Multi-user collaboration

Model Share technology

With the new Model Share technology, users can work in a multi-user mode to speed up projects. Several users can connect to the same DWG master model, and work simultaneously. This technology allows for the handling of big projects which need to be achieved in the shortest time.

Specific tools for multi-user mode

A specific “Multi-user” toolbar with all available multi-user tools can be displayed from the Advance Steel toolbar.

Creating a central file

One user must create a DWG central file which can contain some common elements like the grid. The other users connect to this central file, add objects or check out various elements, work locally and then save changes back to the central model for the other users to see their work. Only one user can edit the central file at a time.

Checking out elements

Any user connected to the central Master model can check out elements to work with at any time. This ‘Check out’ action can be done either by selected elements (by picking them or by a window selection), or by using the integrated Search tool (based on user criteria). Once the elements are checked out by one of the users, for security reasons nobody else can modify these elements (delete or stretch them, add cuts or holes, etc.).

Partial checking out

If several users need to check out the same element (e.g. to use an automatic joint between this element and another one), they can partially check out elements;this allows just a partial loading of the element properties (in order to visualize them, but not to modify its section for security purpose), and then a connection can be created by selecting this element.

Users can work remotely

Several users can work on the same project when they are away from the office or otherwise unable to access the central file. When back at the office, users just have to save back their changes to the central file.

Sharing work Users can check in their changes to the central file, so that all users connected to the Master model can see the progress in the modelling. Each user gets a warning message in real time at the bottom-right corner of the screen. Multi-user mode also for detailing Multi-user is also available for detailing work and drawing adjustments.