To understand the power of the suite, imagine you are modeling a 40-story mixed-use tower.
Step 1: Analysis
You design gravity loads in Tekla Structural Designer (included in the suite). You set column sizes and beam depths based on code.
Step 2: Core Modeling
You open Tekla Structures 2020 -x64-. You import an IFC from the architect. Using the x64 power, you keep the entire architectural shell visible while you model shear walls. Tekla Structures Design Suite 2020 -x64-
Step 3: Detailing
You use the Rebar Set tool to detail the foundation mat slab. Because you have 64GB of RAM, you can see every rebar hook and stagger in real time. You run a clash detection; the rebar clashes with an embeds. You fix it in seconds.
Step 4: Collaboration
Your detailer in a remote office uses Tekla Model Sharing. They download only the changes (not the whole 2GB file). They add stair connections and hit "Write Out." You get the updates 5 minutes later. To understand the power of the suite, imagine
Step 5: Fabrication
You export CNC files for the steel fabricator and Unitechnik for the precast concrete plant. You also export an IFC 4.0 for the general contractor to use in Navisworks.
This entire workflow is seamless because the 2020 suite is unified. Open BIM is essential
Open BIM is essential. The 2020 suite added robust support for IFC 4.0 export/import. This means architects using Revit or ArchiCAD can send their models to Tekla, and structural engineers can send back smart objects (not just dumb geometry) with full property sets.
Tekla 2020 focused heavily on open BIM workflows.