A brief overview of structural design process

As per the notions of Architectural, Engineering and Construction industry experts, structural

design process is highly complex when compared to the design development of other disciplines,

since structure remains the epicenter of the building when it comes to handling load and

integrating multidisciplinary elements together. Load calculation which is purely performed by

structural engineers remains a major step in structural design process. Effective application of

design standards enhances the chances of building safety, as they are developed after the

successful analysis of geographical conditions of a country which can really have a drastic

impact on construction.

A brief account of structural design process

In the beginning, structural engineer refer the architectural design so that based on it he

can develop structural design.

Once structural engineer gets clarity about architectural design, he releases initial

blueprints of structural design.

Basic structural drawings are always generated by structural engineers, after analyzing all

load related issues, which effects structural construction largely.

Structural detailing is the next step in structural design process, wherein detailers have a

great role to play.

Structural drawings which are used by fabricators and erectors are developed by detailers.

Fabrication drawings are utilized for manufacturing process, wherein steel parts are

manufactured by fabricators after using these drawings.

On the other hand erection drawings, developed by detailers should be used in the end

when the structure is finally erected.

For developing all these drawings, detailers have to use the plans which are created by

engineers and architect.

Once structural detailing process is completed, the next step that is followed by structural

design team is structural modeling.

Structural modeling helps in the generation of structural model and this process is

thoroughly carried out in Revit.

The quality of Structural design can be further enhanced during modeling, as 3D model

helps in revealing all the design related complications.

Structural elements can be checked for clashes against the elements of other disciplines

such as architecture and MEP.

Structural analysis is also carried out during structural design process, which gives final

thumbs up to the design. During structural analysis validity and effectiveness of the

design is checked.