IDEA StatiCa and Hilti have taken their partnership to the next level by developing a new plugin that seamlessly integrates Hilti’s PROFIS Engineering Suite (PE) with IDEA StatiCa Checkbot. This new tool aims to simplify data management for structural engineers, providing a more efficient workflow between FEA/CAD tools and PE. Let’s explore what this enhanced collaboration means for the industry.
Who is Hilti?
Hilti is a globally recognized provider of solutions, tools, and services for the construction sector. Known for their innovative technologies, Hilti’s PROFIS Engineering Suite specializes in the design of structural connections, with a strong focus on anchoring solutions. Their software is used in over 70 countries worldwide, enabling engineers to create and verify steel-to-concrete, concrete-to-concrete, and steel-to-masonry connections in compliance with international standards.
Expanding the Partnership: From CBFEM to PROFIS Engineering Suite
The relationship between IDEA StatiCa and Hilti began with the integration of IDEA StatiCa’s CBFEM technology into Hilti’s software five years ago. This successful collaboration has now been extended to introduce the PROFIS plugin. Hilti’s ambition is to bridge the gap between their PROFIS Engineering Suite and FEA software globally. The IDEA StatiCa Checkbot now serves as the link, enabling engineers to manage structural data with enhanced accuracy and efficiency.
Key Features of the New PROFIS Plugin
The new plugin, introduced in IDEA StatiCa version 24.0.5, appears directly in the Checkbot ribbon, making it easy to transfer data between FEA software and Hilti PROFIS Engineering Suite. The core functionalities include:
- Seamless Data Importing: Transfer detailed structural data such as member sizes, materials, and load combinations from your FEA tools to Checkbot.
- Efficient Data Management: Automatically synchronize materials, handle anchored member data, and import essential load cases to minimize errors.
- Direct Export to PROFIS: After verification in Checkbot, export your data to the PROFIS Engineering Suite, streamlining the anchoring design process.
Real Benefits for Structural Engineers
The integration addresses a common challenge faced by structural engineers: transferring data accurately between various software platforms. The PROFIS plugin allows engineers to bypass manual data entry and connect directly to their preferred design tools, such as STAAD.Pro or SAP2000. This streamlining leads to fewer errors, faster project completion, and a more cohesive workflow.
Before Checkbot
After Checkbot
How to get your hands on it
The Hilti PROFIS Engineering plugin was officially launched on September 23, 2024, and will be introduced to users gradually, region by region. You can find more detailed information on setup and usage in our Support Center.
What the Companies Say About the Collaboration
Juraj Sabatka, CEO of IDEA StatiCa: “There are a lot of BIM improvements these days. But not many put structural engineers first. Checkbot+PROFIS integration does just that – I love it.”
Dr. Oliver Glockner, Head of Innovation at Hilti: “With the Checkbot-PROFIS integration, both Hilti and IDEA StatiCa reaffirm their commitment to making connection design more intuitive and efficient for structural engineers.”