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Peikko Designer® BOLTED CONNECTION: Latest Updates Transform Structural Design

Peikko Designer® is a cloud-based software that enables engineers to smoothly select and design optimal products for various structures and connections. The software is free for registered users and includes calculation modules for different products, with a modern and intuitive user interface based on interactive 3D graphics.

BOLTED CONNECTION is Peikko's latest module for designing bolted connections in precast construction. Our Software Engineering team has delivered significant enhancements to the BOLTED CONNECTION design tool, focusing on streamlined workflows and expanded capabilities for complex structural projects.

Enhanced user experience

The latest version introduces intuitive 3D object selection, making element selection within the 3D component view faster and more natural. Redesigned dialogs feature a modern interface that improves accessibility to key parameters and settings, creating a more user-friendly design environment.

3D view of grout once it has been selected.
© Peikko Group Corporation

3D view of grout once it has been selected.

New object types and flexibility

A major addition is the introduction of Pedestal as a new object type, enabling more accurate modeling of real-world base conditions. This enhancement allows engineers to handle a wider range of structural scenarios with greater precision.

The software now supports freeform geometry for both Pedestals and Supports, moving beyond standard Column definitions. Users can define Circle, Stadium, and Polygon shapes, though these remain experimental features requiring careful result evaluation.

3D view of rectangular Pedestal once it has been selected.
© Peikko Group Corporation

3D view of rectangular Pedestal once it has been selected.

Advanced bolt customization

Engineers can now define custom lengths for headed bolts, potentially eliminating the need for complex Cone rebar in certain applications. This feature makes on-site work more efficient, though custom anchor lengths result in non-standard products with extended delivery times.

Customized HPM39L-800 anchor bolt selected.
© Peikko Group Corporation

Customized HPM39L-800 anchor bolt selected.

Improved reinforcement handling

Next-generation rebar functionality delivers more consistent and reliable reinforcement layouts. Rebar now automatically conforms to standardized bending radii, ensuring compliance and constructability. New bottom-surface rebar enhances capacity for splitting failure calculations in specific scenarios.

Surface rebar placement in the Stadium-shaped Support.
© Peikko Group Corporation

Surface rebar placement in the Stadium-shaped Support.

Enhanced results and infrastructure

The software provides clearer, more detailed calculation results, offering better transparency and supporting informed engineering decisions. A new, robust database structure supports greater flexibility for modeling complex geometries as projects scale.

Enhanced hollow cones in 3D with more detailed results for the active rebars.

Technical impact

These updates address real-world design challenges while maintaining the intuitive operation of the BOLTED CONNECTION tool. The enhanced 3D capabilities, expanded geometry options, and improved rebar handling collectively enable more accurate modeling of complex structural connections.

The software continues to evolve based on user feedback, with ongoing development focused on providing engineers with powerful, flexible tools for connection design. Users can access detailed release notes, register, and provide feedback through the official designer forum at peikkodesigner.com.

More information: https://www.peikkodesigner.com/