FrameCAD™ is a powerful, yet user-friendly frame layout software package used to create frames to be built using the Steel FrameMaster rollformer.
By keeping the user interface as simple as possible, and the backend script driven, FrameCAD has become an incredibly flexible and easy to use package.

The FrameCAD Solutions System

CAD Interface

The FrameCAD user interface is based on standard CAD packages, allowing coordinate entry, line and text placement, and basic drawing tools, such as trim, extend, and offset. More specialized tools also exist for placing frames and framing sections, which will automatically be labeled for easy identification. Explicit tool actions (such as web notches, lip notches, service holes and dimples) can be placed on built frames.

FrameCAD uses Visual Basic Scripts to create frames. This means, that by entering minimal information, a frame can be built to a defined standard, as set out in the script. A script is a very basic computer program, saving time by automatically laying frames out in a prescribed method, such as a local building standard.

These scripts can be easily modified to suit individual needs, or building requirements. Click images below for a larger view.

Software interfaces.

Many other software packages offer functionality quite different to FrameCAD, which in some instances can be quite important. These may include :

• Structural Engineering
• Complete Building Design
• Project Management
• Job Costing
• Factory Management

For these purposes, FrameCAD has an XML interface.This interface provides a standard information exchange format. Design information can be automatically transferred from architectural detail and into framing layout, so FrameCAD can turn it into frames at the click of a button, and sent onto production.

Software which is currently having the required XML export feature setup include :

• Cadsoft
• Truss D&E

If you are currently working with software, and would be interested in having it interface with FrameCAD, we are more than happy to help you.

FrameCAD has an export function to create a VRML file for viewing the framing in 3 dimensions.

Not only is this a great sales tool for demonstrating to customers the design with a virtual walk-through, it enables a draughtsman to easily check designs for errors, saving correction time on site.

To view the 3D image, you will need Cortona VRML Viewer. Click here to download it.

The 3D image can be found here.

FrameCAD Solutions Ltd issue an annual right of use (12 month lease) for all FrameCAD software, renewable on the anniversary of the initial purchase (see FrameCAD Solutions Ltd End User License Agreement for full terms and conditions). FrameCAD Solutions Ltd does not transfer rights of the FrameCAD Solutions Ltd Intellectual Property or issue a perpetual license for use.

Any customers on existing software contracts will continue to get support from MFT for their current version of software for 24 months from March 1, 2007 (phone support and software patches). Customer wishing to upgrade will need to move to the new pricing program. After March 1 2009, MFT will not support customers on old software contracts but you can continue to use the software in your production environment.

Download our End user Licence agreement pdf.

Download our Terms of Trade pdf.