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Design workflows for accurate manufacturing - Tekla’s focus at Offsite Expo

Offsite Expo banner, showing the date of the event (19-20th Sept 2023), overlaying an image of the Volumetric Module tool in Tekla Structures

Trimble is delighted to be bringing its range of Tekla constructible modelling solutions to Offsite Expo 2023 (Stand D07), where we will be demonstrating the tools available for a connected and streamlined ‘design to fabrication’ workflow.

Taking place at the Coventry Building Society Arena on 19th – 20th September 2023, visitors to the Trimble stand will have the opportunity to learn more about the value Tekla software can bring to the offsite sector, with tools and features available for the whole design to fabrication workflow.

Trimble will be showcasing its Volumetric Module Tool, available within Tekla Structures and designed specifically for the offsite market. The tool enables users to construct 3D models of modular units far quicker and easier, with automation at the tool’s core. As well as saving valuable time, with a basic unit able to be created in just a couple of clicks, the tool also offers a clear assembly hierarchy, automatically creating and organising assemblies, sub-assemblies and parts ready for production.

Visitors to the show will also be able to learn about Tekla Structures’ crane layout tools available for planning on-site assembly logistics and the power of custom components, as well as how Trimble’s openBIM approach supports automated manufacturing processes.

In addition, Trimble is excited to be joining Howick, the light steel roll-forming machinery innovators, onto their stand at set times across the two-day show. Tekla software and Howick have a long and valued history of working together in partnership, with the first iteration of tools offering Howick connections and Howick machine exports developed for Tekla Structures in 2009.

Since then, there have been several further updates, with the introduction of components such as the Frame Checker and the Floor Tools for deep sections. These tools are being continually developed and integrated within Tekla Structures based on both Howick’s and Tekla users’ feedback. The tools are available for download from Tekla Warehouse and can be fully integrated into the latest version of framing tools for Tekla Structures.

screenshot of the Howick tools available as plugins within Tekla Structures

Craig Johnson, Business Development Manager for Detailing & Manufacturing at Trimble, spoke about the upcoming Offsite Expo, saying: We’re very excited to be returning to Offsite Expo for another year. It’s a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase to visitors the value our Tekla constructible modelling software can bring to the offsite sector, as well as network with and learn from our fellow industry colleagues.

Ultimately, our goal is to demonstrate the ways in which our software can help teams collaborate effectively, improve productivity levels, reduce waste, increase speed and accuracy, and build greener – all key factors for the offsite industry of today. For example, we recently launched a 3D modelling tool for the Volumetric and Modular sector, built specifically for offsite. The tool complements our already existing solutions for detailing and manufacturing of Light Metal Framing and Precast concrete, which again enforces our connected construction and multi material approach to the offsite industry.

Tekla software offers the ability to drive more detail into structural BIM workflows for a deeper understanding of your designs at every phase, with its constructible models uniting the team from the design office, factory and site. Tekla is one solution that supports Trimble’s ambition to digitally transform construction with solutions that span the entire AEC industry.

For more information, please visit: www.tekla.com/uk/resources/modular.

Or to register for Offsite Expo, please visit: www.offsite-expo.co.uk.