For the following interfaces and exchange file formats (except for MS Excel, OOo Calc and CSV) you can determine rules for materials and cross-sections by means of user-defined conversion files. Plausibility checks after the import or before the export are possible. It is also possible to export selected objects only. Furthermore, you can define the orientation of the Z-axis for the data exchange. Coordinates can be mirrored or even switched.

You can choose between three options to exchange data with RFEM and Tekla Structures: The stp interface allows for a file-based transfer of framework models in both directions. The analytical model generated and contained in Tekla Structures can be transferred to RFEM by means of another direct interface. Finally, an additional direct interface is provided to exchange and align physical models in both directions.

The direct bidirectional RFEM interface with Autodesk Revit Structure leaves nothing to be desired: A structure created in RFEM can be visualized in Revit Structure and prepared for the design engineer. In the same way, it is possible to calculate and design a Revit model in RFEM. Even subsequent modifications in both the Revit and the RFEM model can be easily aligned.

In addition to the data exchange using DXF files, RFEM allows for a direct exchange with AutoCAD by Autodesk. This interface uses the latest .NET technology. You can start the data exchange directly in RFEM.

With the AutoCAD program Autodesk Structural Detailing (ASD) you can transfer reinforcements automatically. The reinforcement specifications are taken over by using a particular file format. RFEM provides a direct interface with ASD to realize this way of integrated design.

To transfer structures consisting only of members, we have implemented the DSTV product interface for steel constructions (German Steel Construction Association). Now you can exchange data between RFEM 4 and programs like Bentley ProStructure 3D, Tekla Structures, Intergraph Frameworks, Graitec Advance Steel, Cadwork and many more.

The CIS/2 file format of the NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) is frequently used for data exchange in English-speaking countries. Currently, the import includes only structural data of framework structures consisting exclusively of members. This means that no information concerning loads, load cases, groups or combinations is imported. Click the link below to find the online description of the interface.

To reuse or prepare values entered in RFEM tables, a direct interface to Microsoft Excel and OpenOffice.org Calc is available. You can directly export the RFEM tables, individually or all at once, in an Excel or Calc spreadsheet and vice versa. Even formulas for parametric input can be prepared in Excel/Calc and imported to RFEM.

The DXF file format is one of the most common data exchange formats in the field of CAD programs. RFEM can import and export such DXF files.

The IFC interface (Industry Foundation Classes) is divided in several areas which are called views. When importing and exporting data, the StructuralAnalysisView is primarily supported. This means that you can transfer the structural model including member elements, concentrated loads, linear and member loads, supports, support conditions, load cases etc. The most important elements from the CoordinateView, which contains graphical elements, are imported additionally. Click the links below to find the online description of the interface and general information concerning the IFC.

The SDNF interface (Steel Detailing Neutral Format) by Intergraph is used to exchange data with Intergraph Frameworks or Tekla Structures. It is possible to import as well as to export a variety of structural data like nodes and members including relevant materials and cross-sections. The transfer of support conditions, however, is not possible.

Due to the implementation of the ISM interface in RFEM it is possible to exchange models with ProSteel, ProConcrete and other Bentley applications. The interface works in both directions. The ISM technology core piece consists of the ISM Viewer V8i provided for free by Bentley. Furthermore, you can export surface elements like walls and plates as well as sections with variable cross-sections to ProSteel and ProConcrete. Another useful feature of the ISM Viewer is the possibility to create 3D PDF documents.   

This interface represents the connection to the CAD program Glaser by isb cad: You can import GEO files to RFEM or export results of surface concrete designs in FEM files. RFEM imports single lines and arcs, surfaces as floors (contour lines), center lines of walls, center points of columns, openings, surface as well as linear and nodal loads, free rectangular as well as linear and concentrated loads. The export includes the top and bottom reinforcement in FE mesh or grid points. It is also possible to export only the additional reinforcement or the shear reinforcement.

RFEM supports the data exchange with the design program STRAKON by DICAD. RFEM imports structural data such as nodes, lines, materials, surfaces, openings, nodal and line supports. You can export the reinforcement including border lines of surfaces. Each surface is exported separately.

With the file format ASF by Nemetschek you can exchange data with one of the most frequently used CAD programs. The import includes structural data such as nodes, lines, materials, surfaces, openings, nodal and line supports. You can export the reinforcement together with the surfaces' border lines. Each surface is exported separately.

The ESF file format (Engineering Structural Format) allows for the data exchange with the design program CADKON by ABStudio. It is possible to export plane surfaces with uniform thickness as well as openings, if available, and materials used in RFEM.

Background layers are used to simplify modeling. The layers can be underlain in the RFEM work window to facilitate the input of graphical objects.

With this interface you can transfer the RFEM printout report to the static editor BauText of the German company Veit Christoph GmbH for further editing.

If you want to edit the printout report in detail with MS Office, you can convert the report including graphics into an RTF file.

The programmable interface is based on COM technology. Use this interface to program your own input macros or post-processing programs.

After the installation of RX-LINK the following interfaces are additionally available for the data import: