Best Drafting software used civil engineer's

1) Revit :-

    Autodesk Revit Architecture is a robust architectural design and documentation software application created by Autodesk for architects and building professionals. The purpose of Autodesk Revit Architecture is to get the help about safety in structures, obtaining insight how buildings will perform before construction begins, develop better quality designs and improve the project delivery. In particular, benefit of Revit as in modeling, generating cost schedules, collaboration and change management. The tools and features that make up Revit Architecture are specifically designed to support the building information modeling (BIM) workflow.

Features of Revit :-

• Autodesk Revit Architecture allows changes made in one part of model to be automatically propagated to other parts of model.

• It offers many other tools and features that can enhance productivity of architects and egineers.

• This may be used to fast-track for complex design and building construction.

• It supports a multi-discipline collaborative design process.

• Intelligent model-based process used to plan, design, construct and manage infrastructure.

• Automatically update floor plans, levels, sections and 3D views.

• Revit includes tools for architectural design, structural design, detailinge and engineering and construction professionals.

Application of Revit :-

• It is used to access the building information from the database of building models.

• It is used to analyze, simulate and connect in the cloud to improve the design

• It supports a multi-discipline collaborative design process.

• It is used as conceptual design tools to sketch and create freeform models

• It adds architectural elements to the building model such as walls, doors, windows and Components

• Applicable to improve project outcomes with multi-disciplinary BIM software

• It is used to produce consistent, co-ordinated and complete model-based building designs & documentation.

2) ETAB :-

      The innovative and revolutionary ETAB is the ultimate integrated software package for the structural analysis and design of buildings. ETAB is Finite Element Analysis software created by CSI and is used to model and analyze the structures mainly buildings and their components to see how a building behaves under various loads. It is the integrated software package for the structural analysis and design of building Incorporating 40 years of continues research and development, ETAB software becomes sophisticated and comprehensive design capabilities for a wide range of materials and insightful graphics. It allows users quickly and easily understand the analysis and design result. ETAB integrated every aspect of the engineering design process.

Features of ETAB :-

• This software is used for modeling tools with templates, analysis methods and solution

• techniques. It gives to user's full control of the units used with all model data and displays the results in units desired.

• This software offers a single user interface to perform the modeling, analysis, design, and reporting.

• ETABS integrates every aspect of the engineering design process 

• CAD drawings can be converted directly into ETABS models or used as templates onto which ETABS objects may be overlaid.

• Plan and elevation views are automatically generated at every grid line to allow for quick navigation of the model.

• Malti-tower buildings can now easily be modeled by using the new tower feature the ETAB

• The data can be viewed and edited using on-screen dockable tables which is quite useful for defining a model from spreadsheets or viewing analysis or design results. 

• This software has a built-in library of standard concrete, steel and composite section properties.

• ETABS has a many different link elements available for users to accurately represent the behavior of a structure.

• ETABS will automatically generate and apply seismic and wind loads based on various domestic and international codes. 

• It allows for an unlimited number of load cases and combinations. 

• This software is robust when it comes to assigned loads and further, uniform or non uniform surface loads can be assigned in any direction, not just gravity.

Application of ETAB :-

• ETAB is an analysis and design based software which is much useful for structural Engineers.

• CAD drowning can be converted directly into ETABS model or used as template onto which ETABS objects may be overload. 

• It is used for design of steel and concrete frames, camposite beams, composite column, steel joist etc.

• ETABS is used for the analysis of concrete shear walls and concrete moment frames.

• The model may be realistically rendered and all results can be shown directly on the structure 

• Comprehensive and customizable reports are available for all analysis and design output.

• It gives schematic construction drawing of framing plans, schedules, details and cross sections.

•This software is applicable to Performance-Based Design (PBD) from traditional structural design concepts and represents the future of earthquake engineering.

• ETABS has dynamic analysis capabilities which include the calculation of vibration modes.

• It is applicable to pushover analysis features including implementation of FEMA 356, hinge and fiber hinge option based on stress-strain.

3)  3D Architect Home :-

               The architectural designer use 3D software to create models of buildings and other structures. Further, these models are used to test the safety and design potential of buildings. This software is home architect software made for professionals and construction companies. It is a powerful and extensive tool-set for creating 2D floor plans, elevations, section details etc.

 

Features of 3D Architect Home :-

• The tool allows you to create 2D floor plans but you can easily convert them to 3D models for better view.

• It saves time, money and avoids costly mistakes.

• It creates detailed drawing sets for planning applications.

• Flexible import and export options including dxf, dwg, pdf, jpg, bmp, png, 3ds. 

• Fully customize items including walls, windows, doors, skylights, roofs etc. 

•It is a fully interactive graphics for modifying construction elements and individual componentparts.

• This software creates complex roof structures, split levels, unlimited floors and buildings,

• It has landscaping tools for mark-out plot, jaths, ponds etc and for setting height levels

• Make updates to your design quickly using advanced editing tools.

• It access to video tutorials, in-depth documentation, step by step guides, FAQ's, forum UK Phone & Email software support. 

• It is a single User License allows up to 2 activations with satisfactory solution guarantee.

• Display your project from every angle at every step and generate ultra-realistic ronderings.

•This software immediately views your project in 3D as you design your plans in 2D. Any object added in 3D or 2D is automatically added to the other plan.

Application of 3D Architect Home :-

• It uses for self-builders, architects, home improvers, architectural technologist, property developers, remodelers, interior designers etc. 

• It uses for step to create the bare-bones structure of your home such as foundations, walls, carpentry, roofing, and more.

• This software used to technical plans such as electrical network, plumbing installations, heating, ventilation, air conditioning etc.

• Design and position your doors and windows according to your specifications such as size, colour, texture, location, direction of opening, etc. 

•It uses to select and compare different textures and materials like stone, brick, tiles, etc.

• It makes garden design and landscape easy which includes mark-out an area, add plants & flowers and watch them grow.

4) Build-Master :-   

                 Build-Master is most popular Indian software for RCC building design and an application release for the automation tool, designed by the software development team, Inedo. Build-Master is the flagship software of Ensoft which is a complete package for RCC building analysis, design, drawing and estimation. BUILD MASTER is user friendly software and complex functions of the package are driven by simple menu commands. This software is an automated deployment tool which is using by the reputed design engineers all over India. It combines the features to manage and automate processes primarily related to continuous integration, database change scripts and production deployments. This tool is browser-based and able to be used "out-of-the box".

Features of Build-Master :-

• Build Master is simple to install, learn and use.

• Build Master also has a tighe integration with PowerShell and is often used along with other DevOps tools.

• Single user version software comes on CD and the same can be installed on muliple computers whereas it runs only on one computer at a time where the lock is connected

• The schematic 3D elevation of building is generated from the same plan data at various levels.

• Build Master can ensure the protection of sensitive information.

• The detailed working drawings are prepared without entering even a line command in drafting package.

Application of Build-Master :- 

• It is a complete package for analysis, design, drawing and estimation of RC buildings.

• The program perform earthquake and wind analysis by generating 3D space frame model.

• It is employed to manage, store, control access to tokens, passwords, and API Key that are involved in deployments.

•  Measurements at site can be cross-chocked easily at the office before billing har bending schedule, generated by DUILD-MASTER can be sent to site for action by fillers..

5) STRAP :-

                 STRAP (Structural Analysis Programs) is sophisticated and user-friendly software that allows engineers to design and analyze of many different structures. It is a windows based suite used with finite element static and dynamic analysis programs to buildings, bridges and other structures. This software is one of the most comprehensive and versatile structural analysis and design software systems available in the market today. It is extremely used by large construction companies, government agencies, international agencies, engineering firms, educational and research organizations worldwide. STRAP software's has unique design capabilities make it an outstanding structural design program the practices. It also includes modules for the design of steel sections and reinforced concrete structural elements in accordance with American, European, Canadian and other international codes.

Features of STRAP :-

• STRAP contains a "wizard" library of standard structures that enable you to define your model by specifying only a few parameters and may be extended the user.

•Load combinations can be created after analysis is performed and combinations can be changed instantly without solving the model again.

• STRAP enables you to copy any part of the model without concern for duplicate beams and nodes as the program automatically eliminates them. 

• It is powerful which enables to assemble casily to a complex structure with repetitive parts and each defined as a sub-model.

• The program utilizes 64-bit processors so solution time for large models can be reduced up to 90% on computers with four processors.

• The graphical interface of STRAP is very powerful and at the same time interactive with easy to use.

• Every drawing on the screen can be printed, imported into other documents and drawings.

• STRAP uses graphical input for the generation of models and loads.

Application of STRAP :-

• STRAP is suitable for analysis and design of frames, towers, tanks, bridges, domes and just about any elastic structure. 

• It is the easiest to use due to its superb graphic user interface (GUI) and context sensitive help system. 

• It is used for the analysis and design of wide range of skeletal and continuum structures such as buildings, bridges, shells, towers and more. 

• Complete analysis and design can be performed for any structure without ever referring to joint or beam numbers.

• This software used for modal analysis, seismic response spectra calculations according to many codes and time-history response calculations.

• STRAP used for designing and detailing of reinforced concrete structures, post tensioned concrete, structural steel and composite members. 

• This software can be used for automatic bridge analysis and design of water retaining structures

6) Tekla :-

Tekla is a software product family that consists of software for analysis, design and detailing and project communication in all modern construction project. It is a building information modeling software which is able to model the structures that incorporate different kinds of building materials including steel, concrete, timber and glass. Tekla allows structural drafters and engineers to design a building structure by using its components using 3D modeling which generate 2D drawings and access building information.

Features of Tekla :-

• The software enables users to create and manage 3D structural models in concrete or steel and guides them through the process from concept to fabrication.

• Tekla Structures is known to support large models with multiple simultaneous users, but is regarded as relatively expensive, complex to learn and fully utilize.

• It uses only one tool for all materials (concrete, timber, steel etc.) and projects.

• Open collaboration and collaborate with project members and third parties.

•Localized software gets help from local support in more than 20 languages. 

• It is powerful software automate your repetitive structural calculations.

• One can choose from one or more of our regularly updated calculation libraries or can write his own.

• Single solution for all common element and material.

• It creates transparent calculations that are easy to check.

• This software compares different design options and makes changes quickly.

Application of Tekla :-

• Tekla Structures is used in the construction industry for steel and concrete, detailing, precast, and cast-in-situ.

• Engineers have used to model the stadiums, offshore structures, plants, factories, residential buildings, bridges and skyscrapers.

• It is used for different kind of purposes such as business, education and partner.

• This software is used to write, store and distribute your own custom calculations.

• It is used to analyses the frame such as trusses, cranked beams and portal frames.

• The software visualizes input and results graphically in real time 

7) AUTOCAD :-

AutoCAD is a commercial computer-aided design (CAD) and drafting software application. Developed and marketed by Autodesk, AutoCAD was first released in December 1982 as a desktop app running on microcomputers with internal graphics controllers. Before AutoCAD was introduced, most commercial CAD programs ran on mainframe computers or minicomputers, with each CAD operator (user) working at a separate graphics terminal. AutoCAD is also available as mobile and web apps.

Features of AUTOCAD :-

• 3D Modeling and Visualization

• Photorealistic Rendering

• Solid, Surface and Mesh Modeling

• Visual Styles

• PDF and DGN Import/Export/Underlay

• Section Planes

• 3D Scanning and Point Clouds

• 3D Navigation

• Photo Studio

• Base, Projected and Section Views

• Text Settings

• Data Extraction

• Data Linking

• Smart Dimensioning

• Layouts

• Layout Viewports

• Leaders

• Express Tools

• Tables

• Fields

• Parametric Constraints

• Revision Clouds

• Collaboration

• DWG and Image References

• Import 3D Models

• Sheet Set Manager

• Reference Navisworks Models

• Ribbon Tabs and Panels

• User Interaction

• Tool Palettes

• Dynamic Blocks

• 2D Drafting, Drawing and Annotation

• Command Line

• Installation and Customization

• Object Selection and Isolation

• Multifunctional Grips

• AutoCAD Mobile App

• Geographical Location and Online Maps

Application of AUTOCAD :-

• Architectural drawing of all kinds

• Interior design and facility planning

• Work-flowcharts and organizational diagrams

• Proposals and presentations

• Graphs of all kinds

• Drawings for electronic, chemical, civil, mechanical, automotive and aerospace engineering applications

• Topographic maps and nautical charts

• Yacht design

• Plots and other representations of mathematical and scientific functions

• Theater set-lighting designs

• Musical scores

• Technical illustrations and assembly diagrams

• Company logos

• Greeting cards

• Line drawings for the fine art

8) STAAD Pro :-

               This software is developed by Bentley which is 3D structural analysis and design software. It performs comprehensive analysis and design for any size or type of structure. There are three flexible STAAD. Pro options such as a) STAAD. Pro which is the basic software which includes Finite Element Method analysis and physical modeling, b) STAAD. Pro Advanced, which is faster, more advanced and can do complex analysis and c) Structural Enterprise, the most popular structural applications in a single license.

Features of STAAD Pro :-

• It converts physical model into analytical model automatically.

• It can optimize concrete and steel BIM workflows with the full integration of physical members and surfaces.

• It can design for high seismic regions or every conditions using finite element analysis.

• It can analyze and design simple or complex structures for a wide range of loading conditions including gravity loads in combination with lateral loads.

• It can share structural models.

• It uses international structural profiles.

Application of STAAD Pro :-

• It can design steel, concrete, timber, aluminum and cold formed steel structures. 

• It can design using nearly all international design codes.

9) Civil 3D :-

               This software is developed by Autodesk. It is civil infrastructure design and documentation software. This software supports BIM (Building Information Modeling) to improve drafting, design and construction documentation.

Features of Civil 3D :-

• It enhances collaboration and workflow efficiencies from design to production.

• Feature lines from a surface can be obtained.

• It creates a new dynamically linked alignment and profile.

• It can resize pipes and reset inverts and compute the energy and hydraulic gradient lines.

• It creates plan and profile sheets by including multiple plan or profile views on a single sheet.

• It creates points, lines and curves.

• Data for any drawing object can be created and used.

Application of Civil 3D :-

• This software is used to create three dimensional models of land, water or transportation features.

10) Microsoft project ( MSP) :-

                  Microsoft Project (MSP) is project management software developed and sold by Microsoft. it is beneficial in developing plans, assigning resources to tasks, tracking progress, managing budgets. Project management software helps to accomplish project goals, objectives and organizational expectation. This software provides better monitoring and controls the project for time management and cost management in construction. Microsoft project is the modem tool of project management to overcome the obstacles faced due to traditional way of planning and management. It helps for the optimum and effective organization of activities which helps to give the vision to complete the project in planned duration with consideration of economy.

Features of Microsoft project (MSP) :-

• Resource management including labour, equipment and material management. 

• Suitable for work resources, cost resources and material resources. 

• Easy to modify the inputs and maintaining the records of the project.

• Can link the schedule with procurement and get the cash flows required.

Application of Microsoft project (MSP) :-

• Used in architecture, construction, and engineering industry for periodic control of work.

• Used for coordination with subcontractors, pre-planning of work, scheduling, claim analysis, tracking, bidding, design development, cost management, and maintenance.

•  To establish the ease of monitoring and control over the project.