1.2. Software architecture of SuCri

The architecture of SuCri was designed to deliver maximum performance combined with ease of use in your CAD environment. In this chapter you will learn how the modular structure gives you stability, flexibility and future-proofing. We explain the necessary prerequisites, how the integration works and the key system characteristics for smooth operation.

Prerequisites

Before you can use the software architecture of SuCri, you must make sure that the following components are in place:

  • An installed and licensed version of Autodesk Plant 3D or Autodesk Advance Steel that is supported by the respective SuCri module (see 2.1. System requirements).
  • The administrator permissions required to install plugins via the official Autodesk interface.

Step by step: how it works and integration

The architecture of SuCri integrates seamlessly into your daily workflow. Follow these steps to make the best use of the different layers of the system:

  1. Ensure the connection to the data and model base:

    SuCri works directly on the native data models of Plant 3D and Advance Steel. This ensures that your project data remains consistent and fully compatible.

    Expected result: You work directly in your familiar CAD environment without the risk of data loss caused by conversions.

  2. Activation of the automation engine:

    After the program starts, the intelligent algorithms analyze your input and interpret the design rules stored in the system.

    Expected result: Parts, typicals and the associated documentation are generated automatically based on rules.

  3. Control via the user interface:

    Use the SuCri tab in the ribbon: each module has its own group there (for example Module 2), and next to it you will find the shared groups Settings and Licences. From the precise placement of steel components to the automated derivation of bills of materials, you manage all functions centrally.

    Expected result: All fabrication drawings and lists are output consistently based on the current state of the model.

Important system characteristics

Note the following technical characteristics of the architecture, which ensure high-performance and stable operation:

  • Bundle interface: SuCri uses the official interface for Autodesk plugins. Each module is loaded as a separate package (bundle) from the folder %AppData%\Autodesk\ApplicationPlugins, for example SuCri_Module2.bundle. The integrity of your base installation is preserved.
  • Version binding: Each bundle defines the Autodesk versions for which it is loaded. A newer Autodesk version that is not yet listed there will not load the module. For a new Autodesk major version you therefore need a matching SuCri update.
  • Modular extensibility: Thanks to the flexible structure, future function modules can be integrated seamlessly without affecting existing project processes or workflows.
  • Shared settings and language: All modules use a shared Settings window (command SuCriSettings) with one tab per installed module. The interface language selected there applies to all modules and the license manager.
  • Native integration: The software makes efficient use of existing Autodesk structures and adds powerful configuration modules where needed.

Troubleshooting

If SuCri does not appear in the ribbon, for example after a version update of the Autodesk products, please check the following points:

  • Supported version: Check whether your installed SuCri version already supports the new Autodesk version (see 2.1. System requirements), and install the current SuCri update if necessary.
  • Path check: Make sure that the module's bundle folder exists in the folder %AppData%\Autodesk\ApplicationPlugins.
  • Plugin initialization: Thanks to the bundle interface, SuCri is loaded automatically every time the system starts. Fully restart the CAD application if the plugin was not initialized on the first load.
  • Permissions: Check whether your user profile has sufficient read permissions for the installation directory of the extension.

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