1.2. Software architecture of SuCri

The architecture of SuCri was developed with the goal of ensuring maximum performance while being easy to use in your CAD environment. In this chapter you will learn how the modular structure offers you stability, flexibility and future-proofing. We explain to you the necessary prerequisites, how the integration works as well as the central system features for smooth operation.

Prerequisites

Before you can use the software architecture of SuCri, you must ensure that the following components are provided:

  • An installed and licensed version of Autodesk Plant 3D or Autodesk Advance Steel.
  • The required administrator permissions 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 optimal use of the various levels 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 due to conversions.

  2. Activation of the automation engine:

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

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

  3. Control via the user interface:

    Use the intuitive interface to manage all functions centrally – from the precise placement of the steel construction components to the automated derivation of bills of materials.

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

Important system features

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

  • Certified bundle interface: SuCri uses the official interface for Autodesk plugins. The software is loaded as a specialized extension, which preserves the integrity of your base installation.
  • Modular extensibility: Thanks to the flexible structure, future function modules can be integrated seamlessly without impairing existing project procedures or workflows.
  • Native integration: The software uses existing Autodesk structures efficiently and supplements them specifically with powerful configuration modules.

Troubleshooting

Should SuCri, for example, not appear in your toolbar after a version update of the Autodesk products, please check the following points:

  • Path check: Make sure that the path to the ApplicationPlugins folder within the Autodesk directory structure is stored correctly and is recognized by the system.
  • Plugin initialization: Through the bundle interface, SuCri is automatically loaded on every system start. Perform a complete restart of the CAD application if the plugin was not initialized on the first load.
  • Permissions: Check whether your user profile has sufficient read rights for the installation directory of the extension.