According to recent market research, the global structural engineering software market is projected to grow significantly — from approximately $11.6 billion in 2024 to nearly $20 billion by 2032 — driven by increasing demand for automated compliance solutions. One of the tools leading this shift is SDC Verifier, which automates design code verification across major FEA platforms.
The Limitations of Manual Structural Checks
Manual structural checks have long been the standard in engineering, but they come with inherent challenges:
- Time-Consuming Processes: Manual calculations and verifications are labor-intensive, often leading to extended project timelines.
- Susceptibility to Human Error: Even the most meticulous engineers can make mistakes, which can compromise the integrity of a structure.
- Inconsistencies in Application: Different engineers might interpret codes and standards differently, leading to inconsistent results.
These limitations affect the quality of the engineering work and have financial implications, as errors can lead to costly rework and project delays. Manual processes also make tracking and auditing compliance difficult over time, especially across large or complex projects. In industries where safety and precision are critical, relying solely on manual checks increases the risk of oversights that could have serious consequences.
Introducing SDC Verifier: Revolutionizing Structural Analysis
SDC Verifier is an all-in-one software solution for structural design, FEA analysis, and verification according to design codes and standards. SDC Verifier can be used independently or as an extension to Ansys Mechanical, Femap, and Simcenter 3D.
SDC Verifier offers a modern FEA interface that simplifies even the most complex modeling tasks. Engineers can easily import their existing 3D drawings, mesh files, or finite element models from other tools. Its intuitive interface enables engineers to interact efficiently with imported models, ensuring quick modifications and clear visualization.
Engineers can efficiently perform:
- Fatigue checks (e.g., Eurocode 3)
- Plate buckling analysis (e.g., DNV RP-C201)
- Structural strength assessments
- Bolt verification as per ISO or AISC guidelines.
Unlike static FEA templates, SDC Verifier enables engineers to apply parametric updates — such as changing material thickness or boundary conditions — without rebuilding entire models, significantly speeding up iteration cycles. Instead of rebuilding models from scratch, you only need to adjust key input parameters – making the process significantly faster and reducing human error. This dual focus on usability and speed helps engineers stay productive without sacrificing accuracy.
Key Benefits
- Automated Code Compliance: SDC Verifier automates the verification process against various international standards, reducing the time spent on manual checks.
- Comprehensive Reporting: The software generates detailed reports, facilitating clear documentation and efficient review processes.
- Seamless Integration: Designed to work with popular FEA tools, SDC Verifier extensions – SDC for Ansys, SDC for Femap, and SDC for Simcenter, enhancing existing workflows without extensive retraining.
- Support for Multiple Standards: The software includes predefined rules for 45+ design standards, including Eurocode, DNV, ISO, AISC, ABS, API, and many others, as well as Custom Standards, ensuring compliance across different industries and project requirements.
Impact on Structural Analysis Workflows
The integration of SDC Verifier into structural analysis workflows offers several transformative benefits:
- Efficiency Gains: Automating routine verification tasks allows engineers to focus on design and optimization, accelerating project timelines.
- Enhanced Accuracy: Reducing manual intervention minimizes the risk of errors, leading to more reliable and safer structural designs.
- Regulatory Compliance: Automated checks against multiple standards ensure that designs meet necessary regulatory requirements, reducing the risk of non-compliance.
Case Study: Offshore Converter Platform Structural Verification by IGN
A real-world example of SDC Verifier’s usefulness comes from a project by IGN-Ingenieurgemeinschaft Nord, which was tasked with designing additional structural modules for an offshore converter platform. These modules had to support heavy components across multiple levels and endure lifting, transportation, and operational loads—all while meeting rigorous industry codes.
Using SDC Verifier, the engineering team performed:
- Member checks in compliance with DIN EN 1993-1-1
- Plate buckling analysis according to DNV RP-C201
- Joint checks based on NORSOK N-004
- Fatigue and weld strength assessments for cyclic offshore loading
Figure: Plate buckling verification of offshore platform in SDC Verifier
Instead of relying on time-consuming manual calculations or general-purpose FEA tools, IGN accelerated its workflow with automated code checks and detailed reporting, identifying critical stress areas early and optimizing the design accordingly.
Results achieved:
- Faster verification of welds, plates, and structural members
- Full compliance with multiple standards in a single workflow
- Improved report clarity, aiding in approval and documentation
- On-schedule delivery of a validated, transport-ready module
This case highlights how SDC Verifier helps engineering teams streamline multi-standard verification, reduce design iterations, and improve speed and accuracy in offshore structural projects.
Conclusion
The shift from manual checks to smart verification is a trend and necessity in modern structural engineering. Tools like SDC Verifier are at the forefront of this transformation, offering solutions that enhance accuracy, efficiency, and collaboration.
By integrating SDC Verifier into structural analysis workflows, companies can automate code checks, accelerate reporting, and ensure compliance with leading standards — all within a unified environment that complements existing FEA tools.