Simple connection in IDEA StatiCa

Simple connections are often handled in a variety of ways and sometimes receive less attention because focus shifts to other parts of a project. Many engineers rely on spreadsheets, but they require constant maintenance and careful handling to avoid data loss or corruption. With IDEA StatiCa, you can manage your simple connections reliably, taking advantage of its features to complete designs quickly, often faster than traditional methods, without sacrificing accuracy or control.

Here are just a few of the ways IDEA StatiCa helps you make simple connection design safer, faster, and under control:

1. Transfer real forces from your FEA model

No more working with envelope forces or approximate connection capacities. With IDEA StatiCa, you can transfer your data directly from your FEA software - such as SAP2000, RAM, Tekla, or ETABS - into the app with our BIM links. This includes the actual forces for all load combinations, ensuring your connection design reflects the real forces in the structure. By eliminating guesswork, it saves significant time compared to traditional manual calculations.

2. Account for offsets in your model

Have offsets? No problem. Member offsets are common on-site and ignoring them can lead to errors. With Checkbot, you can ensure that all offsets are reflected in your model and design. And if you want a visual reference to catch mistakes before they happen, the 3D visuals in IDEA StatiCa help you see the geometry and alignment clearly, reducing errors and avoiding unnecessary RFIs. For simple connections, this means you can verify geometry and alignment quickly, ensuring what you analyze matches what will be built, saving rework later.

3. Group similar connections automatically

To save time grouping similar connections, use Checkbot.With the latest Checkbot improvements, you can automatically group similar connections for faster workflow. If you prefer to create your own groups, that option is still available. Grouping allows you to manage multiple connections efficiently while keeping full control over individual designs.

4. Apply one connection model to multiple connections

Did we say improvements? Checkbot lets you model one connection and apply it to all other connections in the same group. For example, if you have 30 or more shear tabs, bolted cleats, or end plates, modeling just one connection can generate designs for the rest. This saves a significant amount of time, especially for repetitive projects.

5. Analyze extreme loads across groups

Even more improvements? Once forces are transferred, they are applied to every connection for all load combinations. Checkbot's Load extreme feature identifies the extreme loads across the group so you can quickly see the governing load combinations for your shear tabs, cleats, end plates, or splice connections. This accelerates analysis and ensures no load case is overlooked.

6. Run batch design for grouped connections

And yes, one more Checkbot improvement we have to mention: Checkbot now allows you to perform batch design for grouped connections. The analysis runs in the background so you can focus on other parts of the project. You can preview results in Checkbot, and if needed, review detailed results for individual connections.

7. Generate comprehensive reports

Another important part of the design process? IDEA StatiCa allows you to keep all your connections, simple or complex, in a single bulk report. You can highlight only the extreme connections per group or include selected connections to match the project’s needs. This makes submittals clearer and more professional.

Whether you are working on one project or managing several at the same time, keeping your submittals clean and accurate is essential. Different jurisdictions and project requirements can make connection design tedious, but a structured workflow with IDEA StatiCa helps prevent setbacks and ensures everything stays on track.

IDEA StatiCa is more than just a design tool—it’s a faster, safer, and more reliable way to deliver connection designs with confidence. On your next project, consider what your team could achieve with a workflow built for accuracy, speed, and real-world complexity.

Start a free trial of IDEA StatiCa today and see how IDEA StatiCa can make that a reality on your next project!