the Workloose field, enter the desired hole clearance of the bolted connection, in most
cases 2 mm.
In the Additional Length field, you can enter a length addition to the grip of the bolt, which
will be taken into consideration when selecting the bolts.
Tolerances In the Gap field, you enter the distance up to which two drill holes can be considered as
matching and the component parts concerned can be bolted together, in most cases 2 mm.
In the Angle field, you enter the angle difference of two hole axes, up to which two drill
holes can be considered to be well aligned and the component parts concerned can be
bolted together, in most cases 1°.
HINT: You should not adjust this value to 0, since in some cases this would
prevent bolt fastening due to an inexact calculation, although in practical
application a connection would be possible.
Bolting: Press this button to create the connections. For this purpose, you must select all
components to be connected according to the defined mode (maximum of 50 parts in one
operation).
Then, the program defines the possible bolt settings and inserts the bolts into the model.
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Single Bolt: Press this button to insert a single bolt at the desired position.
Turn: Press this button to rotate inserted bolts for mounting reasons. For this purpose,
select all bolts that are to be turned.
4. Click on the Bolt Style tab to display the fields shown below.
The following table will give a description of the fields in the Bolt Styles tab shown above.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Bolt Style Here, the selected style name is displayed.
Additional Parts The options along the left side of the display determines the components of the bolt
connection. As you check an item, it will appear in the display to the right.
Option Buttons The buttons on the right side of the Additional Parts section display dialogs that provide more
detailed information about the corresponding component. For a component button to be
enabled, you must first enable checkbox for the corresponding component on the left side of
the dialog. The only exception is the Bolt button. It will always be enabled.
Save: Click this button to save the bolt style in the drawing. Please note that you have to
save the style here first and of course the drawing later, too, to keep the information.
Load from File: Click this button to load a bolt style from a file you received e.g. from another
user.
5. Set the Bolt Styles as shown above then press Save to save the style in the drawing.
Note New Bolt Styles can be created through the Sort tab of the dialog. Once created and
saved, they will be added to the Bolt Style drop down list.
6. Return to the Bolting tab and press the Bolting button at the bottom of the dialog.
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7. The prompt:
Select all Parts to be Bolted (max 50):
Select Objects:
displays. Pick the column and BOTH end plates.
8. Press Enter. This will insert bolts and return you to the ProSteel 3D Bolt Styles dialog.
Hint You should not perform this type of operation until ready to begin the detailing or creation
of an MTO. After performing this operation, any editing performed on the End Plate
connections via the "Logical Links" modification procedure will re-insert bolts for each end
plate thus doubling the quantity of bolts.
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Lesson 3: Adding the New Endplates to their Display Classes
LESSON 3: ADDING THE NEW ENDPLATES TO THEIR DISPLAY CLASSES
OBJECTIVES
 Utilize the Display Class function to add newly created shapes to a Display Class.
EXERCISE 1: ADDING THE NEW PARTS TO THE DISPLAY CLASSES

1. Open the ProSteel 3D Display Classes dialog (ProSteel 3D menu > Display Classes > Dialog).
2. Select the Axis A display class from the list of display classes.
3. Make sure to enable the Complete Groups option at the bottom of the dialog. See the diagram
below.
4. Press the Assign button. The prompt:

Select Objects
is displayed. Pick the beam running along the Axis A in the front workframe. Right click to
return to the Display Classes dialog.
5. To verify that all parts of the connections located on each end of the beam have been added
press the Hide Classes button and note the change in the model display.
6. Using the same procedure, add all the beams and endplate connection parts to their respective
display classes.
Hint If you use a "crossing" window to build your selection set make sure that you do not
accidentally pick the workframe or any other object that you DO NOT want in the display
class. If you do accidentally add an element you can use the DELETE button from within
the Display Class function to remove that element from the display class. Remember that
an element can only reside in one display class at a time and will be moved from one
class to the other.
7. Save your model (File menu > Save).
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Lesson 3: Adding the New Endplates to their Display Classes
Your model should appear as shown in the following figure.
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8 Creating Cross Bracing and Base Plates
of each lesson.
LESSON 1: CREATION OF DYNAMIC AND STATIC

BRACINGS 8-2
LESSON 2: CREATING BASE PLATES ON COLUMNS 8-14
LESSON 3: DRILLING THE BASE PLATE TO

ACCOMMODATE ANCHOR BOLTS 8-19
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Lesson 1: Creation of Dynamic and Static Bracings
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to create Dynamic cross bracing.
 Learn how to create Static bracing.
 Introduce ProSteel 3D "Construction lines and delve further into the ProSteel 3D OSNAPS.
EXERCISE 1: PREPARING TO CREATE DYNAMIC CROSS BRACING

In this exercise, you will learn how to prepare the TRNMODEL.DWG to create Dynamic Cross
bracing.
2. To begin the cross bracing command we need to prepare our model. This requires us to set the
view of the model to our frame that will contain the cross bracing and to create construction
lines to act as our guides for the bracing.
3. Change the display to the saved FR1_FRONT view (ProSteel 3D menu > Zoom/Views > Choose
View).
When the dialog appears select the FR1_FRONT view from the list and press the Set View
button to set model to this view.
4. Create the required construction lines by opening the ProSteel 3D CONSTRUCTION dialog
(ProSteel 3D menu > Construction Lines > Dialog).
5. Set your parameters to match the figure below. The options in this dialog are described on the
following page.
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The following table will review the options available in this dialog.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Get Direction With 2-Point: Select a reference line by clicking two points.
Line: Select a reference line by clicking one line if the function is designed for this.
Otherwise, the function switches automatically to the 2-Point mode.
Point Line: Select a reference line by choosing a starting point and a line determining the
direction.
Create Line Type Lines: The length of the construction lines corresponds to the length of the picked line or they
are extended by the value indicated in the Offset field.
XLines: The construction lines have an infinite length.
These infinite lines, however, do not influence the drawing limits, for example, with the
AutoCAD command "Zoom Limits."
Options Distance: The distance of the construction line(s) from the displayed line in case of parallel or
vertical construction lines.
Scale 1: Distance spacing information is converted to the scale indicated here. This allows
actual dimensions to be used.
Angle: The construction lines are rotated by the angle indicated here.
Number: The number of construction lines or divisions created simultaneously when using
the Divide function.
Offset: The construction lines are extended by this value with respect to the reference line.
XY Plane: All construction lines are created on the current user coordinate system plane;
points are projected to the current user coordinate plane as well.
Create Reference Line: A construction line is drawn on the reference line as well (even for a
non-existing line indicated with only 2 points).
Execute in Loop: Executes the construction line function until the user cancels the command.
Placement Options
Creates a construction line in a horizontal UCS direction.
Creates a construction line in a vertical UCS direction.
This creates parallel construction lines for a reference line selected or displayed via
pick points.
Creates a construction line normal to a referenced direction.
Creates construction lines distributed along a selected line normal with a specified
pattern.
6. After setting the dialog parameters press the Parallel button. When prompted to:
Specify Start Point of Line
pick the left hand underside end of the beam.
7. When prompted to :
Specify End Point of Line
Pick the right hand underside of the beam.
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8. The prompt:
Pick Point on Desired Line
appears. Pick the PS_SHAPE POINT icon and select the right hand end of the beam. Follow
this with a right click of the mouse to return to the Construction Line Dialogue Box. Select
the tick box to end the command.
9. The construction line will be drawn through the center of the beam, but may not extend
through both ends of the beam. If this is the case, pick the line and select the grip point at the
end to be extended and drag the grip point to the required location.
8. Now that we have a starting construction line we can complete the construction line process
by adding a simple AutoCAD line across the front of our frame defining the bracing angle.
Note Before executing the next step, turn off AutoCAD’s OSNAP option.
9. Zoom in to the bottom of the left hand column.

10. Invoke the AutoCAD line command and when prompted to specify the first point use the
ProSteel 3D OSNAP PS RELATIVEPOINT in conjunction with the PS SHAPEPOINTS.
Pick Base Point for Relative Point
pick the top face of the base plate.

Specify Second Point for Relative Point
enter @0,150,0 at the command line, then hit enter.

Specify Next Point
Dynamic zoom in to the top of the right hand column and using the PS INTERSECTION
snap, select the intersection of construction line and Workframe.
EXERCISE 2: DEFINING AND INSERTING DYNAMIC CROSS BRACING

In this exercise, you will learn how to define and create Dynamic Cross Bracing.
1. While still in the FR1_FRONT view select the Dynamic Bracing option (ProSteel 3D menu >
Connections > Bracing > Bracing dynamic).
Pick System Line of Brace Member <Line>,Point
pick the AutoCAD line between the columns.

Select First Main Member to connect Brace:
pick the left hand column.
4. When the prompt:

Pick Second Main Member to which the bracing connects at opposite end:
pick the other column. This will open the ProSteel 3D Bracing dialog. Set the parameters to
match the two figures below and then we will review the settings within the dialog.
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The fields of the Common tab are described in the following table.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Shapes Indicates the utilized shapes for the bracing bars. Enter the Shape Catalog into the first
selection box, the Shape Type into the second, and the Shape Size into the third.
Plate Thickness Indicates the thickness of the gusset plate.
Edge Distance to Determines the minimum distance between Borders or Border objects to the bracing rods.
Round Shape Length to Rounds the calculated length of the bracing rods to this value.
Plate Width Minimum Sets the maximum width of the gusset plates if the triangular symmetric is selected.
Offset Selects how far the Gusset Plates shall overlap the Bracing Rods sidways.
Depth accord. UCS Sets the depth of the Bracing according to the UCS system
Gusset Position Sets the position of the Gusset plates according to the connection plane.
Gusset Type Sets the form of the Gusset Plates.
Cross Bracing If this switch is enabled, the bracing is designed in the form of a cross stay. Otherwise, only
one bracing bar is added to the clicked on system line.
Welded Bracing If this switch is enabled, the bracing is welded in its entirety. No borings are added in that
case.
Form Group If this switch is enabled, the individual bracing elements are formed into groups.
Symmetrical If this switch is enabled, the bracing is designed in the form of a cross stay and remains
symmetrical if modified with its grips. Otherwise, every bar can be changed individually.
Dynamic If this switch is enabled, the bracing immediately depicts the modifications made in the dialog.
If you would like to modify many values, you can deactivate this option for the time being.
Add Cutting Edge: By pressing this button, you can add additional boundary edges (lines) for
the gusset plate calculation.
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Delete Cutting Edge: Press this button to delete an additional boundary edge.
The fields of the Shape Bracing tab are described in the following table.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Shape Position Select from one of the following options to position the shapes in relation to the gusset plates.
Front- the profiles are located in front of the gusset plate.
Back- the profiles are located behind the gusset plate.
Crossed- one profile is located in front of the gusset plate and one behind.
Centered- the profiles are located in the bracing plane.
Double- one profile each is located in front of and behind the gusset plate (total of 4 profiles).
Replaced- one profile each is located in front of and behind the gusset plate with one being
offset to the left and one to the right (total of 4 profiles for cross stay).
4 Times- one profile is located on each side (front, rear, left, right), which makes a total of 8
profiles for cross stay.
Shape Insertion Centered- the profiles are inserted along the profile axis.
COG Line (Center of Gravity)- the profiles are inserted along the pitch line.
Pitch Line-the profiles are inserted along the line measuring the distance from the outside of the
angle to the rivet center.
Hole Position Centered- The drill holes are drilled on the profile axis.
COG Line- The drill holes are drilled on the profile pitch line.
Pitch Line- The profiles are drilled along the line measuring the distance from the outside of the
angle to the rivet center.
Diagonal-The shapes are inserted along their corner points from “Upper Edge Left” up to “Lower
Edge Right”.
Inverse Diagonal- The shapes are inserted along their corner points from “Lower Edge Left” up
to “Upper Edge Right”.
Shape Distance Indicate the distance of the profiles for offset or 4-fold bracings in the field Shape Distance.
Rotation Angle The Rotation Angle field is used to specify a rotation of the profiles.
Offset Specify a projection of the central gusset plate extending past the shape edges of the bracing
bars. Positive values increase the size of the plate whereas negative values decrease it.
Shorten Specifies a value to be used to shorten the profiles after the bracing has been generated.
Mirror Shapes The profiles are mirrored and then inserted.
Divide All All profiles of a cross stay are separated at the center gusset plate.
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Center Hole At a cross stay and selected shape position 'Crossed', a common hole is drilled into the shapes
that are crossing each other.
Bind Plates If this field is enabled, opposing profiles have bind plates as stiffeners. The input fields located
under the batten plate field can be used for a further description of the batten plates.
Number: The number of bolts that are used to connect each batten plate with the shapes.
Distance: The distance of the batten plates; the program divides the distances regularly
according to this specification and the values are rounded up or down correspondingly.
Offset: In this input field, you specify the distance of batten plates from the shape edges.
Positive values decrease the size of the plate whereas negative values increase it; i.e. the plate
has a projection.
Weld: If this field is checked, the batten plates are not bolted but welded. In the Af input field,
you can predefine the weld seam thickness.
Diameter: In this input field, you enter the diameter of bolting.
Workloose: Workloose between the Hole diameter and the Bolt diameter.
Edge-1st Hole: indicates the distance from the ends of batten plates to the first hole center in
direction of the bar.
Hole-Hole: indicates the space between the drill holes in the direction of the bar.
Hint Bracing command may require that you "Add Cutting Edge" in order to better define the
limits of the bracing and the gusset plates. This may not be enough to properly define the
plate in which case you can use additional MODIFY commands to shape the plates as
needed. This would include such commands as "Extend/Trim to Line". Also of importance
is that Dynamic bracing can be modified after its initial insertion. It will also dynamically
adjust as changes are made to the adjacent members and the distance between them.
5. To clean up the bracing gusset plates, return to the Common tab of the ProSteel 3D Bracing
dialog and use the Add Cutting Edge function and select the underside of the beam to reshape
and adjust the gusset plates. When finished, press OK to close the dialog.
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EXERCISE 3: PREPARING TO CREATE STATIC BRACING

In this exercise, you will learn how to prepare the model to create Static Bracing.
2. To begin the cross bracing command we need to prepare our model. This requires us to set the
view of the model to our frame that will contain the cross bracing and to create construction
lines to act as our guides for the bracing.
3. Change the display to the saved FR2_BACK view (ProSteel 3D menu > Zoom/Views > Choose
View).
4. When the dialog appears select the FR2_BACK view from the list and press the Set View button
to set model to this view.
5. Now we create the construction line for our Static bracing. Invoke the line command and
when prompted to specify the first point, press the ProSteel 3D OSNAP PS RELATIVEPOINT.
Note Make sure the AutoCAD OSNAP option is turned off before picking the first point.

Specify base point for relative point
Press the PS_SHAPE POINT button then pick a point close to the bottom of the left column to
place the line relative to the column base.
7. At the prompt:
Pick Second Point for Relative Point: @0,600,0
type @0,600,0 at the command line.
8. The second point of the line will be set by using the PS_SHAPE POINT snap of the CENTER
of the crossbeam.
9. The last segment of the line will be defined by using the PS_RELATIVE POINT in conjunction
with the PS_SHAPE POINT of the center column base. When prompted for the second point,
refer to Step 5 and enter the same coordinates at the command line. Your model should look
like the following figure.
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EXERCISE 4: DEFINING AND INSERTING STATIC BRACING

In this exercise you will finish define and insert Static Bracing components.
1. Select the Static Bracing option. (ProSteel 3D menu > Connections > Bracing > Bracing static).
This will open the ProSteel 3D Static Bracing dialog. Set the parameters in the Shapes tab to
match the figure below and then we will review the settings of the dialog.
The fields of the ProSteel 3D Bracing dialog are described in the following table.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Shape Type Selects the shape type for the bracing rods.
Shape Class Selects the shape that will be displayed in the field Shape Window.
Resolution Selects the resolution in which the bracing rods will be inserted.
Shape Size Determines the shape size for the bracing rods
UCS Location The position of the gusset plate with respect to the plane of the bracing is determined.
The first image shows the plate front edge. The second image shows the plate Center and
the third image shows the plate rear edge.
Rod Insertion Determines the position of the rod with respect to the insertion line (system line).
You can insert the rod in the Middle, on the Gravity line, or on the Root line.
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Rod Position You can determine the position of the rod with respect to the bracing plane. You can check
the selected position in the Shape Window in the upper right corner of the dialog field.
Fronsidet means that the rod is flush with the front edge of the gusset plate (more precise: in
positive z direction of the UCS).
Backside means that the rod is flush with the rear edge of the gusset plate (more precise: in
negative z direction of the UCS).
Bothsides means that a rod is positioned on both sides of the gusset plate.
Centered means that the rod axis is in a centered position in the UCS plane.
Rotation You can insert the rod in its normal position or rotated by +90 degrees or -90 degrees. You
can check the selected mode in the Shape Window in the upper right corner of the dialog
field.
Mirror The shape can be inserted in a normal or mirrored way. You can check the selected mode in
the Shape Window in the upper right corner of the dialog box.
Plate Thickness Thickness of gusset plates.
Placement Options
You can create bracing rods and gusset plates in one operation. However, the
command is not suitable for the connection of several rods from different systems. This
should be done using a single function. You will return to the dialog field after creation.
You can insert single rods that are automatically drilled. You will return to the dialog
field after creation
Existing shapes are drilled on their ends, according to the definitions in the dialog
field. You must select the shapes for this purpose. You will return to the dialog field
afterwards.
A gusset plate will be created automatically.

Select Bracing Rods that have already been drilled and then click Boundary Lines for the
Plate Edges. The program will try to find a suitable plate dimension by keeping the edge
distances and the boundary lines. It may be necessary to pick one point at the planned
bracing end. Click the approximate position of the gusset plate. You will return to the dialog
field afterwards.
You can determine the shape of the gusset plate.

Select the drilled bracing rods that are to be connected and pick a point on the planned
bracing end. Click the approximate position of the gusset plate. The edge distances will be
displayed.
You then define the shape of the plate by clicking the edge points of a polyline. You can
check the shape being created. The functions available for creating the polyline are the same
as those available for drawing a polyline using AutoCAD. The dialog box will be restored
after creating the plate.
If you have not determined the UCS plane before using the command, you can do
this subsequently: the active UCS plane (and consequently the plane of the bracing) will be
determined by clicking 3 points. You will return to the dialog field afterwards.
2. Click on the Connect tab and set the parameters as shown below.
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The fields of the Connect tab of the ProSteel 3D Bracing dialog are described in the following
table.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Bolt Style Determines the style of bolt.
Diameter Determines the diameter of the bolts.
Workloose Workloose between the Hole diameter and Bolt diameter.
Number Shape You can enter the number of bolts (drill holes) in shape direction of the rod on each shape
end. The spacing will result from the selected bolt diameter.
Number Cross Sets the number of bolts normal to the bracing rod direction.
Distance Sets the spacing of the holes normal to the bracing rod direction.
Hole Position You can determine the position of the holes in the rod. You can insert the holes in the Middle,
on the Gravity line, or on the Pitch line.
Weld Bracing The shapes and gusset plates are not drilled if the Weld Bracing field is selected. The
dimensions of the gusset plates, however, are determined as if drill holes were existing.
Plate without Edges The edges of the gusset plate are not beveled but right-angled if the Plate without Edge field
is enabled.
Create Group A group is formed for each rod if the Create Group field is selected.
The bolts of the bracing rod to be connected are also allocated to the group if the With Bolts
field is selected.
3. Next, set the parameters of the Distance tab as shown below:
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4. As we are building a static bracing we will need to build this in sections. First we will define
the bracing angles. From within the dialog press the Rod button. When prompted to:
Pick System Line of Brace Member <Line>Point
pick the AutoCAD line on the left.

Pick Border Line of Brace Member or Return for End <Line>,Back, Point
pick the left column.
6. At the prompt:
pick the cross beam at the top.
7. When prompted a third time to:

right click to end the definition phase and bring up the Bracing Rod Length modification
dialog. Set the actual length of the rod to match the below figure then press OK.
8. Repeat this function for the other brace rod.

9. Now we need to create the gusset plates at each end of the bracing rods. On the ends that meet
the columns we will create two single rod plates. At the intersection of the two rods with the
crossbeam we will create a common plate for both rods. We will create these as "Plate Auto".
10. If the ProSteel 3D Bracing dialog is not displayed, open it now and press the Plate Auto
button.
Pick Connection End of Brace Member to be connected or Return for End:
Select Objects:
pick the lower end of the left bracing rod. Follow this with a right click.
12. The prompt:

Pick Border Line for Gusset Plate or Return for End <Line>,Back, Point
displays. Pick the inside edge of the column flange.
13. When prompted a second time to:

Right click.
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Pick a Point at the Proposed Brace End:
Pick a point away from the brace and right click to place the gusset plate and return to the
Structural Bracing dialog.
Note If picking the edge of the beam is not recognized by the command, type P (for point)
when asked to select border and define 2 points along the edge of the beam.
15. Repeat the same process at the lower end of the right bracing rod.
16. Repeat the process one more time at the top end of the both bracing rods. Press the Plate Auto
button. When prompted to:
Pick Connection End of Brace Member to be connected or Return for End:
Select objects:
pick the upper end of BOTH bracing rods where they meet the cross beam. Follow this with a
right click.

pick in the lower edge of the flange on the crossbeam followed by a right click to place the
gusset plate and return to the bracing dialog. Press OK to exit the command.

Pick a Point at the Proposed Brace End:
Pick a point away from the two braces and right click to place the gusset plate.
Note If you pick a point near the end of either brace, an individual gusset plate will be placed at
that location instead of one gusset plate for both.
19. Your model at the location of the bracing should appear as in the following figure.
Hint When adding gusset plates you can use the Select Plate function to define the plate. You
must pick the bracing rod near the end to receive the plate and then pick a point near the
gusset plate end. This will highlight the element with the edges of the plate limits and you
then must build a boundary that defines the shape of the plate.
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Lesson 2: Creating Base Plates on Columns
LESSON 2: CREATING BASE PLATES ON COLUMNS
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to use the Base Plate command to insert Base plates on a column.
 Create Base Plates using the Plate command in conjunction with the MODIFY functions to
shorten shapes.
EXERCISE 1: USING THE BASE PLATE COMMAND TO INSERT BASE PLATES AT

COLUMNS
1. Select Zoom/Views > Isometric Overview from the ProSteel 3D menu.
2. Zoom in on the bottom end of the column at coordinate A1.
3. Select the Baseplates option. (ProSteel 3D menu > Connections > Baseplates > Baseplates
DAST…)
Select the Shape to connect
pick the column near the bottom end. When the ProSteel 3D DSTV Baseplate dialog loads, set
the parameters as shown in the following figures.
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The fields in the Plate Data tab are described in the following table.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Layout Tab
Selected Column Displays the column selected for baseplate.
Plate Width Width of the base plate (parallel to the support flange), related to a vertical supporting shape.
Plate Height Height of the base plate, related to a vertical supporting shape.
Plate Thickness Thickness of the base plate.
Grout Thickness Enter the grout thickness, or how high the plate shall be above the current Niveou.
Align Plate to The base plate will be entered vertically to the longitudinal in Profile Direction: axis of the
Shape Normal support in this field. If not, the base plate will be aligned parallel to the x/y axis of the WCS,
provided, it is a "real" support.
Shorten Column The supporting shape is shortened by the plate thickness and the grout space underneath in
this field. Otherwise, the base plate is fastened to the support. The point of reference is
determined by the shape axis in the case of inclined supports.
Form Group The base plate and the support member are arranged to form a group in this field. If the
support member is already part of another group, the base plate is assigned to that group.
As Polyplate If this field is checked, the base plate is always aligned parallel towards the x/y-plane and the
smallest torsion is searched. Otherwise it is aligned parallel towards the flanges.
Holes Tab
Inner Holes Drill Inner Holes: Enable this option to create inner holes according to the settings below:
Hole Distance: Enter the width of the inner holefield, or 0 if you only want holes in the Height.
Hole Distance: Enter the Height of the inner holefield, or 0 if you only want holes in the width.
Hole Diameter: Enter the diameter of the inner holefield.
Outer Holes Drill Outer Holes: Enable this option to create outer holes according to the settings below:
Number: In these two fields, input the number of desired holes in the Outer Holefield.
Holefield Width: Enter the total Width of the outer holefield.
Holefield Height: Enter the total Height of the outer holefield.
Hole Diameter: Enter the diameter of the outer holefield.
Connect Tab
With Tie Bolts If With Tie Bolts is selected, the anchor bolts are displayed by symbols and can be entered in
the parts list.
With Anchor bolts Inserts anchorbolts also in the outer holefield.
outside
Label Description for the anchor bolts.
Use Dowel Use Anchor Dowels instead of a symbolic bolt. The dowels are stored in a database which is
defined in the field below. The browse button allows you to navigate to the desired database.
Weld Style Define the weld style to be used in this field.
Weld Flange Side Enable this option to use welds on the flange side of the connection shape. The thickness
field next to this option allows you to enter the thickness of the weld if you want to override the
weld style thickness.
Weld Web Side Enable this option to use welds on the web side of the connection shape. The thickness field
next to this option allows you to enter the thickness of the weld if you want to override the weld
style thickness.
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Data Tab
Column Load in Maximum force to be carried by the plate.
kN
Hole diameter List of standardized hole diameters.
Concrete Concrete grade of the elements.
Available You will find base plates for the clicked supporting shape under Selection Templates. These
Standard are defined according to the standard DAST guidelines.
Baseplates
The values in the fields below are displayed and can be changed. When you select a plate,
the base plate is immediately attached; you can then directly check the result and make
modifications, if necessary.
Note: The plate width and the plate height refer to vertical supports. The values are
correspondingly increased to maintain the shape edges in the case of inclined supports.
Clone Press this button to apply the data of an already existing base plate to a new plate. This
requires that you press the Existing Base Plate button.
When finished setting the parameters press OK. Repeat this process on the column at coordinate
A2.
EXERCISE 2: PREPARING THE ELEMENT FOR A MANUAL BASE PLATE

There may be times when using the Base Plate command may not be the best method of adding a
base plate. In these situations we can create the base plate by shortening the column using the
modify command and then inserting the plate using the plate functions.
2. Zoom in on the base of column located at coordinate B3.
3. Open the Element Modification dialog. (ProSteel 3D menu > Manipulate > Dialog)
4. Click on the Shapes tab. We will use the Shorten Shapes by Default function to shorten our
column a distance, equal to our fabricated base plate thickness. Set the Default field value to
25mm. Press the By Default button and when prompted to:
Select shape at the End to be shortened
pick the column near the end. This will shorten the column by the value of 25mm.
Hint Before using the Shorten by Default function, make sure to window in on the element to
be shortened. As the command automatically shortens the column when picked when
zoomed out you may not notice the shortening of the element and will pick the same
element twice, thus shortening the shape a second time.

6. Using the same function, shorten the column located at coordinate C3.
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EXERCISE 3: CREATING A BASE PLATE USING THE PLATES COMMAND

1. While still zoomed in on the column at coordinate C3, invoke the Plates command (ProSteel
3D menu > Plates > Plates).
2. When the ProSteel 3D Plates/Polyplates dialog loads set the parameters to match the figure
below. Make sure to select the CENTER insertion point in the image of the plate.
A description of the fields in the above dialog is available in the following table.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Length Sets the plate length if the plate is rectangular.
Width Sets the plate width of the plate is rectangular.
Thickness Thickness of the plate to be created. Either enter a value or select a value from the list.
Height Offset: The insertion plane of the plate is moved by this value in negative direction towards the
reference plane (active UCS or element UCS).
Dimensions Enter the plate dimension into the Length and Width fields if you have selected the
contour Rectangular.
X-Offset Sets the plate X-Offset if the plate is rectangular.
Y-Offset Sets the plate Y-Offset if the plate is rectangular.
Item No. Changes the Plate article number
Grid If the Active Layer field is enabled, the plates are not inserted in the plate layer (default is
PS_PLATE) but rather in the current AutoCAD layer.
If the Grid field is enabled, an additional grid is visible at the upper side to display
gridirons, for example.
Insert Plane Here you indicate the reference plane for the insertion of the plate.
If the Current UCS field is marked, the corner points of the polyline are referenced with
the current UCS when creating the plate if you have selected the contour Adapt Contour.
This is the standard case if the drawn ply-line is located within the UCS.
If the Object UCS field is marked, the element UCS of the polyline is considered to be
the reference plane when creating the plate if you have selected the contour Adapt
Contour. Use this setting if the polyline is not located in the current UCS and you want to
insert a plate to it.
The User Defined Plane is defined by two lines (on which you have to click). Thus, this
will allow you to align a plate on a shape. This is working when you create a plate by
selecting points.
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Insert Edge The selection Top, Middle, or Bottom determines the insertion plane of the plate. Please
note that the values for the insertion height apply up to this plane.
Options Label: Allows you to select the name of the polyplate

Material: Choose the material from this list, which will be associated with the plate in the
parts list.
Display Class: Enables the selection of the Display Class of the plate.
Description: Enables the selection of the Free Description of the plate.
Active Layer: Enables you to select the layer for the plate.
Placement Options
Insert Polypoint: Inserts a polypoint by specified points.
Insert on Polygon: Inserts a plate by a selected polygon, circle or arc.
Insert Rectangular Plate: Inserts a rectangular plate on an insertion point.
Rectangular on Line: Inserts a rectangular plate along a line.
Four Points: If the By 4 Points field is checked, you determine the form of the
plate by picking any four points in the space you like. The first three points determine at
the same time the insertion plane of the plate. The fourth point is plumbed towards this
plane. Thus you have the possibility to create a plate without setting the UCS before.
Steel into Poly: Transforms already inserted flat steel shapes into plates. This
can some times be useful, if you want to carry out modifications which cannot be made
with a shape.
Template: Allows the user to name and save the current settings as a template
that can be recalled later.
Dimension: Press this button to re-specify the reference line for the plate length.
Grid: Enable this option to re-specify the reference line for the plate grid.
Additional Flange: Enables creation of additional flanges to a plate.

3. Press the Insert button at the bottom of the dialog and when prompted to:
Pick Insert point of the Rectangular Plate
use the ProSteel 3D OSNAPS PS_SHAPEPOINT command and pick the bottom shape point of
the column. The plate will be created at this point and you will return to the dialog.
4. Repeat the process on the column located at coordinate B3.
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Lesson 3: Drilling the base plate to accommodate anchor bolts
LESSON 3: DRILLING THE BASE PLATE TO ACCOMMODATE ANCHOR BOLTS
OBJECTIVES
 Learn the use of the Drill command.
EXERCISE 1: DRILLING THE BASE PLATE

Now that we have inserted the base plates we will need to drill these to accommodate anchor bolts.
We will use the Drill command for this operation.
2. Zoom into the area of the base plate located at the base of the column located at coordinate
B3.
3. Select the Drill option (ProSteel 3D menu > Drill).
4. When the ProSteel 3D Drill dialog loads set the parameters per the figure below and then we
will review the settings within the dialog.
Descriptions of the fields in the dialog are provided in the following table.
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NAME DESCRIPTION
Hole Field Description Layout: The following options are available to set the layout type for the hole field:
Rectangular: For a rectangular drill hole field, the drill holes are arranged as a rectangle
with rows and columns around the insertion point.
Radial: At a radial drill hole field, the drill holes are arranged in a complete or partial circle
around the insertion point. When this option is selected, additional input fields will be
displayed as shown in the dialog by means of which round drill hole fields can be
determined.
Single Holes: When this box is activated, the drill hole description is ignored, and you can
drill individual holes into the shape.
Shape/X Dir: Description of drill hole field in shape direction, for plates in x direction of the
UCS. Details on how to describe a drill hole field are given on the next page.
Cross/Y Dir: Description of drill hole field perpendicular to the shape direction, for plates in
y direction of the UCS.
Number/Radius: Enter the number of drill holes to be created in the Number field and the
radius which the drill holes are distributed around the insertion point in the Radius field.
Area/Start: In the Area field, enter the number of degrees that the bolt holes are to be
distributed around (for instance the value 180 for a semicircle). If you enter the value 0,
the complete circle will be used. You can enter an angle of the first drill hole towards the
insertion –X-axis of the component in the input field Start if the partial circle has to be
rotated.
Shape Center: When the Shape Center box has been clicked, all points on the shape
centerline are put perpendicular to the shape center.
If the Show Axis field is checked, the midline, gravity line, and tracing dimensions are
displayed after clicking the shape. The axes are removed again after the drilling has
concluded.
Data Diameter: Enter the hole diameter here.
Workloose: Addition to the hole diameter as entered, e.g., for galvanizing.
Slot Length: If in the input field Slot Axis a value bigger than 0 has been entered, the hole
is drilled as slotted hole. The entered value determines the distance between the two
holes which are drilled as slotted holes.
In case of a slotted hole, two drill holes with a pitch as entered in the input field will be
created, and the space in between will be cut out.
Layout and Position Hole Type
Drill Through means that the material will be completely drilled through. (If a top flange is
drilled, the bottom flange will not be drilled through.)
Drill Blink Hole means that the drill hole has the depth as entered in the Bore Hole Depth
field.
Weld marks means that small holes are spot-drilled for marking add-on pieces.
Dimensioning of these small holes can be carried out automatically.
Flange Selection:
Upper Chord means that the flange which is "reached first by the drill" will be drilled.
Lower Chord means that the second flange which is "reached by the drill" will be drilled.
This function allows a bottom flange from the top view to be drilled on the shape.
Both Chords means that both flanges are drilled.
Create Threaded hole: Creates a threaded hole. This will appear differently in 2D.
Single: You can insert the complete hole field or several single holes into one shape.
First, click the shape or the plate. Then click or type the hole field insertion point.
When having selected single holes, you can insert different single holes until you press
the Enter key or the right mouse button.
All holes will be drilled now.
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Multiple: You can insert holes in several shapes at the same time, e.g., when shapes are
placed upon each other, and a hole for a through rod shall be drilled. First, click all desired
shapes or plates and then drill the holes as described in Single.
Each of the selected shapes being hit by an imaginary beam that starts at the inserted drill
holes (in both directions, the beam direction is the position of the hole axis!) will be drilled
at the point of impact, the hole size being identical. Thus, the holes are exactly aligned.
Adopt: Drill holes in shapes can be taken over according to the "beam principal" described
in Multiple. In this case, the entries in the dialog box are ignored. First, click all shapes
with holes to be transferred and then all shapes to adopt the hole. Using this function, drill
holes from a connecting plate may be rapidly transferred to a shape.
5. Press the Settings tab and set the values as shown in the dialog below:
Descriptions of the fields in the dialog are provided in the following table.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Hole Layout Normal: the holes are drilled as normal holes which are drilled through and which always
have the same diameter.
Countersunk: If this field is enabled, the holes are drilled as countersunk holes. In the
neighboring input fields, you can specify the countersunk depth and the opening angle of
the hole.
Step Hole: the holes are drilled as step hole with two different diameters. The upper
diameter is bigger than the lower diameter. In the neighboring input fields, you can specify
the depth and the diameter of the upper hole section.
Depth/Angle Depth sets the length of the straight part of the countersunk hole.
The Angle sets the upper opening angle for the countersunk hole.
Depth/Radius Depth sets the Length of the lower part of the step hole.
The Radius sets diameter of the upper part of the step hole.
Hole Type Hole Type: The selection list offers you several Hole Types to choose from, which
determines how the drill holes appear in the detailed shop drawings. You can choose from
Hole Representation, Field Drill, Field Bolt, or Shop Bolt.
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Offset You can define a relative offset by which the actual hole insertion point to be moved away
from the clicked point. This enables you to offset the starting point of a hole group against
the shape starting point and click on the starting point, or to insert asymmetrically
positioned hole groups.
No Offset means that the clicked point corresponds to the insertion point.
Rectangular means that the offset data in the Distance box are assumed as x/y values.
Polar means that the offset data in the Distance box are assumed as distance/pitch
values.
Rotation Here, you can specify a rotation of the drill hole field around the insertion point.
Distances These boxes are activated if you selected a relative offset under 'Offset'. If you have
selected Rectangular as offset, you can enter the two distances in the input fields X-Offset
and Y-Offset . If you have selected Polar as offset, you can enter the distance and the
angle in the corresponding input fields Distance and Angle.
Moniter Here, you can verify the selected drill hole field and determine the insertion point by
means of the small points. The bigger red point shows the current insertion point.
6. Return to the Dimensions tab and press the Single button from the bottom of the dialog and
when prompted to:
Select the Object to be Drilled
pick the plate.

Pick the Insertion point of Drill Pattern
use the ProSteel 3D OSNAP PS_SHAPEPOINT and pick the bottom end of the column. This
will add the holes to the plate and return you to the dialog. Press OK to end the function.
8. Repeat the same procedure on the columns base plate located at coordinate C3.
9. Add all new parts into their respective Display Classes. Add the bracing to the Bracing display
class and the base plates to the respective Axis.
Hint When drilling objects, be sure to have the UCS in the top plane of the object to be drilled
or pick the insertion point of the drill pattern as the top surface of the object. The drill
command operates exactly like a real world drilling process. You would not drill up from
the bottom of the plate. When drilling a shape such as a wide flange it is only necessary
to pick the shape point of the object as the drill pattern insertion point as the switches
"Drill First Flange", "Drill Next Flange", and "Drill Both Flanges" will control the actual
UCS plane from which the drill pattern originates.
10. Your model should appear as shown in the following figure.
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9 Construction Groups
Each "Group" always consist of one primary component part and as many secondary parts as
desired. Groups cannot be nested, which means that a group cannot be a secondary part of another
group.
There is one (1) Lesson in this Chapter. The Lesson begins with a list of objectives that define the
information that you will learn in that Lesson. A number of Exercises are provided in each Lesson
that are designed to teach the student the topics listed in the Objectives section at the start of each
lesson.
LESSON 1: PROSTEEL 3D GROUPING 9-2
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Lesson 1: ProSteel 3D Grouping
LESSON 1: PROSTEEL 3D GROUPING
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to invoke the Groups dialog.
 Learn how to determine what parts exist in groups and which parts are not in a group.
 Learn how to manipulate the display within the model using groups.
 Learn how to add parts to an existing group.
EXERCISE 1: INVOKING THE GROUPS DIALOG

In this exercise, you will learn how to access the Groups function.
1. Zoom to an isometric view (ProSteel 3D menu > Zoom/Views > Isometric Overview).
2. Open the Administer Groups dialog (ProSteel 3D menu > Groups > Dialog). When the dialog
loads we will review the contents of the Admin tab.
A description of the fields in the Administer Groups dialog is provided in following table:
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NAME DESCRIPTION
Create You can assign parts to material groups by using this function.
Click the main part of the material group and then select the parts to be assigned.
The parts to be assigned can also be selected in a field. The main part that may have been
selected twice and other construction lines are ignored in this case. Only steel or special
parts can be selected for a group. The part's new selection is ignored if it already belongs to
a group.
Release A group can be detached by using this function. To do so, click any part of the group.
Removal of single parts from the group is also possible.
Delete You can delete all parts of a group with this function. Click any part of the group to do this.
Edit This function shows the group data through the following dialog.
You can enter the data of the selected group for the parts lists in the top fields.
The position in the field Pos. No. has been taken over from the main part, provided the
"Takeover Mainpart Info" field was selected. Subsequent modification of the position
number is possible.
You can see the outer dimensions and the total weight of the group at the bottom.
This field can also be selected by using the AutoCAD command 'Change Properties,' when
you select a part that belongs to the group (additional tab 'Group').
Takeover Mainpart Data The data of the main part is accepted as group data for the parts lists. Subsequent
modification of this data is possible.
Add Elements Parts are added to a group by using of this function. The complete group will be selected
when you click any part of the group. Further Accessory Parts can be added by clicking
them.
Remove Elements Parts are removed from a group by using this function. The complete group will be selected
when you click any part of the group. Click the parts to be removed.
Export A group can be exported and stored in a file as an external block (like an AutoCAD
'WBLOCK'). It can be inserted into another drawing by using Import Groups. The group
structure will remain unchanged. The procedure is the same as the AutoCAD command
"Wblock." When prompted, select objects by clicking any part of the group.
Import A stored group can be inserted into your drawing by using this function. The existing group
structure is maintained, when the field Explode Blocks after Insertion has been clicked, or if
you explode the imported block using PS_EXPLODE.
Selection Mode You decide whether a group is to be loaded completely when selecting a part of it or
whether the parts shall remain independent with this function. Click any part of the group.
The mode will change according to your selection, and the current status will be displayed
in the command line.
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Export Complete Group When Exporting, this enables you to select a whole group by selecting just one member. It's
necessary to have the AutoCAD Group Selection Mode active. You can change this Mode
by Ctrl+A. If you want to move the whole Group with AutoCAD Command Move, its enough
to select only one Part. If this field is unmarked, you need to select all Parts explicitly to
manipulate them. All Groups generated by ProSteel 3D during a connection have this
feature enabled.
Dissolve Block after Insert The group is automatically exploded when being imported. The structure of the group
remains unchanged.
Count All groups in the drawing are counted and displayed in the Number field below this button.
2. Click on the Verify tab and review the following functions.
A description of the fields in the Verify tab is provided in following table:
NAME DESCRIPTION
Check Groups Mark Orhpans: If this field is checked, all valid groups are hidden according to the specifications
when checking a group. Parts that belong to no group are marked in color. Use the command
Global Settings > Colors to specify what colors to apply. Colored markings are removed once
you assign the parts to a group or when you select the Regenerate command.
Orphans -> Groups Creates one group out of each selected Orphan object.
Search Hiding other groups can be used to search for groups. Enter the position numbers of the groups
to be searched in the field Search Numbers and click the button Search.
Select the parts to be searched (in most cases, you will select all of the parts in a field) and
confirm your selection by pressing the Enter key or the right mouse button. Only those groups
whose position numbers you have entered will remain visible. By using the Regenerate
command you can recall the other groups.
Several position numbers can be entered at the same time, provided they are separated by a
decimal point. Complete position areas must be separated by a hyphen. If you search the
positions No. 5 and 7 or 17 through 28, you enter the value 5,7,17-28 in the Search Numbers
field.
If the Hide field is enabled, all parts not satisfying the search condition are hidden. The hidden
parts become visible again when the drawing is regenerated.
If the Mark field is enabled, all of the parts found in the searched are highlighted in the drawing.
If the Zoom Extents field is enabled, all parts satisfying the search condition are automatically
zoomed. A dialog displays allowing you to indicate the Display Size (zoom factor) and to navigate
to each component found.
Hide Using the MainPart, Singleparts, and All Parts options in this section you choose which parts of a
group you can hide. Click any part of the group to do this. You can recall the parts using the
Display command.
Display Displays all hidden groups or group parts.
Compare Groups of the same position are checked for equality in this function. Select main Parts of the
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group to be checked. If the Compare and change option is enabled and the program finds groups
with the same position number but with different structure, indices are added to the position
numbers to differentiate them.
EXERCISE 2: DETERMINING WHAT PARTS ARE IN A GROUP

1. With the Administer Groups dialog displayed select the Check Groups button and note the
display in the model.
2. Refresh your display to show all parts in the model (ProSteel 3D menu > Groups > Dialog, then
press Display).
Hint Note that in lieu of returning the groups function to refresh the display you can simply
type PS_REGEN at the command prompt and all parts within the model will be displayed.
What took place? When initiating the Check Groups function ProSteel 3D scans the model and
searches for all parts associated to a group and disables their display. This acts as quick reference
to determine what parts are not in a group and leaves these elements displayed. This will allow you
to better determine which groups, if any, these rogue elements belong in. Before we proceed to
adding these parts into a group we will investigate other functions within the Groups function.
EXERCISE 3: CONTROLLING MODEL DISPLAY VIA THE GROUPS FUNCTION

1. Zoom in on the connection between the crossbeam and the column located at coordinate A1.
2. Open the Administer Groups dialog (ProSteel 3D menu > Groups > Dialog).
3. Click on the Verify tab. With the Main Part option enabled, press the Hide button. The prompt:
Select Part of Group to be Hidden
Select Objects:
is displayed. Pick the cross beam and note the display of the model. Right click to end the Hide
Groups function. Note that the all parts of the group disappeared from the view of the model.
This shows how the hide groups function can be used to control model display. This is very
important when working with a large model congested by many parts and detailed joints.
4. With the Administer Groups dialog still displayed, press the Display button to return the model
to a full display of all parts.
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5. We will perform the same operation again only this time we will tell grouping to hide only
certain elements of the group. Load the group function again and before pressing the Hide
button, set the Hide section of the dialog to hide only Single Parts by enabling the dialog radio
button. See figure below.
6. Now press the Hide button and pick the same cross beam as before, right click twice to execute
the command and exit the function. Note the display within the model. This time only the Sub
Parts of the group have been hidden.
7. Type PS_REGEN to return the set the display to all parts.
Before moving onto building groups it is important to differentiate between the Release button and
the Delete button that are located in the Admin tab. When you wish to break up a group and still
have the parts in the model use the Release function. This will dissolve the group but leave all parts
in the model. If you wish to completely remove the grouped parts from the model use the Delete
button. This will dissolve the group and Delete these items from the model.
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EXERCISE 4: ADDING COMPONENT PARTS TO A GROUP

In this exercise, you will learn how to add parts to an existing group.
1. Zoom into the area of two manual base plates located on columns located at coordinates B3
and C3 (ProSteel 3D menu > Zoom/Views > Isometric Overview).
2. Open the Administer Groups dialog (ProSteel 3D menu > Groups > Dialog).
3. Press the Add Elements button. The prompt:
Pick a Part of the wanted Group
is displayed. Pick the column located at coordinate B3.
4. The prompt:
Select Parts to add to the selected Group ,Shift+ESC for Filter
Select objects
is displayed. Pick the base plate located at the bottom of the column. Right click to end
addition of parts and right click a second time to end the function.
Note After selecting the group part to add components to, the system will automatically shift to
the ADD function and prompt you to pick those elements to add. Continue selecting parts
until done and right click to select another group part to add items to. Right click twice to
end the Add Elements function.
5. Repeat the process and add the other plate to the group of the column located at coordinate
C3.
6. Save your model (File menu > Save).
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10 Purlin Courses, Web Angles, & Shear Plate Connections
of each lesson.
LESSON 1: CREATING THE PURLINS 10-2
LESSON 2: COPING THE PURLINS AND ADDING WEB

ANGLE CONNECTIONS 10-9
LESSON 3: ADDING SHEAR TAB AND END PLATE

CONNECTIONS TO TIE THE PURLIN INTO THE STRUCTURE 10-16
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Lesson 1: Creating the Purlins
LESSON 1: CREATING THE PURLINS
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to prepare the model for the creation of the purlins.
 Create two Purlins in the upper elevation of our structure.
 Modify the Purlins to prepare for detailing the joints.
EXERCISE 1: PREPARING THE MODEL FOR THE PURLIN

In this exercise, you will learn how to set the UCS to the proper plane for the creation of the
Purlin.
1. Move to an isometric view (ProSteel 3D menu > Zoom/Views > Isometric Overview).
2. To simplify the creation of the Purlin we will hide the display classes to eliminate the steel in
the display. For this open the ProSteel Display Classes Dialog. Use the Hide all Parts
function to hide all the existing display classes except for the Workframe.
3. Use the AutoCAD UCS 3 point functions to set the UCS. At the command prompt type UCS,
followed by a return, at the subsequent prompt type 3P followed by a return. When the prompt
appears to select the Origin of the UCS, select the points to match the following figure.
NOTE: Purlins can only be created along the "X" axis.

4. If the UCS display is still incorrect, then use the AutoCAD functions to rotate the UCS. At the
command prompt type UCS, followed by a return, at the subsequent prompt type the letter "Z"
followed by a return. When the prompt appears to set the angle of rotation accept the default
of 90 degrees by hitting another return.
5. Zoom into the area around the awning.
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EXERCISE 2: CREATING THE PURLINS

In this exercise, you will create the purlins.
1. From the ProSteel 3D Structural Objects toolbar press the Purlin icon.
Pick Lower Left Edge of Purlin Object or ESC for secondary Beams
use the AutoCAD end point snap and pick the grid line at coordinate B2 in the top frame.

Pick Upper Right Edge of Purlin Object
use the AutoCAD end point snap and pick the grid line at coordinate C1 in the top frame. See
the following figure for the purlin insertion points.
4. When the ProSteel 3D Purlin dialog appears set the parameters to match the following figures
then press OK.
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Descriptions for the fields in the Common tab are provided in the table below.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Angle The purlins are rotated around this angle value, which means they are arranged in a diagonal fashion.
Height Offset Here, you can move the purlin course in positive Z-direction by applying the indicated value.
Dynamic If this field is checked, the modifications of the settings can be monitored immediately on screen.
Draw Diagonal If this field is checked, the area to be filled (object frame) is marked with two additional diagonals.
Cut at Edge IF this field is checked, the purlins at the edges of the area to be filled are cut flush. Values in the field
Left Projection and Right Projection are then not considered.
Descriptions for the fields in the Dimensions tab are provided in the table below.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Fixed Grid If the ‘Grid’ field is checked, you can indicate in the neighboring input field the approximate
distance of the pulins within the area between first and last purlin. The program divides the
distances regularly according to this specification and the value is rounded up or down
correspondingly. The actual distances then are displayed in the Effective Grid Field.
Free Grid If the ’Grid’ field is not checked, you can freely define the grid division within the area between
the first and last purlin in the ‘Distances’ list. You can vary the number and the distances, as you
like.
Turn The distances are used inverted.
Offset Bottom The distance from the centerline of the lowest purlin to the outer edge of the selected area.
Offset Top The distances from the centerline of the topmost purlin to the outer edge of the selected area.
Offsets Fixed If one of these options is activated, the selected distances are also kept in the grid; otherwise
they are centered.
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Descriptions for the fields in the Border Lines tab are provided in the table below.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Cut Lines Cutting edges can be added subsequently to permit the creation of non-rectangular purlin
courses as well.
Click this button to add a cutting edge. Then, you are prompted for a borderline to be clicked or
to be defined by 2 points. All purlins intersection this edge are divided at the edge with the
distance specified in the Cut Width input field.
Click on this button to remove a selected cutting edge.
Poly-Cut Apart from cutting edges, it is also possible to add sections for light domes or similar things. The
procedure is the same as for sections; the only difference is that you have to click on a poly-line
here.
Click on this button to add another section.
Click on this button to remove a section.
Hint As a rule, after creating a purlin you should delete the yellow object that inserts in the
model. This is used to modify the purlin. If by chance you leave this object in the model
and modify one of the shapes that is a part of the purlin separate from the other elements
and the purlin and then go back later and modify the purlin itself the one element
previously modified will be replaced by the shape defined in the purlin. This holds true for
all "ProSteel 3D Structural Objects".
Descriptions for the fields in the Shapes tab are provided in the table below.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Shapes Headings Here, (Shape Class, Shape Size, Shape Type) you can select the desired shape as usual; all
shapes are available for selection.
Position Indicates the insertion position of the girders related to the insertion axis.
Rotation Specifies the rotation of the shapes around the insertion axis.
Poly-Cut Apart from cutting edges, it is also possible to add sections for light domes or similar things. The
procedure is the same as for sections; the only difference is that you have to click on a poly-line
here.
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 Erase the yellow object as explained above. Type UCS at the command line, followed by a
return, at the subsequent prompt type the letter "Z", followed by a return. When the prompt
appears to set the angle of rotation for the UCS, type in –90 followed by a return.
 We will now add the purlin connections.
 Select the Purlin Connection icon and when prompted, select all of the purlins, then either
press the right hand mouse button or the enter key. Then select the 2 beams the purlins
connect to. Then hit either the enter key or the right mouse button.
 The Purlin Connection dialogue box is then displayed. Set the parameters to match the
following settings.
 Select OK to finish command.
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 We will now use the Purlin command to add floor beams to the top of FR1.
 Select the ProSteel Purlin command and when prompted to Specify lower left edge, press the
esc key to be able to select shapes instead of the 2 corners.
 When prompted to select desired shape, select the beam between columns A1 and B1. Then
when prompted to select another desired shape, select the beam between columns A2 and
B2.
 The Purlin dialogue box is then displayed so you can modify the parameters, if required. Set
the parameters to match the following figures, then press OK .
 The result is that the floor beams are inserted to the spacing entered and the shear plate
connections are automatically added, according to the template selected.
 Again, erase the yellow object as explained above.
 We will now insert a 310 UB 40 beam at the mid point of the beams between columns A1 -
B1 and A2 – B2.
 Select the ProSteel Shapes icon and set to 310 UB 40 shape.
 Insert the shape using the 2 points method. When prompted to specify the shape start point,
select the mid point of the beam between A1 – B1. When prompted to specify the shape end
point, select the mid point of the beam between columns A2 – B2. Then select OK.
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EXERCISE 3: PREPARING THE PURLINS FOR THE JOINT DETAILING PROCESS

In this exercise, you will use the Divide option from the Manipulate submenu to separate the purlins
into multiple pieces and ready the intersections for joint detailing.
2. Open the Choose View dialog (ProSteel 3D menu > Zoom/Views > Choose View). Select the
FR1_TOP view and then press the Set View button. This will set the UCS and the view to the
upper frame of our structure.
3. Divide the purlins (ProSteel 3D menu > Manipulate > Divide). When prompted to:
Select the Shapes to be Divided:
Select Objects:
use a crossing window and select all 250 UB 26 beams added in the second purlin exercise.
After selecting the channels right click to enter the selections.
Note To be able to select multiple shapes for modification, the Multiple Object Selection option
for the type of manipulation you are performing must be enabled in the Options tab of the
Element Modification dialog (ProSteel 3D menu > Manipulate > Dialog).
4. The prompt:
Pick Dividing Point <Point>,Line
displays. Use the ProSteel 3D OSNAP PS_SHAPEPOINT and pick the end of the 310 UB 40
beam on the upper frame. This will divide the 250 UB 26 shapes where they cross the 310 UB
40 shape.
5. Select OK to finish command
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Lesson 2: Coping the Beam and Adding Web Angle Connections
LESSON 2: COPING THE BEAM AND ADDING WEB ANGLE CONNECTIONS
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to cope shapes and create a template of the cope for future use.
 Add web angles to the coped elements and add web angles where the cope is called from
within the web angle command.
EXERCISE 1: COPING THE 310 UB 40 BEAM

In this exercise, you will learn how to cope the 310 UB 40 beam at the beams in Axis A & B.
1. Zoom to an isometric view (ProSteel 3D menu > Zoom/Views > Isometric Overview). Window in
on the area where the 310 UB 40 beam intersects the upper 530 UB 82 beam.
2. Cope the beams (ProSteel 3D menu > Manipulate > Cope).

Pick the second Shape to Cope
pick the 310 UB 40 shape.

Select shape on which to cut:
pick the 530 UB 82 shape located on Axis B. This will load the ProSteel 3D Cope dialog. Set
the parameters to match the figure below and then we will review the settings for coping.
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Descriptions for the fields in the Structural Cope dialog are provided in the table below.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Layout Here, you select the shape of the notch. The different variants are shown: On the upper left, the
initial situation before notching is shown (the shapes are still overlapping), and on the upper right
you see the Contour. Pictures below from left to right: Fit Shape Start (the normal notch), Fit Shape
Middle and Fit Shape End.
Corner Edge means that the notches at the shape radii are carried out with a beveled edge.
Layout Radial means that the notches at the shape radii are carried out with adapted radii. In the Radius
input field, the determined radius can be modified later.
Access Hole means that holes are drilled in the inner corners of the notch. In the Radius input field,
the radius of the drill holes can be preset.
Align If From Inner Edge is activated, the dimensions refer to the inside of the flanges. Otherwise, the
dimensions for the distance between top and bottom flange inside refer to the outside of the flanges.
If From Center is activated, the dimensions refer to the end of the shape (the exact position
depends on the 'web distance' value). Otherwise, the dimensions for the distance between top and
bottom flange edge refer to the outside of the flanges.
Distance Allows you to set distances for the Top Flange Inside, Bottom Flange Inside, Top Flange Edge,
Bottom Flange Edge, Top Flange Outside, Bottom Flange Outside, the Web Distance and the drill
Radius.
Get Flange Pressing this button allows an unknown shape to be clicked. The flange thickness is then entered in
Thickness the input fields for Top and Bottom Flange. If you have entered a value in the +Distance field, this
value will be added. Using this function, a flange distance can be swiftly determined without
knowing the shape. As reference, you should select the setting Outer Edge.
List of Copes In the Data tab, a list of previously defined copes is displayed from a data base. These data base
files can be created by means of any DBASE editor. Thus, you can previously define a selection of
the most frequent copes. In the different list fields you can see the basic data of the linkage and
load the required cope by clicking on an entry.
5. Before we exit the cope dialog we will save the cope we just created as a template so we can
recall it later. Press the Template button at the bottom of the Cope dialog to display the dialog
shown below. Create a new folder named StructCopes then add a new cope to this. In the
Name field type the name Cope1. Next press the Save button to save these cope settings as a
template. Press Enter to return to the Cope dialog.
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EXERCISE 2: ADDING A WEB ANGLE TO THE 310 UB 40 / 530 UB 82 JOINT

In this exercise, you will learn how to add a Web angle connection to the 310 UB 40 beam joint at
the 530 UB 82 beam.
1. While still zoomed around the intersections of the now coped 310 UB 40 beam and 530 UB
82 beam select the Web Angle command (ProSteel 3D menu > Connections > Column Beam
Connection > Webangle).
Select Shape to connect
pick the 310 UB 40 shape

pick the 530 UB 82 beam running along Axis B. This will display the ProSteel 3D Web Angle
Connection dialog. Set the parameters to match the figures below and then press OK. We will
review the settings for web angles below.
Descriptions for the fields in the Shapes tab are provided in the table below.
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NAME DESCRIPTION
Shape Class You can change the angular shape for the selected connection (the hole dimensions remain
unchanged). Only angles that are equal-sided and unequal-sided can be selected.
Shape Size Determines the size of the web angles.
Use Flat Allows you to use a bent flat instead of a webangle. When this option is enabled, the Short Leg,
Long Leg, Thickness and Bent Radius fields will be enabled to define the parameters of the Web
Angle Flat.
Position Selection Both: A web angle is created at each side of the web.
Left or Right: A web angle is created only at the left or right side of the web.
Turn Angles: The long and short sides of the web angle are exchanged so that the long side is
situated at the connecting shape.
From Edge: The position offset is measured from the upper edge of the shape up to the upper
edge of the web angle.
If the Lower Edge field has been checked, the position offset refers to the lower edge of shape
and web angle instead of to the upper edge.
Up to first bolt: The position offset refers to the center of the first boring instead of to the edges of
the web angle.
You can enter the spacing between the upper edge supporting shape and the lower edge of the
shape to be connected in the Gap Spacing field.
In the Vertical Offset field you can enter the distance by which the web angle to be shifted from
the axis of the shape to be connected upwards or to the right (depending on the position). A
negative entry will cause shifting in the opposite direction. Selecting one of the following options
permits you to make additional specifications referring the dimension.
Clone: You can transmit the data of an existing connection to the new connection by clicking the
existing web angle connection.
Template: Allows you to name and save the settings in the dialog for later use.
4. Click on the Distance tab and set the parameters as follows:
Descriptions for the fields in the Distance tab are provided in the table below.
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NAME DESCRIPTION
Distribution Shape Direction Number Shape: The number of drill holes in both sides of the web angle perpendicular to
the shape to be connected (In the original position parallel to the shape to be connected).
Edge Distance: Distance from the end of the web to the first bolt.
Distance Between: Distance between the bolts.
Distribution Connecting Number Shape: The number of bolts in the direction of the Connection shape.
Shape Direction Slot Length: Distance of the slotted holes.
Inner Distance: Distance from the end of the Connection shape to the first bolt.
Distribution Supporting Number Shape: The number of bolts in the direction of the Supporting shape.
Shape Direction Slot Length: Distance of the slotted holes.
Inner Distance: Distance from the end of the Supporting shape to the first bolt or absolute
inner distance.
Absolute Inner Distance: Inner distance absolute or combined with Web thickness.
5. Click on the Connect tab and set the parameters as follows:
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Descriptions for the fields in the Connect and Welding tab are provided in the table below.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Bolt Settings Bolt Style: Select the bolt type (e.g., 8.8S) for the connection from the list.
Dia.: Sets the bolt diameter.
Workloose: Sets the required hole tolerance (usually 2 mm) for the connection.
Diagonal Offset: Offset of the holes in the web angle between the Connecting and Supporting
side.
Gap: Sets the movement of direction in Connection shape direction.
Weld Settings Weld Style: Select the weld style for the connection from the list
Weld Connect Shape Side: Enable this option to specify welding the Web Angles at the Connect
shape side instead of bolting. Enter the weld thickness in the Thickness field.
Weld Support Shape Side: Enable this option to specify welding the Web Angles at the Support
shape side instead of bolting. Enter the weld thickness in the Thickness field.
EXERCISE 3: ADDING A WEB ANGLE AND COPE SIMULTANEOUSLY TO THE 310

UB 40 / 530 UB 82 JOINT ALONG AXIS A
In this exercise you will add a web angle connection complete with a cope in one step. This will be
performed on the 310 UB 40 shape intersection with the 530 UB 82 beam along Axis A.
1. Zoom around the intersection of the 310 UB 40 beam and the 530 UB 82 cross beam along
Axis A.
2. Add another web angle (ProSteel 3D menu > Connections > Column Beam Connection >
Webangle).
pick the first 310 UB 40 shape.

pick the 530 UB beam running along Axis A. This will invoke the ProSteel 3D Webangle
Connection dialog shown below. Set the parameters to match the following figure, making
note of the Cope setting.
5. Now, click on the Cope and Group tabs and set the parameters as follows:
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6. What took place? In the previous exercise where we coped the 310 UB 40 member and we
saved the settings of the cope as a template. This allows us the ability to "re-call" this cope
from within the cope function as well as within a completely different joint connection. This
illustrates the power of ProSteel 3D Templates.
7. Select OK to finish the command.
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Lesson 3: Adding Shear Tab and End Plate Connections to the Purlins
LESSON 3: ADDING SHEAR TAB AND END PLATE CONNECTIONS TO THE PURLINS
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to add a shear tab connection and cope simultaneously.
 Create an End Plate connection to a flange with double plates.
EXERCISE 1: ADDING A SHEAR TAB CONNECTION AT THE 310 UB 40 AND 250

UB 26 BEAM INTERSECTIONS
In this exercise, you will learn how to add a Shear Tab connection to create a joint.
1. Zoom to an isometric view (ProSteel 3D menu > Zoom/Views > Isometric Overview). Use
display classes and Hide Axis B and Axis C to make them not display in our model. Zoom in
on the area where the C8 beams intersect the S8 beams.
2. Add a shear plate (ProSteel 3D menu > Connections > Shearplates > Shearplates).
Select the Shape to connect
pick the 250 UB 26 beams, running left to right.

pick the center 310 UB 40 beam. This will display the ProSteel 3D Shear Plate Connection
dialog. Set the parameters to match the following figures and then we will review the settings
for Shear Plate connections.
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Descriptions for the fields in the ProSteel 3D ShearPlate Connection Shapes and Distance tabs are
provided in the table below.
NAME DESCRIPTION
SHAPES TAB
Shape Selection Thickness: Here you indicate the thickness of the web plate.
Cut Plate: If this field is checked, the plate is cut at beveled connecting shapes.
Normal to Cut Plane: If this field is checked, the plate is not inserted in shape direction at beveled
connecting shapes but always perpendicular towards the connecting shape.
Use Polyplates: Check this field to use a bent Flat instead of a Web Angle Shape.
Position Selection Specify the web side of the shape to be connected (Left or Right), which is to be used for
attaching the web plate. If Both is checked, a plate is attached to both sides of the web.
From Edge: From Edge: The position offset is measured from the upper edge of the shape up to
the upper edge of the web plate.
Lower Edge: If the Lower Edge field has been checked, the position offset refers to the lower
edge of shape and web plate instead of to the upper edge.
Up to first bolt: The position offset refers to the center of the first boring instead of to the edges of
the web plate.
Gap: Enter the distance to be adhered to from the outer edge of the support shape to the outer
edge of the shape to be connected.
Vertical Offset: The Vertical Offset field is used to enter the distance of the offset for the web
plate from the axis of the shape to be connected (towards top or to the right, depending on
position). Negative values effect an opposite offset.
Side Offset: Offset in the side direction.
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DISTANCE TAB
Distribution Shape Here you indicate your own dimensions of the plate.
Direction
Number: The number of drill holes in the plate parallel to the shape to be connected.
Slot Length: Slotted holes axis for holes in connection shape.
End offset inside: Distance from plate edge to first inner bolt in connection shape direction.
Connection edge: Distance from plate edge to first outer bolt on connection side in connection
shape direction.
Distance between: Inner distance of bolts in connection shape direction.
The meaning of the distances W1, W2, W3, E1, and E2 are illustrated by this picture of a shear
connection.
W1 and W2 refer to the outer edge of the flat steel.
Distribution Cross Number: The number of drill holes in the plate perpendicular (crosswise) to the shape to be
Direction connected.
Edge Distance: Distance from Plate Edge to outer bolts across Connection Shape direction.
Distance Between: Inner distance of bolts across to connection shape direction.
Press this button and the data of an existing connection are transferred to the connection to be
created now. You have to click the existing shear plate connection to achieve the transfer.
Clone
Allows you to name and save the settings in the dialog for later use.
Template
5. Next click on the Cope and Group tabs and set the parameters as follows:
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Descriptions for the fields in the ProSteel 3D ShearPlate Connection Cope and Group tabs are
provided in the table below.
COPE TAB
Group and Cope Cope: If this field is checked, the shape to be connected is notched at the web plate position if
needed. You can select a notch type in this list. Just select a notch variation, which you
previously saved using the command 'Notch.'
Cope Connection Shape: Copes the connection shape if it collides with the angles.
Top double sided: Copes the connection shape on both sides on top, even if only one side
collides.
Bottom double sided: Copes the connection shape on both sides on bottom, even if only one side
collides.
Gap: Gives the Freecut of the cope in the Connection Shape to the Shearplate.
GROUP TAB
Group and Cope Create Group: If this field is checked, the web plate is assigned to a construction group together
with the shape to be connected. If the shape is already part of another component group, the
web plate will be assigned to the same group.
With Bolts/Weldment: If checked, the bolts and welds of the shape to be connected are also
added to that group.
Create a Group of each Plate: If check, it creates a group of each part.
6. Repeat this process for all of the 250 UB 26 beams.
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11 Structural Elements
In addition to all of the described construction tools, the object-oriented structure of PROSTEEL 3D 3D ARX
also enables the generation of repeatedly occurring standard construction in parameterized form – the so-called
structural objects.
These are roughly pre-designed small construction sections such as handrails, stairs, or hangar frames, which you
then may modify according to your own requirements. Contrary to the parameterized variation construction with
the aid of AutoLISP programming, these structural objects are independent AutoCAD elements, which you may
change dynamically using dialogs or grips.
The structural objects are generated by the program according to pre-specified, adjustable construction methods –
if these correspond with your expectations you can generate an entire handrail. Although this is a new AutoCAD
element, you can later access each and every individual building component, and adapt and modify it individually
using the PROSTEEL 3D standard functions.
When working with structural objects, however, you should remember that these individual changes are lost once
again if you subsequently modify the structural object using the dialog box or the grips. The reason for this is that
in the case of structural objects, only the dialog parameters but not your subsequent dialog-independent
modifications are saved!
information that you will learn in that Lesson. A number of Exercises are provided in each Lesson that are
designed to teach the student the topics listed in the Objectives section at the start of each lesson.
LESSON 1: CREATING THE HANDRAIL 11-2
LESSON 2: CREATING THE STAIRS 11-11
LESSON 3: THE LADDER AND FRAME STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS AND

CREATING CUSTOM WORKFRAMES 11-18
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Lesson 1: Creating the Handrail
LESSON 1: CREATING THE HANDRAIL
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to prepare the model for the creation of the Handrail.
 Create the handrail.
 Attach the Handrail to our structure.
EXERCISE 1: PREPARING THE MODEL FOR THE HANDRAIL

In this exercise, you will learn how to set the UCS to the proper plane for the creation of the handrail and draw the
poly line needed to construct the handrail.
2. Set the UCS to World by typing UCS at the command line.
3. When promted to:
Specify origin of UCS
Enter W then press the enter key or right mouse button.
4. Start the AutoCAD polyline command.
Specify Start Point
Enter -54,3900,3000
Specify next point
Move mouse pointer to follow grid line 1 and enter 3900.
Specify next point
Move mouse pointer in direction of grid A and enter 4110
Specify next point
Move mouse pointer in direction of grid 2 and enter 2600
9. Select the enter key or press the right mouse button to end the command.
10. This will create the polyline at the specified coordinates and at the elevation of the TOS at this frame.
11. Zoom around the polyline created in the previous steps.
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EXERCISE 2: CREATING THE HANDRAIL

1. Press the Handrail icon on the Structural Objects toolbar.
Select the desired Polyline
pick the polyline you created in the previous steps. This will display the ProSteel 3D Handrail dialog. Set the
parameters as shown in the figures below. Below each dialog will be a section describing the fields shown.
The fields in the Dimensions tab are explained in the following table.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Connection Height The distance between the drawn polyline and the beginning of the posts including possible
fastening plate.
Railing Height The distance of the upper edge of the newel posts or the center of therailing head (if in place)
measured perpendicular to the polyline.
Upper Rail Height: The center distance of the upper knee-high rail (if in place) measured
perpendicular to the polyline.
Mid Rail Height: The center distance of the middle knee-high rail (if in place) measured
Lower Rail Height: The center distance of the lower knee-high rail (if in place) measured
Hand Rail Radius Radius of the railing head at the corners of the handrail. If a radius is specified the
corresponding shape bends are applied; otherwise a mitered joint is cut.
Knee Rail Radius Radius of the knee-high guardrail at the corners of the handrail. If a radius is specified the
corresponding shape bends are applied; otherwise a mitered joint is cut.
Kick Plate Radius Radius of the baseboard at the corners of the handrail. If a radius is specified the corresponding
shape bends are applied; otherwise a mitered joint is cut.
Post Distance The approximate spacing of the rail posts within the individual polyline segments. Depending on
the setting, the program uses this information to space out the newel posts in regular intervals
and rounds the value up or down as needed.
Maximum If this field is enabled, the post distances are regarded as the maximum value. If necessary
additional posts are inserted.
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Edge Offset The spacing of the corner posts between two handrail segments starting with the intersection of
the polyline segments.
Min. Segment Length Enter the minimum Distance for at least one post.
Min. seg. 2 posts Enter the minimum Distance for two posts.
Start Offset Projection of the knee-high guard rails and the railing head starting from the middle of the first
rail post towards the outside.
End Offset Projection of the knee-high guardrails and the railing head starting from the middle of the last
rail post towards the outside.
Connect Sphere Dia. Enter the radius of thickening at the intersection points between the posts and e.g. the knee-
high guardrails.
Dynamic If this field is enabled, you can monitor the settings immediately on screen.
Draw Diagonal If this field is enabled, a diagonal of the actual structural element is drawn in the different
segments to support an easier selection.
A handrail template has been included with the Australian installation and to load select the template button
at the bottom of the handrail dialogue box, as show in following figure.
From the template list select the New Monowills Type P System. This will load the following settings.
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In the Shapes tab you can select the profiles for the individual sections of the handrail. Select a handrail option
from the Shape Class list, then set the desired parameters for that option. Only Shape Class options that have
been defined will be placed in the model.
The Angle and Mirror options allow you to rotate the shapes of the different parts of the handrail around their
insertion axis. This is of great importance in combination with unsymmetrical shapes. Set the rotation Angle to
either 0°, 90°, 180° or 270° for the corresponding part of the handrail and check the Mirror field if the shape has
to be mirrored.
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You can add a kick plate to the handrail. The options in the KickPlate tab, however, will only be activated if the
Kick Plate option has been defined in the Shapes tab. The remaining fields are described in the following table.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Other Side If this field is enabled, the baseboard will be inserted at the other side of the railing posts.
Side Offset You specify the distance of outer edge of railing post and inner edge of baseboard. This
permits you to keep some space for individual fastenings or grouts.
Height Offset The distance between the drawn poly-line and the lower edge of baseboard. Negative values
will move the baseboard towards the bottom.
In the Layout and Position list, you select the fastening of the handrail posts. If None is checked, no fastening will
be provided. If Vertical is checked, the plates will be perpendicular to the post. If Lateral is checked, plates or
bent connections will be welded to the outside of the post. The remaining fields are explained in the table below.
Set the fields as shown above then press OK.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Outside If this field is enabled, lateral connecting plates are welded to the other side of the posts.
Plate Width Specify the width of the connecting plates.
Plate Length Specify the length (height) of the connecting plate.
Plate Thickness Specify the thickness of the connecting plate.
Hole Dia. Enter the diameter of fastening holes.
w(Horizontal) Enter the axis distance of fastening holes.
W(Vertical) Enter the vertical distance of fastening holes if you selected lateral connecting plates. You can thus create
a plate with four holes. If you enter the value 0, only two holes are created.
Side Offset If you enter a value bigger than 0, a perpendicular connecting plate will be inserted between plate and
post. If you indicated an 'Inlet Radius' in addition, the additional plate will be omitted and the connection
will be made as bent post.
Start Radius If you enter a value bigger than 0, the connection will be made as bent post with perpendicularly welded
plate.
When the handrail is complete, use Display Classes to add the handrail to the Handrail display class.
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EXERCISE 3: ATTACHING THE HANDRAIL TO THE STRUCTURE

In this exercise, you will attach the handrail to the structure by using two commands, Drilling-Adopt and Bolting.
1. From the Isometric Overview view, zoom around the first two handrail attachment pads located on the left
start end of the handrail.
2. Open the ProSteel Drill dialog (ProSteel > Drill). Click on the Dimensions tab and set the parameters to match
the figure below.
Descriptions of the fields in the Dimensions tab of the ProSteel 3D Drill dialog are provided in the following
table.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Hole Field Description Layout: Selects the Layout type for the hole field.
Rectangular: For a rectangular drill hole field, the drill holes are arranged as a rectangle with rows
and columns around the insertion point.
Radial: At a radial drill hole field, the drill holes are arranged in a complete or partial circle around
the insertion point. When this option is selected, additional input fields will be displayed as shown in
the dialog by means of which round drill hole fields can be determined.
Single Holes: When this box is activated, the drill hole description is ignored, and you can drill
individual holes into the shape.
Shape/X Dir: If the Rectangular layout is selected, this provides a description of drill hole the field in
shape direction, for plates in x direction of the UCS.
Cross/Y Dir: If the Rectangular layout is selected, this provides a description of drill hole field
perpendicular to the shape direction, for plates in y direction of the UCS.
Num/Radius: If the Radius layout is selected, these fields define the number of holes to be drilled,
and the radius which the holes will be distributed around the insertion point.
Area/Start: In the Area field, enter the number of degrees that the bolt holes are to be distributed
around (for instance the value 180 for a semicircle). If you enter the value 0, the complete circle will
be used. You can enter an angle of the first drill hole towards the insertion –X-axis of the
component in the input field Start if the partial circle has to be rotated.
Data Diameter: Enter the hole diameter here.

Workloose: Addition to the hole diameter as entered, e.g., for galvanizing.
Slot Length: If in the input field Slot Axis a value bigger than 0 has been entered, the hole is drilled
as slotted hole. The entered value determines the distance between the two holes which are drilled
as slotted holes.
In case of a slotted hole, two drill holes with a pitch as entered in the input field will be created, and
the space in between will be cut out.
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Layout and Position Drill Through means that the material will be completely drilled through. (If a top flange is drilled, the
bottom flange will not be drilled through.)
Drill Blink Hole means that the drill hole has the depth as entered in the Hole Depth field.
Weld Mark means that small holes are spot-drilled for marking add-on pieces. Dimensioning of
these small holes can be carried out automatically.
Flange Selection: Upper Chord means that the flange which is "reached first by the drill" will be
drilled. Lower Chord means that the second flange which is "reached by the drill" will be drilled. This
function allows a bottom flange from the top view to be drilled on the shape. Both Chords means
that both flanges are drilled.
At Shape Center: When the Shape Center box has been clicked, all points on the shape centerline
are put perpendicular to the shape center.
Create Threaded Hole: This option generates a threaded hole. This will display differently in 2D.
You can insert the complete hole field or several single holes into one shape. First, click the shape
or the plate. Then click or type the hole field insertion point. When having selected single holes, you
Single
can insert different single holes until you press the Enter key or the right mouse button. All holes will
be drilled now.
You can insert holes in several shapes at the same time, e.g., when shapes are placed upon each
other, and a hole for a through rod shall be drilled. First, click all desired shapes or plates and then
Multiple
drill the holes as described in Single.
Each of the selected shapes being hit by an imaginary beam that starts at the inserted drill holes (in
both directions, the beam direction is the position of the hole axis!) will be drilled at the point of
impact, the hole size being identical. Thus, the holes are exactly aligned.
Drill holes in shapes can be taken over according to the "beam principal" described in Multiple. In
this case, the entries in the dialog box are ignored. First, click all shapes with holes to be transferred
Adopt
and then all shapes to adopt the hole. Using this function, drill holes from a connecting plate may be
rapidly transferred to a shape.
Allows you to save the settings as a template that can be used continuously in the drawing.
Template
3. Next click on the Settings tab and set the parameters as shown in the following figure. We will then review
the settings of the Settings tab.
4.
Descriptions of the fields in the Settings tab are provided in the table below.
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NAME DESCRIPTION
Hole Type Normal: the holes are drilled as normal holes which are drilled through and which always have the same
diameter.
Countersunk: If this field is enabled, the holes are drilled as countersunk holes. In the neighboring input
fields, you can specify the countersunk depth and the opening angle of the hole.
Step Hole: the holes are drilled as step hole with two different diameters. The upper diameter is bigger
than the lower diameter. In the neighboring input fields, you can specify the depth and the diameter of the
upper hole section.
Hole Type: The selection list offers you several Hole Types to choose from, which determines how the
drill holes appear in the detailed shop drawings. You can choose from Hole Representation, Field Drill,
Field Bolt, or Shop Bolt.
If the Show Axis field is checked, the midline, gravity line, and tracing dimensions are displayed after
clicking the shape. The axes are removed again after the drilling has concluded.
Offset You can define a relative offset by which the actual hole insertion point to be moved away from the
clicked point. This enables you to offset the starting point of a hole group against the shape starting point
and click on the starting point, or to insert asymmetrically positioned hole groups.
No Offset means that the clicked point corresponds to the insertion point.
Rectangular means that the offset data in the Distance box are assumed as x/y values. Enter the two
distances in the corresponding X/Y fields.
Polar means that the offset data in the Distance box are assumed as Dist/Angle values. Enter the
distance and the angle in the corresponding Dist/Angle fields.
Rotation: Here, you can specify a rotation of the drill hole field around the insertion point.
Options At Shape Center: All points on the shape centerline are put perpendicular to the shape center.
Show Pitchlines: The Pitchlines of the shape are displayed during manipulation to enable checking.
Show Centerlines: The Centerline will display during manipulation to enable checking.
Ignor Innercontur: Inner contours are not recognized. With this option, a pipe can be drilled through.
Create Threaded Hole: Generates a threaded hole. This will display differently in 2D.
Moniter Here, you can verify the selected drill hole field and determine the insertion point by means of the small
points. The bigger red point shows the current insertion point.
4. After setting the parameters in the Settings tab, return to the Dimensions tab.
5. Once the settings in the ProSteel 3D Drill dialog are correct, press the Takeover drills of the selected object to
other selected object button at the bottom of the dialog.
Select the Object<s> with the holes to be copied to other parts:
Select objects:
pick the two visible handrail post base plates then right click.

Select Objects to adopt the Holes:
Select objects:
pick the 530 UB 82 beam. After picking the wide flanges right click to pass the holes and return to the Bolting
dialog.
9. Continue the operation until all handrail mounting pad holes are passed to the respective wide flange shapes.
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10. Zoom around the first handrail post mounting pads on the left hand side of the structure.
11. Select the Bolts option (ProSteel 3D > Bolts) and when the dialog loads set the parameters as shown in the
following figure.
Note In this example of bolting we have set the workloose value to Zero. This is so we match the settings of the
drill holes that were created when we created the handrail. This setting is important, as it must match the
Workloose value used when the holes were drilled; otherwise, no bolts will be inserted.
12. Click on the Bolt Style tab and set the parameters as shown in the following figure.
13. Click on the Bolting tab and press the Bolting button.
Select all Parts to be Bolted (max 50):
Select objects:
pick both handrail post support pads and the wide flange shape. This will insert the bolts in the holes.
15. Proceed around the structure and add the bolts to all the handrail support pads.
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Lesson 2: Creating the Stairs
LESSON 2: CREATING THE STAIRS
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to create stairs.
 Cut the stairs into our structure and attach them to our frame.
 Modify the stair shapes after insertion.
EXERCISE 1: CREATING THE STAIR

In this exercise, you will learn how to create the Stair element and modify its settings.
2. Set UCS to World
3. Press the Stairs icon on the Structural Objects toolbar or go to ProSteel 3D menu > Structural Objects >
Stairs.
Pick Start point of the Stairs
type in the absolute coordinates of 8104.5,3100,0

Pick direction of the stairs
insure that ORTHO is on and pick a point to the left of the insertion point. This will display the ProSteel 3D
Stair dialog. Set the parameters to match the figures below. Descriptions for the fields in each tab of the
dialog will be given beneath the figure.
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NAME DESCRIPTION
Width The width of the staircase across outer steel edge.
Length Entire length of the stair construction.
Height The height of the staircase from starting point to stair head including gridiron.
Riser The desired rise of the staircase steps.
Riser Count The resulting number of steps.
Angle The resulting gradient of the staircase.
Going The resulting exact tread depth of the steps. This value can, however, also be determined before and
the construction will be calculated anew according to this value.
Actual Rise The resulting exact rise of the steps. This value can, however, also be determined before and the
construction will be calculated anew according to this value.
Upper insert If this field is checked, the insertion point is situated on the upper side of the staircase instead of the
point bottom side (and it is extended towards the bottom).
Dynamic If this field is enabled, you can monitor the settings immediately on screen.
Template Allows you to name and save the settings for later use.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Lower Landing Length Length of the lower stair head. To create the stair head, you have to check the input field in
front of it. Otherwise, the staircase cheeks are cut at the basic plane and the stair head is
omitted.
US_Definition If the US-Definition field has been checked additionally, the stair head lengths are defined
according to US-standards.
Upper Landing Length Length of the upper stair base.
Stair foot length Enter the length of the Staircase foot.
Vertical section Here, you enter a vertical cut from the front edge of the staircase cheek. This field is only
available when you didn't specify a length of staircase foot (i.e. the staircase cheek is
directly running into the floor level.)
Ground distance Here, you can enter a gap between staircase foot and floor level to have room e.g. for an
additional construction or for foundations. This field is only available when you didn't specify
a length of staircase foot (i.e. the staircase cheek is directly running into the floor level.)
Web Grating Thickness Height of the attached gridirons.
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Side Offset The projection of the attached gridirons beyond the outer edge of the staircase
construction. Negative values decrease the dimension of gridirons.
NAME DESCRIPTION
No. of platforms Enter the number of floors (intermediate stair heads).
Inner Distance Enter the measure between two staircases (including cheek shapes) if the intermediate stair
heads are stair heads for change over.
Platform No. Select the floor you want to process.
Length Length of the current platform.
Height Height of the current platform.
Lower Landing Length Length of the lower landing of the current platform.
Upper Landing Length Length of the upper landing of the current platform.
Angle to Previous If you enter an angle here, you can create the bent running of the staircase or stair heads for
Platform change over (180°). Negative values create an opposite sense of rotation.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Shape Class/Size/ Here you select the shapes for the stair and stair header cheeks.
Type/Resolution
Drill Stringer If this field is enabled, the stair cheeks are drilled to permit bolting the steps or the
handrail.
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Bolt Handrail to Stringer If this field is enabled, the cheeks and the handrail are bolted – if a handrail exists.
Select the required bolt type in the selection list.
Bolt Tread to Stringer If this field is enabled, the steps and cheeks are bolted. Select the required bolt type in
the selection list.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Create Treads If this field is enabled, the stair steps are generated.
Step Type Provides (3) options Standard Steps, Treads Built from Shapes and Blocksteps.
Treads Built from Shapes If this field is enabled, the steps are generated from shapes instead of
as DIN-steps. In the selection lists you can select the required shape as usual. All shapes are
available for selection.
Increment The depth of the staircase steps.
b,d,c Distances for the mounting holes of the staircase steps.
"b" is the distance of the holes from the upper edge of the steps, "c" is the height of the
fastening of staircase steps, "d" is the hole spacing of both mounting holes.
Hole Spacing The spacing of the steps' mounting holes.
Hole Dia. The hole diameter of the steps' mounting holes.
Slot Length The distance of the axes of the rear oblong step hole.
Offset The offset of the staircase steps from the front edge of the staircase to the back. Negative
values move the steps to the front.
Note The type of step that is selected from the Step Type list controls which set of parameters are displayed in
the Treads tab. More information on the parameters for the different step types can be accessed from the
ProSteel 3D help.
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NAME DESCRIPTION
Create Handrails If this field is enabled, a handrail is added to the staircase.
Handrail Connection Here you specify the bolting of handrail and staircase cheek.
Automatic: The program tries to determine the most suitable fastening.
Vertical: The handrail is always bolt on the staircase cheek from above, independently of the
settings in the used handrail template.
By Side: The handrail is always bolt laterally on the staircase cheek, independently of the settings
in the used handrail template.
Individual: The settings in the handrail template are used.
Start Offset Here, you enter an offset value that moves the start of the handrail from the front edge of the
staircase to the back. Negative values move the handrail to the front. In case of staircases without
basic stair head, you can thus move the start of the handrail to a position where a bolt mounting is
possible.
End Offset Analogously to start offset, you enter here an offset value for the end of the handrail.
Side Offset Here, you enter an offset value that moves the handrail from the outer edge of the staircase to the
outside. This permits you to mount the handrail outside the staircase on other shapes or on the
wall.
Height Offset Here, you enter an offset value that moves the handrail from the upper edge of the staircase cheek
to the top. This permits you to attach a grout or an individual fastening.
Side Offset: If you enter a value bigger than 0 in this input field, a vertical connecting plate is inserted between
plate and staircase cheek in case of lateral mounting.
Handrail Template Select the template to be used for the handrail in the selection list. This template describes the
exact structure. The handrail templates are created by means of the structural element 'Handrail'
and the template function.
Handrail Settings By clicking this button, you can preset the handrail structure (shapes, distances, etc.) or edit the
used handrail templates. Another dialog opens which is identical with the 'Handrail' structure
object. Thus you can refer to this dialog for further information.
5. Set the Handrail Template to the New Monowills type P System, this will set parameters to suit
our previous handrail.
6. Next click on the WorkFrame tab.
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A separate WorkFrame can be created showing a direct overview on the staircase to allow for better working
at the staircase within the bounds of a bigger construction. By clicking the fields Front View, Lateral View
Left, Lateral View Right or Top View, you can create the corresponding working frame. You can enter the
general name of the workframe in the Group Name field. If you enter a value in the Edge Distance field, the
size of the different frames is decreased. Thus, you can better select frames that are lying next to each other.
7. Press OK to close the ProSteel 3D Stair dialog.
EXERCISE 2: CUTTING THE STAIRS INTO OUR STRUCTURE

In this exercise, you will attach the stair to our structure using Shear Plate.
1. Zoom around the intersection of the stairs and the 530 UB 82 beam.
Hint This process can be made easier by using the display class feature and disabling certain display groups to
clear up the view.
2. Select the Shear Plate connection (ProSteel 3D menu > Connections > Shear Plates > Shear Plate Connection).
Select the side stringer of the stair and then the 530 UB 82
4. The Shear Plate Connection dialogue box will be displayed.
5. Set the parameters to match the figures below.
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6. Select the OK button

7. Repeat for other stringer
8. Add the stairs to the Stairs display class.
9. Save your model. It should look like the following figure.
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LESSON 3: CREATING CUSTOM WORKFRAMES
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to create a "Custom: workframe for detailing.
EXERCISE 1: CREATING A CUSTOM FRAME (VIEW)

In this exercise you will learn how to create a "custom" frame to be used by the Choose View command and for the
later use in the detailing.
1. Select Zoom/Views > Object View Centered from the ProSteel 3D menu.
2. The prompt
Select element to set View to, or RETURN to align the View
is displayed. Select one of the Purlins on the awning.

Pick desired Axis
pick the Magent axis pointing upwards away from the model.
4. Now that we have the desired plane depicted in our model we can begin the process of creating the custom
view.
5. Open the Choose View dialog (ProSteel 3D menu > Zoom/Views > Choose View).
6. Press the Create New Workframe button and name the new view AWNING_P.
7. Press OK, and when prompted to:
Select lower left edge of desired window
use the PS_SHAPEPOINT Osnap and pick the bottom left hand corner of the purlin.

Select upper right edge of desired window
pick a point to the right and above the first point to include all of the purlins and the first part of the
mounting beams, similar to the figure below. This will create the view and return you to the Choose View
dialog. Press the Cancel button to end the process.
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9. Return to an isometric overview (ProSteel 3D menu > Zoom/Views > Isometric Overview ).
10. To test, select Zoom/Views > Choose View. When the dialog appears pick on your newly created view
AWNING_P and then pick the Set View button, or double click on the view.
11. Save the model.
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12 Positioning and Material Takeoffs
There are two (2) Lessons in this Chapter. Each Lesson begins with a list of objectives that define
the information that you will learn in that Lesson. A number of Exercise are provided in each
of each lesson.
LESSON 1: POSITIONING THE MODEL 12-2
LESSON 2: CREATING A PARTS LIST 12-12
Bentley ProSteel 3D
STRUCTCURAL User Copyright © 2006 Bentley Systems, Incorporated Do Not Duplicate
7/5/2007 12-1
Lesson 1: Positioning the model
LESSON 1: POSITIONING THE MODEL
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to set the defaults for Positioning.
 Defining the Position Flags.
 Positioning the model.
EXERCISE 1: SETTING THE DEFAULTS FOR POSITIONING

In this exercise, you will learn the basics of positioning and setting of the defaults.
1. Switch back to your original TRNMODEL model using AutoCAD's Window menu.
3. Open the ProSteel 3D Positioning/Flags and Positioning dialog (ProSteel 3D menu >
Positioning > Dialog). Click on the Positioning tab and set the parameters as follows:
Descriptions of the fields in the Steel Positioning tab of the ProSteel 3D Positionflags and
Positioning dialog are provided in the table below.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Plugin List shows all available external positioning plug-ins. This list is only available when the Use
external Plug-In option is enabled.
Type Here, you enter the type of the position number.
Numerical means that the position numbers are composed of numbers only.
Alphanumerical means that the position numbers are composed of letters only. The order then
is A, B, ..., Z, AA, AB,.... etc.
Mixed means that the position numbers are composed of a numerical and an alphanumerical
part. The numerical part is following the alphanumerical part, the order is A1, A2,..., A9, B1, B2,
etc. The number of numerical positions can be preset under -> 'Limits'.
Filter Here, you determine which parts to be positioned.
All: When pressing this button, all selected parts will be positioned.
Only Void: When pressing this button, only those selected parts will be positioned that have not
yet been assigned a position number (e.g., new parts).
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Only Changed: When pressing this button, only those selected parts will be positioned that
have been changed. Thus, after detailing changed parts can be assigned new position
numbers, if necessary the parts are identified using "Modification Tags," which will be deleted
when the part concerned is detailed. This means that parts are assigned new position numbers
that have active change tags (query via command 'Shapes > Change Properties > Data').
Last Single Displays the last used position number for single elements.
Last Group Displays the last used position number for group elements.
Increment In the Increment field you enter automatic incrementing of the position numbers (normally by
one step).
Next In the Next No. field you enter the number to be assigned to the first part to be positioned.
Use Send Number Enable this option to use Send Numbers instead of Position numbers.
Use External Plug-In Enables the use of an external plug-in for positioning instead of using the built in default
functions.
Resets the Positioning options.
Calls the dialog for automatic positioning.
Applies the position numbers to the selected items.
Processes automatic positioning only for single parts with the given settings.
Processes automatic positioning only for groups with the given settings.
4. After reviewing the settings for positioning, you will now set the options for Automatic
Positioning. Press the button to call the Automatic Positioning dialog and set the parameters as
follows:
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Descriptions for the fields in the above dialog are provided in the table below.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Filter These parts are considered in case of automatic positioning. Select the parts (shapes,
special shapes, plates, bolts and other special parts) that are to be numbered in one
operation.
Sort Flats like Plates: Enable this option to consider Flats and Plates equal for Pre-Sorting.
Pre-Sort (Left Window) Sets the order of the Pre-Sort. Use the arrow buttons next to the window to move a value up
or down.
Post-Sort Sets the Order of the Post-Sort. Use the arrow buttons next to the window to move a value
up or down.
Options Overwrite Existing means existing position numbers will be overwritten when assigning new
ones.
If Equal Part Detection is enabled, the parts are checked for equality. If they are identical,
they are assigned the same position number. Parts are considered identical when deviations
with respect to dimensions and drill diameter are within the values given as reference
tolerances.
If Equal Group Detection is enabled, the groups are checked for equality. Groups are
considered identical when identical parts are arranged in the same mounting position - single
parts are only compared using their position number (i.e., if parts are identical but have
different position numbers, the groups will also be assigned different position numbers).
If Consider Weld Marks is enabled then Weld Marks are used to compare elements.
First Main Parts, then Sub Parts means that first, all main parts of groups are positioned (and
sorted according to the sorting criteria within the groups), followed by the accessory parts
(also sorted according to the sorting criteria). This can be deemed as an additional, even
higher ranking sorting criterion.
Subparts starts at: Determines from which number, group subparts will be positioned.
Groups Differentiation Unequal Groups: When the group is assigned the position of the main part
(normal case), it may happen that two different groups having the same main part are
assigned identical position numbers. In such cases, the program will check whether or not
the groups are really identical. If not, it will change the group position number.
25 -> 25.1 means the changed group positions are identified by the index .1, etc., following
their position number (i.e., 100.1, 100.2, ...).
25 ->25A means the changed group positions are identified by the index A, etc., following
their position number (i.e. 100A, 100B, ...).
25 -> MAX+1 means positioning of the changed group positions is continued after the
highest position currently assigned.
Group Options The Max = Subpart Max option determines if the next available Position number is a single or
group number
If Takeover MainPart Position ->Group is enabled, the position of the main part is taken over
as group position. If necessary, the group position is changed afterwards (see Differentiation
Groups). If this is not requested, the group positions will start at the position entered in
GroupsStart at the Last [+].
Position Prefix Here, an explanatory text can be entered before the group position. It is possible to
differentiate between support beams, girders and other groups, the differentiation always
being related to the main part of the group.
In Columns, you enter the designation for all vertical shapes. In the attribute field Deviation in
Degrees, you enter an angle within which the shape is still considered to be vertical.
In Beams, you enter the designation for all horizontal shapes. In the attribute field Deviation
in Degrees, you enter an angle within which the shape is still considered to be horizontal.
Vertical and horizontal are always related to the work frame, i.e., to the x/y plane of the WCS.
In Other, you enter the designation for all other groups.
The Position Tolerance fields determine the position tolerance for vertical columns and
horizontal beams.
If Use Part Family Prefixes is enabled, the family classes prefix is set in front if the
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component part belongs to a family class and a prefix is planned.

Tolerances Geometry Geometry Check: Compares the parts with the visible geometry, line for line.
Check
Min. LineLength means additional lines up to the specified length are not considered for a
comparison.
Length Tol. means length deviations do not result in a different part.
Hole Tol. means deviations of the drill hole axis up to the specified length do not result in a
different part.
Tolerances Volume Compares the parts with the visible volume. You cannot mix Facet and Acis bodies.
Check
Max Part Difference: Sets the maximum difference in % up to which the elements are treated
as identical.
Max. Group Difference: Sets the maximum difference in % up to which the groups are
treated as identical.
6. Set the options as shown in the dialog above then press OK to return to the ProSteel 3D
Positionflags and Positioning dialog.
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EXERCISE 2: DEFINING POSITION FLAGS

In this exercise we will learn about the settings for the physical Position flags.
1. Click on the Sort tab and press the New Position Flag Style button.
2. Type Singleparts into the dialog that displays and press OK to create the new style. Repeat this
procedure to add the Bolts style. When finished, the new styles will be displayed in the
Loaded Styles section as shown below.
3. Click on the Layout tab to display the following:
4. Select SingleParts from the Style field and press the Enables Setting of Position Flag Style
button next to the Created Geometry field.
5. The Posflag Definition will display as shown below. Set the parameters as shown for the
SingleParts style then press OK to apply the settings.
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The fields of this dialog are described in the following table.
NAME DESCRIPTION
LineType Here, you define the kind of guideline to be used.
None – No guideline will be displayed.
Line – Only one line will be displayed.
Arrow – A line with an arrow will be displayed.
Dot - A line with a point will be displayed.
Bubble Form Here, you define the kind of position number.
None: only the number is displayed.
Round: the number is displayed in an oval.
Rectangular: the number is displayed in a field.
Hexagonal: the number is displayed in a hexagon.
On Line: the number is displayed on the construction line.
Text Type Here, you define the type of shape designation in case of length indication.
IU100...160: the designation is as follows…IPE270... 7890.
U100 160: the designation is as follows…IPE270 – 7890.
U100x160: the designation is as follows… IPE270x7890.
Format Template: The designation is as indicated in the ‘Format Template’ input field.
Alignment Here, you determine the direction of the construction line with respect to the position text.
Shape: the direction is in parallel to shape.
Line: you will be prompted to enter a reference line by clicking. Text will be aligned accordingly.
Horizon: the direction is horizontal.
Vertical: the direction is vertical.
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Text Style Specifies the text style for the text of the position flag.
Default Format Specifies the format for the user-defined shape designation if you have selected ‘Format
Template’ as text type. The following parameters are available.
$(N) for part name
$(L) for part length
$(W) for part width
$(T) for part thickness
The result of the format string $(N) $(T)x$(W) would e.g. be plate 5x380
Prefix/Postfix In the input field Prefix or Postfix you can enter a text which is displayed in front of or after the
position of the position flag.
The default can be set independently of each other for both numbers.
Send Prefix/Postfix In the input field Prefix or Postfix you can enter a text which is displayed in front of or after the
shipping number of the position flag.
The default can be set independently of each other for both numbers.
Divide Specifies a text which is written between position number and shipping number, if both numbers
have to be displayed as position number entry in the position flag.
Layout Here, you determine which information to be displayed.
Total Number: the number of parts is displayed, e.g., 17 x IPE 270.
Name: the designation is displayed (e.g., the shape designation).
Comment: the comments of the parts lists are displayed.
Item Name: display the Article number of the parts in the position flag.
Dimensions: display the parts dimensions of the parts in the position flag.
Position number: the position number is displayed.
Send Number: the shipping number is displayed.
Material: the material designation is displayed.
Orig. Posnumber: the fixed (former) position number is displayed.
Options No Line: suppresses the leader line of the position flag.
Dynamic: Creates an association between the object and the position flag.
Group Length: Use group dimension for display if a group is selected.
Size You can define the text size for general lettering (Textsize) and for position numbers (No.size).
For printing, the AutoCAD text sizes are scaled according to selected scale.
Colours You set the corresponding colour for the flag as AutoCAD colour number using the fields Line,
Number, Bubble und Text. If you enter -1 as value, the pre-setting will be used.
6. Next, select the Group style and define its settings as shown in the following dialog then press
OK.
7. Upon selecting the Group style, the following dialog may display prompting you to save the
changes to the Singleparts style.
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8. Press OK to continue with the Group style settings.
9. Finally, define the Bolts style using the settings shown below and press OK to return to the
ProSteel 3D Positionflags and Positioning dialog.
Note When prompted to save changes for the Groups style, press OK to continue again.
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EXERCISE 3: POSITIONING THE MODEL

In this exercise, you will position the model and grip edit individual piece parts to see the
positioning rules that have been applied.
1. With the ProSteel 3D Positionflags and Positioning dialog still open, click on the Steel
Positioning tab and press the Apply position numbers to selection button.
Note When prompted to save changes for the Bolts style, press OK to continue.

Select all objects to be positioned:
Select Objects:
use a window or type All and press Enter twice. The system will begin the positioning process
and when complete will display the ProSteel 3D Positioning: Single Part) dialog shown
below. This serves as a visual check of what Singleparts were positioned and its contents are
not editable.
3. Press the OK button to close the dialog and the following ProSteel 3D Positioning: Result
Groups dialog displays.
4. Press OK to complete the process and allow positioning to apply the sorting and
comparison options.
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5. Once the system returns us to our model we will grip edit an item. Pick the column located at
coordinate A1 and grip edit the shape.
6. Access the Data tab and note the Pos. No. field. Switch to the Group Data tab and note the Pos.
No. field. One position number is for the part and other, prefixed in this case by a "C", is for
the group. Also note that the positioning has also counted how many of this part and the group
exist in the model. After applying the comparison options the system now knows that this
model has two "groups" that are exactly alike.
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Lesson 2: Creating a Parts List
LESSON 2: CREATING A PARTS LIST
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to create a parts list.
 Editing the parts list data and format.
 Generating the actual report.
EXERCISE 1: CREATING THE PARTS LIST

In this exercise, you will learn how to create the Parts list.
1. Open the ProSteel Project Management dialogue (ProSteel 3D menu >

ProjectManagement. When the dialogue box is displayed, select Create a new Project icon.
Enter ProSteel Structural Training in the name box and press OK.
2. Highlight the ProSteel Structural Training project and select the Enables to edit the Drawing
Table Data icon
3. Define the settings as indicated in the figure below, and then press OK.
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2. Open the Partlist Creation dialog and set the parameter values to match the following figure.
The table below describes the fields in the Structural Create Partlist Database dialog.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Part Selection Here, you select the parts for which a parts list is to be created.
3D parts: means that you select the parts from the work frame.
2D positions flags: means that the parts lists will be deducted from the position flags of a detailed
workshop drawing. From modified 2D drawings you can generate new bills of materials.
Options Verify position number: only those selected parts will be taken over into the parts lists that have a
valid position number.
Only Group Parts: only those selected parts will be taken over into the parts lists that are assigned
to a group.
Only Selected parts: Only selected parts are written to the partslist. If disabled, then the complete
groups of the selected parts are written to the parts list.
Create Group record: Group records are created for all complete groups that are selected.
Otherwise, no group records are written into the parts list.
If Start Parts List is clicked, parts list processing is loaded immediately after creation of parts list file
by means of this file.
Calculate NC Cut Angles: Defines cut angles for generation of a NC file that can be read by a NC
machine to fabricate a section.
Straight End at front: Turns the NC-data so an eventual straight End is at front.
With Welds: Adds weld data into parts list.
Combine Welds: Combines all welds of same style and thickness into one entry.
Bolts If Without PosNumber is clicked, bolts will be included in the parts lists, even if they have no position
number. Washers Extra, Nuts Extra, Safety Washers Extra, Tapered Washers Extra means that the
additional parts for the bolts are separately specified in the list of materials.
Output File The file for the list of materials is stored in the file displayed in the Name field, i.e., in the 'XBASE
format'.
By pressing the File button you can set the directory in the same manner as you use to do under
Windows.
By pressing this button, you start part selection. The selected bolts will be considered as well.
With Bolts
By pressing this button, you start part selection. Bolts will not be considered, even though they have
been selected.
Without Bolts
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By pressing this button, you start part selection. Only the main parts of groups including bolts will be
considered.
Mounting List
3. Name the database that you want to create (Press the File button in the Output File section of
the dialog). It is recommended that you name the database the same name as the model. In this
instance, name the database TRNMODEL.DBF.
4. Press the Without Bolts button. The prompt:
Select all parts to add in bill of material, RETURN for all,Shift+ESC for Filter
Select Objects:
is displayed. Type All at the command prompt then press Enter. All parts will be selected and
process will begin. When the data is compiled, all elements within the model will be hidden
from the display. This serves as a visual check to ensure that all the desired parts have been
added to the database. Select File Close to close dialogue. Type PS_REGEN to restore the parts
display.
EXERCISE 2: EDITING THE PARTS LIST DATA AND FORMAT

In this exercise, you learn how to access and alter the parts list data as well as modify the format of
the report.
1. Open the Parts List Processor for Structural 3D dialog (ProSteel 3D menu > Additions > Create
Partlist from Database).
2. Load the TRNMODEL.DBF database (File menu > Open). (The location will be C:\Program
Files\Kiwi Software GmbH\ProSteel 3D\R17.2\AutoCAD 2008\Projects\ProSteel Structural
Training\Partlist).
3. The dialog will be propagated as shown below with possibly unsorted data from the parts list.
In the list, each part is stored individually, but a combination of equal positions will be carried
out at the time of printout. You can open several files at the same time. The opened files will
be displayed in the list Act Database on the left side of the dialog field. By clicking a file
name, this file will be your current work file. The parts contained in the work file are
displayed on the right side of the dialog field. The list of parts gives a survey of the entries.
By clicking an entry twice, another dialog will be displayed, which contains all data available
with respect to the entry concerned. This data can be processed in the dialog field. When
closing the dialog field, they are imported (and IMMEDIATELY stored in the file) end the
data record by clicking the OK button.
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Note You are modifying "live" data. Any changes you make will reflect in the report and will not
back update the model.
4. In order to have a more recognizable list, select File menu > Sort from the within the dialog
and this will load the sorting dialog shown below. You will sort on POSNUMBER as the first
key and ITEMNO as the second key. You will also sort in Ascending order. Press OK and the
sorting will be applied and the database information will return to the display and be sorted
according to our settings.
5. Now that you have the data loaded and sorted, you will create the format for our report. Next,
you will touch on the basics of report formats and not specific settings within the format file
itself.
6. Select Settings menu > Edit PartList definition from the Parts List Processor for Structural 3D
dialog.
7. When the file selection dialog appears, open the FREEPARTS.LST file.
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8. This will load the Designer window for the specific report that you selected. From here you
can change the format, title, grouping of parts, colors, fonts, rows, and columns etc. for each
type of report. Experience with report writer tools is required in order to generate the desired
formats needed by your company. Close this window as we will leave this unedited in this
exercise.
9. Select File > Exit to return to the Parts List Processor for Structural 3D dialog.
EXERCISE 3: GENERATING THE REPORT

In this exercise, you will generate an actual report from the compiled data.
1. Select Delivery menu > Select SingePart list from the Processor for Structural 3D dialog. When
the dialog loads, select FREEPARTS.LST from the list of reports and then press Open.
Note If a message regarding the paper size should display, just continue with the printing
process.
2. The Print Options dialog shown below will display:
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3. From within the Print Options dialog change the Direct To field to send the report to a
Preview. Press the Start button to begin the process and display the report.
4. Select the +2 Magnifying glass icon at the top to zoom in on the reports content. Note how the
parts are displayed in the report. When finished, exit this report by pressing the Exit Preview
icon at the top of the screen.
5. Execute the procedure again, this time choosing a different report format. Note the display of
the data.
6. Exit any reports still open and when you return to the Partlist Processor for ProSteel 3D
dialog, select File > End to exit the database editor/report generator.
Hint Changes made in the model after the database is generated WILL NOT update the
database. The report should be re-run to capture the new or changed data.
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The 2D Detail Center
13
Now that the modeling process is complete, you will begin the process of creating the frame
deliverable drawings. The entire process is automated through the ProSteel 2D Detail Center. (Do
not confuse the term 2D or detail center with the process of "steel detailing". All 2D output is
controlled from within this function. Think of this as the "Drawing Production Center".) This
chapter will focus on the format and use of the detail center. We will only briefly touch on the
specifics of the detail styles used to generate the desired results. We will learn what comprises the
detail center and how to use it in order to produce our engineering drawings. We will also learn
how to use the detail center to produce "Manual or Custom" details. The true power of the detail
center is evident when we use the detail center to correct our existing 2D details after a change is
made in the model.
There are four (4) Lessons in this Chapter. Each Lesson begins with a list of objectives that define
of each lesson.
LESSON 1: LOADING AND REVIEWING THE 2D DETAIL

CENTER 13-2
LESSON 2: ASSIGNING A FRAME TO A STYLE AND

CREATING A 2D DELIVERABLE DRAWING 13-8
LESSON 3: CREATING MANUAL DETAILS WITHOUT A

FRAME 13-17
LESSON 4: MODIFYING THE MODEL AND AUTOMATICALLY

UPDATING THE DETAIL DRAWINGS 13-26
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Lesson 1: Loading and reviewing the 2D Detail Center
LESSON 1: LOADING AND REVIEWING THE 2D DETAIL CENTER
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to load the detail center.
 Learn the basic design of the detail center.
 Learn how to load a detail style to begin the process of detailing our structure.
EXERCISE 1: LOADING THE DETAIL CENTER

In this exercise you will learn how to load the detail center.
1. Make sure that the TRNMODEL.DWG is the active drawing within the AutoCAD window.
2. Load the detail center (ProSteel 3D menu > 2D > Detail Center). This will load the detail center
and display the frames that were generated when you created the Workframes, as well as a
few detail styles.
WHAT IS THE DETAIL CENTER

In ProSteel 3D, users control the complete 2D drawing and plan generation from within the detail
center – from a first overview of the components to the workshop drawing with multiple changes
and manipulations. Think of the detail center as a program within the program because it offers
vastly more possibilities and options than one can see at first glance. When you open the detail
center for the first time, you will see a clearly organised dialog box with just a few setting options.
You really do not need anything else at this point if you have already customised the program
because right now, you "just" want to derive your workshop plans from the model. However, if
you feel the urge, you can push into the innermost depths of the drawing derivation at any time.
You can set a great variety of options, request information, monitor and check drawings. The
philosophy behind this development is that you SHOULD BE ABLE TO obtain the same result in a
variety of different ways, that you CAN change many elements and options – but that you DO NOT
HAVE TO! The highest possible level of flexibility for you as the user during the final phase of the
design – that is the detail center.
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EXERCISE 2: THE LAYOUT OF THE 2D DETAIL CENTER

In this exercise we will learn the "lay of the land" in the 2D Detail Center.
LEVEL 1: PARTS OVERVIEW

Here you will obtain an overview of the parts of the model and their functional associations and
relationships. You can view construction groups, single parts or whole areas of the model – all
clearly structured in a tree format. This is the place where you manage and change detail styles
and link your components with these styles as well as manage the modification mechanism. In
addition, Detail Center Express! is launched here.
LEVEL 2: VIEWS OVERVIEW

The second work level offers you an overview of the component or model views created by the
program. You can add or remove views, display a preview, and fine-tune the detail style. In this
overview you decide what exactly is to be processed as a detail block and start the actual detailing
process.
LEVEL 3: DETAIL BLOCK OVERVIEW

The third and last level features the detailed parts, which are located on your hard drive in the form
of detail blocks. You receive an overview of the detail blocks of the current model (or other
models) and decide which parts to import or integrate into which drawing. Placing the parts on a
drawing sheet finishes the workshop plan, unless you would like to carry out a few adjustments
manually.
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WORK TOOLS:
Each of the three levels offers access to a window with work tools using the function button bar.
These tools are assigned to the corresponding area. In order to keep the display area of the
construction parts lists as large as possible, many of the infrequently used functions and settings
have been delegated to these subordinate dialogs.
INFORMATION WINDOW:
There is also an information window, which will be displayed if you right-click on one of the
components list frames or parts and select Display Info. This information window is assigned to all
three work levels and shows the current status of the entry. Depending on the list, this window
displays the name and type of the part, data of detailing, insertion location, current status, and
much more.
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CONTEXT MENU:
A supplement to every level is a level-specific Context Menu accessible through the right mouse
button, which lists only those functions that are significant to the respective list. You will
probably use the context menus quite often because they represent the fastest way to access a
command.
DETAIL STYLES:
The detail styles are the cornerstone of the entire detailing process. They describe how a part is to
look as a workshop detail or how the model is to appear as an overview. The content of the styles
is described in some detail in the next lesson.
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PREVIEW:
The detailing of a selected part can be previewed from within the views overview or directly from
within the model. This will create a small AutoCAD drawing displaying the exact result of the
detail style settings applied to this part. The small drawing shows how the part will be detailed.
This window and its drawing can be zoomed or queried for information because it is an
independent AutoCAD drawing. Since you can now open this part's detail style, you can track the
effects of different style settings in "real time." We call this fine-tuning of the detail style. If you
open the preview for another part you do not have to close this window first. The content is
updated automatically.
Note Anytime before viewing the detail, right-click the mouse while in the model and select
ProSteel > Options. Highlight the Shapes > Shape Label option and check the Text
Size and Distance (try 5mm for text and 3mm for distance).
After viewing the detail, the window must be closed manually. While the preview is open, most of
the functions of the detail center are inaccessible.
1. Open the Detail Center Part Setting dialog (Part tab > Press the Detail Center Settings icon).
2. Set the parameter values as shown below.
3. When finished close the settings dialog.
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EXERCISE 3: LOADING A DETAIL STYLE

In this exercise, you learn how to load a detail style in order to begin the detailing process. We will
also briefly look at the specifics of the detail style itself.
1. From within the Parts tab of the 2D Detail Center select the Style named Overview (Pick only
one). Then, with the pointer over top of the Overview style, right-click the mouse to display
the context menu.
2. From the context menu, select Load Detail Style(s). When the dialog appears to load a style,
select the FRAMESP style. This will load the style into the detail center.
3. Now that the FRAMESP style is loaded we will briefly review its content. This can be done by
"double-clicking" the style name. Double click the FRAMESP style and we will briefly review
the contents of this style.
The detailing style offers you some decisive influence over the style of the detailing because it is
here that you determine what is to be dimensioned, how to dimension it, what texts to include,
whether to attach position flags, and so much more. Over 200 parameters are available to specify
the appearance of your drawing. You can save and load these styles individually and even import
or export them from third parties. Since it is possible to manage entire parameter records you can
create specific styles for specific detailing tasks (e.g., for overviews, workshop plans, life-sized
displays, etc.) and just select them later. Your main task consists of defining the suitable styles
ONCE. The program offers the option to immediately check each change using a preview feature
until details look exactly like you want them to be.
Note Understand that creating a detail style can take some time and should not be rushed. Use
the Preview function to verify the settings. Allow sufficient time to create the style for your
desired output. In the end time spent up front will pay off in quick, time saving drawing
production.
SAVING STYLES
Normally, the detailing styles are saved together with the drawing. This means that you always
have to save your model if the modifications of detailing styles are to be kept permanently. There
is, however, the possibility to write a detailing style as a text file on the hard drive and to re-import
it from there. This permits you to exchange, update or even transfer the detailing styles of different
models. Furthermore, you can create a collection of detailing styles, and in the model use only a
selection of those styles that are required for that moment.
GENERAL INFO
If you double-click on a detail style, a dialog with several tabs displays in which the individual
parameters are organized according to different areas. Some of the tabs have tabs themselves,
which are used for special settings. These are usually infrequently used settings and are thus
"removed by a few extra mouse clicks." You do not have to take care to close all of these dialogs
because the program closes them automatically when you select a different tab.
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Lesson 2: Assigning a Frame to a Style and Creating a 2D Deliverable Drawing
LESSON 2: ASSIGNING A FRAME TO A STYLE AND CREATING A 2D DELIVERABLE DRAWING
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to assign a frame to a detail style.
 Learn how to process a view through the detail center.
 Further use the Multiple Document Interface to create our "deliverable" drawing.
 Complete the process by saving our drawing and our model, and reviewing the display of the
detail center and using it to determine the status of a view.
EXERCISE 1: ASSIGNING THE FRAME TO A DETAIL STYLE

In this exercise, you will learn how to assign the frame to the detail style.
1. From within the Detail center Parts tab, select the ST1_TOP frame view. With the view
highlighted, drag and drop the view into the BasePlan style. The frame in the Parts tab will
have a "check mark" next to it. This is your signal that the view has been assigned to a style.
2. Pick on the frame view ST1_TOP and then with the arrow on the highlighted frame name,
right-click and access the context menu. From within the context menu select Display Info.
This will load the information dialog and you will see the style named that has been applied to
the frame.
3. Close dialogue box
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EXERCISE 2: PROCESSING THE FRAME THROUGH THE DETAIL CENTER

In this exercise, you will learn how to process the ST1_TOP frame through the detail center.
1. From within the Detail center, select the Views tab. When the display changes to the contents
of the views tab you will see the ST1_TOP view in the current views section of the tab.
2. At this point we can preview the results of the BasePlan detail style. Highlight the ST1_TOP
view then right-click to access the context menu. From the menu select Preview. This will
open the preview of the detail.
Note If the text size of the dimensions/descriptions are not proportionate to the drawing you are
able to change this. Close the preview without saving the changes. Next, right-click the
mouse while in the model and select ProSteel > Options. Highlight the Shapes > Shape
Label option and check the Text Size and Distance (try 5mm for text and 3 for distance).
Hint At this time you can load the detail style used to create the view and make changes to the
style and watch as the changes update in the created view. This serves as a great
construction tool when defining detail styles.
3. Before continuing through the process we must close the preview window. To do this, press
the X in the corner of the Preview window and when prompted to save the contents of the
preview, press NO.
4. The next step in the detailing process is to pass the view onto the Insert tab and allow ProSteel
to process the view into an intelligent block. Back in the Views tab of the detail center drag
and drop the ST1_TOP view onto the Start detailing of selected Parts button. The system will
take a moment to process the view through the detail center.
5. Switch to the Insert tab of the detail center. In the section labeled Detail directory pick the
TRNMODEL listed. This will refresh the view and in the lower half of the tab labeled Detail
Blocks, our ST1_TOP view will appear. At this point the view is ready to insert into a
deliverable drawing
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EXERCISE 3: PREPARING THE DELIVERABLE DRAWING TO ACCEPT OUR DETAIL

BLOCK
In this exercise, you learn how to create a new "deliverable" drawing and insert a border.
1. From the AutoCAD menu select File menu > New. When the AutoCAD startup dialog
displayed, select Template from the Create Drawings tab then select the structural template
file created previously.
2. After the new drawing loads, select File menu > Save As and name the file TRNDET1.
3. Now you can insert a border. Select 2D > Insert Drawing Border from the ProSteel 3D menu.
This will invoke the ProSteel Drawing Template Manager.
4. Highlight the A0 size and press the Create Drawing Template Entry button. This will display the
Drawing Templates Definition dialog.
5. Press the File button next to the Block path field and browse to the C:\Program Files\Kiwi
Software GmbH\ProSteel 3D\R17.2\AutoCAD 2008\Projects directory and then select the
Bentley-A1_Master.DWG file.
Note The sample borders used for this manual are provided when you install ProSteel 3D on
your machine. If only the Structural application is installed, the instructor will advise you
on how to locate alternate border files.
6. When you return to the Drawing Border Settings dialog type 841 in the Width text box and
594 in the Height box. In the Comment field type A1 Size. Press OK to close the dialog. Or you
can pick the Select Standard Sizes icon to select the required size from a list.
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7. A new template has been created under the A1 size. Name the new template A1Sheet, then
press the Load Template into Model Space button.
8. Save the detail sheet.
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EXERCISE 4: INSERTING OUR FRAME DETAIL INTO OUR DELIVERABLE DRAWING

In this exercise you will learn how to insert the detail into your drawing, save the detail and model,
and review the 2D Detail Center settings.
1. From the Detail center Insert tab, select the ST1_TOP view. Drag and drop the view name onto
the Insert Detail Block button located at the top of the tab. After doing this, the insert button
will turn from green to red.
2. The block will appear as a ghost image in the drawing. Use the mouse to position the block in
the desired position then left-click to place it in the drawing. When finished the view should
be in the drawing and appear as in the figure below.
3. Save the detail sheet then using AutoCAD's window menu, select the TRNMODEL and save
this as well.
4. Switch back to the Parts tab of the detail center. Note that the ST1_TOP view is now
highlighted in Blue. This denotes that the frame has been processed, and now resides in a
drawing.
5. Within the Parts tab, highlight the ST1_TOP view then right-click to access the context menu.
From within the context menu pick Display Info. Note how the information dialog for the
frame now contains the drawing that the detail resides on as well as the path.
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EXERCISE 5: INSERTING AN ELEVATION VIEW INTO OUR DETAIL SHEET

In this exercise we continue adding to our detail sheet by processing an elevation view of our
model.
1. From the 2D Detail Center Parts tab, select the BasePlan Style, then right-click to display the
context menu.
2. From within the context menu select Load Detail Style(s). When the dialog appears to load a
style select the BaseElevation style. This will load the style into the detail center.
3. Now that the BaseElevation style is loaded we will briefly review its content by double
clicking on it.
4. From within the Detail center Parts tab select the FR2_Y_B frame view. With the view
highlighted, drag and drop the view into the BaseElevation style. The frame in the Parts tab
will have a "check mark" next to it. This is your signal that the view has been assigned to a
style.
5. Highlight the frame then right-click to access the context menu. From within the context menu
select Display Info. This will load the information dialog and you will see the style named that
has been applied to the frame.
6. From within the Detail center, select the Views tab. When the display changes to the contents
of the views tab you will see the FR2_Y_B view in the current views section of the tab.
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7. At this point we can preview the results of the BaseElevation detail style. Highlight the
FR2_Y_B view then right-click to access the context menu. From the menu select Preview. This
will invoke the preview of the detail.
8. Before continuing through the process we must close the preview window. To do this, press
the X in the corner of the Preview window and when prompted to save the contents of the
preview, press NO.
9. The next step in the detailing process is to switch to the Insert tab and allow ProSteel to
process the view into an intelligent block. Back in the Views tab of the detail center drag and
drop the FR2_Y_B view onto the Create Detail Blocks button. The system will take a moment to
process the view through the detail center.
10. Switch to the Insert tab of the detail center. Under the Detaildirectory node, select the
TRNMODEL listed. This will refresh the view and in the lower half of the tab under the Detail
Blocks node, our FR2_Y_B view will appear. At this point the view is ready to insert into a
deliverable drawing
11. Using the Window menu selection switch to the TRNDET1.DWG drawing. This will make our
detail sheet the active drawing within AutoCAD.
12. From within the Insert tab of the Detail center select the FR2_Y_B view. Drag and drop the
view name onto the Insert Detail Block button located at the top of the tab. The button it will
turn from blue to red.
13. The block will appear as a ghost image in the drawing. Use the mouse to position the block
into the desired position then left-click to place the block in the drawing. When finished the
view should be in the drawing and the Detail Center should appear as in the following figure.
14. Save the detail sheet and using the window menu select the TRNMODEL and when this
becomes active, save it as well.
15. Switch back to the Parts tab of the detail center. Note that the view is now highlighted in Blue.
This denotes that the frame has been processed, and now resides in a drawing.
16. Within the Parts tab highlight the FR2_Y_B view then right-click to access the context menu.
From within the context menu select Display Info. Note how the information dialog for the
frame now contains the drawing that the detail resides on as well as the path.
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Lesson 3: Creating Manual Details without a Frame
LESSON 3: CREATING MANUAL DETAILS WITHOUT A FRAME
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to prepare the model to create a "manual" detail.
 Setting up the detail center to create a manual detail.
 Using the ProSteel Positioning and dimensioning tools to detail our view.
EXERCISE 1: PREPARING THE MODEL FOR THE MANUAL DETAIL

In this exercise, you will learn what needs to be done in the model to begin the manual detail
process.
1. Use AutoCAD's Window menu to make the TRNMODEL.DWG the active drawing.
2. Zoom in on the web angle connection in the upper frame purlin.
3. We need to set the view in the model to be the desired view of the detail. We want to get a
view looking onto the 250 UB 31 beam from the right hand side at the shear plate connection.
Select Structural > Zoom/Views > Object View Centered.
Pick ProSteel Object to set View to, or RETURN to align the View
pick the 250 UB 31 near its intersection with the 530 UB 82 cross beam.

Pick desired Axis
pick the Red cone. This will set the view as shown in the following figure.
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6. If the 2D Detail Center is not open select 2D > Detail Center.
EXERCISE 2: PREPARING THE DETAIL CENTER FOR THE MANUAL DETAIL AND
PRODUCING THE DETAIL VIEW
In this exercise, you will learn what needs to be done in the detail center in order to produce a
manual detail.
1. When working with manual details you must set a detail style as a "Default". Highlight the
Conn style and then right-click to display the context menu. From the context menu select Set
as Default Style.
2. Switch to the Views tab.
3. Select the Additional Views icon from the Views Menu.
4. This will load the Add View dialogue box.
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5. Select the required DetailStyle from the drop down list, or search for DetailStyle on external
drive. This will activate the Add View Model-View dialogue box.
6. The Add View Model-View dialog allows us to manually create new views from scratch as
well as add views to existing Piece Part and Group part details. Since we are not detailing
Piece or Group parts the section of the dialog to the left defined as Given Views IS NOT TO
BE USED.
7. Within the Add View Model-View dialog select Manual Detail. This will display the dialog in
which you are to give the view a name. Name the detail JOINT1 and press OK to close the
dialog.

Pick Origin of Viewplane or ESC for the current View
press ESC.
9. The prompt:
Select objects
displays. Use a crossing window and pick the 250 UB 31 and 530 UB 82 beams as well as the
bolts and the web angles. Right-click after you have selected the parts.
10. This will load a detail drawing of the parts you picked. THIS IS THE ACTIVE "BLOCK".
For now leave the Add View Model-View dialog off to the side. You will notice that the
Manual Detail button has now changed to the 2D Creation button. DO NOT PICK THE OK
OR 2D CREATION BUTTONS! Maximize the detail block drawing and window in on the joint.
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EXERCISE 3: DIMENSIONING THE DETAIL AND FINISHING THE PROCESS

In this exercise, you will learn how to dimension, position and "Cut back" the detail. Finally, we
will insert this detail in our detail sheet.
Note Dimensioning can be performed with standard AutoCAD dimensioning provided the scale
factors are correctly set. For our exercise we will use the dimensioning tools that are
apart of the ProSteel 3D software.
1. Open the ProSteel Dimension dialog (Structural > Dimension > Dialog).
A description of each field in the ProSteel Dimension dialog is shown in the table below.
NAME DESCRIPTION
Alignment Here, you set the general direction of dimensioning as well as some other useful options.
Horizontal: The manual dimension chain is always running in horizontal direction.
Vertical: The manual dimension chain is always running in vertical direction.
According to Line: The dimension chain is running in the same direction like a pre-set line. To
carry out the function, press the 'line determining the direction.' This is the optimal method to
dimension along a diagonal shape by clicking on a shape line.
As Picked: The dimension chain is running in the direction determined by the two points
picked first. This is for example reasonable when there isn't any line to be clicked on.
As Part: The dimension chain is running in the same direction like the length direction of a
component part. This is the optimal method to dimension along a diagonal shape by clicking
on the shape.
Arc Dimension: You can dimension the length of an arc.
Angle Dimension: You can dimension an angle.
Zero Reference Point Here, you specify which origin is used for alternative coordinate dimensioning.
Auto: The dimensions are preferably related to the lower left point of the reference part‟s
coating or to that of the group‟s main part. If it doesn‟t exist, they are related to the current
UCS.
Default: The dimensions are related to any point specified by you.
UCS-Origin: The dimensions are related to the origin of the current UCS.
Part: The dimensions are related to the lower left point of the reference part‟s coating or to
that of the group‟s main part.
Start Dimension Chain: The dimensions are related to the beginning of the dimension chain.
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Associate with Object Here, you specify whether a reference part has to be used for dimensioning. This is
necessary to evaluate shape shortenings correctly. However, the part has to be an intelligent
2D part‟.
No: A reference part is not used for dimensioning and all lengths are evaluated in the
measured length.
Default: A pre-set part is used as reference part. Thus, you don‟t have to select it each time
you apply this command. This option helps you to dimension more complex groups.
Select: You are always prompted for the reference part, which then has to be selected.
Choose Position You can choose the position of the dimension chains at automatic parts dimensioning. If this
field is not checked, the settings of detail style are valid for the distances of dimension
chains.
Continuing DimChain A dimension chain can be built continuously by clicking on individual points. If this field is not
checked, you have to continue dimensioning single distances.
Scale Automatic The settings for scale and object scaling are automatically determined by the global scale
and by the reference part. If your work has been logical according to ProSteel (either un-
scaled details and global scale for plot or scaled details and scale 1:1 for the plot), incorrect
default settings are avoided.
Do not scale Parts The parts to be dimensioned are not scaled. Thus, the original measured lengths can be
used. However, if the field has not been checked, all measured lengths are multiplied with
the indicated scale under 'New Scale'.
New Scale The scale used for converting the measured lengths and text sizes depending on the settings
for part scaling under „Parts Not…‟ Here, you enter e.g. the value 10 if you have selected the
„scale 1: 10 with object scaling‟ at detailing. The details now have been decreased by factor
10.
Fence Dimensions Here you determine the dimension chains to be created for fence chain dimension.
Shape Center: A dimension chain is created stretching only over fence points of shape
centers.
Shape Edges: A dimension chain is created stretching only over fence points of shape
edges.
Outer Dimensions: The dimensions of the work frames are evaluated as fence points and
dimensioned in a dimension chain.
Overall Dim: A dimension chain is created stretching over the outer dimensions of the
structure.
Coordinate Dimension At Total Dimension: Normally, the coordinate measures for overall dimensions are omitted at
automatic detailing or part dimensioning. If this option se are displayed as well to allow has
been selected, the e.g. in overvi ition of component parts ews to specify the pos related to a
reference point by means of the overall dimensions of these parts.
Always Positive: If this option has been checked, always positive coordinate measures are
indicated. You can obtain a relative dimensioning around a reference point when the
direction is not important.
Display Zero: If this option has been checked the coordinate measure having the value “0” is
displayed in a dimension chain. Deactivation is reasonable if the origin (reference) is only
indicated once.
Display First: If this option has been checked, the first coordinate measure is displayed in a
dimension chain. Deactivation is reasonable if you want a connection with an existing
dimension chain or an identical starting point has only to be indicated once.
Display Last: If this option has been checked, the last coordinate measure is displayed in a
dimension chain. Deactivation is only possible if you have a dimension chain of normal
measures and simultaneously existing coordinate measures.
Press this button to dimension a shape or any plate automatically. The relevant points for
Single Part dimensioning are determined according to the settings in detail style and the dimension
chains are created according to the corresponding defaults. Pre-selection of a direction isn't
of any importance here. You have to press the part to be dimensioned. If the Choose
Position option has been activated, you can place the created dimension chains at any
position you like.
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Press this button to dimension a group automatically. The relevant points for dimensioning
Group are determined according to the settings in detail style and the dimension chains are created
according to the corresponding defaults. Pre-selection of a direction isn't of any importance
here. You have to press any part of the group you like. If the Choose Position option has
been activated, you can place the created dimension chains at any position you like.
Press this button to dimension an end plate automatically. The relevant points for
EndPlate dimensioning are determined according to the settings in detail style and the dimension
chains are created according to the corresponding defaults. Pre-selection of a direction isn't
of any importance here. You have to press the end plate first and then the connecting shape
(This is the shape to which the end plate belongs). If the Choose Position option has been
activated, you can place the created dimension chains at any position you like.
Press this button to create a single dimension.
Single Dim
Linear Dimension: Press the first and second dimension point as well as the position of the
dimension line. The dimension is aligned according to the direction. If you selected 'To Line',
you have to press the line determining the direction before clicking on the points. If you
selected the option ‚In Element Context, you have to press the reference shape first.
Arc Dimension: Press the center of the arc first and then the starting point and end of the arc
(the end will be corrected correspondingly). Afterwards, you pick the dimension line position.
An arc is principally looked on anti-clockwise from beginning to end.
Angle Dimension: Press the vertex of the angle first and then the end of the first and second
side. Afterwards, you pick the dimension line position. An angle is principally looked on anti-
clockwise from beginning to end.
Press this button to create a dimension chain out of several dimensions. Press the position of
Dim Line the dimension line first and then the points to be dimensioned. The dimensions are aligned
according to the direction. If you selected 'To Line', you have to press the line determining
the direction before clicking on the position of the dimension line. If you selected the option
‚In Element Context, you have to press the reference shape first. If you selected the option,
Continuing DimChain, you are dimensioning according to the AutoCAD-dimensioning
function Continue. If this option has not been activated, you continue indicating pairs of
points for all dimensions following the first one. Thus, interrupted dimension chains can be
created.
Press this button to create a fence chain dimensioning. The dimensions are aligned
Fence Chain according to the direction. If you selected To Line, you have to press the line determining the
direction first.
Press this button to delete a dimension from an existing dimension chain. The other
Delete Dim dimensions will be adapted. Press a dimension of the desired dimension chain as reference
dimension first. Then you select all dimensions belonging to this chain (The program filters
the dimensions which are not situated in a line with the reference dimension). Now, the
dimension chain will be reconstructed and you can then select the dimension to be deleted.
Press this button to insert a dimension in an existing dimension chain. The other dimensions
Insert Dim will be adapted. Press a dimension of the desired dimension chain as reference dimension
first. Then you select all dimensions belonging to this chain (The program filters the
dimensions which are not situated in a line with the reference dimension). Now, the
dimension chain will be reconstructed and you can then insert the desired new dimension.
By clicking on this button, the dialog for setting parameters for the detail style is displayed. If
Change Style you move to another style in the Style Selection list, the data in detail style dialog will be
updated. Thus you can compare the settings of different styles.
Press this button to Edit the Detailstyle.
Edit DetailStyle
Here you determine the detail style your dimensioning has to be based on.
Load Detailstyle
Allows you to name and save these settings for later use.
Template
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2. Set the Detail Style to Standard from the drop down list.
3. Under the Settings section select Vertical. Then press the button labeled Single Dim.
Pick first Dimensionpoint
use AutoCAD Osnaps and pick the top end point of the 530 UB 82 shape.

Pick second Dimensionpoint
use the AutoCAD Osnap center and pick the center of the upper bolt.

Pick Position of the Dimension Line
pick a point off to the right.
7. Next we will add a second vertical dimension between the two bolts and finally a Direction
Horizontal dimension from the center of the 530 UB 82 to bolts holes. When you have added
the dimensions and are satisfied with them press OK in the Dimension dialog. See the
following figure for the dimensions.
8. Now you will add position flags. Previously when you ran the Positioning command in the
model, you also defined the settings for the individual flags. All you need to do now is attach
them to the respective parts. Select Positioning > Dialog from the ProSteel 3D menu.
9. When the ProSteel Positionflags and Positioning dialog displays. Click on the Distribute tab.
10. Select ProSteel 3D/SingleParts from the Style list.
11. Click on the Insert tab
12. Next, press the Attach Position Flag to Single Part button.
13. The prompt
Select Element to be Positioned
is displayed. Pick the 530 UB 82 beam
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14. The prompt

Move Flag to desired Position
is displayed. Position the flag on the detail and left-click to place the detail.
15. Press Enter to return to the dialog.

16. Repeat the process, picking the 250 UB 31 beam, the Web Angle and one of the bolts. See
figure below for the flag locations.
17. Now we will finish the detail creation process. This is a three-step procedure. First we need to
trim the 250 UB 31 to fit the view.
18. Draw a line to represent the cut plane through the beam.
the 2D Creation button in the Add View Model View dialog. Second we need to trim the view
back to include only area around the joint.
19. Use the ProSteel Modify 1 command, then from the Common tab, select Trim. Now select the
part of the beam you wish to keep, then either right mouse button or the enter key. Now select
the line draw to represent the cut plane, ProSteel will then require you to select the side to
remove, select to the left hand side. Your model should look like the below.
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20. AutoCAD Explode command to explode the 250 UB 31 beam.

21. We now need to process the view to create the 2D block. Select the 2D creation button within
the Add View Model-View dialogue box.
18. Finally we need to save the detail. Select File > Save from the AutoCAD menu.
19. Select File > Close to close the detail and return to the model.
20. Switch the detail center to the Insert tab and select the model name TRNMODEL to refresh the
display. The detail JOINT1 should appear in the list.
21. Switch to the detail sheet drawing and highlight the JOINT1 detail. Drag and drop this onto
the Insert Detail Block button. Drag over onto the detail sheet and place the detail in the desired
position.
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Lesson 4: Modifying the Model and Automatically Updating the Detail Drawings
LESSON 4: MODIFYING THE MODEL AND AUTOMATICALLY UPDATING THE DETAIL DRAWINGS
OBJECTIVES
 Learn how to use the power of the detail center in order to update the details when the model
changes.
EXERCISE 1: MODIFYING THE MODEL

In this exercise, you will modify the model and change a shape size.
1. Switch AutoCAD so that the TRNMODEL.DWG is the active drawing.

2. Window around the front 410 UB 54 cross beam located in the top of the frame.
3. Pick the 410 UB 54 and grip edit the shape. Change the shape to a 410 UB 60. When the model
updates press OK to end the modification process.
4. Save the model then shut down the detail center by picking the "X" in the upper right hand
corner of the Detail Center.
5. Reload the 2D Detail Center (Structural > 2D > DetailCenter). Note that the two views we
processed through the detail center are now flagged in RED. This means that ProSteel has read
the model file and knows that these items are inserted in a detail sheet and that they no longer
match the model.
6. To update the detail sheet where these frames reside, simply select the FR2_TOP, hold the
CTRL key and pick FR2_FRONT views. Right-click on one of the two views and when the
context menu loads select Update Changed 2D Drawings. Save the model when complete and
switch to the detail sheet.
7. Note that the detail sheet now reflects the updates made to the model.
8. Save both the model and detail sheet and close the detail center. Now with the model active,
re-open the detail center. The frames will appear in GREEN because they now reflect the
model again.
Bentley ProSteel 3D
7/5/2007 13-26

ProSteel V17 2 Modeling Tutorial PDF

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Bentley Building Training

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Bentley ProSteel 3D STRUCTURAL

Bentley ProSteel 3D StructuralCopyright © 2002 Bentley Systems, Incorporated Do Not Duplicate

1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................... 1-1

2 TEMPLATE AND MODEL SETUP ............................................................................................ 2-1

3 VIEWING AND MOVING AROUND THE MODEL ......................................................................... 3-1

4 DRAWING AND EDITING SHAPES AND WORKFRAMES ............................................................. 4-1

LESSON 2: DRAWING STEEL SHAPES IN THE MODEL ............................................ 4-5

5 CREATING A WORKFRAME ................................................................................................... 5-1

6 INSERTING AND MANIPULATING SHAPES ............................................................................... 6-1

7 CREATING CONNECTIONS BETWEEN ELEMENTS .................................................................... 7-1

EXERCISE 2: MANUALLY MODIFYING ELEMENTS TO CHANGE A

8 CREATING CROSS BRACING AND BASE PLATES ................................................................... 8-1

9 CONSTRUCTION GROUPS .................................................................................................... 9-1

11 STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS ............................................................................................ 11-1

EXERCISE 2: CREATING THE HANDRAIL ........................................................ 11-2

12 POSITIONING AND MATERIAL TAKEOFFS....................................................................... 12-1

WHAT IS PROSTEEL STRUCTURAL? 1-2

TRAINING SETUP CHECKLIST 1-2

TRAINING COURSE OVERVIEW 1-4

ABOUT THIS MANUAL 1-5

DOCUMENTATION CONVENTIONS 1-6

WHAT IS PROSTEEL 3D STRUCTURAL?

TRAINING SETUP CHECKLIST

Processor Intel Pentium-based PC

TRAINING ROOM INSTRUCTIONAL AIDS

 All training materials received from Bentley.

 Power strip/extension cord for instructor's laptop computer.

FIRST DAY OF TRAINING

 Provide a contact with phone number in case of system/network problems.

TRAINING COURSE OVERVIEW

 Eight (8) students maximum

 One (1) workstation per student

ABOUT THIS MANUAL

LESSON 1: PROGRAM STARTUP AND TEMPLATE FILE

LESSON 2: THE PROSTEEL OPTIONS (DEFAULT SETTINGS) 2-5

LESSON 1: PROGRAM STARTUP AND TEMPLATE FILE CREATION

 Learn how to start the ProSteel software.

EXERCISE 1: STARTING PROSTEEL 3D

EXERCISE 2: INITIALIZING THE PROSTEEL APPLICATION

EXERCISE 3: SETTING THE SYSTEM VARIABLES AND SAVING A DWT TEMPLATE

 SETTING THE AUTOCAD SYSTEM VARIABLES

 SAVING THE VARIABLES TO A DWT TEMPLATE FILE.

2. Exit AutoCAD (File menu > Exit).

LESSON 2: THE PROSTEEL OPTIONS (DEFAULT SETTINGS)

 Learn how to access the ProSteel Options dialog.

EXERCISE 1: ACCESSING THE SETTINGS

2. Assign the Shapes tab parameters as illustrated below.

5. Assign the Plates option parameters as shown below.

8. Assign the Bolts tab parameters as shown below.

9. Assign the Work Frame tab parameters as shown below.

10. Assign the Values tab parameters as shown below.

11. Assign the LogLinks tab parameters as shown below.

12. Assign the Revision Check tab parameters as shown below.