Real Time Steel Member Design in Prokon SUMO
In this video, I show how to use Combine Design Groups to design steel members directly inside Prokon SUMO. This workflow allows you to check your steel sections and update them within SUMO, without needing to export to the separate Combine Design Link module. Was this helpful? Submit Cancel Thanks for your feedback!
Enhanced Spring Modeling Workflow in Prokon SUMO
Prokon SUMO has introduced a powerful workflow for modeling non-support springs, giving engineers greater control over connection behavior. This new functionality allows you to define springs with asymmetrical stiffness, meaning you can assign different stiffness values for positive and negative actions along the same axis (e.g., upward vs. downward bending). This feature is enabled through […]
5 New Helpful Functions in Prokon SUMO
Introduction “New” is always a relative term in software development. While some features may have been available for several months—or even longer—they still qualify as new when viewed against the broader history of a program. In the case of Prokon SUMO, a few recently introduced tools have quietly but significantly enhanced the user experience. The […]
Specifying Effective Length Factors in Prokon SUMO
Overview of Analysis Capabilities Prokon SUMO supports a comprehensive range of both static and dynamic analysis types, making it a versatile tool for structural engineers. The static analysis options include: The dynamic analysis options extend SUMO’s capability further and include: For most of these analysis types, users can customize their parameters and settings within the […]
How to Model Wind Loads on a Billboard using SUMO
Prokon’s SUMO module offers exceptional versatility, making it possible to model a wide range of structures, from residential buildings to complex industrial facilities. In this video, we demonstrate best practices for modelling a billboard structure and walk through the process of applying wind loading effectively. This content is particularly relevant for structural engineers and anyone […]
Billboard Concrete Foundation Design using SUMO
Prokon’s SUMO module is more than just an analysis tool — it also features a range of built-in Design Links that allow for the direct design of specific components within your model. These Design Links significantly streamline the workflow, saving both time and effort. In this video, we focus on the Base Design Link, showing […]
From Wind Loads to Baseplate Design using SUMO
Prokon’s SUMO module is more than just an analysis tool — it also features a range of built-in Design Links that allow for the direct design of specific components within your model. These Design Links significantly streamline the workflow, saving both time and effort. In this video, we focus on the Baseplate Design Link, showing […]
Simulating Slab on Elastic Foundation with FEA Solids
Introduction Prokon continues to enhance SUMO‘s functionality, steadily turning it into a more powerful analysis platform. A notable recent feature is the ability to convert Plane Shells into Solid Meshes. I often use this capability when dealing with slab-to-column or slab-to-beam interactions. This raised a question: what if a slab on elastic foundation is simulated […]
How SUMO Automatically Calculates Spring Stiffness
Introduction If you have ever tried to simulate an elastic foundation (soil) in a program like Frame, you know how repetitive the process can be. You must create coincident nodes, track node numbers, define springs, and assign stiffness values. The approach is accurate but also time-consuming. At the same time, it helps reveal the mechanics […]
Comparing FEA & Moment Coefficient Method for Slab Design
Introduction Finite Element Analysis (FEA) has become a cornerstone of modern engineering practice. Its widespread adoption has transformed the design workflows across numerous disciplines—from automotive to aerospace and especially in structural engineering. In fact, it’s nearly impossible to imagine contemporary engineering without it. The primary reason for its popularity lies in its ability to simulate […]
IDEA StatiCa as a Design Link for Prokon SUMO
Today, we’re exploring IDEA StatiCa as a Design Link for Prokon SUMO — a powerful design link that significantly enhances structural workflows for pro-consumer users. My name is Jacobus Oberholster, and I’m a technical consultant for AEC and Prokon at Micrographics. If you have any questions after reading this or would like a personalized demo, […]
Prokon SUMO Now Connects to IDEA StatiCa
Nearly a year after the first hint, the long-anticipated integration of SUMO and IDEA StatiCa is finally here! This game-changing collaboration combines SUMO’s powerful structural analysis with IDEA StatiCa’s advanced design capabilities, revolutionizing workflows for structural steel engineers. Get ready for seamless integration, enhanced user-friendliness, and limitless design possibilities—taking your steel analysis and design to […]