Designer Solutions Software from Pryda provides designers, builders, specifiers, architects and engineers with an all inclusive, simple-to-use tool for calculating accurate designs for floor and rafter truss systems. It is available for download from the Pryda website.
General Manager of Pryda, Maurie Anglin, said that the Designer Solutions Software can be used to design structural elements for a variety of commercial and residential constructions. Its precise calculations simplify the floor truss system design process by enabling users to determine the depth required for floor truss systems over any given area, and also take into account concentrated and additional floor loads from load bearing walls, spas and tiled areas. This results in designers being able to ascertain the overall dimensions of a building and produce a suitable design for the required floor stiffness and load carrying capacity.
In addition to its truss systems design capabilities, the flexible Designer Solutions Software allows for the use of cantilevers and off centre loading, and includes tools for rafter and purlin designs for a variety of wind speeds and roof materials. A cost comparison feature is also included to enable designers to choose the most cost effective solution for each project.
The Designer Solutions Software also includes the Pryda Brace module for designing wall bracings for timber constructions. The system is designed in accordance with AS1684 and enables the calculation of wind bracing system capacities and racking forces for a range of bracing systems. Shear forces present and the number of bracing unit tie-downs required can also be determined. This software module has the ability to save designs as jobs, and allows for the output of bracing plans and submissions suitable for councils and other building authorities.
Pryda Frame is another component of the Designer Solutions Software. This software module assists designers and engineers in the design of timber frame construction elements. It can be used to design the majority of non-truss structural timber components and is able to calculate the most effective sizes of structural beams, joists, roof members, wall plates and studs.
Musclebeam is also included in the Designer Solutions Software. This module is a high performance structural beam that employs Pryda technology to create a nailplate joined beam in lengths of up to 12 metres. Construction costs have the potential to be reduced and design flexibility may be increased by the Musclebeam software’s long continuous spans and reduced section sizes.
Pryda Designer Solutions Software also features a detailed database and technical information regarding Pryda timber connectors, including information such as design selection, performance and installation details. Pryda timber connectors were designed and manufactured with the aim of simplifying timber construction for a variety of building applications.