Autodesk Inventor vs. Advance Steel: A Detailed Comparison

September 19, 2024

| Autodesk Inventor, Autodesk Products, Product Design & Manufacturing Collection, Product Design Suite, Structural Steel

Autodesk Inventor vs. Advance Steel: A Detailed Comparison

Choosing the right design software can make or break a project, especially when you’re dealing with complex structures or intricate mechanical systems. If you’re in the engineering or construction world, you’ve likely heard the debate about Autodesk Inventor vs Advance Steel—two industry-leading tools, each designed to tackle different challenges.

In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll explore the strengths of both software packages, breaking down their features and applications so you can make an informed decision. Whether you’re building next-generation machinery or detailing a steel structure for a high-rise building, understanding these tools’ capabilities will ensure you’re leveraging the best technology for your needs.

So, if you’re ready to elevate your engineering or construction projects, let’s dive into the intricate details that set Autodesk Inventor vs Advance Steel apart. Buckle up—this deep dive will give you the insights you need to choose wisely and maximise efficiency, accuracy, and innovation in your next project.

Overview of Autodesk Inventor

Autodesk Inventor is a comprehensive 3D CAD software primarily used for mechanical design. It supports a wide range of applications, from product design to manufacturing, enabling engineers to create highly detailed models, prototypes, and documentation.

Key Features of Autodesk Inventor for Steel Design and Fabrication

Parametric Modelling: Inventor’s parametric design capabilities allow engineers to define and manipulate relationships between elements, facilitating easy updates and modifications throughout the design process.
Frame Generator: This tool simplifies the creation of structural frames. Users can quickly generate accurate frame designs using pre-configured components, which is particularly useful in fabricating steel structures. Frame Generator: This tool simplifies the creation of structural frames. Users can quickly generate accurate frame designs using pre-configured components, which is particularly useful in fabricating steel structures. However, Inventor’s Frame Generator lacks the advanced editing and automation functions that Advance Steel offers for creating connections, cuts, trims, notches, and more.
Large Content Library: Inventor includes an extensive library of components such as fasteners, structural shapes, and other mechanical parts, enabling efficient design workflows without the need to create standard components from scratch.
Integrated Simulation: Engineers can run simulations directly within Inventor to assess stress, motion, and deflection. This feature helps optimise designs before manufacturing, reducing the need for physical prototypes.
Sheet Metal Design: Both Inventor and Advanced Steel have sheet metal tools. In Inventor the module is called Sheet Metal and in Advance Steel, it’s referred to as Folded Plate.
Automated Documentation: Using the integration with the iLogic design automation programming environment, you can automate manufacturing drawings, complete with dimensions, annotations, and BOMs (Bills of Materials), ensuring consistency and reducing manual errors.

Ideal Use Cases for Autodesk Inventor

Architectural Fabrication: Inventor has the flexible 3D modelling tools to design fabricated products that are aesthetic, ergonoic or organic in design, where as Advance Steel is better suited for straight lines and industrial projects.
Mechanical Engineering: Inventor is well-suited for designing mechanical systems and components that require precision and the ability to simulate real-world performance.
Product Development: Its comprehensive toolset allows for detailed product design, from concept to final prototype.
Structural Fabrication: Although primarily a mechanical tool, Inventor can handle structural steel design, making it versatile for mixed mechanical and structural projects.

Overview of Advance Steel

Advance Steel is a specialised software focused on structural steel detailing. It integrates seamlessly with BIM (Building Information Modelling) workflows, providing tools for automating the creation of detailed fabrication drawings, models, and documentation required for steel construction.

Key Features of Advance Steel

Specialised Steel Detailing Tools: Advance Steel is purpose-built for structural detailing, offering tools that cater specifically to the needs of steel fabricators and structural engineers. These tools include advanced steel editing and automation functions for making cuts, trims, and notches.
Automatic Fabrication Drawings: The software can automatically generate comprehensive fabrication drawings, reducing the time from design to production and ensuring all structural elements are accurately detailed.
Connection Libraries: Advance Steel includes a vast library of pre-configured steel connections, making it easier to apply standardised joints in structural designs. Users can also create custom connections to meet specific project requirements. Inventor, on the other hand, lacks this advanced parametric connection library.
BIM integration: Advance Steel syncs seamlessly with Revit, while Inventor also offers BIM integration, including the ability to export to Revit as RVT or RFA files.
Efficient Material Management: The software automates the generation of BOMs, cut lists, and material takeoffs, streamlining the process of inventory management and cost estimation in construction projects.
Advanced Documentation and Revision Control: Advance Steel’s documentation features are tightly integrated with the model, ensuring that changes to the design automatically update all associated drawings and documentation.

Ideal Use Cases for Advance Steel

Structural Engineering: Advance Steel is ideal for engineers who focus on the design, detailing, and documentation of steel structures.
Steel Fabrication: The software’s automation capabilities make it invaluable for fabricators who require precise and efficient production workflows.
Construction Projects: Its BIM integration and detailed documentation support complex construction projects involving structural steel.

Feature Comparison of Overlapping Tools

Both Autodesk Inventor and Advance Steel offer tools that overlap in the realm of metal design, particularly in frame generation and sheet metal design. Here’s a detailed comparison of these features:

Frame Generation and Steel Editing

Autodesk Inventor Frame Generator:
- Allows users to create structural frames quickly using predefined components.
- Supports basic bolted connections and weldments.
- Limitations: Lacks connection library and advanced editing capabilities and automation for cuts, trims, and notches compared to Advance Steel.
Advance Steel Steel Editing:
- Offers advanced tools for creating and modifying steel structures, including automated functions for cuts, trims, and notches.
- Includes a parametric connection library that automatically adjusts connection sizes based on member dimensions.
- Strengths: Provides comprehensive tools for stairs, rails, and portal buildings, which Inventor does not offer.

Sheet Metal Design

Inventor Sheet Metal Design:
- Provides tools for creating and manipulating sheet metal parts, including folding and cutting.
- Applications: Ideal for industries requiring detailed sheet metal fabrication.

Automation and Documentation

Inventor Automation:
- Has a 2D/3D automation for drawing environments and exporting DXF files.
- Complexity: 3D automation and basic 2D automation are relatively easy, fully automating part drawings can be complex
Advance Steel Automation:
- Provides robust automation for part drawings, DXF files for laser/plasma cutters, and NC1 G-code for beamline machines.
- Efficiency: Streamlines the documentation process, making it faster and more reliable.

Autodesk Inventor vs Advance Steel: Key Differences

Feature	Autodesk Inventor	Advance Steel
Focus	3D Mechanical Design	Structural Steel Detailing
Primary Application	Product Development, Mechanical Systems, Fabrication	Steel Structures, Construction Projects
Industry	Product Design, Industrial Machinery	Construction, Structural Engineering
Modelling Capabilities	Parametric Mechanical Components	Detailed Steel Structures and Connections
Simulation Tools	Integrated for Mechanical Parts	None. Need to export to Robot or other FEA packages
BIM Support	No bidirectional Sync tool with Revit but offers many sync workflows and import/export capabilities	Syncs with Revit and Robot structural analysis
Documentation	Automated Manufacturing Drawings	Automated Fabrication Drawings
Steel Editing Tools	Frame Generator	Advanced Steel Editing and Automation
Connection Libraries	Limited	Vast Parametric Connection Library
Specialised Tools	Sheet Metal Design	Folded Plates, Stairs, Rails, Portal Buildings
Drawing Automation	Complex to set up	Automated through a Dedicated Tool
Fabrication Automation	DXF Export	DXF, NC1(G-Code Export)

Autodesk Inventor vs Advance Steel: Choosing the Right Tool for Your Needs

When to Use Autodesk Inventor

Inventor is the optimal choice for projects that require detailed mechanical design, particularly in industries like automotive, aerospace, and product development. It provides the necessary tools for creating, testing, and refining mechanical parts and assemblies, making it ideal for engineers who need to model complex components and simulate their behaviour under various conditions. In addition to its robust design capabilities, Inventor excels in modeling complex shapes with curvature, making it especially useful for designs that require intricate and organic geometries. Its frame generator and sheet metal design tools can also be beneficial for certain structural steel projects.

When to Use Advance Steel

Advance Steel is the go-to software for professionals in structural engineering and steel fabrication. Its specialised tools and BIM integration make it essential for efficiently detailing and documenting steel structures in construction projects. It is particularly beneficial for fabricators who need to automate drawing production and ensure compliance with industry standards. Advance Steel’s advanced steel editing tools, parametric connection library, and specialised features like folded plate, stairs, rails, and portal buildings make it the superior choice for complex structural steel projects. However, while Advance Steel excels in structural steel detailing, it may not be the best option for projects involving curved shapes.

This means that for architectural applications requiring curvature, Inventor is the better tool, whereas, for industrial applications, Advance Steel proves to be the superior choice.

Autodesk Inventor and Advance Steel integration

While both tools are better at certain tasks, you can still integrate both tools and combine their tool sets to create more detailed designs. Here’s how it works.

Steps to Convert IFC Components into Advance Steel Members:

1. Import the IFC File:
  Use the Import function in Advance Steel to bring the IFC file into your project.
  Go to Home > Import > IFC and select the IFC file.
  The IFC components will be imported into Advance Steel as 3D solids, and they won’t initially be recognized as standard Advance Steel members like beams or columns.
2. Inspect the Imported Geometry:
  After importing the IFC file, inspect the components to understand the structural elements (e.g., beams, columns, plates) that need to be converted into Advance Steel members.
  Use the Object Inspector or Properties panel to check the dimensions and placement of each component.
3. Convert Geometry to Advance Steel Objects:
  To convert IFC objects (such as solids) into parametric Advance Steel members, you can use the “Convert to Advance Steel Object” feature:

- - Beams and Columns: For linear objects that represent beams or columns, you can use the Beam Conversion Tool to convert them into standard Advance Steel beams.
    Use the “Advance Steel Beams” command to recreate the IFC solid as a native Advance Steel beam. This will allow you to assign profiles and cross-sections, as well as work with connections and detailing tools.
  - Plates: If the IFC model contains plates or sheet elements, you can convert these into Advance Steel plates using the Plate Tool. This lets you add cuts, bolts, and welding details.

1. Assign Structural Properties:
  After converting the geometry to Advance Steel members, assign the appropriate material, section type, and structural properties to each member.
  You can also apply Advance Steel’s intelligent connections (e.g., bolt groups, welds, stiffeners) to the converted members.
2. Refine the Model:
  Depending on the complexity of the IFC import, some components might require further manual adjustments or reconstruction to align with Advance Steel’s parametric modeling system.
  For example, custom connection types from IFC may need to be rebuilt using Advance Steel’s native tools for connections.
3. Save the Converted Model:
  Once the conversion is complete, save the model as an Advance Steel project. You can now take advantage of Advance Steel’s automated detailing, fabrication drawings, and BOM generation features for your newly converted members.

Unlock Your Design Potential—Choose the Right Tool for Success

Autodesk Inventor vs Advance Steel is a debate that is likely to continue, given how powerful both tools are. Inventor excels in mechanical design and product development, offering robust simulation and modelling capabilities. Advance Steel, on the other hand, is unparalleled in its ability to streamline structural steel detailing and integrate seamlessly with BIM workflows.

So, based on your requirements and the demands of the projects you’re working on, make sure to choose the right product that will help you deliver great results. If your focus is on mechanical design and product development, Inventor is the clear choice. But if you’re working on complex structural steel projects that require advanced detailing, automation, and BIM integration, Advance Steel is the superior option.

Buy Software

Get the best prices on Autodesk software.

Training Courses

Get skilled up and enroll in an Autodesk training course

Services

Setup, libraries, programming and consulting services

Contact Us

P: 1800 490 514 | E: [email protected]

AutoCAD vs. Autodesk Advance Steel: Choosing the Right Tool for Your Design Needs

July 12, 2024

| No Comments

| Advance Steel, Autodesk Collections, Autodesk Products

AutoCAD vs. Autodesk Advance Steel: Choosing the Right Tool for Your Design Needs

Imagine you’ve just spent hours meticulously designing a product in AutoCAD, only to realise there might be a more efficient tool for your specific needs. You’re not alone. With the ever-evolving landscape of computer-aided design (CAD) software, many professionals find themselves at a crossroads, wondering if they’re using the optimal solution for their projects.

Enter the AutoCAD vs. Autodesk Advance Steel debate. These two Autodesk powerhouses each bring unique strengths to the table, but which one is right for you? Whether you’re an architect sketching the next skyline-defining structure or a steel fabricator planning intricate industrial components, choosing the right CAD software can dramatically impact your workflow and output.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of AutoCAD and Autodesk Advance Steel, comparing their features, applications, and market positions. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which tool aligns best with your design needs, potentially saving you countless hours and resources in the long run. So, are you ready to optimise your CAD experience? Let’s get started.

Understanding the Basics

AutoCAD is renowned for its versatility, catering to a broad user base that includes architects, engineers, drafters, and designers across diverse industries such as construction, manufacturing, and product design. It offers robust 2D and 3D CAD capabilities, making it a go-to solution for professionals who require flexibility in their design work and need to create detailed technical drawings across different disciplines. AutoCAD’s general-purpose nature allows it to be used for a wide range of applications, from architectural blueprints to mechanical parts design, making it an essential tool for many design professionals.

Autodesk Advance Steel is a specialised software designed for structural engineers, steel detailers, and fabricators working on steel construction projects. It excels in creating detailed 3D models of steel structures, generating fabrication drawings, and producing bills of materials with high efficiency. The software’s automated features and steel-specific tools significantly reduce design time, making it invaluable for large-scale steel fabrication projects. By focusing on the specific needs of steel fabrication, Advance Steel offers features that streamline workflows and improve accuracy, ensuring that steel projects are completed efficiently and to exact standards.

Key Differences Between AutoCAD and Autodesk Advance Steel

1. Purpose and Specialisation

AutoCAD is a general-purpose 2D and 3D CAD software used across various industries for drafting and modelling. Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from architectural design to engineering and product development. In contrast, Autodesk Advance Steel is a specialised software designed specifically for steel fabrication, detailing, and structural engineering. This specialisation allows Advance Steel to provide tools and features tailored to the needs of steel professionals, ensuring that projects are completed with precision and efficiency.

2. Modelling Capabilities

AutoCAD offers both 2D and 3D drafting and modelling tools, making it a versatile choice for professionals in various fields. It can handle everything from simple sketches to complex 3D models, providing flexibility for different design needs. Advance Steel, however, is purpose-built for 3D modelling of steel structures and components. It adheres to global steel standards, ensuring designs meet industry requirements. This focus on steel modelling allows Advance Steel to provide more accurate and efficient tools for creating detailed steel structures.

3. Automation and Efficiency

While AutoCAD provides some automation features, much of the drawing and detailing work is done manually, which can be time-consuming for large projects. Advance Steel, on the other hand, offers extensive automation specifically for steel fabrication. It can automatically produce detailed fabrication drawings in minutes, significantly reducing project timelines from weeks to days. The software includes a library of common connections and allows users to save custom connections for future use, enhancing efficiency and consistency across projects.

4. Drawing Production

In AutoCAD, most drawings and details are created manually, which can be labour-intensive and prone to errors. Advance Steel utilises purpose-built templates for creating drawings, tailored for steel fabrication. These templates account for different styles, processes, and views, streamlining the drawing process and ensuring consistency. Users can modify these templates to match their company standards, enhancing the software’s adaptability and efficiency.

5. Ease of Use for Steel Work

Advance Steel simplifies steel modelling with user-friendly features. Basic steel modelling is as straightforward as drawing lines in AutoCAD, with the added benefit of automated setup of layers and organisation of elements. This ease of use maximises efficiency in steel detailing, allowing users to focus on design rather than software intricacies. AutoCAD, while versatile, may require more manual setup and management, making it less efficient for steel-specific tasks compared to Advance Steel.

6. Integration and Workflow

Both AutoCAD and Advance Steel can be used in conjunction, but they follow different workflows. Models created in Autodesk Advance Steel can be exported and imported into AutoCAD or Autodesk Inventor for further work in mixed design environments. This integration allows for seamless collaboration between different software, enhancing workflow efficiency and ensuring that all aspects of a project are covered. AutoCAD’s general-purpose nature makes it adaptable to various workflows, but Advance Steel’s specialised features offer a more streamlined process for steel projects.

7. Learning Curve

AutoCAD, with its broad application scope, may require more time to master all its features. Its versatility means that users must familiarise themselves with a wide range of tools and capabilities. Advance Steel, being more specialised, can be learned more quickly for steel-specific work. Some users report being able to handle significant projects after just a few days of training, thanks to the software’s focused feature set and user-friendly design.

8. Document Management

Advance Steel offers more integrated document management for steel projects. Changes made to parts can be quickly updated in parts lists using the “Force Update” option, ensuring that all project documentation is accurate and up to date. This level of integration simplifies project management and reduces the risk of errors. AutoCAD, while offering robust documentation capabilities, may require more manual updates and management, making it less efficient for complex steel projects.

Practical Applications and User Scenarios

AutoCAD’s versatility makes it an ideal choice for professionals who work on diverse projects across multiple industries. Whether you are an architect designing residential buildings, an engineer drafting mechanical parts, or a product designer creating prototypes, AutoCAD provides the flexibility and comprehensive toolset needed for a wide range of applications. Its general-purpose capabilities make it an invaluable asset for any professional who requires a reliable and adaptable CAD solution.

Advance Steel is the go-to solution for professionals focused on steel fabrication and structural engineering. Its specialised tools and efficiency are unmatched for those involved in large-scale steel construction projects. Structural engineers, steel detailers, and fabricators benefit from its ability to create detailed 3D models, generate fabrication drawings quickly, and produce accurate bills of materials. Companies that require interoperability with other Building Information Modeling (BIM) software and need to conform to global steel standards will find Advance Steel particularly beneficial.

AutoCAD or Autodesk Advance Steel, Make the Right Choice For Your Needs

Choosing between AutoCAD and Advance Steel ultimately depends on your specific needs and the nature of your projects. Both AutoCAD and Advance Steel are powerful tools within the Autodesk suite, each designed to cater to distinct professional needs. By understanding their unique capabilities and how they align with your project requirements, you can make an informed decision that enhances your design process and overall productivity.

That said, if you’re involved in large-scale steel construction, our recommendation is Autodesk Advance Steel, as its specialised tools can drastically reduce design time and improve workflow efficiency.

If you want to learn more about Autodesk Advance Steel and Autodesk’s other fabrication tools, click here.

Contact Us

P: 1800 490 514 | E: [email protected]

Advance Steel Automation: How to Save Time and Improve Accuracy

July 5, 2023

| No Comments

| Advance Steel, Revit, Structural Steel

Advance Steel Automation: How to Save Time and Improve Accuracy

Advance Steel is a powerful CAD software program that can be used to automate the design and detailing of steel structures. By automating repetitive tasks, Advance Steel can help engineers save time and improve accuracy.

Parametric Connection Library

The parametric connection library in Advance Steel is a powerful tool that can be used to automate the design of steel connections. The library contains a wide variety of connections, which can be customized to meet the specific requirements of a project.

Using the parametric connection library can save engineers a significant amount of time. Instead of manually creating each connection, engineers can simply select the desired connection from the library and modify it as needed.

Porta Building

The porta building tool in Advance Steel is a powerful tool that can be used to automate the design of prefabricated steel buildings. The tool includes a variety of features that allow engineers to quickly and easily create porta buildings, including:

A library of prefabricated components
A wizard that guides engineers through the design process
The ability to create custom components

Advance Steel 2024 Annual Subscription
Call for Price
- View More
Autodesk Advance Steel Training Fundamentals Course
$3,299.00
- Add to cart
Autodesk Advance Steel Drawing Template Setup
$3,999.00
- Add to cart

Folded Plate and Stairs

Another way Advance Steel automation is demonstrated is the folded plate and stairs tools which are powerful tools that can be used to automate the design of folded plate structures and stairs. The tools include a variety of features that allow engineers to quickly and easily create folded plate structures and stairs, including:

A library of prefabricated components
A wizard that guides engineers through the design process
The ability to create custom components

Ladders and Rail Tools

The ladders and rail tools in Advance Steel are powerful tools that can be used to automate the design of ladders and rails. The tools include a variety of features that allow engineers to quickly and easily create ladders and rails, including:

A library of prefabricated components
A wizard that guides engineers through the design process
The ability to create custom components

Revision Control

Revision control is a system for tracking changes to a design. Advance Steel includes a built-in revision control system that allows engineers to track changes to drawings, parts, and assemblies.

This Advance Steel automation can be helpful for ensuring that the correct version of a design is always used. Additionally, revision control can be used to track the history of a design, which can be helpful for troubleshooting problems.

Generating DXF and NC1 Files

DXF files are a common file format for exchanging CAD data. Advance Steel automation can be used to generate DXF files for a variety of purposes, such as sharing designs with other CAD users or exporting designs to manufacturing software.

Generating DXF files with Advance Steel is a quick and easy process. Simply select the desired objects and click on the “Export to DXF” button.

NC1 files are used to control the operation of CNC machines. Advance Steel can be used to generate NC1 files for a variety of steel fabrication processes, such as punching, cutting, and bending.

This can save a significant amount of time, as it eliminates the need to manually create NC1 files. Additionally, Advance Steel can ensure that the NC1 files are accurate and up-to-date.

Dynamo

Dynamo is a visual programming environment that can be used to automate tasks in Advance Steel. With Dynamo, engineers can create custom scripts that can be used to automate repetitive tasks, such as generating drawings, creating NC1 files, and generating DXF files.

Dynamo can be a powerful tool for automating tasks in Advance Steel. However, it is important to note that Dynamo is a complex tool and requires some programming knowledge to use.

Synchronisation with Revit

Advance Steel can be synchronised with Revit, which allows engineers to automate the import and export of structural BIM and fabrication models. This can save engineers a significant amount of time, as they can avoid having to manually create and update models in both software programs.

The synchronisation between Advance Steel and Revit is bi-directional, which means that changes made in one software program are automatically reflected in the other software program. This ensures that both models are always up-to-date.

Advance Steel Features

Advance Steel has all the tools of AutoCAD plus:

Document Manager System with revision control to check status, update drawings, track changes and rename drawing numbers.
Structural steel beam and column library
Folded plate and flatten tools
Building Grid
Cut Beams and Plates
Place bolts, anchors, holes, and shear studs
Create welds
Connection library – Create, copy and customise
Stairs, handrails and cage ladder tools
Portable/Gable Frame Tool
Mono-pitch Frame tool
Bracing tool
Purlins, joist and truss tools
Cladding tools
Clash Check
Camera views
Automated drawings (requires configuration)
2D Shop Drawings (GA and part)
Parts List
Export to DXF
Export NC1 (CNC Machine)

Drawing Webinar Series

Get access to the 4 day drawing webinar series:

Understand Drawing style data structure
Learn how to create new drawing styles or reuse existing
Learn how the modeling impacts drawing output
Learn general drawing style concepts for dimensioning
Learn basic and advanced filtering for dimensioning objects

What's new in Advance Steel 2023

Get in Touch

DC is an authorised Autodesk Reseller providing products and services for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Infrastructure and Manufacturing Sectors.

Feel free to contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below.

Connected Structural Design with the Autodesk Architecture Engineering and Construction Collection

April 11, 2023

| No Comments

| Advance Steel, AutoCAD, AutoCAD, Autodesk Collections, Collections, Construction, Navisworks, Revit, Revit, Structural Steel

Connected Structural Design with the Autodesk Architecture Engineering and Construction Collection

The construction industry has seen a significant transformation in recent years with the adoption of new technologies and software. Structural engineering is no exception, as it plays a crucial role in the success of any construction project. Autodesk Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) Industry Collection is a suite of powerful software tools that enable structural engineers and fabricators to streamline their workflows and improve collaboration.

In this blog post, we will explore how Advance Steel, a software tool within the AEC Industry Collection, works with other applications such as Revit, Autodesk Docs, Robot Structural Analysis, Navisworks, and more to create a connected design process. We will also discuss the benefits of this approach for structural engineers and fabricators on construction projects.

How Does Advance Steel Work With Other Applications in the Collection?

With the AEC Industry Collection, structural engineers can create detailed designs, collaborate with architects and other stakeholders, and analyse their designs for efficiency and safety. Fabricators can use the software to create shop drawings and CNC files, and contractors can use it to manage construction projects and ensure that they stay on schedule and on budget.

Advance Steel is a software tool within the AEC Industry Collection that provides 3D modeling and detailing for steel structures. It is designed to streamline the design and fabrication process for steel structures, making it easier for engineers and fabricators to collaborate and ensure accuracy.

Advance Steel can be used to create detailed steel models in 3D, including connections, plates, and bolts. It also provides tools for creating drawings, bills of materials, and NC files for fabrication. With Advance Steel, engineers and fabricators can ensure that their designs are accurate and meet industry standards.

How Advance Steel works with other applications in the AEC Industry Collection

One of the key benefits of the AEC Industry Collection is that it provides a connected design process. This means that engineers and fabricators can use multiple software tools in the collection to streamline their workflows and ensure accuracy.

Here are some of the ways that Advance Steel works with other applications in the AEC Industry Collection:

Revit: Advance Steel can be used with Revit to create detailed steel models that include all of the necessary information for fabrication. Revit can also be used to create detailed architectural and MEP models, which can be linked to the steel model in Advance Steel for coordination.
Autodesk Docs: Autodesk Docs is a cloud-based document management platform that can be used to store and share project information. With Autodesk Docs, engineers and fabricators can collaborate on design files, RFIs, submittals, and more.
Robot Structural Analysis: Robot Structural Analysis is a software tool that can be used to analyse steel structures for safety and efficiency. With Robot Structural Analysis, engineers can perform finite element analysis (FEA) on their steel models to ensure that they meet industry standards.
Navisworks: Navisworks is a software tool that can be used for project coordination and clash detection. With Navisworks, engineers can import steel models from Advance Steel and other software tools to check for clashes and ensure.
Other Applications: The AEC Industry Collection includes a wide range of other software tools that can be used in conjunction with Advance Steel. For example, Fabrication CADmep can be used to create detailed ductwork and piping models that can be linked to the steel model in Advance Steel for coordination.

Benefits of Connected Design for Structural Engineers and Fabricators

The connected design process enabled by the AEC Industry Collection provides several benefits for structural engineers and fabricators. Here are some of the key advantages:

Improved Collaboration: By using multiple software tools in the AEC Industry Collection, engineers and fabricators can collaborate more effectively. They can share design files, coordinate different aspects of the project, and ensure that everyone is working from the same information.
Streamlined Workflows: The connected design process also streamlines workflows by reducing the need for manual data entry and rework. Engineers and fabricators can move seamlessly between different software tools, and the data is automatically synchronised.
Increased Accuracy: By using software tools like Advance Steel, engineers and fabricators can ensure that their designs are accurate and meet industry standards. They can also perform analysis and simulations to ensure that the structure is safe and efficient.
Faster Time-to-Market: The connected design process enables faster time-to-market by reducing the time needed for design and fabrication. This can help construction companies stay on schedule and avoid delays.
Cost Savings: Finally, the connected design process can also lead to cost savings by reducing the need for rework and minimising errors. This can help construction companies stay on budget and avoid costly mistakes.

Ready to Get Connected?

Save up to 20% on Autodesk Software and Services

How Dynamo is Revolutionising Structural Design with Advance Steel and Revit

Dynamo is a visual programming tool that is transforming the way structural engineers and designers work. When combined with software tools like Advance Steel and Revit, it offers several benefits that can help streamline workflows and increase efficiency. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of using Dynamo with Advance Steel and Revit for structural design.

Automating Repetitive Tasks

One of the main benefits of using Dynamo with Advance Steel and Revit is the ability to automate repetitive tasks. For example, Dynamo can be used to automatically create connections between steel elements in Advance Steel based on predefined rules. This can save time and reduce errors, allowing engineers and designers to focus on more complex tasks.

Enhanced Collaboration

Dynamo also improves collaboration between different teams involved in the structural design process. By using a visual programming language, designers and engineers can easily share scripts and workflows with other team members, regardless of their level of technical expertise. This helps to improve communication and ensures that everyone is working from the same information.

Increased Accuracy and Quality

Using Dynamo with Advance Steel and Revit can help improve the accuracy and quality of structural designs. For example, Dynamo can be used to automatically calculate loads and reactions for a structure, or to optimize the size and shape of steel members. This can lead to more efficient and cost-effective designs, as well as better structural performance.

Streamlined Workflows

Dynamo helps to streamline workflows by eliminating the need for manual data entry and reducing the potential for errors. By automating repetitive tasks and using a visual programming language, engineers and designers can move seamlessly between different software tools, saving time and reducing the potential for delays and mistakes.

Improved Visualization

Finally, using Dynamo with Advance Steel and Revit can improve visualisation of the design. With Dynamo, engineers and designers can create complex geometry and parametric models, allowing for greater flexibility and better visualisation of the structure. This can help identify potential issues and make design decisions more effectively.

Features	AutoCAD	Advance Steel	Revit
2D Drafting	Comprehensive set of 2D drafting tools, including line, circle, polyline, arc, and text tools	Limited 2D drafting tools, including line, circle, and text tools	Limited 2D drafting tools, including line, circle, and text tools
3D Modeling	Offers basic 3D modeling tools, including extrude, revolve, and loft tools	Offers more advanced 3D modeling tools, including parametric modeling tools and the ability to automatically generate steel elements	Offers advanced 3D modeling tools, including parametric modeling tools and the ability to create complex geometry
Steel Modeling	Limited steel modeling tools, including the ability to create steel elements manually	Offers more advanced steel modeling tools, including the ability to automatically generate steel elements and parametric modeling tools	Offers basic steel modeling tools, including the ability to create steel elements manually
Steel Detailing	Limited steel detailing tools, including the ability to create drawings of steel elements	Offers more advanced steel detailing tools, including the ability to automatically create part drawings, DXF and NC1 files, and CNC data export	Offers basic steel detailing tools, including the ability to create drawings of steel elements
Connection Design	No connection design tools	Offers comprehensive connection design tools, including the ability to create and analyze connections	Offers limited connection design tools, including the ability to create basic connections
Structural Analysis	No structural analysis tools	Offers more advanced structural analysis tools, including the ability to analyze and optimize steel structures	Offers basic structural analysis tools, including the ability to analyze and check steel structures
Fabrication	No fabrication tools	Offers comprehensive fabrication tools, including the ability to create shop drawings, CNC data export, and automatic creation of bills of materials	Limited fabrication tools, including the ability to create shop drawings and bills of materials
Collaboration	Offers basic collaboration tools, including the ability to share drawings and collaborate on design	Offers more advanced collaboration tools, including the ability to connect to Dynamo and synchronize with Revit models	Offers advanced collaboration tools, including the ability to connect to Dynamo and synchronize with Advance Steel models

AutoCAD offers a comprehensive set of 2D drafting tools, including line, circle, polyline, arc, and text tools. It also offers basic 3D modeling tools, such as extrude, revolve, and loft tools. However, it has limited steel modeling and detailing tools, connection design, structural analysis, and fabrication tools.

Advance Steel offers more advanced steel modeling and detailing tools than AutoCAD. It can automatically generate steel elements, create part drawings, DXF and NC1 files, and export CNC data. It also has comprehensive connection design and fabrication tools. Advance Steel is specifically designed for steel design and fabrication, making it a powerful tool for structural engineers and steel fabricators.

Revit offers advanced 3D modeling tools and basic steel modeling and detailing tools. It can connect to Dynamo and synchronise with Advance Steel models, which makes it an excellent tool for collaboration with architects and other stakeholders in the building design process.

In summary, the choice between AutoCAD, Advance Steel, and Revit depends on the specific needs of the project and the users. AutoCAD is a general-purpose drafting tool, while Advance Steel is specifically designed for steel design and fabrication, and Revit is an excellent tool for collaboration and building design coordination.

Analysing Structural Designs: Advance Steel Vs Revit Vs Robot Structural Analysis

Feature	Advance Steel	Revit	Robot Structural Analysis
Finite Element Analysis	Yes	Yes	Yes
Static Analysis	Yes	Yes	Yes
Dynamic Analysis	Yes	No	Yes
Buckling Analysis	Yes	No	Yes
Nonlinear Analysis	Yes	No	Yes
Eigenvalue Analysis	Yes	No	Yes
Response Spectrum Analysis	Yes	No	Yes
Pushover Analysis	Yes	No	Yes
Design Optimization	Yes	No	Yes
Steel Connections Analysis	Yes	No	Yes
Concrete Analysis	No	Yes	Yes
Wood Analysis	No	Yes	Yes
Masonry Analysis	No	Yes	Yes
Design Code Compatibility	Multiple	Multiple	Multiple
Integration with Other Tools	Revit, Dynamo	Navisworks	Revit, Navisworks

Overall, all three software products offer FEA capabilities for structural analysis, including static analysis and finite element analysis. However, Robot Structural Analysis offers more advanced analysis options such as dynamic analysis, buckling analysis, nonlinear analysis, eigenvalue analysis, response spectrum analysis, and pushover analysis. Advance Steel offers the ability to analyze steel connections, while Revit offers analysis options for concrete, wood, and masonry.

In terms of design code compatibility, all three software products support multiple design codes. Additionally, Revit and Robot Structural Analysis can integrate with Navisworks for clash detection and coordination, while Advance Steel and Revit can connect with Dynamo for automation and optimization of structural designs.

Structural Design Collaboration with the AEC Collection

Structural steel design collaboration is a critical aspect of any construction project. Autodesk AEC Collection offers several collaboration tools, including Navisworks and Autodesk Docs, that can help structural engineers collaborate effectively throughout the design and construction process.

Navisworks is a project review and coordination tool that allows engineers and designers to combine models and data from various sources, including Advance Steel and Revit. Navisworks can help identify and resolve potential design conflicts, allowing for more efficient construction planning and reducing the risk of costly errors during construction.

Autodesk Docs is a cloud-based collaboration tool that allows team members to share and access project information, documents, and models from anywhere and on any device. With Autodesk Docs, structural engineers can collaborate in real-time with other team members, including architects, contractors, and owners. The tool can also help track changes, versioning, and approval workflows, ensuring that all team members are working on the latest version of the project documents.

Connected Structural Design

The Autodesk Architecture Engineering and Construction Collection is a powerful suite of software programs that can help architects create better designs and collaborate more effectively with other professionals in the construction industry. By using programs such as Revit, Navisworks, and Docs, architects can create digital models of buildings and share them with other stakeholders, streamlining the design process and reducing errors. By collaborating with MEP/HVAC, Structural and Civil engineers and designers, architects can ensure that their designs are not only visually appealing but also practical and functional, resulting in better-performing buildings that meet safety and regulatory requirements.

Ready to get your Design Connected?

Discover how Autodesk Architecture Engineering and Construction Collection can streamline your workflow, increase productivity, and optimise your design process.

Get up to 20% Off Software or Services!

Contact us to find out how much money you can save on software, training or other services. Fill out the form below, by live chat, phone or email.

P: 1800 490 514 | E: [email protected]

Connected Design with Architecture Engineering and Construction Collection

Click a link below to learn more about Connected Design using the Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection

End Construction Manufacturing Siloes with a Digital Fabrication Platform

November 7, 2022

| No Comments

| Advance Steel, Autodesk Inventor, CADmep, CAMduct, estMEP, Fabrication, Inventor Professional, Revit, Structural Steel

End Construction Manufacturing Siloes with a Digital Fabrication Platform

Managing a construction project is challenging at the best of times, but manual and inefficient fabrication workflows can easily drag out any build.

With modern digital collaboration and workflow platforms now available, building and construction managers no longer need to play guesswork with their metal fabrication requirements.

In this blog we will look at the challenge of disparate workflows and how Design Consulting can integrate a number of tools to streamline fabrication to improve project management and overall building quality.

Fabrication Workflow Still Very Manual

Most construction projects use some amount of steel for structural members, perforated sheets for facades and tubing for balustrades.

This construction-level fabrication is a form of “construction manufacturing” and the fabrication requirements are generally unique to the project.

As a result of the unique requirements the industry is accustomed to fragmented processes with siloed technology.

For example, estimators might have their own way of requesting what is needed in a PDF or spreadsheet document; a design team might use CAD for design, but not with fabrication-level tools; and the machining team have their separate software and processes.

Then there are external stakeholders. Construction teams routinely have to send and receive designs from customers, consultants and regulators, who also might have something else to add.

Time and Quality Costs Add Up

What is all this manual work costing? Quite a lot in time and materials.

Construction industry leaders need to assess how they are doing fabrication workflow now and are the tools in use connected with team members and customers?

In the corporate world, people don’t print out a document and surface mail it to someone and then repeat the process over and over, but that’s how bad the manual processes can be with fabrication workflows.

The construction industry is overdue for a change.

Moving to Digital Fabrication Workflow

Moving to a digital fabrication workflow platform is a good example of digital transformation in the construction sector.

It is about taking the design from the start and going through to manufacture with the same data source, so there is no need to recreate anything in a different program that is disconnected.

With a modern digital collaboration platform, when a change happens it flows through to all stakeholders by connecting departments, end-users and software platforms

For example, with estimating most people use a spreadsheet and manually draw lines in PDFs. Why do that when you can extract data from a model and use design estimating tools?

The suite of Autodesk fabrication products work with its most popular CAD and analysis tools for a good level of integration.

For example, Autodesk Fabrication CADmep gives you the ability to create fabrication-intent models of piping, plumbing and ductwork systems. Construction companies can connect CADmep with ESTmep, CADduct and Revit for complete end-to-end workflows.

For more information on how fabrication workflow products integrate with each other please see the documentation on our Fabrication page

Get in Touch

DC is an authorised Autodesk Reseller providing products and services for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Infrastructure and Manufacturing Sectors.

Feel free to contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below.

Advance Steel and Revit Fabrication Workflows

October 13, 2022

| No Comments

| Advance Steel, Revit, Structural Steel

Advance Steel Steel and Revit Fabrication Workflows

Synch Structural Steel Fabrication to BIM

Advance Steel is structural steel design and detailing software with parametric connections that also does folded plate design and flat patterns.

Over the years, Autodesk has developed a live synch with Revit using Revit’s structural tools, so designs made in either product can be synched to the other, modified and synched back. It started with being able to sync beams and with Revit also having a connection library the synchronisation is even better.

Advance Steel to Revit

Advance Steel allows users to import from Revit, export to Revit or Sync. By installing the Advance Steel extension (add-in) for Revit, users in Revit can import, export and sync as well.

Import/Export

Users either import or export to a .smlx file and once imported/exported, any changes made can be synchronised.

Synchronising Advance Steel and Revit

Once imported, you can synchronise changes and through the dialog box select what changes you would like to synch and the colour coded system shows the user what has be appended (added), modified or deleted

Advance Steel Features

Advance Steel has all the tools of AutoCAD plus:

Document Manager System with revision control to check status, update drawings, track changes and rename drawing numbers.
Structural steel beam and column library
Folded plate and flatten tools
Building Grid
Cut Beams and Plates
Place bolts, anchors, holes, and shear studs
Create welds
Connection library – Create, copy and customise
Stairs, handrails and cage ladder tools
Portable/Gable Frame Tool
Mono-pitch Frame tool
Bracing tool
Purlins, joist and truss tools
Cladding tools
Clash Check
Camera views
Automated drawings (requires configuration)
2D Shop Drawings (GA and part)
Parts List
Export to DXF
Export NC1 (CNC Machine)

What's new in Advance Steel 2023

Get in Touch

DC is an authorised Autodesk Reseller providing products and services for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Infrastructure and Manufacturing Sectors.

Feel free to contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below.

Architecture Engineering and Construction Collection

Autodesk Architecture Engineering and Construction Collection

A complete set of BIM tools for the design, analysis, visualisation and documentation of buildings and infrastructure designs and projects.

Architecture Engineering and Construction Collection
Call for Price
View More

Revit

Cutting edge BIM software for Architectural, Structural, Mechanical and Electrical 3D modelling, documentation and drafting.

Learn More

AutoCAD

Specialised toolsets for Architecture, Mechanical, Plant, Electrical,GIS design and drafting.

Learn More

Civil 3D

Civil engineering design and analysis

Learn More

Infraworks

Civil infrastructure concept and analysis

Learn More

Advance Steel

Parametric structural steel design and drafting

Learn More

Navisworks Manage

Model coordination, project review, 2D/3D quantity take off, 5D scheduling and clash detection

Learn More

Estore

Get the Architecture Engineering and Construction Collection on an Annual Subscription

Buy Now

Previous slide

Next slide

Overview

What is the Architecture Engineering and Construction Collection?

Compare

Compare the AEC Collection to Revit and Revit LT.

Included Software

See what software is included in the AEC Industry Collection.

Add-ons

Programs and plug-ins to boost productivity.

Pricing

Subscription pricing and comparison to standalone subscriptions.

Blog

Learn about products, workflows and related products.

Overview

The Autodesk AEC Industry Collection is a compilation of software titles for the architecture, engineering, construction and infrastructure industries which give the ability to 3D model, design, visualise, animate, coordinate, simulate, document and draft designs in 2D.

Create high-quality, detailed designs for building and infrastructure projects.
Optimise designs with analysis, generative design, visualisation and simulation tools.
Improve predictability in the field by coordinating and simulating projects and schedules.

The Autodesk AEC Industry Collection is a compilation of software titles for the architecture, engineering, construction and insfrastructure industries which give the ability to 3D model, design, visualise, animate, coordinate, simulate, document and draft designs in 2D.

Create high-quality, detailed designs for building and infrastructure projects.
Optimise designs with analysis, generative design, visualisation and simulation tools.
Improve predictability in the field by coordinating and simulating projects and schedules.

Add to Cart

Architectural BIM Workflows

Combine Revit and Insight to improve environmental performance to guide you towards better outcomes using robust analytical tools.

Model in Revit and visualise analysis in Insight such as indicators, benchmark, ranges and specifications on factors such as infiltration, operating schedule, building orientation, lighting efficiency, HVAC, plug load efficiency, payback limit, surface coverage, panel efficiency and effect on construction materials.

Once you have viewed results, you can make design changes in Revit to optimise the building performance using comparison scenarios and viewing the results through the analytical model and produce a calculation summary report to validate design choices.

Infrastructure BIM Workflows

Combine Revit, Civil 3D and Infraworks for bridge analysis and design. Use Civil 3D road geometry to create the initial bridge and develops the design further in Infraworks using parametric rules to change the characteristics of the bridge by individually changing parameters or automate by connecting parameters to a spreadsheet to layout the bridge. Run integrated analysis and design tools to provide feedback during the optioneering phase.

Any changes in Civil 3D can be updated in Infraworks thereby providing connected design tools. The bridge structure can be publish to Revit and design work can continue concurrently using 3D structural design tools and 2D documentation.

Generative Design

Create generative design studies to quickly view alternate designs

Structral Design and Analysis Workflows

Combine Revit, Advance Steel and Robot to design, engineer and fabricate structural projects.

3D Scanning BIM Workflows

Pre-process point cloud data for Revit and import 3D scans and work in a hybrid reality capture BIM environment.

Design Automation Workflows

Automate routine tasks that normally take hours into minutes by running Dynamo scripts with applications such as Revit, Civil 3D, FormIT and Advance Steel .

MEP Fabrication Workflows

Connect Revit and CADmep to reduce duplication in designs allowing fabricators to create production designs and documentaion..

Architecture Engineering and Construction Collection and Bluebeam Bundle
Rated 0 out of 5
Call for Price
View More
Architecture Engineering and Construction Collection and BIM Collaborate Pro Bundle
Rated 0 out of 5
Call for Price
View More
Architecture Engineering and Construction Collection and Revit Training Bundle
Rated 0 out of 5
Call for Price
View More
Architecture Engineering and Construction Collection
Rated 0 out of 5
Call for Price
View More

Included Software

The most comprehensive selection of cutting-edge BIM and CAD design, visualisation and analysis software and cloud tools comes within the AEC Collection.

Revit

Architectural, structural, mechanical and electrical 3D modelling and drafting BIM software.

Civil 3D

Civil engineering design and construction documentation software.

AutoCAD

2D/3D design and drafting software with specialised toolsets for AEC, plant design, GIS and more.

Infraworks

Conceptual design, visualisation and analysis software for civil infrastructure.

Navisworks Manage

Project coordination, data aggregation, 5D scheduling, quantification, simulation and visualisation software.

Advance Steel

Structural steel design and detailing software that works with beamline machines.

Recap Pro

Reality capture, photogrammetry and 3D scanning point cloud software.

Insight

Building energy analysis software.

Formit Pro

3D sketching and design and energy analysis software with Revit and Dynamo interoperability.

Dynamo Studio

Visual programming design automation software for Revit, Formit and Advance Steel.

Robot Structural Analysis Professional

Non-Linear structural analysis for Revit and Advance Steel.

3ds Max

3D modelling, rendering, animation and simulation software.

Vehicle Tracking

Swept path analysis software.

Fabrication CADmep

Cloud storage and collaboration for CAD.

Autodesk Rendering

Cloud based rendering for Revit, 3ds Max, Navisworks and AutoCAD.

Autodesk Drive

Cloud storage and collaboration for CAD.

Exceptional Value

Compare buying the AEC Collection to buying each title separately. If you need more than one application, getting an Industry Collection is the best value choice. Please note that all prices quoted below exclude GST.

Compare

Compare the AEC Collection to other products such as Revit, AutoCAD Revit LT suite and Revit LT.

AEC Collection
Revit
AutoCAD Revit LT Suite
Revit LT

	AEC Collection	Revit	AutoCAD Revit LT Suite	Revit LT
	$Call for Price /year Inc. GST	$Call for Price /year Inc. GST	$Call for Price /year Inc. GST	$Call for Price /year Inc. GST
3D Modelling 3D CAD Modelling functionality in Revit
2D Design 2D design functionality in AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT
2D Drafting 2D views, annotations, leaders, etc.
Architectural Modelling Tools to model architectural elements such as floors, walls, doors, etc.
Structural Modelling Tools to model structural steel and concrete elements			Limited	Limited
MEP Modelling Tools for mechanical, electrical and piping elements
Parts and Assemblies Ability to break up designs in Revit into parts and assemblies
Solar Studies Conduct solar studies in Revit
Global Parameters Drive other parameters in Revit
Conceptual Massing Fast way to model 3D mass objects
Local Rendering Ray-trace rendering on your PC
Cloud Based Rendering Off-load rendering to the cloud. High resolution renders cost cloud credits.
Analysis Area, analytic model, structural loads, boundary conditions, heating and cooling loads, massing studies
Schedules Create schedule and material take-off reports
Collaboration Interference checks, copy/monitor, worksharing, share coordinates among projects and Revit server
Copy/paste elements in linked Revit files Ability to copy/paste elements between Revit files that are linked into the Revit project.
Linked Revit file visibility customisation Control the visibility ofelements of Revit projects that have been linked
Point Clouds Import point clouds via Recap
Standard Revit Exporters Export to DWG, DGN, DWF, Images, FBX, NWC and reports
Additional Revit Exporters SAT, ADSK, gbXML, ODBC, family types
Application Programming Interface (API) Install plug-ins, create plug-ins, macros and run Dynamo scripts
Energy, lighting, solar analysis Features found in Insight
Non-Linear Structural Analysis FEA tools in Robot
Civil Infrastructure Design Tools in Civil 3D and Infraworks
Structural Steel Detailing Features found in Advance Steel
Electrical Schematics Features found in AutoCAD specialised toolsets
GIS Mapping Features found in AutoCAD specialised toolsets
Raster Tools Features found in AutoCAD specialised toolsets
Plant Design Features found in AutoCAD specialised toolsets
P&ID Schematics Features found in AutoCAD specialised toolsets
Clash Detection Features found in Navisworks Manage
5D Scheduling Features found in Navisworks Manage
Project Review and Coordination Features found in Navisworks Manage
Production Rendering and Animation Features found in 3ds Max
Bridge loading, analysis and code checking Features found in Structural Bridge Design
Generative Design Explore design iterations generated from a study based on goals, constraints and inputs
	Buy Now	Buy Now	Buy Now	Buy Now

AEC Collection Add-Ons

Check out these programs and plug-ins to boost productivity even further.

Cloud based worksharing, collaboration and model comparison. Includes BIM 360 Docs.

Revit enhancements for BIM management, renumbering, Excel, sheets, MEP, parameters and more.

Cloud based construction management with document control, collaboration.

Civil 3D enhancements for piping, polylines, maps, points and more.

Computational Fluid Dynamic software to simulate wind loads, air and fluid flows.

Revit Automation, Analytics
and Access.

Design Consulting Joins NVIDIA Inception Program to Propel Innovation in Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Manufacturing

Leveraging Autodesk Prodsmart for Operational Excellence: A Comprehensive Guide for Manufacturing Professionals

The Comprehensive Guide to Autodesk Fabrication Software: CADmep, CAMduct, and ESTmep

Maximising CNC Efficiency with Autodesk Inventor and Fusion CAM Setup and Training Services

Untitled design 36 Moving at the Speed of Business

Unlock Seamless Project Migration to Autodesk Construction Cloud’s Australian Hub with IMAGINiT Clarity

New Features in IMAGINiT Clarity 2025 That Revolutionise AutoCAD and Revit Automation

Contact Us

If you would learn more about Autodesk software, please contact us by calling on 1800 490 514, by filling out the form or clicking the live chat in the bottom right-hand corner.

Autodesk Releases Advance Steel for Structural Detailing

May 6, 2014

| 1 Comment

| AutoCAD, Construction, Manufacturing

Parametric Connections, NC File Support, Revit & Robot Structures Interoperability plus more. Built on the familar AutoCAD, Autodesk Advanced Steel brings a lot of features and functionality missing in Autodesk’s portfolio of design products. Anyone who had experience with AutoCAD Structural detailing knew of it’s limitations, so to have this product released is a step in the right direction. When you…

Autodesk Inventor vs. Advance Steel: A Detailed Comparison

Overview of Autodesk Inventor

Key Features of Autodesk Inventor for Steel Design and Fabrication

Ideal Use Cases for Autodesk Inventor

Overview of Advance Steel

Key Features of Advance Steel

Ideal Use Cases for Advance Steel

Feature Comparison of Overlapping Tools

Frame Generation and Steel Editing

Sheet Metal Design

Automation and Documentation

Autodesk Inventor vs Advance Steel: Key Differences

Autodesk Inventor vs Advance Steel: Choosing the Right Tool for Your Needs

When to Use Autodesk Inventor

When to Use Advance Steel

Autodesk Inventor and Advance Steel integration

Steps to Convert IFC Components into Advance Steel Members:

Unlock Your Design Potential—Choose the Right Tool for Success

Contact Us

AutoCAD vs. Autodesk Advance Steel: Choosing the Right Tool for Your Design Needs

Understanding the Basics

Key Differences Between AutoCAD and Autodesk Advance Steel

1. Purpose and Specialisation

2. Modelling Capabilities

3. Automation and Efficiency

4. Drawing Production

5. Ease of Use for Steel Work

6. Integration and Workflow

7. Learning Curve

8. Document Management

Practical Applications and User Scenarios

AutoCAD or Autodesk Advance Steel, Make the Right Choice For Your Needs

Contact Us

Advance Steel Automation: How to Save Time and Improve Accuracy

Parametric Connection Library

Porta Building

Advance Steel 2024 Annual Subscription

Autodesk Advance Steel Training Fundamentals Course

Autodesk Advance Steel Drawing Template Setup

Folded Plate and Stairs

Ladders and Rail Tools

Revision Control

Generating DXF and NC1 Files

Dynamo

Synchronisation with Revit

Advance Steel Features

Drawing Webinar Series

What's new in Advance Steel 2023

Get in Touch

Connected Structural Design with the Autodesk Architecture Engineering and Construction Collection

How Does Advance Steel Work With Other Applications in the Collection?

How Advance Steel works with other applications in the AEC Industry Collection

Benefits of Connected Design for Structural Engineers and Fabricators

Ready to Get Connected?

Save up to 20% on Autodesk Software and Services

How Dynamo is Revolutionising Structural Design with Advance Steel and Revit

Analysing Structural Designs: Advance Steel Vs Revit Vs Robot Structural Analysis

Structural Design Collaboration with the AEC Collection

Connected Structural Design

Ready to get your Design Connected?

Get up to 20% Off Software or Services!

Connected Design with Architecture Engineering and Construction Collection

End Construction Manufacturing Siloes with a Digital Fabrication Platform

Fabrication Workflow Still Very Manual

Time and Quality Costs Add Up

Moving to Digital Fabrication Workflow

Get in Touch

Advance Steel Steel and Revit Fabrication Workflows

Synch Structural Steel Fabrication to BIM

Advance Steel to Revit

Import/Export

Synchronising Advance Steel and Revit

Advance Steel Features

What's new in Advance Steel 2023

Get in Touch

Autodesk Architecture Engineering and Construction Collection

A complete set of BIM tools for the design, analysis, visualisation and documentation of buildings and infrastructure designs and projects.

Architecture Engineering and Construction Collection

Overview

Architectural BIM Workflows

Revit Automation, Analytics
and Access.