From Revit to SAP2000: Automating Structural Workflows With Dynamo and Excel

Abstract

This thesis presents a workflow that bridges Revit and SAP2000 using Dynamo and Excel to streamline the transition from CAD modeling to finite element analysis. Instead of relying on external plugins, the approach focuses on transparency, flexibility, and customizable engineer-driven control. Starting with a Revit model, Dynamo is used to extract structural elements as 2D lines and areas. Using custom DesignScript logic, joints are shifted, duplicates are resolved, and framing is aligned to ensure the model is suitable for SAP2000 “.xls” filetype import. Excel acts as the transfer medium to SAP2000, taking advantage of Dynamo data export to excel and SAP2000 data import functional. Once in SAP2000, structural analysis is performed using the design tool and the designed steel section profiles are then exported back to Revit, where they are matched and reassigned dynamically using element type parameters. This workflow minimizes redundant modeling and shortens the time from concept to analysis without sacrificing clarity or quality control.

Two hypothetical scenarios, a single-story and two-story frame with an opening, were used to test run the script’s applicability. Challenges such as meshing panels, modeling openings, and exporting area connectivity to SAP2000 were addressed with Dynamo tools and design script with an emphasis on list level management, offering a foundation that can be expanded to a wider reach of applications beyond columns, frames and floors. Ultimately, this thesis provides the beginnings to a practical roadmap for automating structural workflows while keeping engineers in control of their data and assumptions.