Tekla Structures &

Tekla Warehouse
BIM content creation guide

2023

©2023 Trimble Solutions Corporation

Contents

1 Basics of creating and sharing BIM content...............................5

1.1 BIM terms and concepts...................................................................................6

2 Get ready for creating and sharing BIM content..................... 10

2.1 How to get access to Tekla products and online services.......................... 10
2.2 How to find out your Tekla Online organization, administrators,
and IDs.............................................................................................................. 11
2.3 First steps in Tekla Warehouse...................................................................... 12
2.4 What to take into account before creating BIM content........................... 13
Tips for modeling BIM content.............................................................................................14
Tips for sharing BIM content................................................................................................ 16

3 Create BIM content in Tekla Structures....................................18

3.1 Create shapes and items................................................................................ 18
3.2 Create custom components........................................................................... 19
3.3 Define profiles................................................................................................. 20
3.4 Define bolt assemblies................................................................................... 21
3.5 Define material grades................................................................................... 21
3.6 Create formwork systems..............................................................................22
3.7 Test your BIM content in Tekla Structures................................................... 22
3.8 Create support material for your BIM content........................................... 22

4 Share BIM content as Tekla Structures extension

packages (.tsep)........................................................................... 23
4.1 More about .tsep installers............................................................................ 24
4.2 Create and upload a .tsep installer............................................................... 24

5 Upload BIM content to Tekla Warehouse................................. 28

5.1 Tips for content information......................................................................... 28
5.2 Ways to group and upload custom components......................................... 29
5.3 How to upload BIM content........................................................................... 30
5.4 Example: How to combine content types to a content item..................... 32

6 Maintain BIM content in Tekla Warehouse.............................. 36

7 Instruct end users how to download and install BIM

content..........................................................................................37

2
7.1 Ways to download BIM content.....................................................................37
7.2 How to download and run .tsep installers................................................... 38

3
4
1 Basics of creating and sharing
BIM content

This guide is aimed at building product manufacturers. It helps and instructs

you in creating building information modeling (BIM) content in Tekla Structures,
and in publishing and sharing the BIM content in Tekla Warehouse.
BIM content means digital 3D representations of building products,
components, and other assets that can be placed into building information
models.
Creating BIM content as a building product manufacturer makes work easier
and more efficient for the end users of your product content. Engineers,
structural designers, detailers, contractors, and other stakeholders in building
projects can then download your reliable, ready-made BIM content from Tekla
Warehouse and easily use it in their models in Tekla Structures.
This guide presents the different phases and alternatives in the workflow of
creating and sharing different types of BIM content. More information can be
found in Tekla User Assistance for Tekla Structures at https://
support.tekla.com/tekla-structures.
To learn more about Tekla Structures, see:
• https://www.tekla.com/products/tekla-structures
• Get started with Tekla Structures
• Get familiar with Tekla Structures
To learn more about Tekla Warehouse, which is one of the Tekla Online
services, see:
• https://warehouse.tekla.com/
• Why Tekla Warehouse?
• Getting started with Tekla Warehouse
To familiarize yourself with some of the key terms and concepts used in this
guide, see:
• A short glossary of BIM terms and concepts (page 6)

Basics of creating and sharing BIM content 5

 • Tekla Structures glossary in Tekla User Assistance

Workflow of creating and sharing BIM content

This example workflow shows the process of creating BIM content in Tekla
Structures, and the process of publishing and sharing the BIM content in Tekla
Warehouse. For more detailed instructions about the different phases of the
workflow, see the following sections of this guide:
1. Get ready for creating and sharing BIM content (page 10)
2. Create BIM content in Tekla Structures (page 18)
3. Share BIM content as Tekla Structures extension packages (.tsep)
(page 23)
4. Upload BIM content to Tekla Warehouse (page 28)
5. Maintain BIM content in Tekla Warehouse (page 36)
6. Instruct end users how to download and install BIM content (page 37)

For advanced BIM content creators

If you already have basic knowledge about creating BIM content and
programming skills, you can also use Tekla Open API for Tekla Structures to
create intelligent BIM content, components that adapt to changes in Tekla
Structures models, or tools for automatic placement of BIM content. For more
information about Tekla Open API for Tekla Structures, visit Tekla Developer
Center for Tekla Structures at https://developer.tekla.com/tekla-structures/
tekla-open-api.

1.1 BIM terms and concepts

The following table explains some of the essential terms used in this guide.

Term Definition
building information process of modeling and communicating the
modeling; BIM structure of a building in detail to benefit the entire
construction life cycle
BIM facilitates the exchange and use of building
information in a digital format.
In the context of Tekla Structures, the term BIM is
only used to refer to building information
modeling.
BIM content digital 3D representations of building products,
components, and other assets that can be placed
into building information models

Basics of creating and sharing BIM content 6 BIM terms and concepts
 Term Definition
content item logical group of content files in Tekla Warehouse
<Tekla Warehouse> A content item can be, for example, a product
catalog or a placing tool. Content items can be
labeled by type and use case to help find the
content. Content items might have versions that
work with different versions of Tekla Structures.
collection group of content items that are organized and stored
together in Tekla Warehouse
<Tekla Warehouse>
Users can create online, local, or network
collections. Collections can be private or public.
Local and network collections are stored in a local
or network folder selected by the user. Local
collections can also be used offline. Tekla
Structures collections contain official Tekla
Structures content that is grouped by
geographical area.
part building object that is a basic element of a Tekla
Structures model and that can be modeled and
<Tekla Structures>
detailed further
The main concrete parts are: column, beam,
polybeam, spiral beam, panel, slab, lofted slab,
pad footing, strip footing, and item.
The main steel parts are: column, beam,
polybeam, curved beam, twin profile, orthogonal
beam, spiral beam, contour plate, bent plate,
lofted plate, and item.
custom part custom component for creating a part that cannot be
created by using any existing part command or part
<Tekla Structures>
profile
Typically, custom parts are used to create parts
that have a complex composition. For example,
castellated beams and sandwich panels are often
created as custom parts.
profile part property that specifies the cross sections of the
whole length of the part
<Tekla Structures>
A profile can have one or more cross sections, and
the separate cross sections can have different
geometrical forms and dimensions. The cross
sections are extruded to create the length of the
part.
item part that has a three-dimensional shape
<Tekla Structures> Items are an exception to other parts because
they do not have a profile.

Basics of creating and sharing BIM content 7 BIM terms and concepts
 Term Definition
shape item property that specifies its geometry in space
<Tekla Structures> Shapes can be modeled in Tekla Structures or by
using other 3D modeling software, such as
SketchUp.
bolt assembly set of bolt elements that consists of a bolt, a stud, or
a screw, and possibly the related washers and nuts
<Tekla Structures>
component part of Tekla Structures functionality that is used for
creating a group of model objects that are easy to
<Tekla Structures>
model and modify as a single unit
Components can be used for creating parts, bolts,
and reinforcing bars, for example.
The group of model objects that is created by a
component adapts to changes in the model. For
example, Tekla Structures automatically modifies
a connection if the user modifies the parts it
connects.
custom component component that the user creates and uses for
creating model objects whose composition the user
<Tekla Structures>
can modify as a group
assembly building object that represents a prefabriated
structure that consists of one or several parts and
<Tekla Structures>
possibly other objects and that is put into place as
one piece
Typically, an assembly is a steel structure or
building product, for example, a steel beam with
stiffeners welded in a workshop.
cast unit building object that represents a concrete structure
that consists of one or several parts and possibly
<Tekla Structures>
other objects
Typically, a cast unit is a precast concrete element,
for example, a concrete column with corbels that
is put into place as one piece.
.tsep installer Tekla Structures extension package file for collecting,
sharing, and installing extensions and Tekla
Structures content
For example, .tsep installers can be used for
installing additional environment content, such as
shapes and custom components, or for sharing
applications created with Tekla Open API.

Basics of creating and sharing BIM content 8 BIM terms and concepts
 Term Definition
.uel file custom component file

For more Tekla Structures related terms and concepts, see Tekla Structures
glossary in Tekla User Assistance.

Basics of creating and sharing BIM content 9 BIM terms and concepts
 2 Get ready for creating and
sharing BIM content

2.1 How to get access to Tekla products and online

services
You need to have an account in a Tekla Online organization to access Tekla
Online services. Take these steps first to get access to all Tekla Online services
and downloads of Tekla products.
Tekla Online services use Trimble Identity for identification. The access rights
to Tekla Online services are granted to you through your company's Tekla
Online organization.
1. Go to https://www.tekla.com/support and select one of the Tekla Online
services.
2. In the selected service, click Sign in to create a Trimble Identity.
3. Click Create a Trimble ID, select your region, click Next, and then create a
Trimble Identity using your company email address.
For more information, see Create your Trimble Identity for Tekla products
in Tekla User Assistance.
4. Apply for the Tekla Partners Program at https://developer.tekla.com/tekla-
partners-program.
By joining the Tekla Partners Program you get a Tekla Partners Program
Suite license, access to full support, permission to develop, market, sell,
and distribute your Tekla content and applications, and, for example, the
possibility to reach Tekla users around the world.
Alternatively, you can use a commercial subscription or license of Tekla
Structures.

Get ready for creating and sharing BIM content 10 How to get access to Tekla products and online
services
 5. Complete your Trimble Identity account creation and join your company's
Tekla Online organization.
For more information, see Tekla Online organizations and Trimble Identity
in Tekla User Assistance.
When your company has a subscription or license for Tekla Structures and you
have completed creating your Trimble Identity, you and your company have
been connected with a Tekla Online organization and you have access to all
Tekla Online services.
For example, you can upload BIM content to Tekla Warehouse as an
organization using your company's brand identity (logo, brand colors, etc.).
To download Tekla Structures, go to Tekla Downloads at https://
download.tekla.com/tekla-structures/for-partners. For more information
about how to install Tekla Structures, see Tekla Structures installation in Tekla
User Assistance.

2.2 How to find out your Tekla Online organization,

administrators, and IDs
If you are not sure which Tekla Online organization you belong to, or who your
Tekla Online administrators are, you can find it out in your Tekla Online profile.
You do not need to be a Tekla Online administrator to be able to add content
to your company's collections in Tekla Warehouse. If you need to add other
users to your Tekla Online organization, you need the Tekla Online
administrator rights.
1. Go to any of the Tekla Online services.
2. Sign in using your Trimble Identity.
3. Click your user name at the upper right corner and then, depending on
the online service, select My account, My profile, or similar.
4. Go to My organization.
If you are a Tekla Online administrator in your Tekla Online organization,
there is a message about it on the My organization page of your Tekla
Online profile.
Your Tekla Online organization is shown under Company.
Your Tekla Online organization's administrators are listed under
Organization administrators.
5. If you do not belong to the correct Tekla Online organization, request to
join it.
Click Need to change organizations?, select one of the Tekla Online
organizations listed, and then click Send request.
Do not change between Tekla Online organizations unnecessarily.

Get ready for creating and sharing BIM content 11 How to find out your Tekla Online organization,
administrators, and IDs
 6. If you need Tekla Online administrator rights but do not have them, ask
one of your Tekla Online organization's administrators to give you
administrator rights.
7. To check your Tekla Online user ID or organization ID, go to Tekla
Warehouse and click My Warehouse --> My Details.

For more information about how a Tekla Online administrator can add other
users to a Tekla Online organization, see Manage user accounts for Tekla
products in Tekla User Assistance.

2.3 First steps in Tekla Warehouse

When your company has an account for Tekla Online services and you have a
Trimble Identity, you can start using Tekla Warehouse as an organization.

1. Go to Tekla Warehouse.
2. Sign in using your Trimble Identity.
3. Create a private online collection for your company.
Collections in Tekla Warehouse are like folders that group similar content
items together and that define the access rights to the content.
Use this private online collection for developing and testing your BIM
content before you publish and share it to a wider audience.
Depending on the amount and type of the BIM content that you are
planning to upload to Tekla Warehouse, consider the following options
and choose one of them:
a. If you are planning to add a lot of totally new BIM content, it might be
a good idea to use this same collection for publishing the content
later to avoid moving the content between collections.

NOTE Remember to create the collection as an organization. This

cannot be changed afterwards.

b. If your company already has existing BIM content and public

collections in Tekla Warehouse, and you are now adding new content
that is similar, use this new private online collection as a working
collection, and then move the finalized content to one of your
company's existing public collection.

For more information about Tekla Warehouse, see Getting started with Tekla
Warehouse in Tekla User Assistance.

Get ready for creating and sharing BIM content 12 First steps in Tekla Warehouse
 2.4 What to take into account before creating BIM
content
Before you start creating BIM content, pay attention to the way that the
content will be shared later on and how the content is meant to be
downloaded and used by the end users.

TIP If you are not familiar with Tekla Structures or do not want to create BIM content
yourself, you can get in contact with Tekla partners through Tekla Development
Experts and find developers who are able to help you share your BIM content
and applications in Tekla Warehouse.

The most essential guidelines for creating BIM content are:

• Model the BIM content in a way that is similar to the real-life building
product. For example, if the real building product is ordered as one
assembly, you should also model the corresponding BIM content as one
unit. For building products like bolts, the modeled BIM content should
include all the needed washers and nuts.
Modeling BIM content as one unit helps the end users to list and show the
building product as one unit also in reports and drawings.
Also consider how the content is used in real-life processes. For example,
precast panel anchors might have a mounting part and an installation part.
When modeling this kind of BIM content, you need to separate these parts
into different objects in the same content item to enable modeling these
parts separately because they are needed in different stages and places of
construction: in fabrication in a precast facility and in erection on site.
• Model your building products as simply and lightly as possible and
maintain an appropriate level of detail. For example, if your product is a
standard bolt, there is no point to model each and every thread to the
smallest detail. Instead, you can use a simplified rod for the shaft. In some
cases, even just a space reservation might be enough in the end-user
model.
Keeping the BIM content simple and on an appropriate level of detail highly
improves the performance of end-user models, especially when a product
is repeatedly used in a model, and the number of instances in the model is
high.
• In Tekla Structures, it might be a good idea to use the same model to create
all BIM content that you want to publish. Then create a subfolder in the
model folder to collect all BIM content that you want to publish.
For example, you can use one model for all products in one product group,
such as base bolts or lifting hooks, or you can have models that are specific
to a country or an area. It is advisable to create all BIM content for a
formwork system in one model, so that there are not multiple different
custom components with varying GUIDs representing the same products in
multiple product families.

Get ready for creating and sharing BIM content 13 What to take into account before creating BIM
content
 • If possible, create your BIM content so that you can make use of the placing
tools and other tools that are already available in Tekla Structures. For
example, you can create configuration files that control existing Tekla
Structures components when the components are used to place your
product content in end-user models.

Tips for modeling BIM content

The following questions can help you decide which Tekla Structures object type
to use to model your building product.
1. What is the typical or preferred modeling method that the end users use
to place your product content in their Tekla Structures models?
• Manual (one by one)
Recommended Tekla Structures object types: Bolt, item, or custom
part
Examples: Certain connection plates and other larger entities where
the number of instances is typically low and no other advanced tools
are used
• Tool
Tools automate the process of placing objects in the end-user model.
Using tools increases productivity, standardizes detailing and makes it
faster, reduces detailing errors, and directs end users to use your
product.
Examples: Formwork placing tools, tool that places roof tiles
2. How many instances of your product are there typically in one end-user
model?
• Few (less than 100)
There is usually no significant effect on the performance or size of the
model, whatever the chosen Tekla Structures object type is, but it is
still advisable to test the performance with a high number of instances.
Recommended Tekla Structures object types: Bolt, item, or custom
part
• Many (more than 100)
A large number of objects that are too detailed can slow down the
model, so pay special attention to the model performance.
Recommended Tekla Structures object types: Bolt, item, or custom
part

Get ready for creating and sharing BIM content 14 What to take into account before creating BIM
content
 3. Do you already have your product modeled in 3D?
• Yes
Any of the following file formats can be used: tsc, skp, dxf, dwg, ifc,
ifcZIP, ifcXML, igs, iges, dgn, stp, step
Recommended Tekla Structures object type: Shape (page 18), created
by importing the file to the Tekla Structures shape catalog.
Note: After importing, check that the imported shape is solid. If it is
not, make corrections in the original software and import the updated
file again.
Tip: To make your BIM content usable in connections and other
components in Tekla Structures, use the shape for an item and then
create a custom part of it.
Alternatively, if you do not use Tekla Structures, you can upload
(page 30) product geometry files as a 3D product catalog directly to
Tekla Warehouse using the 3D product catalog uploading option.
• No
Model the product in Tekla Structures.
Recommended Tekla Structures object types:
• Bolt or bolt assembly (page 21)
Bolt elements are defined in the Tekla Structures bolt catalog. Bolt
assemblies are defined in the bolt assembly catalog.
• Part or attached parts converted to an item (page 18)
• Custom part (page 19), created from an item
4. Is your product a standard, off-the-shelf object or a special, custom-made
object?
• Standard object
A low level of detail, such as only a space reservation, is enough in end-
user models. No detailed drawing is needed.
Tip: End users can use a DWG drawing to show the product in Tekla
Structures drawings. There is no need to include detailed objects in the
model.
Recommended Tekla Structures object type: Custom part
Examples: Standard embeds
• Custom-made object
A high level of detail and a detailed drawing, such as one that includes
welds, is needed for fabrication.
Recommended Tekla Structures object types:

Get ready for creating and sharing BIM content 15 What to take into account before creating BIM
content
 • Part, if the end-user models usually contain only one instance of
this product
• Custom part (page 19) that includes the part or assembly, if the
end-user models usually contain many instances of this product
Custom parts are easy to duplicate in the end-user models.
5. Are there different variations of your product?
• Always create a separate object for each variation.
6. Is the geometry of your product fixed or parametric?
• Fixed (dimensions do not vary)
Recommended Tekla Structures object types:
• Bolt (assembly) (page 21)
Examples: Regular bolt, or straight base bolt in the bolt catalog
• Item in a custom part (page 19)
Examples: Bent-end base bolt
• Profile (page 20)
• Parametric (dimensions may vary)
Recommended Tekla Structures object types:
• Custom part (page 19)
• Standard: Use a space reservation, see question 4 above
• Custom-made: Use a detailed (custom) part, see question 4
above
• Parametric profile (page 20)

Tips for sharing BIM content

• Consider whether you want to provide and share separate 3D objects, or
develop an intelligent solution or combination of your products.
A complete solution with automatic tools to place your product BIM
content in end-user models helps to lock end users into favoring your
products, but it might require cooperation with a partner or developer.
• If your products are sold worldwide, consider creating the BIM content so
the same content can be used globally. Alternatively, you can customize the
BIM content for different regions and translate it to different languages. In
Tekla Warehouse, you can translate content and collection pages, and you
can list the countries where your products are available.

Get ready for creating and sharing BIM content 16 What to take into account before creating BIM
content
 • Before publishing any BIM content such as custom components or .NET
plugins, we encourage you to protect your work and intellectual property
from copying.
Obfuscate your BIM content to prevent reverse engineering. You can use
automated tools and software to do this.
If your company has a digital signature, we recommend that you digitally
sign your BIM content. By digitally signing content, such as .tsep installers,
you increase your end users' confidence in your company.

Get ready for creating and sharing BIM content 17 What to take into account before creating BIM
content
3 Create BIM content in Tekla
Structures

You can create or have your Tekla partner or development expert create BIM
content using Tekla Structures or Tekla Open API. The Tekla Structures object
types that you can use to model your building products include shapes, items,
custom components, profiles, bolt assemblies, and material grades. You can
also create BIM content that combines different object types into one content
item in Tekla Warehouse.
For example, you can combine a custom part (.uel file) and the related
profile, or the related item and shape into one content item.
The Tekla Structures version that you use to create the BIM content affects the
Tekla Structures versions in which the end users can use your BIM content. We
recommend that you use the oldest version where you want your BIM content
to work. Also consider which version your end users use. If you want to use
features in the latest Tekla Structures version, use the latest version.

NOTE Before you upload any BIM content to Tekla Warehouse, test the content in
Tekla Structures.

3.1 Create shapes and items

Use shapes in Tekla Structures when you want to model and show your
building products explicitly using a geometry that represents the real-life
geometry. Shapes and items are useful when the end users do not need to
edit the geometry nor create production drawings out of the model for these
specific products.
An item is a Tekla Structures model part that has a three-dimensional shape.
Unlike other parts, items do not have a profile.
A shape is an item property that specifies the item's geometry in space.
Products such as formwork and bought-out items are typical use cases of
shapes and items. For other products, such as bolts where accurate threads

Create BIM content in Tekla Structures 18 Create shapes and items

 are not often required to be shown, defining bolt assemblies in Tekla
Structures might produce better performance than modeling the bolts as
items.
1. In Tekla Structures, open a model.
2. If possible, model the geometry using basic Tekla Structures parts.
You can use a single part, or several parts that are attached to each other.
3. Convert the part to an item.
Alternatively, you can use the part to create a shape, or you can import a
solid shape, for example from SketchUp. Then add an item in the model,
and in the item properties in the property pane, click ... next to the Shape
box to select the shape that you just created or imported.
You can also create shapes by exporting Tekla Structures parts as .ifc
or .skp files, and then importing the files using the shape catalog.
4. If necessary, you can modify the item geometry further in Geometry
editing mode.
To use an item in connections in the same way as other Tekla Structures parts,
such as beams and columns, and to avoid the limitations related to items, you
can define a custom component whose type is Part, and include the item in
the custom part. See the following section Create custom components
(page 19) for more information.

3.2 Create custom components

Create custom components in Tekla Structures when the end users need to
use parametric components, such as parts that move in relation to each other
in a formwork brace, or if the end users need to edit the product geometry, or
produce fabrication drawings for the products.
In Tekla Structures, a custom component is a component that a user creates
and uses for creating model objects whose composition the user can modify
as a group. A custom part is a custom component for creating a part that
cannot be created by using any existing part command or part profile in Tekla
Structures. Typically, custom parts are used to create parts that have a
complex composition. For example, castellated beams and sandwich panels
are often created as custom parts. You can also share items as custom parts.
1. In Tekla Structures, open a model.
2. Define a custom part using the Custom Component Wizard.
When running the wizard:
• Set Type to Part.
• On the Advanced tab, clear the Use the center of the bounding box
in positioning check box.

Create BIM content in Tekla Structures 19 Create custom components

 • In the model, select an item or other objects that you want to include
in the custom part.
• Select one or two positions to de ine the reference points of the
custom part.
For examples of reference points for embeds, see Input points of
different embed types in Tekla Developer Center.
3. If you want to make the custom part parametric so that it adapts to the
changes in the model, add variables to it.
For example, you can bind the custom part to other model objects, or
control custom part properties, such as the item shape.
To do this, and to minimize the number of parameters, follow these
instructions in Tekla Developer Center:
• Embed creation in practice
• Basic requirements for standard embeds > Minimize the number of
parameters
• Creating standard embeds using custom components
For more information about custom components and their parameters,
see the custom component videos in Tekla User Assistance or on the Tekla
Software channel on YouTube.
4. If you want to create several similar custom parts, you can duplicate the
custom part deffinition and then replace the original item with another,
similar item.
This way you do not need to create parameters and dependencies from
scratch again for every similar custom part.
For more information, see Tips for adding similar custom parts which use
items in Tekla Developer Center.
5. If you want to share several custom components as a group, you can
create and publish the group in the Applications & components catalog.

3.3 Define profiles

When the building product that you want to model is a standard or custom
profile that is fabricated in various lengths with cuts, fittings, and other details,
you can define profiles in Tekla Structures.
A profile is a Tekla Structures part property that specifies the cross sections of
the whole length of the part.
1. In Tekla Structures, open a model.

Create BIM content in Tekla Structures 20 Define profiles

 2. Create new profiles or modify the profile catalog according to your needs.
For an example of creating a hollow-core profile, see Creating Parametric
and Fixed Profiles (for Hollow-core Slabs) in Tekla User Assistance.
3. Save the profile catalog.
4. Save the model.

3.4 Define bolt assemblies

If you are a bolt manufacturer, you can model your products in Tekla
Structures by defining bolt assemblies.
A bolt assembly is a set of bolt elements that consists of a bolt, a stud, or a
screw, and possibly the related washers and nuts.
1. In Tekla Structures, open a model.
2. Modify the bolt catalog and the bolt assembly catalog according to your
needs.
For example, you can add single bolt elements (bolts, studs, nuts,
washers) or entire bolt assemblies.
3. Save the catalogs.
4. Save the model.

3.5 Define material grades

Define new material grades in Tekla Structures when you use very specific
materials in your products, and when there are no suitable material grades
available in the default material catalog in your Tekla Structures environment.
For example, you might need a new material grade with a special density for
plastic hole reservations or blockouts.

1. In Tekla Structures, open a model.

2. Add a new material grade, or copy an existing grade and modify it.
3. Save the material catalog.
4. Save the model.

Create BIM content in Tekla Structures 21 Define bolt assemblies

 3.6 Create formwork systems
If you are a formwork provider, contact your local Trimble Solutions office or
Tekla Structures representative and ask for separate instructions.
You can also use the generic formwork system that is available in Tekla
Warehouse as a recommended example of how to create and package BIM
content for your formwork systems.

3.7 Test your BIM content in Tekla Structures

When you have finished modeling the BIM content, do the following:
• In Tekla Structures model views and the shape catalog, check that the items
and their shapes are solid. When shapes are solid, they do not have holes
or invisible areas, or are not missing a face or an edge.
• Test that the content is correctly shown in Tekla Structures drawings and
reports.
• Test that the content is correctly exported in the IFC format.
• If needed, check that the content can be added to custom components.

3.8 Create support material for your BIM content

In addition to the content item descriptions and other metadata in Tekla
Warehouse, it might be a good idea to also provide more detailed information
about your BIM content to the end users.
You can create installation instructions or user guides to accompany your BIM
content, especially when you need to explain longer workflows, or provide
step-by-step instructions. You can include the instructions in the same content
item as the BIM content in Tekla Warehouse, and the end users can download
the instructions along with the BIM content. These instructions can be .pdf
files, for example.
If you are planning to create a .tsep installer for your BIM content, you can
explain to the end users which files the installer installs and where the files are
installed. This information helps the end users to make sure that the files are
saved in the correct folders, and are read from there when the BIM content is
used in Tekla Structures.
In the content information in Tekla Warehouse, you can also add links to
videos that instruct the end users how to use your BIM content or products,
and email and website addresses for further support.

Create BIM content in Tekla Structures 22 Test your BIM content in Tekla Structures
 4 Share BIM content as Tekla
Structures extension packages
(.tsep)

When your BIM content is ready and tested in Tekla Structures, you can collect
some types of BIM content into Tekla Structures extension packages before
uploading the content to Tekla Warehouse.
Tekla Structures extension packages, also known as .tsep installers, can be
used for sharing not only applications, but also larger numbers of custom
components and shapes. Using .tsep installers is an easy way to share
content that is needed in all new Tekla Structures models, because the .tsep
contents are automatically installed in the correct folders.
For example, the custom component files (.uel) can be installed in the
components_sketches folders in the common environment folder structure,
and the shape files in the profil\Shapes and profil\ShapeGeometries
folders.
For existing models, custom components can be inserted directly into each
model from Tekla Warehouse.

WARNING Do not use .tsep installers to share profiles, bolt assemblies, or material
grades. The .tsep contents override all the existing catalog content in
these catalogs and replace the existing profiles, bolt assemblies, or
material grades in the end-user environments.

Individual profiles, bolt assemblies, and material grades can be exported

separately and then inserted directly into the existing Tekla Structures models
where the updates are needed, or imported manually as .lis or .bass files,
and then if needed, shared using the firm or project folder.

Share BIM content as Tekla Structures extension 23 More about .tsep installers
packages (.tsep)
 4.1 More about .tsep installers
Running a .tsep installer does not require administrator rights. Using .tsep
installers is useful when the end users of your BIM content do not have
administrator rights for certain folders, for example, Program Files in
Windows. Instead, the ProgramData folder is used.
The .tsep installers are forward-compatible with new Tekla Structures
versions, and the Migration Wizard can be used to migrate .tsep contents
from one Tekla Structures version to another. There is no need to create a
new, separate .tsep installer for each Tekla Structures version.
When the .tsep installers are downloaded from Tekla Warehouse to the
C:\ProgramData\Trimble\Tekla Structures\<version>\Extensions
\To be installed folder, the contents will be automatically installed when
Tekla Structures is started the next time.
If your company develops applications using Tekla Open API for Tekla
Structures, these applications can also be shared as .tsep installers. When
using .tsep installers, no knowledge of Microsoft Installers (.msi) or
specialized software is needed. The extension developers do not need third-
party software to distribute their products as all of the necessary tools are
provided with Tekla Structures.
For more information about .tsep installers, see Tekla Structures Extension
Package in Tekla Developer Center.

4.2 Create and upload a .tsep installer

When you start creating a .tsep installer, you need to have the BIM content
files and their folder structure ready. You also need to create a manifest file
and have a thumbnail image.
The manifest file is an .xml file that defines which files and folders will be
included in the .tsep installer and where the files will be installed when
the .tsep installer is run. You can create the manifest file by using the
Manifest Generator that can be downloaded from Tekla Warehouse.
Every .tsep installer must have a thumbnail that will be shown in Tekla
Structures Extension manager. The recommended size of the thumbnail is
650*488 pixels.
1. Gather all the needed BIM content files into one folder for easier creation
of the .tsep installer.
Using one folder also makes it easier to manage the content updates later
on.
For example, a .tsep installer could contain these content files:
• Custom component files (.uel)

Share BIM content as Tekla Structures extension 24 Create and upload a .tsep installer
packages (.tsep)
 • Applications & components catalog definition files for grouping
(<prefix>_ComponentCatalog.ac.xml)
• Standard files for custom components
• profil folder including subfolders for shapes (.xml) and shape
geometries (.tez) that define items
• Configuration files (.csv) for component placing tools
• Ribbon definition files
• Translation files (<prefix>_ComponentCatalogDefinitions.ail)
2. Download the TSEP Manifest Generator content item from Tekla
Warehouse.
A .zip file containing Manifest_Generator.exe and the related
instructions (Instructions_ManifestGenerator.docx/pdf) is
downloaded onto your computer.
3. Extract the .zip file.
4. Read the downloaded Manifest Generator instructions.
5. Double-click the Manifest_Generator.exe file to open the Manifest
Generator dialog box.
6. In the Manifest Generator dialog box, do the following:
a. Enter the needed information according to the instructions.
For example, you can define the folders where the manifest file and
the .tsep installer will be created (Save folder and Output folder),
from where the BIM content files will be collected (Source folder),
and where the .tsep contents will be installed on the end users'
computers (Target folder).
We recommend installing the custom component .uel files in
C:\ProgramData\Trimble\Tekla Structures\<version>
\Environments\common\components_sketches. You can use
subfolders for different types of custom components.
The default location where the .tsep installers install extensions is
C:\ProgramData\Trimble\Tekla Structures\<version>
\Environments\common\extensions, where each extension will
have a subfolder.
b. Click Add files to show the content files and their hierarchy in a tree
structure.
c. If needed, click Add files again to add more files, or modify the file
hierarchy by using the Remove selected target or Clear all buttons.
d. Click Generate to create the manifest file.
The manifest file is placed in the folder that you indicated in Save
folder.

Share BIM content as Tekla Structures extension 25 Create and upload a .tsep installer
packages (.tsep)
 If you need to modify the manifest file, we recommend that you use
NotePad++.
For detailed information about the contents and editing of the manifest
file, see Creating Tekla Structures extension packages > Editing the project
definition (manifest) xml file in Tekla Developer Center.
7. Go to the folder C:\Program Files\Tekla Structures\<version>
\bin and double-click the TeklaExtensionPackage.Builder.exe file.

TIP To make it easier and quicker to start the .tsep installer creation
the next time, create a desktop shortcut to the
TeklaExtensionPackage.Builder.exe file.

8. In the Tekla Structures Extension Package (TSEP) builder and test

runner dialog box, do the following:
a. Click Select a (*.xml) project file and browse for the manifest file.
The product name, version, and thumbnail are read from the
manifest file.
b. If your company has a digital signature, we recommend that you
digitally sign the .tsep installer. Use the Sign, verify and install a
Tekla Extension Package section in the dialog box.
By digitally signing your .tsep installers and BIM content, you
increase your end users' confidence in your company.
c. When the data is correct, click the Create package button.
The .tsep installer is placed in the output folder that you defined in
the manifest file.
9. Test the .tsep installer.
a. Copy the .tsep installer to the C:\ProgramData\Tekla
Structures\<version>\Extensions\To be installed folder.
b. Start Tekla Structures.
The installation should start and the BIM content files should appear
in the target folder, which is usually an environment folder.
c. If the installation does not start, or if there are errors in file locations
or files, check and fix the manifest file and/or the Manifest
Generator and Tekla Structures Extension Package (TSEP) builder
and test runner settings. Then create the .tsep installer again.
10. When the .tsep installer works as intended, upload it to Tekla
Warehouse. Follow the instructions in Upload BIM content to Tekla
Warehouse (page 28).

Share BIM content as Tekla Structures extension 26 Create and upload a .tsep installer
packages (.tsep)
 In Tekla Warehouse, use one of the following uploading options:
• Files from disk and then the Tsep file type for custom components
and shapes
• Application for applications

See also
Creating Tekla Structures extension packages (including the BoltGroupCreator
example)
Versioning applications in Tekla Warehouse
How to download and run .tsep installers (page 38)
Download and install an application

Share BIM content as Tekla Structures extension 27 Create and upload a .tsep installer
packages (.tsep)
5 Upload BIM content to Tekla
Warehouse

When your BIM content is ready and tested in Tekla Structures, and you have
possibly created a .tsep installer, you can create a content item in Tekla
Warehouse to upload and package the content. Then test the content item,
and publish it by placing it in a public collection.
A content item in Tekla Warehouse is a logical group of files. Each content item
can contain several types of content files that are needed for your BIM content
to work in the end users' Tekla Structures models. For example, a group of
custom components, an application, or a combination of these can be
included in one content item. It is also a good idea to include instructions for
end users about where to place the downloaded files and how to use your BIM
content.

5.1 Tips for content information

When you are uploading your BIM content to Tekla Warehouse and creating
collections, content items, and versions, remember the following tips.
• Use unique, identifiable thumbnails for content items and collections.
• Tagging helps end users find your content. If your content is used globally,
consider different languages in tags and keywords.
• Give the content versions unique names, especially if there is more than
one version of a content item.
• In the Details box, add any useful content information that you want the
end users to see on the Details tab of the content item. For example, you
can add links to videos that explain how your BIM content and products
can be used.
• Provide a good point of contact for the end users to get support. Add
contact details such as links to websites or support email addresses.

Upload BIM content to Tekla Warehouse 28 Tips for content information

 5.2 Ways to group and upload custom components
For some types of content, such as custom components, there are several
grouping and uploading options.
For example, you might want to group components by product family. In Tekla
Warehouse, you can view statistics about downloads by each collection and
content item, so you might also consider grouping the components and
creating the content items so that it is easy to keep track of the needed
statistics.
Custom components can be uploaded directly from a Tekla Structures model,
or first exported from Tekla Structures and then uploaded to Tekla Warehouse
as .uel files, or as .tsep installers (page 23).
If you upload custom components from an open Tekla Structures model using
the Files from Tekla Structures option in Tekla Warehouse, each component
is uploaded as a separate .uel file. However, you can include several .uel
files in one content item in Tekla Warehouse.
If you want to group custom components and include several custom
components in one .uel file, export the custom components from Tekla
Structures to a single file using the Publish command in the Applications &
components catalog.
If you want to export several custom components but each custom
component to a separate .uel file, select the custom components in the
Applications & components catalog, right-click, and then select Publish
separately.
You can also collect content into a group that you create in the Applications &
components catalog. You can then publish the group as a catalog definition
file and share the definition file (<prefix>_ComponentCatalog.ac.xml)
from the model folder along with the component content in Tekla Warehouse.
The exported files can then be added to content items in Tekla Warehouse
using the Files from disk option.

What and how to In Tekla Structures In Tekla Warehouse

package
One or several custom Export from the Use the Files from disk
components, one .uel Applications & option
file, one content item components catalog
using the Publish
command
Several custom Export from the Use the Files from disk
components, Applications & option
several .uel files, one components catalog
content item using the Publish
separately command

Upload BIM content to Tekla Warehouse 29 Ways to group and upload custom components
 What and how to In Tekla Structures In Tekla Warehouse
package
Several custom In addition to the .uel Use the Files from disk
components as a group, files, publish the group option
several .uel files with from the Applications &
one catalog definition components catalog
file
Several custom Open the model Upload from the model
components, to the same content
several .uel files, one item using the Files
content item from Tekla Structures
option
Several custom Open the model Upload from the model
components, to separate content
several .uel files, items using the Files
several content items from Tekla Structures
option
.tsep installer Use the Files from disk
option and the Tsep file
type, or use the
Application option

Thumbnail images and other custom component images (.bmp) are

automatically included in the .uel files and inserted into the \attributes
folder under the model folder when the .uel files are imported to Tekla
Structures.

5.3 How to upload BIM content

1. If you want to upload shapes, custom components, profiles, bolt
assemblies, or material grades directly from a Tekla Structures model,
open the model.
If you are uploading export files, other single files, .tsep installers, or
applications, you do not need to open Tekla Structures or any model.
2. Go to Tekla Warehouse and sign in.
3. Upload the BIM content to your company's private online collection in
Tekla Warehouse.
Enter the relevant content information to be shown for the content item
in Tekla Warehouse. See Tips for content information (page 28).
Note that the uploading process varies depending on the type of the
content and depending on how the content is meant to be downloaded
and used later on.

Upload BIM content to Tekla Warehouse 30 How to upload BIM content

 • Custom components and other catalog content can be uploaded
directly from a Tekla Structures model by using the Files from Tekla
Structures option in Tekla Warehouse.
For example for profiles, this method allows you to select profile
catalog branches, such as I profiles, HEA profiles, or L100-200 profiles,
or certain single profiles even from different branches. This method is
useful when the profile catalog of an end-user model is missing certain
single profiles, and the end users want to add them, but do not want
to lose the existing profile catalog structure, or override the existing
profiles.
• Catalog export files (such as .lis and .bass), object property files,
and templates can be uploaded manually as single files by using the
Files from disk option in Tekla Warehouse.
You can use this method for profiles, for example, when you want to
export only a part of the profile catalog structure together with the
profiles and want the end users to receive the same profile catalog
structure as in the model where the profiles were exported from.
This option can also be used for files that are not proprietary to Tekla
Structures (for example, .pdf), and for .tsep installers that install
custom components and shapes.
• For embeds and other accessories that are defined by using shapes,
you can build a 3D product catalog and use the 3D product catalog
uploading option in Tekla Warehouse.
For example, the following types of shape geometry files can be
uploaded: .skp, .tsc, .dxf, .dwg, .ifc, .ifczip, .ifcxml, .igs, .i
ges, .stp, .step, .dgn
• Applications (.tsep, .msi, .zip containing .exe) have their own
uploading process and use the Application option in Tekla
Warehouse.
• For content that is already available for download, for example, on
your company's or some other website, you can use the Partner
download link option in Tekla Warehouse.
• Formwork systems can be packaged in a similar way as the generic
formwork system example that is available in Tekla Warehouse.
For some types of content, such as custom components and shapes, there
are several uploading options, including Tekla Structures extension
packages (page 23) (.tsep).
For a detailed list of content and file types allowed in Tekla Warehouse,
see Files and file types for Tekla Warehouse content in Tekla User
Assistance.
4. Test the content item by sharing it privately with a colleague or another
test user and by asking them to download the content.

Upload BIM content to Tekla Warehouse 31 How to upload BIM content

 5. Ask the test users to verify that the downloaded content works as
intended in Tekla Structures.
6. If your BIM content is dependent on the region that it will be used in,
create separate collections in Tekla Warehouse for different regions.
Create one or more public localized, region-specific online collections for
your company's finalized BIM content.

NOTE Remember to create these collections as an organization. This

cannot be changed afterwards.

Note that you can translate the content information, such as titles,
descriptions, and metadata, on the collection pages and content item
pages in Tekla Warehouse.
7. When the BIM content and the content item have been finalized and
tested, choose the same option (a or b) here as you chose in step 3 in First
steps in Tekla Warehouse (page 12):
a. If you have the finalized content alone in a (localized) private online
collection, change the collection visibility from Private to Public to
publish all the content in the collection.
b. Move the finalized content item that you want to publish from the
private online collection to the correct (localized) public collection.

See also Publish content as an organization in Tekla Warehouse and Tekla

Warehouse - Upload content (video) in Tekla User Assistance.

5.4 Example: How to combine content types to a content

item
This example shows how various content types can be combined and
uploaded into one content item in Tekla Warehouse, so that the end users get
everything they need to be able to use the content in their Tekla Structures
models.

Barsplice couplers and terminators

The content used as an example here is created by Barsplice Products Inc. The
content works in the USA environment in Tekla Structures.

Upload BIM content to Tekla Warehouse 32 Example: How to combine content types to a
content item
 In the Barsplice Couplers and Terminators content item in Tekla Warehouse,
the Barsplice Environment Files package contains a .tsep installer. It
includes tools and various content types for creating reinforcing bar splicing
objects in Tekla Structures models.
The splicing objects have been modeled as shapes and in detail so that when
the shapes are used for items in models, the items show the exact geometry of
the real building products. These images show some examples of the bar
splice products in the shape catalog:

Upload BIM content to Tekla Warehouse 33 Example: How to combine content types to a
content item
 In the Barsplice Custom Components package in the same content item,
there are also custom components for existing end-user models.
The Barsplice Couplers and Terminators content item takes account of
many of the aspects described in this guide.
The most important thing from the end-user perspective is the way how the
BIM content is inserted into the model. Since Tekla Structures comes with
generic rebar coupler and end anchor tools for efficient and semiautomated
placing of the bar splice custom components, the content creator provides a
set of configuration files that enable the use of these generic tools after
installing the .tsep file. The saved configuration files make the use of the
tools convenient.
Due to the nature of these bar splice products, it is useful to see their
geometrical representations in the model. Also in deliverables such as IFC files,
it is useful to see how the couplers are placed and oriented. For this reason,
the content creator has used items instead of generic, round beam-like parts
to represent the accurate geometrical shape of each product and to make it
easy to control and check the rotation of the couplers.
The content creator also provides grouping for the shape catalog. Groups keep
the shape catalog well-organized, and help the end users find individual
shapes from the shape catalog.
The required custom components are also placed in the Tekla Structures
environment folder structure and automatically inserted into all new models.
For existing models, the Barsplice Couplers and Terminators content item
includes a package (Barsplice Custom Components) that enables inserting
these components directly into the models.
When an end user downloads and installs the Barsplice Environment Files
package (.tsep) from the content item:

Upload BIM content to Tekla Warehouse 34 Example: How to combine content types to a
content item
 • The shapes are imported to the Tekla Structures shape catalog and stored
in their own groups under Barsplice Products. The group structure is
determined by the Barsplice.ShapeCatalog.Groups.xml file that is
included in the .tsep installer.

• Custom components are inserted into new models and stored in the
Reinforcing --> Barsplice Products group in the Applications &
components catalog according to the
Barsplice_ComponentCatalog.ac.xml file.

• The *.anchors.csv and *.couplers.csv configuration files for the

rebar coupler and end anchor tools are placed in the system folder in the
common environment folder.
Barsplice Components
For existing models, the Barsplice Custom Components package can be used
to insert the custom components into models. Alternatively, the end users can
import these custom components through the Applications & components
catalog after installing the environment files.

Upload BIM content to Tekla Warehouse 35 Example: How to combine content types to a
content item
6 Maintain BIM content in Tekla
Warehouse

After you have added BIM content to Tekla Warehouse, follow these
instructions in Tekla User Assistance when you need to update, modify,
localize, or delete content, or when you want to check the usage statistics of
your content.
• To view usage statistics, see View statistics about content use in Tekla
Warehouse.
• To update versions of .tsep installers, see Versioning applications in Tekla
Warehouse. These instructions can be found in Tekla Developer Center.
• To modify or delete versions or metadata of content items, see Modify
content items in Tekla Warehouse and Modify versions of content items in
Tekla Warehouse.
• To add thumbnails to your BIM content, see Create a thumbnail for a
collection or content item in Tekla Warehouse.
• To localize content information, see Translate content information in Tekla
Warehouse to other languages.
• See also Tekla Warehouse - Modify content (video).

Maintain BIM content in Tekla Warehouse 36

 7 Instruct end users how to
download and install BIM
content

Instruct the end users of your BIM content how to download and install the
content, and ensure that the instructions are easily available to them.
The end users should consider whether they need the BIM content in one
Tekla Structures model or certain single models only, or in all new models.
They should then choose the location for the content accordingly. For
example, custom components and shapes that are downloaded into a model
folder are only available in that model, but content downloaded onto a shared
drive or server is available for everyone who can access that location. Also, a
combination of using both the model folder and shared locations might be a
good idea.
Also, let the end users know which downloading method is the recommended
one for your BIM content and specific content items, or if both methods can
be used.

7.1 Ways to download BIM content

Instruct the end users of your BIM content to select an option that is suitable
for them and that works with your BIM content.
• Insert into model
This option is available for native Tekla Structures content, such as custom
components, bolt assemblies, profiles, shapes, material grades, and
reinforcement.
To insert content into an open model in Tekla Structures, see Insert Tekla
Warehouse content into a Tekla Structures model in Tekla User Assistance.

Instruct end users how to download and install 37 Ways to download BIM content
BIM content
 TIP In addition to searching and browsing in Tekla Warehouse, BIM
content can be found in Tekla Structures by using the Tekla
Warehouse section of the Tekla Online side pane.

• Download, Just download, or Download 64-bit

These options can be used with content that is not proprietary to Tekla
Structures, with applications (.msi, .tsep, .zip with .exe), and with
single files (catalog export files, model object property files, model
templates, cloning templates, drawing setup files, and report templates).
For more information, see Download content from Tekla Warehouse in
Tekla User Assistance.

TIP Custom components can be imported automatically to new Tekla

Structures models by using the advanced option
XS_UEL_IMPORT_FOLDER that can be set in the Tekla Structures
user.ini file. Download all custom components (.uel files) to
certain folders and enter these folders as the value for
XS_UEL_IMPORT_FOLDER to easily import the custom components to
new models.

• To download and run .tsep installers, see the separate instructions below.
See also Download or install multiple content items from Tekla Warehouse and
Tekla Warehouse - Install content (video) in Tekla User Assistance.

7.2 How to download and run .tsep installers

When Tekla Structures extension packages (.tsep) have been downloaded
from Tekla Warehouse, their content needs to be installed so that the content
can be used in Tekla Structures models.

WARNING Running .tsep installers that contain profiles, bolt assemblies, or

material grades replaces all the existing content in these catalogs.
Do not use .tsep installers with profiles, bolt assemblies, and
material grades.

Advise the end users to do the following when they want to download and
run .tsep installers that contain custom components, shapes, or applications:
1. Go to Tekla Warehouse and sign in.
2. Search or browse for the content item that contains the needed .tsep
installers.
3. Select the content item to download.

Instruct end users how to download and install 38 How to download and run .tsep installers
BIM content
 4. If there are several versions of the content, ensure that you download the
version that is compatible with your Tekla Structures version.
5. Depending on the type of the content, do one of the following:
• If the content item contains a .tsep installer that installs custom
components or shapes, open the Tekla Structures model where you
want to install the content, and then click Insert into model in Tekla
Warehouse.
The .tsep installer is copied to the C:\ProgramData\Trimble
\Tekla Structures\<version>\Extensions\To be installed
folder.
To install the content to the appropriate catalog in Tekla Structures,
restart Tekla Structures and open the model.
• If the content item contains an application, download the .tsep
installer by using a suitable option: Download 64-bit or Download.
A .tsep file is downloaded onto your computer.
Import the .tsep contents to the Tekla Structures Applications &
components catalog by using Tekla Structures extension manager.
Alternatively, you can follow the instructions in Install .tsep packages in
Tekla User Assistance. The following three ways are available:
• Direct installation
• Installation in Tekla Structures extension manager
• Centralized installation (for system administrators)

TIP If you need to uninstall the .tsep contents, you can use Tekla
Structures extension manager.

Instruct end users how to download and install 39 How to download and run .tsep installers
BIM content