If you have your own program that generates the SPACE GASS data, if it can write the data into a SPACE GASS text file, CSV file or MS-Excel file in the correct format then it can be imported into SPACE GASS.There are four main ways in which data can be input into SPACE GASS.
Structure Wizard
If your model resembles one of the standard structures available in the Structure Wizard then it is the easiest way to quickly generate your model in SPACE GASS. Even if it isn’t exactly what you want, you can then use the other graphical or datasheet tools to modify the generated model to your exact requirements.
Datasheet Input
Each component of the SPACE GASS model can be input, edited or viewed in a Datasheet. For example, there are datasheets for nodes, members, plates, section properties, member loads, masses, etc. Datasheets are an invaluable tool for viewing data or making changes, particularly using the multi-row editing tool.
Graphical Input
You can use Graphical Input to input or edit any parts of the structural data or load data in your model. This is a very powerful tool that has the advantages of allowing you to make large changes quickly and see your changes visually as you make them.
Importing from Other Programs
SPACE GASS is able to link to other programs and import the structural model in a wide variety of formats.
Some of the commonly used CAD and BIM (building information management) programs that can be linked to SPACE GASS include Tekla Structures (XSteel), ProSteel, Microstation, Frameworks Plus, StruCAD, Revit Structure, Bentley Structural and AutoCAD.
You can also import from SPACE GASS text files, CSV (comma separated value) files, DXF files, SDNF files, Microstran ARC files, StaadPro STD files and MS-Excel files.
If you have your own program that generates the SPACE GASS data, if it can write the data into a SPACE GASS text file, CSV file or MS-Excel file in the correct format then it can be imported into SPACE GASS.
If you wish to know the format of a CSV or MS-Excel file that is suitable for importing into SPACE GASS, the best way is to generate a small model in SPACE GASS using the structure wizard or some other method and then export it into a CSV or MS-Excel file and use resulting file as a pattern. The SPACE GASS text file format is fully explained in Text file format, but you can also generate a text file from SPACE GASS and use it as a pattern.
The other formats are quite complex and are simply generated by the programs that you are importing your SPACE GASS model from.
For more information, refer to "Linking to other programs".
Common Database
Each of the above data input methods operates on the same common database, therefore you can use any combination of methods to input your data. For example, you can use the structure wizard to generate the basic frame geometry, then graphically edit the geometry and apply some loads, followed by opening up some datasheets to view the data and make further modifications to the structure or loads.
When some data has been input, regardless of the amount or type, you can produce an output report on the screen or printer. In addition, regardless of which input method you use, the graphics display area displays the current state of the structural model graphically. A graphics hardcopy can also be produced at any time.