QuickFrames USA manufactures steel components for the commercial construction industry. As the leader in engineered structural support frames, QuickFrames proudly holds its distinction as the only patented, bolt-on, adjustable alternative to welded-in roof frames. Their original product line – an adjustable roof framing system to support RTUs on buildings with open-web joists – has grown into multiple lines of framing products spanning nearly all types of commercial roofing and floor support systems.

In an effort to tackle this problem, SkyCiv collaborated with QuickFrames to develop the AutoDesigner utilizing our API technology.

QuickFrames products rely on cold-formed steel sections that are easily expanded or contracted depending on the client’s needs. So there were three main aspects to the solution – Loading, Worst Case Testing and Optimization.

For one, the loading was site-specific and a time-consuming part of the process. The Configurator automatically calculates and applies necessary wind, snow and seismic loads and generates a ready-made analysis model with appropriate load combinations. The 3D visualisation displays this analysis model in real-time, allowing both the client and engineer to review the proposed design.

In addition, it was important to consider the worst case, as it wasn’t always clear what position the client was going to use the product – so it had to be designed accordingly. The solution automatically tests the different possible configurations, tests each scenario as per AISI requirements and then finalizes the design including connectors.

A final piece being added is the ability to optimize the design through different gages to test the most efficient design. All automated, in a matter of minutes.