Tekla Structures Environment !new! Direct
A Tekla Structures Environment is a localized set of settings, catalogs, and tools that adapt the software to a specific market, region, or company standard. Rather than being a single file, it is a comprehensive configuration that determines the materials, profiles, and design rules used during modeling and detailing. Core Components of an Environment
When you install a specific environment—such as the USA Environment or the UK Environment—you are downloading more than just regional names. A standard environment includes:
Catalogs: Predefined material grades, bolt assemblies, and rebar specific to local building codes.
Profiles: A library of regional steel and concrete shapes (e.g., AISC sections for the US or European sections). tekla structures environment
Settings Files: .ini files that control how the software starts and which drawing templates are used for automated reports.
Components: Localized system components and connections tailored to regional fabrication methods.
Roles: Sub-configurations (like "Steel Detailer" or "Bridge Designer") that simplify the interface by showing only relevant tools. How to Install and Manage Environments A Tekla Structures Environment is a localized set
Tekla Structures is essentially an empty shell until an environment is added.
5. The \Applications\ and \Macros\ Folders
These store custom tools. A macro.cs file can automate repetitive tasks like creating grid lines or renaming views. A custom environment often includes hundreds of these.
Step 4: Build a Master Drawing Template Library
Create standard drawing layouts (GA drawings, Single-part drawings, Assembly drawings) with your logo, revision block, and material list styles. Save these as .tpl in your environment. When a new project starts, these are automatically available. bolt_dialog
3. The \Attribute Files\
These are the unsung heroes of Tekla productivity. Attribute files save your property pane settings. For example:
bolt_dialog.settings (Bolt properties)part_dialog.settings (Beam/column properties)view_filter.fil (View filters for clash checking)
Step 2: Customize Attribute Files
Open Tekla with your base environment (e.g., "US Imperial"). Set up a beam. Change the color, class (e.g., Class 2 for columns, Class 5 for bracing), and number series. Click "Save as" in the property pane. Name it Company_Beam. Save this file to a shared network location.
B. The Custom Component Library
Tekla’s power lies in its ability to automate connections (joints). The environment populates the Applications & Components catalog.
- System Components: Standard connections provided by Tekla (e.g., Beam to Column End Plate).
- Custom Components: Parametric connections built by users or resellers specific to that region’s fabrication methods.
Part 8: The Future of Tekla Environments – Cloud and Interoperability
Trimble is moving toward a cloud-native environment via Tekla Model Sharing. While the base environment is still local, shared models can enforce environment checks. If a detailer in London uses a bolt standard not allowed in the Sydney office’s environment, the sharing process will flag a warning.
Furthermore, the rise of OpenBIM means your Tekla Structures Environment must now speak IFC (Industry Foundation Classes). Modern environment setups include specific IFC property sets (Pset) export mappings to ensure your model looks correct in Revit, ArchiCAD, or Navisworks.
