Framing Tools
Overview
Framing Tools is an extension package that helps you to create and modify: wallplate that represents a structure such as a wall or roof panel
In Tekla Structures, a panel is created by picking two or more points.
In cast-in-place concrete the term wall refers to a concept similar to panel.
panels, panel openings (windows and doors) and connection between wall panels. Installing the Framing Tools package will install the Howick tools package also: HowickConnection, HowickDetail, HowickExport, HowickExtratool, HowickFloorBeamConnection, HowickFloorCassetteCreator, HowickFloorCreator, HowickFrameChecker and HowickServiceHole.
Overall Demo - How to Use the Framing Tools + Howick Export
Demo Videos
- The General Setup video shows how to:
- Split panels along a wall
- Define noggings and bracings placement
- Rotate a panel to place it as a roof
- The Bracing Placement video shows how to place the bracings.
- The Simple Roof Truss video shows how to create a simple roof truss.
- The Openings in the Panels video shows how to:
- Place the openings in the panels
- Copy an opening
- Modify an opening through the DM featurepart of Tekla Structures functionality that is maintained and owned by Trimble Solutions and that is included in the Tekla Structures installation
- The Access Opening Properties video shows how to acces the opening properties.
- The Direct Modificationfunction that activates the mode where the model objects can be modified by using handles
Direct modification enables additional handles and modification options.
in the Model video shows how to:- Modify in the model: panels, studs, openings and walls geometry
- Change the panel position: Left to Right or Right to Left. This option helps you to flip the starting point of the horizontal members for a correct fabrication and assembling.
Installing Framing Tools
- Before you install the Framing Tools make sure that Howick tools are not already installed on Tekla Structures. Uninstall Howick tools.
- Download and install the Framing Tools installer package from Tekla Warehouse. For more information see Downloading an application from Tekla Warehouse.
General tools
You can find the Framing tools set in the Applications and components cataloguser interface for displaying or modifying information in categorized lists
For example, profile catalog and shape catalog are catalogs.
:
Framing Panel
This tool creates fully framed panels into the model by picking the points you want the panels to go through. You can copy the panels and then you can set each panel properties.
You can create multiple panels in one go and all the panels will connect to each other.
User Inputs
Framing Panel Creation:
- In the Applications & Components catalog search for
Framing Panel and click on it.
- In the model pick the first panel insertion point. As the selected points will be 3D points, the outside face of the panel will be to the right of the definition line.
- Hover the mouse on the panel
contextual toolbarfloating toolbar that contains commands for modifying the most common object properties
The user can customize the contextual toolbar.
and select the desired creation option:- Create an open line of wall layouts
- Create a closed line of wall layouts
- Create an open line of wall layouts
- Pick the points you want the panels go through.
- After you pick the last panel insertion point, click the middle mouse button to finish the Framing Panel creation.
Framing Panel Settings:
- In the model double-click on the panel using
Select components switch button to open the Framing Panel dialog window.
- In the Framing Panel dialog window set the desired panel properties.
- After you set the Framing Panel properties click Modify and then click OK to close the dialog window.
User controls
You can change the settings for more than one wall panel at the same time by following these steps:
- Double-click on the
Framing Panel tool from the Applications and components catalog to open its dialog window.
- Select in the model the panels you want to change their properties.
- In the Framing Panel dialog window set the desired panel properties.
- After you set the Framing Panel properties click Modify and then click OK to close the dialog window.
General tab
Framing Tools 1.11
Field | Description | Default |
---|---|---|
(1) | Panel position on plane - Defines the on plane position of the wall panel. Options are: - Front - the on plane panel position is set to the exterior side of the panel. - Middle - the on plane panel position is set to the panel centerline. - Behind - the on plane panel position is set to the interior side of the panel. |
Front |
(2) | Panel rotation - Defines the panel rotation around the insertion points line. | - |
(3) | Defines the left side panel height. | 2700.00 |
(4) | Defines the right side panel height. | 2700.00 |
(5) | Extra studs distance - Defines the distance between the stud from the edge of the panel to the extra stud inside the panel. This option applies on both left and right sides of the panel. | 42.00 |
(6) | Horizontal brace - Defines the horizontal braces (noggings) position. Options are: - None - No nogging. - Middle - Creates a nogging in the middle of the panel height. - Third points - Creates two noggings at equal distances from the top and the bottom edge of the panel. - User - Creates noggings at user-defined distances. List multiple values to create more than one horizontal bracing. Each value will create a nogging relative to the bottom edge of the panel. Note: Noggings will split at each panel opening and they will connect to the jambs of the opening. |
User |
(7) | Defines the noggings distances list. Each value will create a nogging relative to the bottom edge of the panel. Enable this box by setting the Horizontal brace to User option. | 800.00 1600.00 |
(8) | Split H braces - Option to split the horizontal braces at the defined studs spacing number. Options are: - None - Noggings don't split. - All - Split all noggings of the panel. Typing a value in the Vertical offset for split box will create staggered noggings. - Custom - Split the noggings of the spacing numbers defined in the Split at stud spacing no. box. |
None |
(9) | Split at stud spacing no. - Defines the studs spacing list for which you want to apply the Split H braces option. This box is enabled for Split H braces option set to Custom option only. | - |
(10) | Vertical offset for split - Defines the vertical offset of the noggings. | - |
(11) | Horizontal offset - Defines the noggings offset along a perpendicular direction to the plane of the panel. | - |
(12) | Rotate 180 - Defines the stud you want to rotate 180 degrees around its axis. To rotate multiple studs use the space character between the input values. Note: First stud on the panel is indexed as 1. This option doesn't depend on the Per panel/ Wall setting. |
- |
(13) | Back to back stud - Defines the stud you want to replace with two back-to-back studs. To replace multiple studs use the space character between the input values. Note: This option doesn't depend on the Per panel/ Wall setting. |
- |
(14) | Stud spacing - Defines the distance between studs. To create varying stud distances use the space character between the input values. The last input value is the spacing distance for the last studs of the panel, if any. For example: Space-separated input list 800 3*600 2*500 is the same with 800 600 600 600 500 500 input. > Note: This option depends on the Per panel/ Wall setting. |
600.00 |
(15) | Per panel/ Wall - Option to define the type of index number list for studs and braces. Options are: - Panel - Applies the index numbering for all studs, braces and studs spacing for each of the panels inside the wall. Use this option to have identical multiple panels within the wall by setting the length of the panel in the Panel length box. - Wall - Applies the index numbering for all studs, braces and studs spacing for the entire wall. |
None |
(16) | Add Brace A in spacing - Defines the studs spacing list where you want to create a brace for. To create braces on multiple studs spacing use the space character between the input values. | 8 |
(17) | Add Brace B in spacing - Defines the studs spacing list where you want to create a brace for. To create braces on multiple studs use the space character between the input values. | 4 |
(18) | Brace top offset - Defines the horizontal distance between the top connection of the brace and the braced stud axis. | 50.00 |
(19) | Panel length - Defines the maximum panel length. When the distance between the end and start insertion points is greater than the defined maximum length, wall will split automatically into separate panels accordingly. List multiple values if you want maximum panel length to vary within multi-panel wall during panels creation. Note: This option depends on the Per panel/ Wall setting. |
- |
(20) | Skipped panels - Defines the panels you don't want to create within the wall. List multiple numbers to skip multiple panels. This option allows you to have free space for positioning extra elements, for example concrete objects or hot rolled steel structure between framing systems. Note: The first panel is indexed as 0. |
- |
(21) | Brace bottom offset - Defines the horizontal distance between the bottom connection of the brace and the braced stud axis. | 50.00 |
Framing Tools 1.7
Field | Description | Default |
---|---|---|
(1) | Extra studs distance - Defines the distance between the stud from the edge of the panel to the extra stud inside the panel. This option creates extra studs on both left and right side of the panel. | 42.00 |
(2) | Defines the horizontal distance between the top bracing connection to the braced stud axis. | 50.00 |
(3) | Defines the left side panel height. | 2700.00 |
(4) | Defines the right side panel height. | 2700.00 |
(5) | Horizontal brace - Defines the horizontal brace (nogging) position. Options are: - None - no horizontal bracing. - Middle - creates a nogging in the middle of the panel height. - Third points - creates two noggings at equal distances from the top and the bottom edge of the panel. - User - creates noggings at user-defined distances. List multiple values to create more than one horizontal bracing. Each value will create a nogging relative to the bottom edge of the panel. Note: Horizontal brace will split at each panel openings, and it will connect to the opening jambs. |
User |
(6) | Defines the noggings distances list. Each value will create a nogging relative to the bottom edge of the panel. Enable this box by setting the Horizontal brace to User option. | 800.00 1600.00 |
(7) | Defines the horizontal distance between the bottom bracing connection to the braced stud axis. | 50.00 |
(8) | Panel position on plane - Defines the on plane position of the wall panel. Options are: - Front - the on plane panel position is set to the exterior side of the panel. - Middle - the on plane panel position is set to the panel centerline. - Behind - the on plane panel position is set to the interior side of the panel. |
Front |
(9) | Panel rotation - Defines the panel rotation around the panel insertion points line. | - |
(10) | Stud spacing - Defines the distance between studs. To create varying stud distances use the space character between the input values. The last input value is the spacing distance for the last studs of the panel, if any. For example: Space-separated input list 800 3*600 2*500 is the same with 800 600 600 600 500 500 input. |
600.00 |
(11) | Rotate 180 - Defines the stud you want to rotate 180 degrees around its axis. To rotate multiple studs use the space character between the input values. Note that the first stud on the panel is indexed as 0, not as 1. | - |
(12) | Back to back stud - Defines the stud you want to replace with two back-to-back studs. To replace multiple studs use the space character between the input values. | - |
(13) | Brace to the left - Defines the studs list you want to create a brace for. The connection between the brace and the bottom track is close to the previous stud to the one from the list. To create braces on multiple studs use the space character between the input values. | 4 |
(14) | Brace to the right - Defines the studs list you want to create a brace for. The connection between the brace and the bottom track is close to the stud from the list. To create braces on multiple studs use the space character between the input values. | 8 |
(15) | Panel length - Defines the maximum panel length. When the distance between the end and start insertion points is greater than the defined maximum length, wall will split automatically into separate panels accordingly. List multiple values if you want maximum panel length to vary within multi-panel wall during panels creation. | - |
(16) | Skipped panels - Defines the panels you don't want to create during multi-panel creation within the wall. List multiple numbers to skip certain panels when creating a wall along the whole floor perimeter, for example. This allows you to have free space for positioning extra elements, for example concrete objects or hot rolled steel structure between framing systems. | - |
(17) | Split H braces - Option to split the noggings. Options are: - None - Noggings don't split. - All - Split all horizontal braces. |
None |
(18) | Vertical offset - Defines the noggings offset. The offset applies for the studs listed in the Vertical offset at stud box. The offset direction is the same as the panel height. | - |
(19) | Vertical offset at stud - Defines the studs list for which you want to apply the noggings offset. The offset is applied to the nogging from the left side of the stud. To offset multiple noggings use the space character between the input values. | - |
(20) | Horizontal offset - Defines the noggings offset along a perpendicular direction to the panel plane. | - |
Parts tab
Options to set the Prefix, Start No and the Name for Panel assembly and the general properties for Studs, Top track, Bottom track, Horizontal brace and Bracing.
Service Holes tab
Select the chapter section corresponding to the extension version you want to use.
Framing Tools 1.11
Field | Description | Default |
---|---|---|
(1) | Vertical Service Holes Locations - Defines the service holes placement on the vertical elements of the panel. Placement distances are measured from the bottom edge of the panel to the hole center. | 300.00 1900.00 |
(2) | Horizontal Service Holes Locations - Defines the service holes placement on the horizontal elements of the panel. Placement distances are measured from the start point of the panel to the hole center. | 500.00 |
(3) | Hole type - List of the service hole types. Options are: - Standard - Allows you to create the service holes by choosing an bolt hole attribute file from the Hole size list. - User - Allows you to create the service holes by setting their length and width from the User X Length and User Y length boxes. |
User |
(4) | Hole size - List of the available bolt hole attribute files. | - |
(5) | User X Length - Defines the service hole length for Hole Type list set to User option. | 10.00 20.00 10.00 20.00 |
(6) | User Y Length - Defines the service hole width for Hole Type list set to User option. | 10.00 20.00 10.00 20.00 |
(7) | Tool Name - Defines the service hole name. | SERVICE_HOLE |
(8) | Inquire - Inquire service holes button | - |
(9) | Standard Location Holes Between Studs - Creates holes on the horizontal elements of the panel. The holes have default sizes already coded in. Horizontal position of the holes is in the midpoint of the stud spacing. Options are: - No - Creates no hole between studs. - Yes - Creates holes in the middle of the studs spacing. |
No |
Framing Tools 1.7
Field | Description | Default |
---|---|---|
(1) | Vertical Service Holes Locations - Defines the service holes placement on the vertical elements of the panel. Placement distances are measured from the bottom edge of the panel to the hole center. | 300.00 1900.00 |
(2) | Horizontal Service Holes Locations - Defines the service holes placement on the horizontal elements of the panel. Placement distances are measured from the start point of the panel to the hole center. | 500.00 |
(3) | Hole type - List of the service hole types. Options are: - Standard - Allows you to create the service holes by choosing an bolt hole attribute file from the Hole size list. - User - Allows you to create the service holes by setting their length and width from the User X Length and User Y length boxes. |
User |
(4) | Hole size - List of the available bolt hole attribute files. | - |
(5) | User X Length - Defines the service hole length for Hole Type list set to User option. | 10.00 20.00 10.00 20.00 |
(6) | User Y Length - Defines the service hole width for Hole Type list set to User option. | 10.00 20.00 10.00 20.00 |
(7) | Tool Name - Defines the service hole name. | SERVICE_HOLE |
(8) | Inquire - Inquire service hole button | - |
(9) | Standard location Holes Between Studs - Creates holes on the horizontal elements of the panel. The holes have default sizes already coded in. Horizontal position of the holes is in the midpoint of the stud spacing. Options are: - No - Creates no hole between studs. - Yes - Creates holes in the middle of the studs spacing. |
No |
Connections tab
Select the chapter section corresponding to the extension version you want to use.
Framing Tools 1.11
Field | Description | Default |
---|---|---|
(1) | Option to set the connection type between studs and tracks. Options are: - From A&C - select this option to use connections from the Applications and components catalog. - Offset - select this option to define an offset between the studs and the tracks. |
From A&C |
(2) | Defines the offset value between the studs and tracks. This box is available for Offset selection only. | - |
(3) | Defines the connection between panel elements. You can select from the Applications and components catalog, or you can type the connection name. This box is available for From A&C selection only. | HowickConnection |
(4) | Loads the connection attribute file. | corner, standard, Brace, middle |
Limitation:
To use a plugincomponent that is developed using Tekla Open API
Plugin is a .dll file and loaded inside Tekla Structures process.
Plugins can be started from the applications and components catalog.
or custom componentcomponent that the user creates and uses for creating model objects whose composition the user can modify as a group
connection you need to go through having no connection.
Example:
- Clear the connection box content.
- Click Modify.
- Browse the custom component connection from the Applications and components catalog and double-click on it.
- Click Modify to apply the changes.
Framing Tools 1.7
Field | Description | Default |
---|---|---|
(1) | Option to set the connection type between studs and tracks. Options are: - From A&C - select this option to use connections from the Applications and components catalog. - Offset - select this option to define an offset between the studs and the tracks. |
From A&C |
(2) | Defines the offset value between the studs and tracks. This box is available for Offset selection only. | - |
(3) | Defines the connection between panel elements. You can select from the Applications and components catalog, or you can type the connection name. This box is available for From A&C selection only. | HowickConnection |
(4) | Loads the connection attribute file. | corner, standard, Brace, middle |
Limitation:
To use a plugin or custom component connection you need to go through having no connection.
Example:
- Clear the connection box content.
- Click Modify.
- Browse the custom component connection from the Applications and components catalog and double-click on it.
- Click Modify to apply the changes.
Direct manipulation - Wall panels
Wall panel - direct modification:
- Ensure that
Direct modification is switched on.
- Select the panel using
Select components switch button
- To reshape or resize the panel, drag the point and line handles.
For example: - You can drag the top track point handles to change the shape of the panel
- You can drag the bottom track to change its vertical position.
- You can drag the outer side studs to change their horizontal position.
Wall panel - additional framing direct modification:
- Ensure that
Direct modification is switched on.
- Select the panel using
Select components switch button
- Hover the mouse on the
contextual toolbar and you will see the additional framing direct modification options:
Field Description Default (1) Modify boundary and openings - Adjusts the wall panel and openings geometry button. Enabled (2) Modify wall points - Adjusts the wall panel start and end points button. Disabled (3) Modify stud spacing - Adjusts the stud spacing and adds new studs button. Add a new stud to a panel by dragging the icon to the desired placement position.
Disabled (4) Modify panel lengths - Adjusts the multi-panels maximum lengths along the wall panel. Disabled (5) Add opening with two points - Add opening button by choosing two horizontal points. Disabled (6) Add rectangle opening - Add opening button by choosing two diagonal points. Disabled (7) Panel direction - Allows you to swap the handles of the noggings and tracks.
Options are:
- Left to Right - the noggings and tracks modeling direction is the same as the panel creation direction.
- Right to Left - the noggings and tracks modeling direction is against the panel creation direction.Left to Right For example:
To modify the spacing between studs select the Modify studbolt element that represents a metal rod or pin that is used to transfer loads
Studs and other bolt elements are listed in the bolt catalog.
A stud can be secured with two or more nuts and have threading at both ends, or it can be welded to steel parts, for example.
A stud is part of the bolt assembly.
spacing button and drag the stud line handles to the desired placement position.
FramingConnection
User Inputs
FramingConnection on Framing panel:
- In the model open the panel dialog window.
- On the Connection tab set the connection between the noggings and studs to FramingConnection.
- Load the propper FramingConnection attribute file.
FramingConnection Creation:
- In the Applications & components catalog search for
FramingConnection and click on it.
- In the model select the first part to connect using
Select components switch.
- Select the second part to finish the creation.
FramingConnection Settings:
- Double-click on the FramingConnection component using
Select components switch.
- FramingConnection dialog window opens and you can set the desired connection properties.
- Save the connection attribute and close the dialog window.
Picture tab
Field | Description | Default |
---|---|---|
(1) | Buttons to create the connection brackets. Click on the desired button to enable the placement of the bracket. | - |
(2) | Option to select the attribute file for the weld connection between the bracket and the stud. | standard |
(3) | Option to select the attribute file for the weld connection between the bracket and the nogging. | standard |
Parts tab
The identifiers of classes are usually numbers. Classes can be used for defining the color of parts in the model, for example. Class does not influence the numbering of model objects.
, Finish and Prefix.
Panel Opening
For door openings the tool will place local punches to the bottom track and to the door jambs, to aid removal of track below door onsite.
User Inputs
Panel Opening Creation:
- Ensure that
Direct modification switch is enabled.
- In the model use the
Select components switch to select the panel to which you want to add the openings.
- Hover the mouse on the panel
contextual toolbar to open the panel floating toolbar and select one of the two options to create the desired opening:
- Enable the Add opening with two points button:
Field Description Default (1) Opening dimensions input alternative - Allows you to define the opening vertical position and the opening height. Click Opening dimensions input alternative button to cycle through the five different opening input options: - (2) Opening bottom edge height - Defines the vertical distance from the bottom edge of the panel to the top edge of the sill. 900.00 (3) Opening height - Defines the vertical distance from the bottom edge of the panel to the top edge of the sill. 1200.00 - Enable the Add rectangle opening button:
- Enable the Add opening with two points button:
- Pick the first and the second insertion point of the opening within the panel.
- Right-click and select Interrupt to finish the opening creation.
Panel Opening Settings:
- Ensure that the
Direct modification switch is enabled.
- In the model select the panel that contains the opening using
Select components switch to select the panel that contains the opening.
- Select the opening.
- Right-click and select Properties to open the Panel Opening dialog window.
- In the Panel Opening dialog window set the desired opening properties.
- After you set the desired Panel Opening properties click Modify and then click OK to close the dialog window.
General tab
Field | Description | Default |
---|---|---|
(1) | Defines the vertical distance from the sill top edge to the lintel bottom edge. | 1200.00 |
(2) | Defines the vertical distance from the panel bottom edge to the top sill edge. | 900.00 |
(3) | Lintel type - Defines the lintel type. Options are: - Standard - Medium |
Standard |
(4) | Sill type - Defines the sill type. Options are: - Standard - Medium |
Standard |
(5) | Jamb type - Defines the jamb type. Options are: - Standard - Double |
Standard |
(6) | Allows you to create studs above and/or below the opening. Options are: - Both - places studs above and below the opening. - Above - places studs above the opening. - Below - places studs below the opening. |
Both |
Lintel, Sill and Jambs tabs
Direct manipulation - Openings
Opening - direct modification:
- Ensure that
Direct modification switch is enabled.
- In the model select the panel that contains the opening using
Select components switch.
- Select the opening.
- To reposition drag the opening. To resize drag the line handles of the opening. The tool provides a graphical representationthe way that the information included in a model is represented visually
showing the changes to the physical location of the opening.
For example:
- You can drag the opening to change its position within the panel:
- You can drag the line handles to change the opening size:
Opening - additional direct modification:
Field | Description | Default |
---|---|---|
(1) | Brace type - Creates braces to the opening. Options are: - None - Creates no brace to the opening. - Left - Creates the brace on the left side of the opening. - Right - Creates the brace on the right side of the opening. - Both - Creates two braces on the right and left side of the opening. |
None |
- Ensure that
Direct modification switch is enabled.
- In the model select the panel that contains the opening using
Select components switch.
- Select the opening.
- Hover the mouse on the
contextual toolbar to open the floating toolbar and you will see the additional opening direct modification options:
Note:
The Panel Opening tool will automatically recognise the opening type and will display the appropriate modification options:
PaneltoPanelConnection
This tool connects one wall panel to another. All the studs, tracks, horizontal braces and connections inside the panel will automatically update to accommodate the opening if valid.
User Inputs
PaneltoPanelConnection Creation:
- In the Applications & components catalog search for
PaneltoPanelConnection and click on it.
- In the model select the first panel to connect using
Select components switch.
- Select the second panel to connect to and the connection is done.
PaneltoPanelConnection Settings:
- In the model double-click on the
PaneltoPanelConnection using
Select components switch.
- PaneltoPanelConnection dialog window opens and you can set the desired connection properties.
Parameters tab
Field | Description | Default |
---|---|---|
(1) | Connection Type - Defines the wall panel connection types. Options are: - Standard - Connects the first selected panel to the second selected panel: ![]() - Reversed - Connects the second selected panel to the first selected panel: ![]() |
Standard |
Howick framing tools
You can find the Howick framing tools set in the Applications and components catalog:
HowickConnection
User Inputs
HowickConnection Creation:
- In the Applications & Components catalog search for
HowickConnection and click on it.
- In the model select the main part(1) part that exists in a building object and that determines the position number for the assembly or cast unit and the direction of assembly or cast unit drawings
(1) Main part can be an assembly main part or a cast unit main part.
(2) input part that the user selects first when creating a component
(2) Connections and details always have a component main part.
you want to connect to. - Select the secondary member you want to connect.
- Click the middle mouse button to finish the HowickConnection creation.
HowickConnection Settings:
- In the model double-click on the component symbolsymbol in a model that indicates a component type, functions as a link to component properties, and can be used to control component objects
Component symbol of a connection or a detail also indicates the status of the connection or the detail using colors.
of the connection usingSelect objects in components switch button.
- The HowickConnection dialog window opens.
- In the HowickConnection dialog window set the connection properties.
- To apply the HowickConnection settings click Modify.
Parameters tab
Field | Description | Default |
---|---|---|
(1) | CutBack Type - Allows you to choose the cut back type. Options are: - Std Cutback - This option cuts the secondary member back to the inside of the primary member’s web. You can use this option for connecting studs to tracks. - No Cutback - This option does not cut the secondary member. If the secondary member passes through the back of the primary member it will notch the primary member. You can use this option for notching and swaging. - User Cutback - This option allows you to define a gap distance between the web of the primary part and the end of the secondary part. Type the desired gap value in the CutBack Distance box. |
Std Cutback |
(2) | CutBack Distance - Defines the gap distance between the web of the primary part and the end of the secondary part. | Disabled |
(3) | Dimple Backmark - Controls the distance from the back of the primary member’s web to the dimple on the primary member’s flanges. Keeping the Dimple Backmark box empty the dimples will be located in the middle of the primary’s flanges. |
- |
(4) | Add Dimples - Allows you to add or remove the connection dimples. Options are: - Yes - Creates dimples to the connection. This option creates an assembly that contains the primary and secondary parts. - No - Creates no dimples to the connection. |
Yes |
(5) | Add Notch - Allows you to add or remove the notch to the primary part. This option is available for No Cutback option only. Options are: - Yes - Creates the notch. - No - Doesn't create any notch. |
Yes |
(6) | Use Truss Tool - Allows you to cut the corners off from the end of the member that sits inside the other member. This option allows sloping connections to work in more situations. Obviously this should only be used if your machine has this tool. Options are: - Yes - Cuts off the corners from the end of the member. - No - No corner cuts at the end of the member. |
No |
(7) | Truss cut size - defines the truss cut length. For example: The truss cut is a 45° cut and the length set in the Truss cut size box value: ![]() |
- |
ToolSizes tab
Options to control the size of notchcut in one component object or input part for receiving another component object or input part
, lip cut, swage and dimple. The connection has default sizes already coded in, however these may not be appropriate to your profile size or machine settings. It is important to ensure these settings are correct. Please discuss this with your local Howick office if you are unsure of your machine’s properties.
Field | Description | Default |
---|---|---|
(1) | Notch size - Defines the notch size. | - |
(2) | LipCut Size - Defines the lip cut size. | - |
(3) | Swage Size - Defines the swage size. | - |
(4) | Dimple Size - Defines the dimple size. | - |
HowickConnection - Examples
Example 1 - END STUD TO HORIZONTAL BRACE (NOGGING)
In this case the main part is the stud (blue member). Standard Cutback or User Cutback (if non standard gapany space between two objects
The term gap is used in its general sense in Tekla Structures.
) option should be used for this connection. The connection includes the lip cut to the stud and swages to the brace as well as creating the dimples.
To complete this follow these steps:
- In the Applications & components catalog search for
HowickConnection and double-click on it.
- The HowickConnection dialog window will open.
- On the Parameters tab set the CutBack type list on Std Cutback or User Cutback (if non standard gap) option. These connection settings include the lip cut to the stud and swages to the horizontal brace as well as creating the dimples.
- In the model select the stud as the main part (blue member).
- Select the horizontal brace as the secondary part(1) part that exists in a building object and that is connected to the main part
(1) Secondary part can be an assembly secondary part or a cast unit secondary part.
(2) input part that the user selects after selecting the component main part when creating a component
(2) A component can have none, one or more component secondary parts.
(red member). - Click the middle mouse button to finish the HowickConnection creation.
Example 2 - STUD TO TRACK
In this case the main part is the bottom track (green member). Standard Cutback or User Cutback (if non standard gap) option should be used for this connection. The connection includes the lip cut to the stud and swage to the track as well as creating the dimples.
To complete this follow these steps:
- In the Applications & components catalog search for
HowickConnection and double-click on it.
- The HowickConnection dialog window will open.
- On the Parameters tab set the CutBack type list on Std Cutback or User Cutback (if non standard gap) option. These connection settings include the lip cut to the stud and swages to the track as well as creating the dimples.
- In the model select the track as the main part (green member).
- Select the stud as the secondary part (blue member).
- Click the middle mouse button to finish the HowickConnection creation.
For multiple studs select the track as the main part and then select the studs as secondary parts.
Example 3 - STUD TO HORIZONTAL BRACE (NOGGING)
In this case the main part is the stud (blue member). Set the CutBack type list on No cutback option. This will notch the back of the stud and will add the swage and dimples.
To complete this follow these steps:
- In the Applications & components catalog search for
HowickConnection and double-click on it.
- The HowickConnection dialog window will open.
- On the Parameters tab set the CutBack type list on No Cutback option. These connection settings will notch the back of the stud and add in the swage and dimples.
- In the model select the stud as the main part (blue member).
- Select the horizontal brace as the secondary part (red member).
- Click the middle mouse button to finish the HowickConnection creation.
Example 4 - STUD TO BRACE
In this case the main part is the stud (blue member). Standard Cutback or User Cutback (if non standard gap) options should be used for this connection. The connection may need to be adjusted to make the swage longer. This is carried out in the connection Toolsizes tab page. The export will take this as a multiple swage and lip cut.
To complete this follow these steps:
- In the Applications & components catalog search for
HowickConnection and double-click on it.
- The HowickConnection dialog window will open.
- On the Parameters tab set the CutBack type list on Std Cutback or User Cutback (if non standard gap) option. The connection may need to be adjusted to make the swage longer. On the ToolSizes tab boxes you can control the swage. The HowickExport tool will take this as a multiple swage and lip cut.
- In the model select the stud as the main part (blue member).
- Select the brace as the secondary part (red member).
- Click the middle mouse button to finish the HowickConnection creation.
Example 5 - END STUD TO BOTTOM TRACK
In this case the main part is the bottom track (green member). Standard Cutback or User Cutback (if non standard gap) options should be used for this connection. The connection includes the lip cut to the stud and swages to the brace as well as creating the dimples.
To complete this follow these steps:
- In the Applications & components catalog search for
HowickConnection and double-click on it.
- The HowickConnection dialog window will open.
- On the Parameters tab set the CutBack type list on Std Cutback or User Cutback (if non standard gap) option. The connection settings include the lip cut to the stud and swages to the bottom track as well as creating the dimples.
- In the model select the bottom track as the main part (green member).
- Select the end stud as the secondary part (blue member).
- Click the middle mouse button to finish the HowickConnection creation.
HowickDetail
Use the HowickDetail plugin to add dimples, notch, lip cut or swage to an element.
User Inputs
HowickDetail Creation:
- In the Applications & Components catalog search for
HowickDetail and click on it.
- In the model select the part.
- Pick the position on the part to finish the HowickDetail creation.
HowickDetail Settings:
- In the model double-click on the component symbol of the detail using
Select objects in components switch button.
- The HowickDetail dialog window opens.
- In the HowickDetail dialog window set the detail properties.
- To apply the HowickDetail settings click Modify.
Parameters tab
Field | Description | Default |
---|---|---|
(1) | Add Dimples - Allows you to add or remove dimples to the part. Options are: - yes - Creates the dimples. - no - Creates no dimples. |
yes |
(2) | Add Notch - Allows you to create the notch to the part. Options are: - yes - Creates the notch. - no - Creates no notch. |
yes |
(3) | Add Lipcut - Allows you to add or remove the lip cut to the part. Options are: - yes - Creates the lip cut. - no - Creates no lip cut. |
yes |
(4) | Add Swage - Allows you to add or remove the swage to the part. Options are: - yes - Creates the swage. - no - Creates no swage. |
yes |
ToolSizes tab
Field | Description | Default |
---|---|---|
(1) | Notch size - Defines the notch size. | - |
(2) | LipCut Size - Defines the lip cut size. | - |
(3) | Swage Size - Defines the swage size. | - |
(4) | Dimple Size - Defines the dimple size. | - |
(5) | Dimple Backmark - Defines the distance from the back of the member’s web to the dimple. | - |
HowickExport
Macros are located in the applications and components catalog. They are recorded or created manually and stored as .cs file in a folder defined with the advanced option XS_MACRO_DIRECTORY.
Macros can, for example, be used for creating drawings or reports.
Macros are sometimes used to run an application.
exports the panel objects to a .csv format that can be uploaded to the Howick Frame machine. You can find the exported file in the output folder created automatically.
User Inputs & Settings
- In the Applications & Components catalog search for
HowickExport and double-click on it.
- The HowickExport dialog window opens where you can set the desired export settings.
- Select in the model the panel objects you want to export using
Select objects in components switch button.
- To create the .csv files click the Export button.
Note:
- Numberingprocess of assigning position numbers to parts, cast units, assemblies, or reinforcement
In Tekla Structures, the position numbers assigned in the numbering are shown in marks and templates, for example.
needs to be up to date before the export will creating the .csv files. - The exported files don't state the gauge of the material. Usually a project uses a single profile section so the exported .csv files don't state the gauge of the material. For a project that uses multiple gauge materials, you can select the filter the profile sections from the model and then export them by section to specific folders.
- On the Tools tab adjust the settings to suit your Howick Frame machine setup.
Export tab
Field | Description | Default |
---|---|---|
(1) | Output folder - Defines the location for the exported files | Model folder\Howick Files |
(2) | Export type - Allows you to set the export type. Options are: - Selected - Exports the selected panel objects only. Note: To export the selected panel objects only, use the ![]() - All - Export all the panels objects from the model. |
Selected |
(3) | File type - Allows you to set the type of the exported file. Options are: - CSV1 - CSV2 |
CSV2 |
(4) | Max number of Sticks per file - Allows you to set the maximum number of panel objects the .csv file will contain. To use this option select the checkbox and input the desired maximum number in the box. | Cleared |
(5) | One member per line - Select the check box to have one panel object per line in the exported file. | Cleared |
Tools tab
Field | Description | Default |
---|---|---|
(1) | Lip Cut Size - Allows you to define the size of the lipcut to suit the Howick Frame machine. | 46 |
(2) | Notch Cut Size - Allows you to define the size of the notch to suit the Howick Frame machine. | 46 |
(3) | Swage Size - Allows you to define the size of the swage to suit the Howick Frame machine. | 46 |
(4) | Deep section beam height - Allows you to define the height of the beam to suit the Howick Frame machine. | 149 |
(5) | Deep section flange width - Allows you to define the width of the beam flange to suit the Howick Frame machine. | 64 |
(6) | Dimple tool - Allows you to define the Dimple tool name to suit the Howick Frame machine. | DIMPLE |
(7) | Flange tool - Allows you to define the Flange tool name to suit the Howick Frame machine. | FLANGE1 |
(8) | Lip cut tool - Allows you to define the Lip cut tool name to suit the Howick Frame machine. | LIP_CUT |
(9) | Swage tool - Allows you to define the Swage tool name to suit the Howick Frame machine. | SWAGE |
(10) | Tab tool - Allows you to define the Tab tool name to suit the Howick Frame machine. | TAB |
(11) | Tab A tool - Allows you to define the Tab A tool name to suit the Howick Frame machine. | TABA |
(12) | Notch tool - Allows you to define the Notch tool name to suit the Howick Frame machine. | NOTCH |
(13) | Dimple slot tool - Allows you to define the Dimple slot tool name to suit the Howick Frame machine. | DIMPLE_SLOT |
HowickExtratool
User Inputs
- In the Applications & components catalog search for
HowickExtraTool and double-click on it.
- The dialog wondow opens and you can set the name in the Tool Name box.
- In the model select the required bolt holes.
- After you select the bolt holes click Modify.
If you want a non standard tool to punch a member at a specific location you simply need to follow these steps:
- In the model create a standard bolt holesmall hollow open throughout a part or assembly that is usually used for fastening parts with bolts or other such objects
Hole is created in the same way as bolts and hole properties are defined in the bolt properties.
at the specified location. - Open the
HowickExtraTool and set the tool name to use for the hole. The centre point of the hole is important as it is the location written into the export file for the tool along with the tool name.
Note: You will need to know the name the control software uses for the tool so it can be written to the export file. If you do not know the required name you will need to contact your local Howick office for more information.
HowickFloorBeamConnection
User Inputs
HowickFloorBeamConnection Creation:
- In the Applications & components catalog search for
HowickFloorBeamConnection and click on it.
- In the model select the first beam.
- Pick the second beam to finish the HowickFloorBeamConnection creation.
HowickFloorBeamConnection Settings:
- In the model double-click on the connection symbol using
Select objects in components switch button.
- The HowickFloorBeamConnection dialog window opens.
- In the HowickFloorBeamConnection dialog window set the connection properties.
- To apply the HowickFloorBeamConnection settings click Modify.
Parameters

Field | Description | Default |
---|---|---|
(1) | Cut Back Distance - Defines the gap distance between the web of the primary part and the end of the secondary part. | 20 |
(2) | Add Dimples - Allows you to add or remove the connection dimples. | yes |
(3) | Dimple size - Allows you to define the dimple size. | 10.00 |
(4) | Add Tabs - Option to add or remove the fixing tabs. | yes |
(5) | Lip cut size - Allows you to define the lip cut size. | - |
(6) | Add slotted dimples - Allows you to add slotted dimples. | yes |
HowickFloorCassetteCreator
User Inputs
HowickFloorCassetteCreator Creation:
- In the Applications & components catalog search for
HowickFloorCassetteCreator and click on it.
- In the model pick the start point of the truss.
- Pick the end point to create the truss.
HowickFloorCassetteCreator Settings:
- In the model double-click on the truss using
Select components switch button.
- The HowickFloorCassetteCreator dialog window opens.
- In the HowickFloorCassetteCreator dialog window set the truss properties.
- To apply the HowickFloorCassetteCreator settings click Modify.
Parts tab
Parameters tab

Field | Description | Default |
---|---|---|
(1) | Frame Height - Defines the height of the truss. | 300 |
(2) | Max Web Spacing - Defines the panels length of the truss. | - |
(3) | Start Gap - Defines the horizontal distance between the edge of the truss and the first/last diagonal start/end point. | 47 |
(4) | Brace Gap - Defines the gap between the diagonals. | 56 |
(5) | Dimple Backmark - Defines the distance from the back of the web truss to the dimple. | 20.65 |
(6) | Inverse - Allows you to connect the first/last diagonals to the top or bottom track of the truss. | no |
(7) | Use Truss Tool - Allows you to cut off the corners of the diagonals. | yes |
(8) | Truss Cut Size - Defines the truss tool cut length. | 10 |
HowickFloorCreator
User Inputs
HowickFloorCreator Creation:
- In the Applications & components catalog search for
HowickFloorCreator and click on it.
- In the model pick the first edge of the panel.
- Pick the second point to define the panel width.
- Pick the third point to define the panel length.
HowickFloorCreator Settings:
- In the model double-click on the panel using
Select components switch button.
- The HowickFloorCreator dialog window opens where you can set the panel properties.
Parts tab
Parameters tab

Field | Description | Default |
---|---|---|
(1) | Lip cut size - Defines the lip cut size. | 0.00 |
(2) | Number of beams - Defines the joists number, except the first and the last. | 6 |
(3) | Beam Spacing - Defines the joists spacing distance. | - |
(4) | Use Dimples - Option to add or remove the dimples from the connection between the main beams and joists. | Yes |
(5) | Dimple Size - Defines the dimple size. | 10.00 |
(6) | Use Tabs - Option to add or remove the fixing tabs. | Yes |
(7) | Use slotted dimples - Option to add or remove the slotted dimples. | Yes |
HowickFrameChecker

Field | Description | Default |
---|---|---|
(1) | Hide Good Connections - Option to hide the good connections. | Unselected |
(2) | Check Selected Frame - Check button for selected assemblies only. | - |
(3) | Check all Frames - Check button for all assemblies from the model. | - |
User Inputs
- In the Applications & components catalog search for
HowickFrameChecker and double-click on it.
- After the dialog window opens select in the model the frame you want to check by using the
Select assemblies switch button.
- Select one of the two check buttons to display the connections information and status.
HowickServiceHole
User Inputs
HowickServiceHole Creation:
- In the Applications & components catalog search for
HowickServiceHole and click on it.
- In the model select the members the service hole will pass through using
Select objects in components switch button.
- Click the middle mouse button to finish the members selection.
- Pick the start point and then the end point to define the path of the hole.
HowickServiceHole Settings:
- In the model double-click on the plugin using
Select components switch button.
- The HowickServiceHole dialog window opens where you can set the hole properties.
Parameters tab

Field | Description | Default |
---|---|---|
(1) | Hole Size - Defines the hole size. | 70.00 |
(2) | Hole Tool Code - Defines the hole code. | - |
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