# Welcome to Shapemaker

**Shapemaker** is a structural analysis platform built specifically for telecom infrastructure. It enables fast, accurate Eurocode-based strength checks for towers, helping engineers and towercos make confident co-location and modification decisions - without spreadsheets or manual guesswork.

Whether you're a structural engineer or working in a tower infrastructure company, this guide will help you get up and running quickly, and show you how to get the most value out of Shapemaker.

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FiHISPBTUCu3TeU404X5A%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=b1674986-6a08-4436-9281-0f456a2ae5d9" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## :rocket: Get Started

If you're ready to dive in, check out

{% content-ref url="/pages/B0WiodQhouq3krzmqX26" %}
[Quickstart](/tutorials/quickstart)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% content-ref url="/pages/sNFPTeu7wrhwXYIBt4lo" %}
[What Shapemaker Does](/overview/what-shapemaker-does)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% content-ref url="/pages/mKXJXvp5vDovODGGeov5" %}
[Shapemaker Features](/overview/shapemaker-features)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% content-ref url="/pages/0rJ76ip51QaOf46SrzSE" %}
[Technical Details](/technical-details/overview)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% content-ref url="/pages/eqfZkO1FIq5ZpbwkCAE5" %}
[Frequently Asked Questions](/help-and-resources/frequently-asked-questions)
{% endcontent-ref %}

Need a personal demo? [Book it here.](https://www.shapemaker.io/contact)

## What you'll find here

These docs are your go-to resource for:

* [**Quickstart**](/tutorials/quickstart) – how to get started fast, from login to running your first analysis.
* [**Features**](/overview/shapemaker-features) – deep dives into the tower builder, modeling ancillaries, and other core capabilities.
* [**Technical details**](/technical-details/overview) – deep dives into how Shapemaker works.
* [**FAQs**](/help-and-resources/frequently-asked-questions) – answers to common questions from both towercos and engineers.

## Want to See It in Action?

Check out our [**Intro Series on YouTube**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WrTJnnHx3HA\&list=PLFUxZkTQFRFTX9eq9Ajt8h87pvWaNiFta\&ab_channel=Shapemaker) to see real workflows in Shapemaker.

{% embed url="<https://www.youtube.com/watch?ab_channel=Shapemaker&list=PLFUxZkTQFRFTX9eq9Ajt8h87pvWaNiFta&v=WrTJnnHx3HA>" %}


# What Shapemaker Does

Shapemaker is a cloud-based software platform used for designing and analyzing telecom infrastructure, such as towers, masts, monopoles and rooftops. The software includes a web application that engineers can use directly in their browsers, as well as APIs that allow other systems to connect to Shapemaker and use its features automatically.

Shapemaker AS is a company that specializes in cloud-based engineering solutions for the telecommunications industry. We empower civil and telecom engineers with tools to design, analyze, and optimize infrastructure like towers, masts, monopoles and rooftops.

## Structural analysis in Europe

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th width="185.3671875"></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Capability</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Description</strong></mark></td></tr><tr><td>Geometry</td><td>3 and 4-legged self-supported lattice towers, monopoles, guyed masts and tripod-rooftop structures build-up from the European hot-rolled and cold-formed members (individual members) made of European steel.</td></tr><tr><td>Material type</td><td>Support European steel </td></tr><tr><td>Member capacities</td><td>Capacity assessment of hot-rolled and cold-formed individual members of European steel</td></tr><tr><td>Connections</td><td>Bolted connection assessment of individual members with most patterns and types covered in the Eurocode. Bolted connection of a tower to its foundation with most patterns and types covered in the Eurocode and ability to account for bolt corrosion. All bolt sizes and all bolt grades covered by the Eurocode are supported.</td></tr><tr><td>FEA</td><td><a href="https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/advanced-fea-capabilities-in-shapemaker">Finite Element Analysis</a> capability covering natural frequency analysis, static and dynamic analysis.<br>Shapemaker has integrated Finite Element Analysis (FEA) solver to support a wide range of structural simulations. This advanced solver, known as <a href="https://opensees.berkeley.edu/">OpenSees</a> was developed by researchers affiliated with the <a href="https://www.berkeley.edu/">University of California, Berkeley</a></td></tr><tr><td>Foundation</td><td>Analyze foundation stability characteristics (bearing, sliding, overturning) for the following foundation types: 4-pedestals with a pad; 1-pedestal with a pad; 4-piers without a pad; 1-pier; Anchor; Raft/pad. Support several soil layers for foundation analysis.</td></tr></tbody></table>

## Wind analysis in Europe

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th width="192.8515625"></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Capability</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Description</strong></mark></td></tr><tr><td>Wind determination</td><td>Automatically determine wind speed values at any location in Europe (from Eurocode maps) and the ability to overwrite wind speed values to a specific wind profile.</td></tr><tr><td>User-defined site-specific wind profile</td><td>Overwrite all wind-related parameters with user-defined wind profile.</td></tr><tr><td>Customize wind directions </td><td>Choose and edit  <a href="https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/customize-wind-directions-for-structural-analysis">wind directions</a> </td></tr><tr><td>Site-specific Exposure</td><td>Automatically analyze roughness of the ground around a structure located in Europe and ability to overwrite automatically determined roughness factor</td></tr><tr><td>Site-specific Topography/Orography</td><td>Automatically analyze topographical characteristics of the ground around a structure located in Europe and ability to overwrite automatically determined topography factor</td></tr><tr><td>Location security</td><td>Remove site location details even after running site-specific analysis to keep its results</td></tr></tbody></table>

## Reporting

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th width="191.29296875"></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Functionality</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Description</strong></mark></td></tr><tr><td>Comprehensive report</td><td>Detailed <a href="https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/how-we-automate-structural-reporting">engineering report</a> - similar to reports delivered by top engineering consultancies</td></tr><tr><td>One page report with drawings</td><td>One page report outlining the overall status of the tower; Tower Key Plan drawing; Detailed overview of discrete ancillaries in plan view at each antenna elevation on a tower; Discrete ancillary clashing alert</td></tr><tr><td>Hide antenna data</td><td>Hide antenna related details of any antenna owners</td></tr><tr><td>Language support</td><td>English, French, German and any other language upon request</td></tr><tr><td>User notes</td><td>Ability to add any user notes to the report</td></tr></tbody></table>

## Ancillaries

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th width="230.9609375"></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Functionality</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Description</strong></mark></td></tr><tr><td>Support for discrete ancillary types, including custom ancillary shapes</td><td>Panel antenna; Microwave dish with shroud; Microwave dish without shroud; Microwave dish as grid; Microwave dish with radome; Omni antenna; GPS device; Yagi antenna; Dipole antenna; RRU module; FTTA box; PTTA box; TMA device; MHA device; Obstruction light; Lightning rod; Helix antenna, Working platform; Custom box shape; Custom cylinder</td></tr><tr><td>Customer’s antenna database</td><td>Searchable and editable discrete ancillary antenna database</td></tr><tr><td>Import/export antenna database</td><td>Export entire discrete ancillary database as a CSV file and import unlimited number of discrete ancillaries from a CSV file to the database</td></tr><tr><td>Import/export site antennas</td><td>Import and export discrete ancillary table as a CSV file for specific site</td></tr><tr><td>Clustering of antennas</td><td>Cluster (combine) antennas into groups and populate discrete ancillary tables with a click</td></tr><tr><td>Linear ancillary </td><td>Definition of frontal projected area for any linear ancillary</td></tr><tr><td>Ancillary shielding</td><td>Possibility to define wind “shielding” of any ancillary. Wind shielding is a factor applied to reduce wind drag of any ancillary to mimic wind “shielding” (wind blocking) of one ancillary by the other</td></tr><tr><td>Automatic Shielding</td><td>Possibility to calculate the  <a href="https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/automatic-shielding-explained">automatic shielding factors</a>  in Shapemaker. For each wind direction, the feature evaluates how a discrete ancillary is shielded by nearby discrete ancillaries delivering more precise results with less manual effort. </td></tr><tr><td>Colocation capability</td><td><p>Account for several owners of antennas on the same tower</p><p>Automatic color-coding of ancillaries to differentiate between ancillary owners</p><p>Exclude ancillary from analysis, but keep it in the ancillary table</p></td></tr><tr><td>Precision location of discrete ancillary</td><td>Manually overwrite automatically determined discrete ancillary location on the tower to position ancillary at any tower location (even inside the tower body)</td></tr><tr><td>Custom force coefficients</td><td>Users are able to input custom force coefficients manually or calculate using manufacturer wind tunnel data.</td></tr></tbody></table>

## UI functionality

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th width="226.046875"></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Functionality</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Description</strong></mark></td></tr><tr><td>3D viewer (digital twin)</td><td><p>Structure, ancillary (discrete and linear), platforms and ladders.</p><p>Visualized in perspective, front, top, left and right views.<br>Read more about our <a href="https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/how-we-rebuilt-our-3d-viewer-from-scratch">3D-viewer and capabilities</a></p></td></tr><tr><td>Map view</td><td>Visualize location of tower portfolio on a map (satellite, street, terrain types, 3D buildings)</td></tr><tr><td>Project grouping with tags</td><td>Ability to group structures into projects with tags</td></tr><tr><td>FEA overview</td><td><p>Visualize structure in the FEA  viewer</p><p>Visualize load cases, member and connection utilization</p><p>Sort by tower panels, members or nodes</p></td></tr><tr><td>Advanced settings</td><td>Possibility to adjust default constants</td></tr></tbody></table>

## Software platform

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th width="162.8203125"></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Functionality</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Description</strong></mark></td></tr><tr><td>API integration</td><td><p>Seamless API integration into asset management platforms such as Sitetracker, Atrebo or Tarantula</p><p>API endpoints: Structures; Advanced settings; Reports; Projects; FEA viewer; <a href="https://opensees.berkeley.edu/">OpenSees</a>; Analysis; Products; Ancillaries; Users; Site; Automation; Default</p></td></tr><tr><td>Accessibility </td><td>Cloud based online application. Optimized for computer screens. </td></tr></tbody></table>

## Business

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th width="195.390625"></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Functionality</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Description</strong></mark></td></tr><tr><td>Business insight </td><td>Get a full overview of your portfolio to make informed decisions based on <a href="https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/business-insights">insights</a></td></tr><tr><td>Map overview</td><td>Plot your portfolio on a map to gain insight on where the load is the greatest.</td></tr><tr><td>Co-location requests</td><td>Answer the co-location request the same day, because Shapemaker allows you to run structural analysis by using just a few seconds and gives you immediate results on the new loading scenario. </td></tr></tbody></table>

## Other product features

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th width="194.26171875"></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Functionality in app</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Description</strong></mark></td></tr><tr><td>TowerBuilder</td><td>Onboard your <a href="https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/towerbuilder">own tower families</a> directly into Shapemaker.<br>To support you through the process, Shapemaker offers a <a href="https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/introducing-towerbuilder">detailed 2D-visualization</a> of the current state of the tower. </td></tr></tbody></table>


# Shapemaker Features

## Video overview

Got a few minutes? Check out our introduction video to Shapemaker.

{% embed url="<https://www.youtube.com/watch?ab_channel=Shapemaker&list=PLFUxZkTQFRFTX9eq9Ajt8h87pvWaNiFta&v=WrTJnnHx3HA>" %}

## Automatic Shielding

Shapemaker automatically calculates the shielding factor for each ancillary for each wind direction. This can greatly improved the overall capacity of the site. Have a look at how we do it :point\_down:

{% content-ref url="/pages/2jnRrBOaf2YAx73HY5dv" %}
[How We Automatically Calculate Shielding Factors](/technical-details/how-we-automatically-calculate-shielding-factors)
{% endcontent-ref %}


# Quickstart

Welcome to the **Shapemaker Quickstart Guide** — a step-by-step walkthrough to help you start analyzing towers with confidence, in just a few minutes.

Whether you're a structural engineer or part of a towerco operations team, this guide is designed to get you from zero to co-location assessment quickly and accurately — without needing spreadsheets or guesswork.

## :tv: About this guide

This guide is based on our 5-part video tutorial series and covers:

1. How to create a tower in Shapemaker
2. How to add antennas, dishes, and feeders
3. How to include site-specific conditions
4. How to run Eurocode-based structural checks
5. How to onboard your tower families using the **Tower Builder**

Each step has its own page with instructions, screenshots, and the relevant video embedded.

> ⏱️ **Estimated time to complete:** 15–20 minutes\
> 🎓 **Who is it for?** Structural engineers, co-location reviewers, project managers\
> 🛠️ **What you’ll need:** A Shapemaker account

## :rocket: Ready to start?

Begin with the first step and follow along

{% content-ref url="/pages/EHtdreLkbFx20wO3norS" %}
[1. Create a Structure](/tutorials/quickstart/1.-create-a-structure)
{% endcontent-ref %}

## :question:Need help?

* Reach out to us at <hello@shapemaker.io>.
* Or book a personal walkthrough: [Book a demo](https://www.shapemaker.io/contact)
* Need demo access? [Get Demo Access!](/help-and-resources/get-demo-access)


# 1. Create a Structure

In this step, you'll learn how to create your first tower in Shapemaker. You’ll start by selecting a tower family (like SM-K) and use modular building blocks to build the structure.

> 🎥 Watch the video:
>
> [How to create a structure in Shapemaker](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lIBsfkxKak8)

## :pushpin: What You'll Do

* Add a new site and structure to your portfolio
* Choose a tower type (monopole, lattice, guyed mast, hybrid, rooftop)
* Build the tower using pre-loaded sections from your tower family
* Preview the geometry in real time

## 🛠️ Steps to Create a Tower

1. Log in to [Shapemaker](https://app.shapemaker.io/).
2. From the [structures overview page](https://app.shapemaker.io/structures), press `+ Add` to add a new site
3. In the dialog, select the tower family you wish to create a site from. In this demo, select the \`SM-K\`. Optionally, add a name and a tag.

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FGP5OtXljtJE6npYOZ9j0%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=1ed1ce7d-3d11-46fe-a659-1bb9f9c4d523" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="success" %}
Shapemaker support structural analysis of lattice structures, guyed masts, monopoles, hybrids (pole + lattice or lattice + pole), as well as standardized rooftops.&#x20;
{% endhint %}

4. Your new site will now appear in the structure list. Select the new entry in the list to enter the site. Let's build up our structure by drag and dropping sections into the \`Structure sections\` box.&#x20;

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FiXavHwLHJglHV3Ss4z5e%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=beff01f3-c694-4b34-9c5e-e579889407ae" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="info" %}
Curious how the sections blocks are made? We'll tell you how to onboard your tower family in [part 6](/tutorials/quickstart/5.-how-to-onboard-your-tower-families)!
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="warning" %}
Not all sections fits each other. If the bottom width does not fit the top width, you will not be allowed to combine the sections.&#x20;
{% endhint %}

5. You now got a complete tower in Shapemaker, including its geometry, cross-sections, and connections! :white\_check\_mark:

{% hint style="info" %}
Press the arrow on the right side of the screen to open the side model view!
{% endhint %}


# 2. Add Ancillaries

Now that your tower structure is in place, it's time to add antennas, microwave dishes, feeders, and other equipment.

> 🎥 Watch the video:\
> [**Add Ancillaries in Shapemaker**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2FURNysGjQA\&list=PLFUxZkTQFRFTX9eq9Ajt8h87pvWaNiFta\&index=3\&ab_channel=Shapemaker)

## 📍 What You’ll Do

* Add antennas, dishes, GPS units, and other equipment to your structure
* Place them at the correct height, azimuth, and position
* Assign tenants (e.g., Telia, AT\&T)
* Add linear ancillaries like feeders and ladders

## 🛠️ How to Add Equipment

1. Open the structure we just created by entering it from the all structures view.
2. Navigate to the `Ancillaries` page. You'll see the option of adding discrete ancillaries (antennas, RRUs, lightning rods etc), and linear ancillaries (feeders & access ladders).

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FYpTZBIgihIlbGCAOj0fQ%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=bd5635a3-4307-4daa-8a32-a701b391958e" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

3. Let's add some antennas. Press the `Add discrete ancillaries from database` field and search for `Ericsson`. You can also search for a specific ancillary type, like `RRU` or `GSM`.&#x20;

{% hint style="info" %}
You can add your own ancillaries to the database in the `Database` tab. There, you could also specify your own custom force coefficient, or calculate the force coefficients from wind tunnel data.
{% endhint %}

4. As you antennas, you'll see the possibility of specifying the tenant, its status, precise positioning and more.
5. Moving to the `Linear ancillaries` tab, you'll see the opportunity to add both feeders and access ladders.&#x20;

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FKFVQi1wFgDrDHRtK9TTi%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=ba63cf5a-cd28-4105-9bf6-1b620bfcfecf" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="warning" %}
We use force coefficient 1.2 for feeders and 2.0 for access ladders.&#x20;
{% endhint %}

## Importing Ancillaries From Other Sources

If you already have ancillary information structured in, e.g., Excel, you can directly import this onto your site. Have a look at [this blog post](https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/importing-discrete-ancillaries-to-sites)!

{% hint style="success" %}
To re-use common ancillary configurations, use the Ancillary Groups functionality found in the top right corner.&#x20;
{% endhint %}


# 3. Perform a Site-Specific Analysis

Site-specific conditions are a core part of Eurocode-compliant structural analysis. In this step, you’ll learn how to automatically generate wind profiles based on the site's location.

> 🎥 Watch the video:\
> [**Add Site-Specific Conditions in Shapemaker**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MLpbymcOHVs\&list=PLFUxZkTQFRFTX9eq9Ajt8h87pvWaNiFta\&index=4\&ab_channel=Shapemaker)

## 📍 Why It Matters

Eurocode requires that you consider site-specific conditions:

* **Terrain category** (e.g. open sea, suburban, forest)
* **Orography effects** (e.g. hills, escarpments)

If you're not accounting for these, you may:

* Be **overly conservative**, rejecting co-locations that could be accepted
* Or worse, **underestimate loads**, risking structural non-compliance

## 🛠️ Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Select the location tab and input the coordinates of your site. Example: 62.45246, 6.38183.
2. Select the correct national annex.

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FyckTGYFn3lwC2jlYbNLt%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=48ebc42d-4291-4a72-bfb3-ce9bf4b8865b" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="success" %}
Shapemaker supports a wide range of national annexes and standards and are continuously adding more.
{% endhint %}

3. After saving, press `Automatic wind profile` to perform an automatic site specific assement. This includes

* Finding the `Fundamental basic wind velocity` based on local wind maps
* For each wind direction, finding the `Terrain Category`&#x20;
* For each wind direction, calculating the `Orography factor`&#x20;

{% hint style="info" %}
All site-specific values can be overruled by the user by clicking `Edit wind profile`
{% endhint %}

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2F5bSY3TOAAMeJGlIdsjIJ%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=f17bc3fc-70cb-4d10-9644-7b930319cc8d" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FgU3HbYENHdDXFjRaiaGL%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=2183d8a6-8444-4861-8752-4f9f222488e4" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="success" %}
If you have precise updated wind data for a site, you can upload and use that data!
{% endhint %}

## ✅ You Now Have

* A site-specific wind profile for your structure according to your national annex
* Terrain and orography effects integrated into your analysis


# 4. Run a Structural Analysis

With your tower geometry, ancillaries, and site-specific conditions in place, you're now ready to run a full structural analysis in Shapemaker — fully aligned with Eurocode requirements.

> 🎥 Watch the video:\
> [**Run a Structural Analysis in Shapemaker**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGniGLJExLM\&list=PLFUxZkTQFRFTX9eq9Ajt8h87pvWaNiFta\&index=5\&ab_channel=Shapemaker)

## 📍 What You’ll Learn

* How to run an analysis
* What Shapemaker calculates in the background
* How to read results: utilization, governing load combinations, deformation
* How to export and review full analysis reports

## ▶️ How to Run the Analysis

1. Go to your structure
2. Press the **Run Analysis** button

   > This will automatically start the complete Eurocode-based calculation process
3. Wait a few seconds. The analysis is typically completed very quickly.

## 🔧 What Shapemaker Calculates

Behind the scenes, Shapemaker just

* Considered all load cases and load combos as required by the Eurocode
* Ran a full FEA analysis (linear or non-linear, depending on the settings & tower type) for all cases
* Calculated capacities for tension & compression for all members
* Capacity checks for members, connections & foundations
* Generated a full report - enough to sign off on a project.

{% hint style="success" %}
How can Shapemaker perform a full static analysis so quickly?

Two intrinsic features of Shapemaker allows us to analyse structures in an unprecedented speed.

First, we're focusing on telecom structures, and have optimised our solution to that.

Secondly, we're cloud based - allowing us to scale our infrastructure based on the analysis request. We most likely analysed more than 50 FEA load cases in parallel to calculate all the internal forces for your analysis!
{% endhint %}

## 📊 Interpreting the Results

Once the analysis in complete, you'll see the newest results by going to the `Results` tab.&#x20;

A full report is also automatically generated.

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FDbXErTl2gX7KWU81v7An%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=963dbcef-7da5-4797-bd02-45705ef6d214" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FM8BCxMUBf3x3hNpyGQq1%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=6e53066d-b7f5-41bb-af07-b7be0f99db21" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>


# 5. How to Onboard Your Tower Families

Have a look at our walkthrough of the TowerBuilder :point\_down:

{% embed url="<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xWO9TQ2j3Rk>" %}


# How To Import Discrete Ancillaries to Your Site

When a new co-location request comes in, speed is everything. The faster you can get data into Shapemaker, the sooner you can run the structural analysis and answer the client. Manually entering ancillary information can be tedious and error-prone—especially for complex sites with many ancillaries. The fastest solution to get your ancillaries into Shapemaker is to upload an Excel sheet to your site (unless you are API-integrated, of course). It is an accurate and scalable way to bring large sets of data into the system—so you can spend less time on data onboarding and more time delivering value.

### **How to use it**

To get started, navigate to the ‘Ancillaries’ tab on a site.&#x20;

There, you can download the template file. It contains a description on what data you need to provide to successfully run an analysis later, including a sheet regarding which geometry data is required for specific ancillary types.

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/6875f5351107eff62bce4c24_Screenshot%202025-07-14%20at%2015.34.19.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Each ancillary you want to mount on a site must be matched to an ancillary in the Shapemaker database. In the import, this can be can be done by one of the following matching methods:

1. **Ancillary id** (as used in the Shapemaker database)
2. **Ancillary name**
3. **Combination of ancillary type, weight and required geometry data** (varies per type)

If more than one ancillary matches your provided data, you can select the preferred one in the dialog after uploading. By default, Shapemaker suggests the best match based on the number of matching criteria listed above.

If any data is missing or could not be correctly parsed, we will show you an error or warning in the respective row. You can hover over the icon to find out more details on the problem.

#### **Warnings**

You will see a warning when a parameter could not be extracted from the data and a default value was used instead. The default values can be found in the template description.

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/6875f4d18f79b0546fb33144_Screenshot%202025-07-14%20at%2015.29.01.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

**Errors**

You will see an error when required data could not be extracted from the file and you cannot continue the import without taking further action.&#x20;

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/6875f5f31f5396f3a299459a_Screenshot%202025-07-14%20at%2015.29.20.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

When the required ancillary data was provided but we could not find a match in the database, you will see an ‘Add discrete ancillaries’ button in the bottom right of the dialog. This button allows you to add ancillaries directly to the database. After filling out the ancillary data and importing them, your file is re-evaluated.&#x20;

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/6875f60ae657b060ad4647ed_Screenshot%202025-07-14%20at%2015.32.53.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

If errors remain, the file is most likely missing some required data In this case, you will need to correct the issues in your original file before re-uploading it.

Once your ancillaries are imported, you can immediately move on to adding site-specific data or proceed directly to running your analysis.

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/6875f62ed9ecd88c853b6242_Screenshot%202025-07-14%20at%2015.33.44.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Alternatively, you can use our API integration to onboard data–eliminating manual steps and reducing the risk of errors.

<br>


# Overview

Dive into our technical descriptions of Shapemaker :point\_down:

{% content-ref url="/pages/2jnRrBOaf2YAx73HY5dv" %}
[How We Automatically Calculate Shielding Factors](/technical-details/how-we-automatically-calculate-shielding-factors)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% content-ref url="/pages/NQ9kMuXYzpWntfIX8kWF" %}
[How Wind Loads Are Applied To The Structure](/technical-details/how-wind-loads-are-applied-to-the-structure)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% content-ref url="/pages/pObAc58EtzwHSGaVTAdE" %}
[How Ancillary EPA is Calculated](/technical-details/how-ancillary-epa-is-calculated)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% content-ref url="/pages/tsovQnzmscguXk9qpcAv" %}
[How the Resistance of Steel Lattice Members is Calculated](/technical-details/how-the-resistance-of-steel-lattice-members-is-calculated)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% content-ref url="/pages/uhV544S78u7XErws1AWj" %}
[Which Standards and Annexes Does Shapemaker Support?](/technical-details/which-standards-and-annexes-does-shapemaker-support)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% content-ref url="/pages/oCk9MqdUjHwlWpppR8KW" %}
[Shapemaker Platform Overview](/technical-details/shapemaker-platform-overview)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% content-ref url="/pages/ky3n79wxlJBci9QRTjd6" %}
[Which design checks does Shapemaker do?](/technical-details/which-design-checks-does-shapemaker-do)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% content-ref url="/pages/ge3A7X56KmEKOzoi7SDy" %}
[How Do We Assess The Site Parameters?](/technical-details/how-do-we-assess-the-site-parameters)
{% endcontent-ref %}


# How We Automatically Calculate Shielding Factors

Eurocode allows for reducing wind on ancillaries by adjusting the Ka factor. In this page we go through how Shapemaker automatically calculates the shielding factors for all ancillaries.

The automatic shielding is a powerful feature in Shapemaker that reduces the wind loads on ancillaries when they are positioned behind one another. When ancillaries are clustered closely, those located behind others experience reduced wind exposure. This feature calculates the reductions automatically, helping users achieve more accurate and efficient tower analyses.

Shapemaker uses the method presented in TIA-222-I, Section 2, Figure 2-13: Shielding Limitations and automatically finds the effect of shielding for each ancillary and then calculates the shielding factors. The shielding factors are calculated in each direction and for each ancillary, considering their size and position in space.&#x20;

![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXcC7HGbBMoAKn7x1d0s7WEeBWrDEe_WhPiaCH5RTCMBd0TeeS1StHZJS7tq8z2WyMgGkKCNjl8n9IPr0VDW1ncb9kDDm2tp9UsOUyvoTFpDLg2B5v2exmhJv-COW_gfm0ADBP7O?key=mC-PLpYjQc2wrCuMngWXgA)

The examples below illustrate how shielding is automatically applied in simple arrangements. Shapemaker can handle complex ancillary configurations, including multiple antennas, equipment, and supporting steel mounts, with wind from any direction. In such dense arrangements, it automatically evaluates the potential shielding effects for each ancillary. However, if the exact shielding impact on a specific ancillary cannot be clearly determined—due to excessive overlap or uncertainty in spatial relationships—the most conservative applicable shielding factor already calculated is used. This ensures safety without overstating the shielding effect.

### Example 1

Small antenna/equipment behind large antenna

<figure><img src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXeVf2_TYOG0-n4TR-ARZnOM77bSOeFpDS_jjMBM3zOEvxNIW0ifCFRmEgw2HuRPQUizZWEfJIBD1oMYitujM01T-xd26NAZTiONlK3sYCqDqA9Ey6ie1zH97IC4djqrZNotJMxN?key=mC-PLpYjQc2wrCuMngWXgA" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th width="99.81640625"></th><th width="76.85546875"></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Ancillary</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Ka</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Comment</strong></mark></td></tr><tr><td>A1</td><td>1.0</td><td>No shielding.</td></tr><tr><td>A2</td><td>0.0</td><td>The antenna is completely shielded behind A1, because it is located within 2x widths (756mm).</td></tr><tr><td>A3</td><td>0.5</td><td>The antenna is partially shielded by A1. Linear interpolation is used to calculate the shielding factor, considering the minimum shielding effect as Ka=1 (no shielding) and maximum as Ka=0 (complete shielding). See calculation below.</td></tr></tbody></table>

Shielding Factor Calculation:

$$
K\_{A\_3} = \frac{1130 - 756}{1 - 0} \div (1512 - 756) + 0 = 0.5
$$

Shapemaker report shielding factor values:

<figure><img src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXfBtCOoo7jhi0Zd20IwIPGO0TnQB0-nMg_Wzlsa20cSg4yaDl4GCtVTWIFH_jLwz0012H8x18fkdlHVYq4hoyxWb-K97Rv3aLtBJ_mBB4n6bxrY99DDTSMGmIfesTqXhfN1iKy9Zg?key=mC-PLpYjQc2wrCuMngWXgA" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Example 2

Large antenna behind small antenna/equipment

<figure><img src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXfoBOLW3s3QnEv1trqc-4e0AgMVDipWfqCZlZwvHSESPYr-v3hWG90wHeRV7Hqi_YQQETye5mmA7bNNPPq6zGfyvjwmf0fd1ZElPYs2y8hNIzgheq60emGL--c55ZSUWHzjdgdgIQ?key=mC-PLpYjQc2wrCuMngWXgA" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th width="95.3515625"></th><th width="70.0234375"></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Ancillary</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Ka</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Comment</strong></mark></td></tr><tr><td>A1</td><td>0.84</td><td>Partially shielded by the A2 RRU. A1 is in the 100% shielding area, but the area of A2 is smaller than the area of A1. Therefore, the shielding factor is calculated considering antennas' proportions, 1 -A2/A1. See calculation below.</td></tr><tr><td>A2</td><td>1.0</td><td>No shielding.</td></tr></tbody></table>

Shielding Factor Calculation:

$$
K\_{A\_1} = 1 - \frac{\text{Area}*{A\_2}}{\text{Area}*{A\_1}} = 0.84
$$

Shapemaker report shielding factor values&#x20;

<figure><img src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXf3ZwaTud-qxRsh4y6-WUyTcw6shbgxQbvNvEeqgonduOHEWB4UMTAaXkDSRIau1TjYZerXzOcakKZdE-oHa6cseUrAwhdjrrzVTequRAeT37NXDaS0w3A2_vnOyNuzWDGvWlG5?key=mC-PLpYjQc2wrCuMngWXgA" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Example 3

Large antenna behind small antenna and in partial shielding zone

<figure><img src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXf1DC-C_KEXR-i2WpCn-kELtv3q_YjI6wWzcmkRCiKtfyDBKwgFVq-m7jpqdcInycQq8UbcPMKki8mLyj1T2WJGg_zHxK5jiqD2wiqydcBFDuKpqIVjLcgn3TaUIcZulaAAzJzVHg?key=mC-PLpYjQc2wrCuMngWXgA" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th width="98.53515625"></th><th width="76.671875"></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Ancillary</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Ka</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Comment</strong></mark></td></tr><tr><td>A1</td><td>0.92</td><td>The A1 antenna is located within the partial shielding zone of A2. The maximum shielding effect A2 can have on A1 is 1 -A2/A1 and this would be valid if A1 is located within 100% shielding zone (less than 684mm away). The minimum shielding effect would be if A1 is located outside of the partial shielding zone, which is more than 1368mm away. Linear interpolation is used to find the shielding effect considering the maximum and minimum effects.</td></tr><tr><td>A2</td><td>1.0</td><td>No shielding.</td></tr></tbody></table>

Shielding Factor Calculation:

Maximum shielding effect:  $$1 - \frac{A\_2}{A\_1} = 0.84$$

Minimum shielding effect: 1

$$
K\_{A\_1} = \left( \frac{(1030 - 684) \times (1 - 0.844)}{1368 - 684} \right) + 0.844 = 0.922
$$

Shapemaker report shielding factor values:

<figure><img src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXc4o2wCyU8Zqoh6t5rv-BTKOAX2dlxLLBLuIvzOR02IS84DB_Yf_gFt-5NuHVU_gIHp2nK8QfsK9fTbfRfhGEnqtu-_d6jV-o3xrbKCwnw6H1MErvPbQa8HbWlOMH3_P5j3eU5vLw?key=mC-PLpYjQc2wrCuMngWXgA" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

\ <br>


# How Wind Loads Are Applied To The Structure

Shapemaker automatically calculates wind forces in accordance with EN 1993-1-4:2005 and EN 1993-3-1:2006, based on the structural model and user-defined ancillaries. Wind loads are computed separately for the main structure, whether it's a lattice tower, monopole, or guyed mast, and for the ancillaries, which can be discrete or linear elements.‍

## **Case study**

* 3-legged lattice tower made of 6 panels.
* Panel type (from bottom to top): K, M, K, M, K, M.
* Wind direction: 0°.‍

### **Wind forces on structure**

Wind forces are initially generated at the midpoint of each panel and then distributed to all nodes on the legs associated with that panel in the structural model.

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/686516ce38ddc6bd75c407d9_tower-sketch-automatically.png" alt=""><figcaption><p>Lattice tower drawings automatically generated in Shapemaker</p></figcaption></figure>

Wind forces on the bare structure extracted from the Shapemaker report are presented below. The "z" column represents the midpoint of each "M" and "K" panel. The wind forces at each "z" elevation along with all the required parameters are calculated automatically.

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/686517031c1b506346b0bf35_table1-structure.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Then, the wind forces from the last column (F<sub>T,W</sub>(z)) are applied in all the nodes of the lattice model.

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/68651719382c777a8f8987aa_FEA-wireframe-structure-general.png" alt=""><figcaption><p>FEA wireframe structural model in Shapemaker</p></figcaption></figure>

The 787.772 N force at z=1.383m is divided by 6 (nodes) and applied in each node of the panel. The next one, at z=3.883m, is also divided by 6 (nodes) and summed up with the forces coming from the below and above panels. The sketch below explains this process.

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/68651744385a78353a58ebbd_FEA-wireframe-structure-closeup.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

All the forces can be checked separately for the structure and ancillaries in our FEA viewer after you run an analysis and get the results. The results are presented per each combination depending on the wind direction.

‍

### **Wind forces on discrete ancillaries**

Wind forces are generated based on user input for each type of discrete ancillaries. See here how [Shapemaker calculates EPA for discrete ancillaries](https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/calculating-ancillary-epa-in-shapemaker-using-eurocode-and-tia-222).

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/686517ae3c6b629bd08d8b07_tower-with-ancillaries-sketch-automatically.png" alt=""><figcaption><p>Tower with ancillaries automatically generated in Shapemaker</p></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/686517bd382c777a8f89d2ab_tower-with-ancillaries-3d-view.png" alt=""><figcaption><p>3D view with the ancillaries in Shapemaker</p></figcaption></figure>

Wind forces on discrete ancillaries extracted from the Shapemaker report are presented below.

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/686517cdbd2048e3e736bd6c_table2-discrete.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

All forces from the discrete ancillaries in Shapemaker are distributed to the nodes of the nearest FEA leg member as a pair of two forces.

For example, the 1255.2 N force from the Kathrein 800 10403 antenna is distributed between nodes 22 and 28, while the 254.1 N force from the Ericsson AIR 3278 antenna is distributed between nodes 23 and 29. Depending on the antenna's position along the FEA member, some nodes may receive a larger or smaller portion of the total force. In the case of the Ericsson AIR 3278, which is located at 12.0 m, closer to node 29 (12.5 m) than node 23 (11.25 m), node 29 will receive a proportionally greater share of the force.

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/686517e3385a78353a592fff_FEA-wireframe-discrete-closeup.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### **Wind forces on linear ancillaries**

Wind forces from feeders and ladders are generated based on user-input of front and side projected areas and their lengths. The linear ancillaries are automatically positioned in the center of the tower and the forces are distributed evenly to all legs.

Wind forces on linear ancillaries are extracted from the Shapemaker report.

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/686517f90d20437537832c0f_table3-linear.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Then, all the forces from the last column are distributed in the same manner as for the structure. The force is divided by 6 (nodes) and summed up with the forces coming from the below and above panels. See the sketch below explaining the process.

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/686518076184195f17eefbea_FEA-wireframe-linear-closeup.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<br>


# How Ancillary EPA is Calculated

## **Ancillary EPA calculation method in Shapemaker**

The Eurocode does not specify a precise method for calculating effective projected areas on ancillaries. However, a well-established approach is provided by the TIA-222 standard. This method involves calculating the EPA of the antenna faces — specifically, the normal face (EPA<sub>N</sub>) and the transverse face (EPA<sub>T</sub>). According to the TIA-222 standard, the total EPA of the ancillary can be determined using the following formula:

$$
(\mathrm{EPA})\_A = K\_a \left\[ (\mathrm{EPA})\_N \cdot \cos^2(\theta) + (\mathrm{EPA})\_T \cdot \sin^2(\theta) \right]
$$

where&#x20;

* $$(EPA)\_N = (cf \cdot A)\_N$$
* $$(EPA)\_T = (cf \cdot A)\_T$$
* θ is the relative angle between the azimuth associated with the normal face of the ancillary and the wind direction
* Ka is the shielding factor associated to the ancillary for which we calculate the EPA - see here how Shapemaker calculates shielding factors automatically

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/685aa4eb6be627c822e51aba_AD_4nXcjXbCYxp8WJLzM9MTLdfLqH6vsFArZxFz21XBl5P5OJRFP3jMMqZ3Ix-5z0MggBMGUqRpp6g7Tsf5zgk2TjCPs83kIgPrPM10r_Z5YpCYFiCg9ExlxZhpWVPf5V0EcWrTYhB1c.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

‍

### **Force coefficients in Shapemaker (c**<sub>**f**</sub>**)**

Several ancillary shapes have been identified for which the force coefficients and the EPA are calculated.

* box
* cylinder
* dish
* plane lattice

All ancillary types in the Shapemaker database are associated with a specific shape.

* GSM/RRU/MHA/FTTA are box shapes
* OMNI/GPS are cylinder shapes
* All MW dishes are dish shapes
* Dipole/Yagi are plane shapes

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/685aa4eb6be627c822e51ac3_AD_4nXddyfIDAIWYfJMcdD6X4UjbXEh1weEoUiRvd6owGYJoh_bVInwitnlqlEf2b0L2Vmu4LToRiIJkyVC56jQmqGKsB0AJqmfZLP7RYTPYNhDcSyctDBHqx_9xMLP9yGaVQOrDg6ki2w.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

In Shapemaker there are 3 input methods for the force coefficient:

1. **(default)** calculated according to standards:<br>
   1. EN 1991-1-4 2005, Chapter 7.6, Chapter 7.9 and Chapter 7.11 for box, cylinder and plane lattice shapes respectively
   2. TIA-222-I, Annex C for dishes
2. user input - specify directly the force coefficients for *Front*, *Side* and *Rear* of the ancillary
3. calculated based on forces from the manufacturer's technical sheets.

### **Example 1**

***EPA calculation of a box shape using EN 1991-1-4 and TIA-222-I***

Ancillary specification: GSM Antenna: H2000 / W400 / D190 / R20 (mm).

Antenna azimuth: 0°.

Wind direction: 60°.

Dimensions below in meters.

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/685aa4eb6be627c822e51ad3_AD_4nXdvJMaVGpE7VqFqLJNWqIKnCo0_y11rfVgryf3S8_WGngsrNgl7Xx9ZTihS59cb7-nYe0x_YajT-QQhUxMHyRuRyqTINLX9UAPzIDwrhU8AMPo1lKKJqt0q6ULmErV1p0Md7SLrKQ.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/685aa4eb6be627c822e51ac6_AD_4nXfymuP7POxGLLA5eRPkSz1ESUNhUjZeaYu7Pv7ZhvHw_kf_vCQtC76Jf2wOdC1kBjh0uwMJNJ4H7q6Z2WnwJk3UiNUMnjuF41_MmIjTFmebW1jzv_ThyxGnKQSTGQnD4n1RpBgTAA.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

In the **Shapemaker report,** the EPA is presented separately as *Area* and *c*<sub>*f,A*</sub>. When you multiply them, you get the EPA for 60° wind direction.

EPA=Area×cf,A=0.729×0.744 = 0.54 m<sup>2</sup>

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/685aa4eb6be627c822e51acc_AD_4nXcn7kL-4P3my0Ku_x910JzmJUMH89VYLeKh0M0VjEcLAWGiyO_-DNYP0PuUmhKkYBdfzdN2XU_pKncY-KsXC4GJK1I6fsXDQGvEA9_1ahHTmXTrnWXHSROmHm3hEryzXNaEYRS9_Q.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

To be able to show the values in the report in one line and make the ancillaries table more compact, Area and c<sub>f</sub> are calculated as below.

EPA = 0.54 m<sup>2</sup>

Area=Afrontal⋅cos(θ)+Aside⋅sin(θ)

cf,A=EPAArea

### **Example 2**

***EPA calculation of a dish shape using TIA-222-I***

Ancillary specification: MW Dish with shroud: Dia600 / Depth200 (mm).

MW Dish azimuth: 0°.

Wind direction: 50°.

Dimensions below in meters.

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/685aa4eb6be627c822e51abd_AD_4nXdeP6wJ1cdFyGeajaN2zT9_PtmvuiNnXLOLHRJmwgMqwGh6H_HzStoxmhne10Wg6zIe0bXRRneT6vGfdaDoscqjr6XJnuGGGn-CVc344QD_VXIHTnZAd8cBlGQGJJHlpKp1XKkc.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/685aa4eb6be627c822e51ac9_AD_4nXcofp3-XIGctlvyDqm9bPz79hMImavTRy3fS33ANAbVaEvJZ9O7PJzClRcenAb8gC4JRurSOuEQiHf1GvFq2_FjAOhf9WQWSESBd8BTSgM4g98AafHtuJueeVFlIBT2rgxPlemeIA.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

**EPA in the Shapemaker report**

EPA=Area×cf,A=0.283×0.932 = 0.263 m<sup>2</sup>

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/685aa4eb6be627c822e51acf_AD_4nXdshzmrUgKk-GWvK2v5mIToEzys9S3Dftcz8jxkPXcriGATbwhSpX2XCNoZmjWsKb0X9VioOZq1p88b6-tpAoYNzbVwPFNtBIfAczlH7BpZ4wg58q-Gx5gsxxD-73TWhcEUiCEQeQ.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

To be able to show the values in the report in one line and make the ancillaries table more compact, Area and c<sub>f</sub> are calculated as below.

EPA = 0.263 m<sup>2</sup>

Area=Afrontal⋅cos(θ)+Aside⋅sin(θ)

cf,A=EPAArea

***

**EN 1991-1-4:2005,** ‍Eurocode 1: Actions on structures – Part 1-4: General actions – Wind actions.

**TIA-222-I**, Structural Standard for Antenna Supporting Structures, Antennas and Small Wind Turbines Support Structures, Telecommunications Industry Association, September 2023.


# How the Resistance of Steel Lattice Members is Calculated

This article provides an overview of the available cross-section types within Shapemaker, details the methodology used to calculate member capacities, and more.

The most commonly used structural type in the mobile network industry is the lattice tower, typically composed of three or four truss faces and multiple vertically stacked sections.

These 3D frameworks are made up of members arranged in triangular configurations. As such, the members are generally considered to be effectively pin-connected in accordance with Clause 5.2.2 of EN 1993-3-1, meaning they do not resist bending moments.

Based on this assumption, the structural check of individual members involves verifying that the axial force, obtained from elastic global analysis across various load combinations, does not exceed the following resistances:

* Tension resistance, as defined in Clause 6.2.3 of EN 1993-1-1
* Compression resistance, as defined in Clause 6.2.4 of EN 1993-1-1
* Flexural buckling resistance, as defined in Clause 6.3.1 of EN 1993-1-1, including slenderness evaluation in accordance with Annexes G and H of EN 1993-3-1

## **Computation of Cross-Sectional Properties**

Shapemaker performs automatic calculation of cross-sectional properties, including:

* Cross-sectional area$$\left({A}\right)$$
* Moments of inertia $$(I)$$  about principal axes: parallel to the tower face, perpendicular to the tower face, and about the weak axis
* Radii of gyration $$(i)$$ corresponding to the above axes

The software supports the following cross-sectional profiles:

* Equal and unequal leg angle sections, example cross-section ID: L120x10 or L120x80x8
* Tubular hollow sections, example cross-section ID: CHSC114.3x5.0 or CHSH114.3x5.0 (‘C’ stands for cold-formed and ‘H’ stands for hot rolled)
* Circular solid sections, example cross-section ID: D30&#x20;
* Square and rectangular hollow sections, example cross-section ID: SHSC80x5 or RHS100x80x4&#x20;
* 60° equal angle sections, example cross-section ID: VL120x10
* Custom built-up sections composed of closely spaced elements in various configurations using the above standard profiles (see next paragraph)

These properties are computed in accordance with standard geometric formulations and are used as input for resistance checks and global analysis.

### **Definition of built-up cross-sections**

Shapemaker has the capability to use built-up profiles that fall within the definition of closely built-up cross-sections of EN 1993-1-1 6.4.4.\
This type of cross-section can now be utilised during the tower modelling process in Tower Builder.\
The following built-up cross-section configurations are currently supported:

* Star arrangement with Equal Angle + Equal Angle (type \`XL\`), example cross-section ID: L120x10+L120x10\@XL:10

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/68936a40a4b31c47a4a5a817_AD_4nXd76CexIYm5r7EcdvufEvwhE1mRKGOkuOsAdB959fawpU6j3dcWp6GO575epbYNLkMFg4Ir8j1uCoH61N1eNq0b0fwIl_ssWyh9CbhIq4sjfBecHKi-cQEJuoePnmXdml_g5Qh_.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* Star arrangement with 60° Equal Angle + 60° Equal Angle (type \`VX\`), example cross-section ID: VL120x10+VL120x10\@VX:10

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/68936a40a4b31c47a4a5a814_AD_4nXeImmSXkPna6Pxk-EglAC8WlXIP6o7r6tU6JsX2YXP4U-hnMDZk3m-LEk23sOAwA81jGUHICbHC-ZUgEjWkuCFi7BKtczDylHX7OZHVLgYznsvqQhVOqn_unjedD8rD9fGVOt5UMA.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* Back-to-back arrangement with Equal Angle + Equal Angle (type \`EL\`), example cross-section ID: L120x10+L120x10\@EL:10

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/68936a40a4b31c47a4a5a808_AD_4nXcAc84m6pidItH6mCfWhL33I3xsxcdDYOKTdPXkc1U0fxxVhTwHQjXjPJE04rkP4-K0H0fbBBZ2r1sgpht9oFizAPoMUOk63BUZMvtOhVycKSJU7l6ogzDllwdGDoYaEHCFagNpOg.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* Back-to-back arrangement with Unequal Angle + Unequal Angle connected via the longer leg (type \`LL\`), example cross-section ID: L120x80x8+L120x80x8\@LL:10

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/68936a40a4b31c47a4a5a803_AD_4nXez7DnPCoi5sb75QYzQR42S_LBnt9t19b613_7Cf-cp8fkXJasAX6yPceFM4R0au4B07bUnjPRvUHHSnE919U0nrJ8K7CJA6WBwRnIxbUYOwniYdyqQzZHdOkk8eMNv1qS9geGt.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* Back-to-back arrangement with Unequal Angle + Unequal Angle connected via the shorter leg (type \`SL\`), example cross-section ID: L120x80x8+L120x80x8\@SL:10

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/68936a40a4b31c47a4a5a80b_AD_4nXcIQn16DMx1SOpBi4_rtrnfMCOtJAQBJhWq1kVIZkAhZctXWKcc86kw1YWAAvYsesqyL04dlJsSrp2QnZNFiqOx13RGg605f-DcG4KBVr2K6OuFXTUfG-abyH0xrI8tZjyc7_KWrg.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* Aligned leg arrangement with 2x 60° Equal Angle (type \`VV\`), example cross-section ID: VL120x10\@VV:10

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/68936a40a4b31c47a4a5a80e_AD_4nXfw6IAMtfD_DETFDBXDddlFpteON3v98Y8TheawXuPsl3tfoFMGnwncbeEnhRcy6_xeL_2rl0JPEBGfDIUN_omzJ7hVgdDX6djjtU8crLTcOk6YUrsIneMMqyDNyW7TRhS5iT2D5g.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* Equal Angle clamped onto a Circular member (type \`OL\`), example cross-section ID: CHSC114.3x5+L120x10\@OL:10

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/68936a40a4b31c47a4a5a811_AD_4nXfz0NLmVVFjDP75L11srCvIJqUNBwnAqXrbiF-YGaFiX9NBZN_4WJweayLX0cioB3SISfrlrZsVWWsxYxuKKesPe2k8ddU17L-F4F_CPDeVdDQjQ_Rz4_sujl1E-wIsmfGTL9MULg.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

In the cross-section name, the first element always represents the continuous member along the full length, while the second element may either be continuous along the member length or discontinuous as not connected with the adjacent members through the joint.\
The parameter that defines the continuity is called ‘composite action’ and should be selected only when full continuity of both chords is present.

A composite cross-section may also include a parameter that specifies the gap between the components, described after the colon (:) in the cross-section name as the final value.

Another required parameter is the spacing between connectors (battens or bolts) that join the components along their length.

### **Effective Parameters for Class 4 Cross-Sections**

Cross-sections are classified into one of four classes based on width-to-thickness (or diameter-to-thickness) ratios and steel grade, in accordance with Table 5.2 of EN 1993-1-1.

This classification directly impacts the approach used for calculating member buckling resistance.\
For cross-section classes 1 to 3, standard section properties are used in design. However, when a section falls into Class 4, an additional assessment is required to determine effective cross-sectional properties  $$\left({A\_{eff}}, {I\_{eff}}, {i\_{eff}}\right)$$.

As per Clause 4.3 of EN 1993-1-5, a Class 4 section must be subdivided into individual plate elements. For each plate, a reduction factor $$(\rho)$$  is determined using expressions (4.2) or (4.3), depending on the boundary conditions and loading.

The procedure for each plate is as follows:

$$\overline{\lambda}*{p} = \frac{\frac{b}{t}}{28.4 \times \varepsilon \times \sqrt{k*{\sigma}}}$$

where:

$${b}$$ - is adequate portion of the plate width defined in table 5.2 of EN 1993-1-1\
$$t$$ - plate thickness\
$$\varepsilon = \sqrt{\frac{235 MPa}{f\_y}}$$\
$${k\_\sigma}$$ - buckling factor (for the cases when no bending occurs ( $${\Psi = 1}$$), can be defined as 0.43 for outstand plates and 4 for internal plates

The reduction factor is then computed as one value from the below:

* Outstand plates:
  * $$\varrho = 1 \quad \text{for} \quad \overline{\lambda}\_{p} \leq 0.673$$
  * $$\varrho = \frac{\overline{\lambda}*{p} - 0.055 \times (3 + \Psi)}{\overline{\lambda}*{p}^2} \quad \text{for} \quad \overline{\lambda}\_{p} > 0.673, \quad \text{where} \quad \Psi \geq -3$$
* Internal plates:
  * $$\varrho = 1 \quad \text{for} \quad \overline{\lambda}\_{p} \leq 0.748$$
  * $$\varrho = \frac{\overline{\lambda}*{p} - 0.188}{\overline{\lambda}*{p}^2} \quad \text{for} \quad \overline{\lambda}\_{p} > 0.748$$

This reduction factor is then applied to the plate widths to account for the effects of local buckling. Portions of the plate—typically the free edges of outstand elements or internal parts are excluded from the effective section. The modified geometry is then used to recalculate the effective section properties used in subsequent strength and stability verifications.

### **Net cross-section area**

For members connected using bolted joints, the cross-sectional area must be reduced to account for bolt holes when evaluating tension resistance, in accordance with Clause 6.2.2.2 of EN 1993-1-1. The net area $$\left({A\_{net}}\right)$$ represents the minimum effective cross-sectional area along the member, considering the material removed by the bolt holes.

When the fastener holes are staggered the net area is calculated as the lowest from:

* $${A\_{net}}$$ in any cross-section of the member
* $$A - t \times \left\[ n \times d\_0 - \sum \left( \frac{s^2}{4p} \right) \right]$$

where:

$$t$$ - is the member thickness\
$$n$$ - is the number of holes extending in any diagonal or zig-zag line across the member\
$${d\_0}$$ - diameter of the hole\
$$s$$ - spacing between 2 rows of staggered bolts\
$$p$$ - spacing between the columns of the bolt hole

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/68935d2064b3a8c4c3eb7273_AD_4nXenZ8s1IJ5H-UKcvOZcbrUTq9JVnf45GzVkxK1C9yyxfkMCg2_H2hMPErygOdR7_XuY9DHi0W0Z0WqStHUeCCcVSeFVwAPJfdVNQuBwTugUwTfZoMh8VsYGzlnboTfy4xnR4oWz.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

‍

### **Tension resistance algorithm**

For the sections with the holes the tension resistance $$\left({N\_{t,Rd}}\right)$$ is taken from formulas 6.5 and 6.6 of EN 1993-1-1 as a smaller of the:

* $$N\_{\mathrm{pl,Rd}} = \frac{A \times f\_y}{\gamma\_{\mathrm{M0}}}$$
* $$N\_{u,\mathrm{Rd}} = \frac{0.9 \times A\_{\mathrm{net}} \times f\_u}{\gamma\_{\mathrm{M2}}}$$

where:

$$A$$ - cross-section area\
$${A\_{net}}$$ - net cross-section area\
$${f\_y}$$ - yield strength of the steel from table 3.1 of EN 1993-1-1\
$${f\_u}$$ - ultimate strength of the steel from table 3.1 of EN 1993-1-1\
$${\gamma\_{M0}}$$ - partial factor due to member yielding from 6.1 of EN 1993-3-1\
$${\gamma\_{M2}}$$ - partial factor due to member net section at bolt holes from 6.1 of EN 1993-3-1

If no bolt holes are present in the cross-section, then the first formula defines the tension resistance of the member.

### **Compression resistance algorithm**

The compression with no buckling effect resistance is calculated as per formulas 6.10 for class 1 to 3 members and 6.11 for class 4 members for EN 1993-1-1.\
No fastener holes are assumed to not to be oversized and filled with the bolts, so the total cross-section area is considered in the checks, however in the class 4 members the ${A\_{eff}}$ with reduced cross-section size is used.

Compression resistance is defined as:

$$
N\_{c,\mathrm{Rd}} = \frac{A \times f\_y}{\gamma\_{\mathrm{M0}}}
$$

where:

$${f\_y}$$ - yield strength of the steel from table 3.1 of EN 1993-1-1\
$${\gamma\_{M0}}$$ - partial factor due to member yielding from 6.1 of EN 1993-3-1\
$$A$$ is replaced with $${A\_{eff}}$$ for the class 4 members

### **Flexural Buckling Resistance Algorithm**

Flexural buckling resistance is often the governing criterion in member utilization checks, particularly for slender members subject to axial compression. Long members with relatively small cross-sections are especially susceptible to buckling, and their axial load-carrying capacity is significantly reduced as slenderness increases.

In 3D structural systems such as lattice towers, members must be evaluated for potential buckling in multiple directions. Due to the triangulated geometry—where legs and bracing elements mutually restrain each other—the buckling length of a member depends on its orientation and the stiffness and positioning of adjacent elements.

Shapemaker automatically determines the buckling lengths in the following directions:

* In the plane of the tower face
* In the plane normal to the tower face
* About the weakest axis of the cross-section (i.e., axis with the smallest radius of gyration)

The effective slenderness factor $$\left({k}\right)$$ is also computed automatically, based on Table G.1 of EN 1993-3-1, taking into account:

* The cross-section type and bracing pattern for tower legs
* The number of bolts in connections for bracing members,&#x20;
  * Assessment in circular members:
    * $${k  = 0.7}$$ when no bolts are specified
    * $${k = 0.95}$$ when the single bold is used
    * $${k = 0.85}$$ (in plane) or $${k = 0.95}$$ (out of plate), when more than a single bolt is used to connect the member
  * Assessment in angular members:
    * Table G.2 (a) of EN 1993-3-1 is used. No bolts or more than a single bolt are considered a welded connection.

The buckling resistance for uniform members in compression is calculated using the procedure outlined in Clause 6.3.1 of EN 1993-1-1, while the slenderness evaluation follows the guidance provided in Annex G of EN 1993-3-1.

The algorithm for evaluating buckling resistance under a single buckling mode proceeds as follows:

Member slenderness:

$$
\lambda = \frac{l}{i}
$$

where:

$${l}$$ - considered buckling length\
$${i}$$ — radius of gyration about the considered axis $$\left(i\_{\mathrm{eff}} \text{ for class 4 members}\right)$$

Non-dimensional slenderness

$$
\overline{\lambda} = \frac{\lambda}{\pi \times \sqrt{\frac{E}{f\_y}}}
$$

Non-dimensional effective slenderness:

$$
\overline{\lambda\_{eff}} = k \times \overline{\lambda}
$$

Reduction factor:

$$
\chi = \frac{1}{\Phi + \sqrt{\Phi^{2} - \overline{\lambda\_{eff}}^{2}}}
$$

or $${1}$$ whichever is less

where:

$$\Phi = 0.5 \times \left\[ 1 + \alpha \left( \overline{\lambda\_{eff}} - 0.2 \right) + \overline{\lambda\_{eff}}^2 \right]$$\
$${\alpha}$$ - imperfection factor from buckling curve, while the buckling curve comes from table 6.2 of EN 1993-1-1 based on the cross-section shape.

Finally the buckling resistance of the member is defined as:

$$
N\_{b,\mathrm{Rd}} = \frac{\eta \times \chi \times A \times f\_y}{\gamma\_{M1}}
$$

where:

$${\gamma\_{M1}}$$ - partial factor due to member buckling\
$${\eta}$$ - reduction factor for single angle members connected with 1 bolt (0.8 for member connected with 1 bolt at each end, 0.9 for member connected with 1 bolt at one end and continuous at the other end, while buckling length is defining the member ends)\
$${A}$$ is replaced with $${A\_{eff}}$$ for the class 4 members

## **Structural capacity assessment of built-up cross-sections**

### **Case with no composite action**

If the additional chord is not continuous, only the original member (the first in the section name) is considered for axial compression and tension resistance.

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/68936cb4a4b31c47a4a80aaa_AD_4nXdPb2E430DLJFebYhNwyNo6F479hQISIzyDtaN3GiqSIlVAJY25Ls4qoKUjK2tzLdulD558NQpTU45s_lpW1EKMA2VJvR-gaRjFoU--dZxTy6XYdd38ALlnoXvukPt94hCQEFX-.jpeg" alt=""><figcaption><p>Member without composite action</p></figcaption></figure>

The flexural buckling capacity is calculated as the lowest value from:

* The original chord’s buckling capacity, accounting for moments of inertia about the buckling axes in the tower face, perpendicular to the tower face, and about the weakest member axis, is defined as the sum of the corresponding moments of inertia of both chords about their local axes.
* The buckling capacity of the original chord under the buckling length, defined as the connector spacing and effective slenderness factor $${k = 1}$$.

### **Composite action case**

If the cross-section is continuous, the parameter **has composite action** must be ticked.

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/68936cb4a4b31c47a4a80ab1_AD_4nXcwx4JCnaEHE00fbPUUQciBs5nVx4SRa_HciSboMgS9XESG2V4au0m3HxSfxCLLIl0ztqzAykKWeN95eUSzN7wKrWSEdlb24X-leAPHrsxoJ7F4GsP1xc3wVym9cB4xEHQXubUu3Q.jpeg" alt=""><figcaption><p>Member with composite action</p></figcaption></figure>

According to EN 1993-1-1, cross-sections that meet the requirements of Table 6.9 can be considered as an integral member.

The requirements are expressed as follows:

* For elements connected by bolts (assumed to include types of EL, LL, and SL) or intermittent welds, the minimum connector spacing must be $${15 × {i\_{min}}}$$
* For elements connected by plates (assumed to include types of XL, VX, VV, OL), the minimum connector spacing must be $${70 × {i\_{min}}}$$

where $${i\_{min}}$$ stands for the minimum radius of gyration of the single chord.

While the connectors are applied close enough and the requirement is met, the member’s resistance is determined as if it were a solid section, using the combined cross-sectional parameters. The calculation is carried out just like for single-member elements, and according to Table G.1 of EN 1993-3-1, the effective slenderness factor $${k = 1}$$.

If the minimum connector spacing condition is not satisfied, the calculations proceed as follows:

* Compression and tension resistance are checked using the parameters of the integral composite cross-section
* Buckling resistance is assessed as the minimum value of:<br>
  * The sum of each component buckling resistance, which is calculated with a buckling length equal to the connector spacing and $${k = 1}$$.
  * The buckling resistance of the unified (solid) member, as defined when the minimum connector spacing requirement is met.

## **Compiling Results and Assessing Member Utilisation**

After calculating all resistance values, they are compared to the maximum tension and compression forces obtained from the FEA analysis for each load combination. The ratio of applied force to corresponding resistance defines the utilisation of each member.

These forces, associated resistances, and resulting utilisation ratios are organised by member type in the "Maximum Utilisation of Structural Members (ULS)" section of the full report.

<figure><img src="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62066ef6f9af0e41c7315af2/689370ac30098db69ef3942f_Screenshot%202025-08-06%20171040.jpg" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Overutilised members in the panel are highlighted in red.


# Which Standards and Annexes Does Shapemaker Support?

Shapemaker is continuously adding new annexes and standards, as of August 2026, Shapemaker support:

* The generic tower Eurocode + additional checks from the steel Eurocode
* The Eurocode national annex in
  * Germany
  * The United Kingdom
  * France
  * Sweden
  * Norway
  * Finland
  * Hungary
  * [Poland](https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/introducing-polish-national-annex-to-the-eurocode?utm_source=hs_email\&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--n6FQV-3_KdaKob5A0WV7lgvybH-MqB8zl8DExPtm4K-vbHOJfB-lDz4dMN_1oirZ70NSr)
  * Bulgaria
  * Ireland
  * Italy
* ANSI/TIA-222 (United States) in revision
  * TIA-222-I
  * TIA-222-H

Furthermore, our users can **import custom wind profiles** for all nominal wind directions. This means users can even analyse towers in countries not yet officially supported by our system.

In addition, Shapemaker has limited support of lattice structures according to

* The Australian design standards

If we see interest, we are typically able to fully support a new design standard in a matter of weeks.

For an updated list of supported standard and annexes, or further questions on support - contact <hello@shapemaker.io>


# Shapemaker Platform Overview

Shapemaker is a cloud-based software platform used for designing and analyzing telecom infrastructure, such as towers, masts, monopoles and rooftops. The software includes a web application that engineers can use directly in their browsers, as well as APIs that allow other systems to connect to Shapemaker and use its features automatically.

Shapemaker AS is a company that specializes in cloud-based engineering solutions for the telecommunications industry. We empower civil and telecom engineers with tools to design, analyze, and optimize infrastructure like towers, masts, monopoles and rooftops.

## Structural analysis in Europe

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th width="185.3671875"></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Capability</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Description</strong></mark></td></tr><tr><td>Geometry</td><td>3 and 4-legged self-supported lattice towers, monopoles, guyed masts and tripod-rooftop structures build-up from the European hot-rolled and cold-formed members (individual members) made of European steel.</td></tr><tr><td>Material type</td><td>Support European steel </td></tr><tr><td>Member capacities</td><td>Capacity assessment of hot-rolled and cold-formed individual members of European steel</td></tr><tr><td>Connections</td><td>Bolted connection assessment of individual members with most patterns and types covered in the Eurocode. Bolted connection of a tower to its foundation with most patterns and types covered in the Eurocode and ability to account for bolt corrosion. All bolt sizes and all bolt grades covered by the Eurocode are supported.</td></tr><tr><td>FEA</td><td><a href="https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/advanced-fea-capabilities-in-shapemaker">Finite Element Analysis</a> capability covering natural frequency analysis, static and dynamic analysis.<br>Shapemaker has integrated Finite Element Analysis (FEA) solver to support a wide range of structural simulations. This advanced solver, known as <a href="https://opensees.berkeley.edu/">OpenSees</a> was developed by researchers affiliated with the <a href="https://www.berkeley.edu/">University of California, Berkeley</a></td></tr><tr><td>Foundation</td><td>Analyze foundation stability characteristics (bearing, sliding, overturning) for the following foundation types: 4-pedestals with a pad; 1-pedestal with a pad; 4-piers without a pad; 1-pier; Anchor; Raft/pad. Support several soil layers for foundation analysis.</td></tr></tbody></table>

## Wind analysis in Europe

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th width="192.8515625"></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Capability</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Description</strong></mark></td></tr><tr><td>Wind determination</td><td>Automatically determine wind speed values at any location in Europe (from Eurocode maps) and the ability to overwrite wind speed values to a specific wind profile.</td></tr><tr><td>User-defined site-specific wind profile</td><td>Overwrite all wind-related parameters with user-defined wind profile.</td></tr><tr><td>Customize wind directions </td><td>Choose and edit  <a href="https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/customize-wind-directions-for-structural-analysis">wind directions</a> </td></tr><tr><td>Site-specific Exposure</td><td>Automatically analyze roughness of the ground around a structure located in Europe and ability to overwrite automatically determined roughness factor</td></tr><tr><td>Site-specific Topography/Orography</td><td>Automatically analyze topographical characteristics of the ground around a structure located in Europe and ability to overwrite automatically determined topography factor</td></tr><tr><td>Location security</td><td>Remove site location details even after running site-specific analysis to keep its results</td></tr></tbody></table>

## Reporting

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th width="191.29296875"></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Functionality</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Description</strong></mark></td></tr><tr><td>Comprehensive report</td><td>Detailed <a href="https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/how-we-automate-structural-reporting">engineering report</a> - similar to reports delivered by top engineering consultancies</td></tr><tr><td>One page report with drawings</td><td>One page report outlining the overall status of the tower; Tower Key Plan drawing; Detailed overview of discrete ancillaries in plan view at each antenna elevation on a tower; Discrete ancillary clashing alert</td></tr><tr><td>Hide antenna data</td><td>Hide antenna related details of any antenna owners</td></tr><tr><td>Language support</td><td>English, French, German and any other language upon request</td></tr><tr><td>User notes</td><td>Ability to add any user notes to the report</td></tr></tbody></table>

## Ancillaries

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th width="230.9609375"></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Functionality</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Description</strong></mark></td></tr><tr><td>Support for discrete ancillary types, including custom ancillary shapes</td><td>Panel antenna; Microwave dish with shroud; Microwave dish without shroud; Microwave dish as grid; Microwave dish with radome; Omni antenna; GPS device; Yagi antenna; Dipole antenna; RRU module; FTTA box; PTTA box; TMA device; MHA device; Obstruction light; Lightning rod; Helix antenna, Working platform; Custom box shape; Custom cylinder</td></tr><tr><td>Customer’s antenna database</td><td>Searchable and editable discrete ancillary antenna database</td></tr><tr><td>Import/export antenna database</td><td>Export entire discrete ancillary database as a CSV file and import unlimited number of discrete ancillaries from a CSV file to the database</td></tr><tr><td>Import/export site antennas</td><td>Import and export discrete ancillary table as a CSV file for specific site</td></tr><tr><td>Clustering of antennas</td><td>Cluster (combine) antennas into groups and populate discrete ancillary tables with a click</td></tr><tr><td>Linear ancillary </td><td>Definition of frontal projected area for any linear ancillary</td></tr><tr><td>Ancillary shielding</td><td>Possibility to define wind “shielding” of any ancillary. Wind shielding is a factor applied to reduce wind drag of any ancillary to mimic wind “shielding” (wind blocking) of one ancillary by the other</td></tr><tr><td>Automatic Shielding</td><td>Possibility to calculate the  <a href="https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/automatic-shielding-explained">automatic shielding factors</a>  in Shapemaker. For each wind direction, the feature evaluates how a discrete ancillary is shielded by nearby discrete ancillaries delivering more precise results with less manual effort. </td></tr><tr><td>Colocation capability</td><td><p>Account for several owners of antennas on the same tower</p><p>Automatic color-coding of ancillaries to differentiate between ancillary owners</p><p>Exclude ancillary from analysis, but keep it in the ancillary table</p></td></tr><tr><td>Precision location of discrete ancillary</td><td>Manually overwrite automatically determined discrete ancillary location on the tower to position ancillary at any tower location (even inside the tower body)</td></tr><tr><td>Custom force coefficients</td><td>Users are able to input custom force coefficients manually or calculate using manufacturer wind tunnel data.</td></tr></tbody></table>

## UI functionality

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th width="226.046875"></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Functionality</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Description</strong></mark></td></tr><tr><td>3D viewer (digital twin)</td><td><p>Structure, ancillary (discrete and linear), platforms and ladders.</p><p>Visualized in perspective, front, top, left and right views.<br>Read more about our <a href="https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/how-we-rebuilt-our-3d-viewer-from-scratch">3D-viewer and capabilities</a></p></td></tr><tr><td>Map view</td><td>Visualize location of tower portfolio on a map (satellite, street, terrain types, 3D buildings)</td></tr><tr><td>Project grouping with tags</td><td>Ability to group structures into projects with tags</td></tr><tr><td>FEA overview</td><td><p>Visualize structure in the FEA  viewer</p><p>Visualize load cases, member and connection utilization</p><p>Sort by tower panels, members or nodes</p></td></tr><tr><td>Advanced settings</td><td>Possibility to adjust default constants</td></tr></tbody></table>

## Software platform

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th width="162.8203125"></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Functionality</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Description</strong></mark></td></tr><tr><td>API integration</td><td><p>Seamless API integration into asset management platforms such as Sitetracker, Atrebo or Tarantula</p><p>API endpoints: Structures; Advanced settings; Reports; Projects; FEA viewer; <a href="https://opensees.berkeley.edu/">OpenSees</a>; Analysis; Products; Ancillaries; Users; Site; Automation; Default</p></td></tr><tr><td>Accessibility </td><td>Cloud based online application. Optimized for computer screens. </td></tr></tbody></table>

## Business

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th width="195.390625"></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Functionality</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Description</strong></mark></td></tr><tr><td>Business insight </td><td>Get a full overview of your portfolio to make informed decisions based on <a href="https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/business-insights">insights</a></td></tr><tr><td>Map overview</td><td>Plot your portfolio on a map to gain insight on where the load is the greatest.</td></tr><tr><td>Co-location requests</td><td>Answer the co-location request the same day, because Shapemaker allows you to run structural analysis by using just a few seconds and gives you immediate results on the new loading scenario. </td></tr></tbody></table>

## Other product features

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th width="194.26171875"></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Functionality in app</strong></mark></td><td><mark style="color:blue;"><strong>Description</strong></mark></td></tr><tr><td>TowerBuilder</td><td>Onboard your <a href="https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/towerbuilder">own tower families</a> directly into Shapemaker.<br>To support you through the process, Shapemaker offers a <a href="https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/introducing-towerbuilder">detailed 2D-visualization</a> of the current state of the tower. </td></tr></tbody></table>


# Which design checks does Shapemaker do?

Shapemaker performs a wide variety of design checks, depending on the selected tower type and the design code. In this article, we present a non-exhaustive list of these checks.

Shapemaker is continously being developed, and depending on the industry trends and customer needs, we add new checks and annexes monthly. Therefore, this list is not complete, and we do more checks than what is listed here.&#x20;

In addition to what's written here, have a look at the full report to see which checks have been performed for your analysis.

If you're curious about a certain check not mentioned here; use the in-app chat to ask our engineers directly, or [contact](https://www.shapemaker.io/contact) us.&#x20;

## Members

### Lattice and guyed masts members

#### **Compression checks**

* Based on **EN 1993-1-1:2005**, Section 6.3 Formulas (6.47), (6.48), and (6.49).
* Refer to **EN 1993-3-1:2006**, Subsection 6.3.1, Paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) for compression member resistance
* See **Annex G** and **Annex H** of **EN 1993-3-1:2006** for slenderness and buckling length determination.
* See Section 4.4 on **EN 1993-1-5:2006** for effective area of class 4 compression members.

#### **Tension checks**

* Based on **EN 1993-1-1:2005**, Section 6.2.3

### **Guy wires**

* **Section 6.2** from **EN 1993-1-11:2006** for Design tension resistance of the guy wire.

### Monopoles

#### **Plastic Limit State (LS1)**

* Based on **EN 1993-1-6:2007**, Section 6
* See Formula (6.5) for design value of resistance
* See Formula (6.2) for the design value of stresses

#### **Buckling Limit State (LS3)**

* Based on **EN 1993-1-6:2007**, Subsection 8.5.2 and **Annex D**.
* See Formula (8.11) for the design buckling resistance
* Refer to Subsections D.1.2.1 and D.1.2.2 for critical meridional buckling stresses

## Connections

### Bolts and plates

* Chapter 3.6 from **EN 1993-1-8:2005**
* Bolt shear based on **Table 3.4** from **EN 1993-1-8:2005**
* Bolt tension based on **Table 3.4** from **EN 1993-1-8:2005**
* Bearing resistance based on **Table 3.4** from **EN 1993-1-8:2005**
* Plate punching shear resistance based on **Table 3.4** from **EN 1993-1-8:2005**
* Plate bending resistance based on **Section 8.3.2** from **prEN 1993-3**, *2nd draft, 2020-09-30*.

### Pole connections

* Bolt tension based on **Table 3.4** from **EN 1993-1-8:2005**
* Required flange thickness (flange bending moment check) based on **Table 42** from *Theory of Platees and Shells, S. Timoshenko* and *S. Woinowsky-krieger, 1959*.&#x20;

### Hold-down bolts

#### Lattice and guyed masts

* Bolt shear based on **Table 3.4** from **EN 1993-1-8:2005**
* Axial based on based on **Table 3.4** from **EN 1993-1-8:2005**
* Bolt bending resistance based on **Table 3.4** from **EN 1993-1-8:2005**
* Punching shear **Table 3.4** from **EN 1993-1-8:2005**
* Combined shear and axial resistance
* Combined shear, axial and bending resistance

#### Monopoles

* Bolt tension resistance calculated acoording to **Table 3.4** from **EN 1993-1-8:2005**
* Steel baseplate check and grouting check under compression according to **Appendix 1** from *CICIND, Model Code For Steel Chimneys (Revision 1 - December 1999) with Amendment A - March 2002 and Commentaries and Appendices (December 2020)**.***

## Foundation

* For standard foundations&#x20;
  * Overturning check (EQU) from **EN 1997:1-2005 Chapter 2.4.7.2**
  * Foundation sliding check (SLD) from **EN 1997:1-2005 Chapter 2.4.7.3.4 Approach 2**
  * Bearing pressure check (GEO) from **Appendix D** in **EN 1997:1-2005**
* For foundations anchored in rock
  * Overturning check (EQU) from **EN 1997:1-2005 Chapter 2.4.7.2**
  * Foundation sliding check (SLD) from **EN 1997:1-2005 Chapter 2.4.7.3.4 Approach 2**
* For guy foundation
  * Guy foundations pullout check (UPL) from *Pullout Capacity of Reinforced Concrete Deadman Anchors in Cohesionless Soil (2021) by Riley Padron.*

## Static Equivalent Check

* Formula (B.12) in EN 1993-3-1.

## Serviceability Checks

We check maximum deformations (SLS), and allow user set limits.

## **Natural Frequency**

Optional user set limits for natural frequency.


# API Overview

Shapemaker is API-first. Everything you can do in the app, you can also do through our API. This makes it easy to integrate Shapemaker into your existing workflows, automate repetitive tasks, and move

### Why use the API?

* **Integrate with your systems** – Connect Shapemaker directly to your tools and platforms.
* **Automate processes** – Speed up workflows by eliminating manual steps.
* **Import & export data** – Bring external data into Shapemaker, or push your Shapemaker data into other systems.

### Getting started

Our full API reference is available here: [Shapemaker API Docs](https://api.shapemaker.io/docs).\
You’ll find details on authentication, available endpoints, and examples of common requests.

If you’re new to the API, start with:

1. **Authentication** – Learn how to authenticate requests using your API key.
2. **Core endpoints** – Explore the key resources available through the API.
3. **Examples** – Try out ready-made examples to get up and running quickly.


# How Do We Assess The Site Parameters?

#### Automatic assessment of site-specific wind load parameters for Eurocode-based analysis

To ensure accurate and reliable wind load estimations, site-specific assessments are essential. We have implemented a system that enables the automatic evaluation of relevant site-specific parameters, available under the **Location** tab for each site.

Among the environmental factors influencing the design wind pressure used in the analysis of telecommunication structures, the following are distinguished:

* Fundamental value of basic wind velocity
* Terrain roughness category
* Terrain orography parameters

In the British and Irish approaches, it is additionally required to specify the distance of the structure from the sea and from the city boundary, if the structure is located within an urban area.

All of the above factors should be considered individually for every site, taking into account their variability depending on the wind direction.

In Shapemaker, each of these parameters for all considered wind directions is determined automatically after selecting the site on the map or by entering the location coordinates (latitude and longitude) and choosing the applicable National Annex for the Eurocode.

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FwKRu5VEEHwdZi20FhDML%2Funknown.png?alt=media&amp;token=bec400af-faee-4fce-af30-e4682215b8bb" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

*Fig. 1. Site Location tab in Shapemaker*

The entire process runs in the background, and the user receives the computed parameters, which - if justified - can be manually adjusted.

By default, the analysis is performed for 8 directions (every 45°) for four-legged towers and monopoles, and for 12 directions (every 30°) for three-legged towers. Wind directions can be modified manually by the user.

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FpyytSN2LEOWQpxP2taFg%2Funknown.png?alt=media&amp;token=2b4ac650-aa57-4a4c-9805-6531afbfdef4" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

*Fig. 2. Wind directions edit form in Shapemaker*

In the following article, I will explain the processes behind the analysis described above.

#### 1. Fundamental value of basic wind velocity assessment

Let us begin with the simplest parameter - the fundamental value of the basic wind speed.\
This parameter is constant for all directions, so there is no need to determine it repeatedly for each wind direction.

To determine wind loads according to Eurocode EN 1991-1-4, Chapter 4, the reference value of the wind speed is required.\
The standard, in clause 4.2 (1)P, defines it as follows:

The fundamental value of the basic wind velocity, vb,0, is the characteristic 10-minute mean wind velocity, irrespective of wind direction and time of year, at 10 m above ground level in open country terrain with low vegetation such as grass and isolated obstacles with separations of at least 20 obstacle heights.

The vb,0 values are provided in the National Annexes to the standard in the form of maps or tables showing the areas associated with specific values.

Our application includes digital data defining the boundaries of the wind zones specified in the respective standards. Based on the input site coordinates and the selected National Annex of the Eurocode, the algorithm identifies the zone in which the structure is located and assigns the corresponding fundamental value of basic wind velocity.

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FCPxbjQSaGQYTsifDFIFS%2Funknown.png?alt=media&amp;token=b39cfc10-4442-4fb6-80c2-10eb676d73d4" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

*Fig. 3. Graphical representation of wind zone boundaries used in Shapemaker (map generated from the UK & Ireland dataset used)*

If a revision of the wind speed is required due to altitude above sea level, which is applicable in some countries, the application determines this altitude using high-resolution data from the GPXZ service. The wind speed value is then adjusted in accordance with the methodology specified in the relevant National Annex to EN 1991-1-4.

#### 2. Terrain roughness category assessment

The parameters of terrain roughness, which affect the wind speed and therefore the wind pressure, are defined in the Eurocode standard based on terrain roughness categories.\
Five categories from 0 to IV are defined in the Table 4.1 and Annex A of generic EN 1991-1-4 standard. However, many National Annexes modify this list - in Shapemaker you will always find the classification appropriate for the selected standard, and the algorithm will automatically adapt to it.

The generic Eurocode classification is as follows:

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FObb7zMfLRl3FyeMrEFPA%2Funknown.png?alt=media&amp;token=f417f7f0-57f0-4d7e-bb38-41d2a4b2d871" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

*Fig. 4. Terrain roughness categories as defined in EN 1991-1-4 (Eurocode snippet)*

The terrain roughness category is determined individually for each wind direction. We believe that analyzing each direction separately - especially with precise antenna and cable route positioning - provides measurable benefits in the form of lower structural utilization.

The process involves scanning terrain sectors located along the wind path towards the structure. Each sector spans ±45° around the nominal direction, and the scanning is performed iteratively within 30° sectors, with a 5° step between successive iterations.\
Typically, sectors with radii of 1 km, 2 km, and 5 km are analyzed; however, in some countries, local guidelines specify different radii and such is used in our assessment.

The data for each sector comes from high-resolution ESA WorldCover 2021 and S2GLC Europe 2017 land cover maps, which classify every 10 m × 10 m grid cell into one of 14 land cover categories:

1. Artificial surfaces and constructions
2. Cultivated areas
3. Vineyards
4. Herbaceous vegetation
5. Broadleaf tree cover
6. Coniferous tree cover
7. Moors and heathland
8. Sclerophyllous vegetation
9. Natural material surfaces
10. Permanent snow and glaciers
11. Marshes
12. Peatbogs
13. Water bodies
14. Clouds

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2F05sXmEe4fskQDvMmOGBk%2Funknown.png?alt=media&amp;token=abc88bba-2eb3-4dbd-9d93-7403223e319a" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

*Fig. 5. S2GLC Europe 2017 land cover map (snippet from the S2GLC website)*

The example below illustrates the result of scanning one of the 13 (every 5°) thirty-degree sectors analyzed during the determination of the terrain category for a single wind direction.

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FB4fUWkZpA5lc1CaY0loe%2Funknown.png?alt=media&amp;token=5c57fbb6-59e8-4365-a8ea-5c8cc9067f7b" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

*Fig. 6. Graphical representation of a single 30° wide sector scan (illustrative sketch made for this article)*

The outcome of this scanning process provides information on whether large water bodies are present in the vicinity of the structure - specifically, whether they cover more than 50% of a 5 km radius sector - meaning there is a high probability of the sea or the ocean around the site. Additionally, the surface areas covered by the remaining 13 categories are identified.

The algorithm then assigns a preliminary terrain roughness category to each land cover type found within the sector, according to the Available options defined in the corresponding National Annex.\
Areas classified as Clouds - meaning areas with missing data - are by definition assigned to the lowest roughness category.\
Following the generic Eurocode approach, if a terrain roughness category occupies less than 10% of the sector area, it is disregarded.

Next, the algorithm evaluates the percentage of the sector covered by Artificial surfaces and constructions and, together with other cover types, determines the degree of urbanization of the sector.

Our general assumptions (for the generic EN 1991-1-4 standard) for a 1 km radius sector assigns the below categories for cases checked in the below order:

* Presence of a large water reservoir: category 0
* Water coverage > 10%: category I
* Artificial surfaces and constructions > 30%: category IV
* Artificial surfaces and constructions > 15%: category III
* The considered category exceeds the percentage of Artificial surfaces and constructions by more than 10%, the lowest category meeting this criterion is adopted

The above algorithm is adapted for each National Annex that defines terrain roughness categories differently from the generic standard, so criteria shown above should be valid only when using the generic Eurocode.

As a result of this analysis, Shapemaker produces 13 roughness category values for each nominal wind direction, from which the lowest category (with the lowest roughness) is adopted as decisive for that direction.

The results for all wind directions are visible under the Wind rose tab or by clicking the Edit wind profile button, and they are also included in the final analysis report.

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2Fs9VCcthwj6Z1ozocm3jX%2Funknown.png?alt=media&amp;token=5d59ac65-a5c0-4eb7-8d30-1947e4ad4dfc" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

*Fig. 7. Terrain roughness categories determined for the site displayed on the wind rose diagram in Shapemaker*

The data used in the process originates from 2021 (or 2017 for older datasets), and all non-obvious assumptions in the algorithm defining the roughness classification have been made conservatively.&#x20;

Consequently, users are required to review the estimated values and, where appropriate, make manual adjustments via the Edit wind profile option.

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FJ4ownMco1gamqN468ZVz%2Funknown.png?alt=media&amp;token=52e09a43-56ae-47d9-871a-5be1d086648b" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

*Fig. 8. Editable list of terrain roughness categories in Shapemaker*

In the approach used in the United Kingdom and Ireland National Annexes to the Eurocode, the estimated roughness category must be assigned to one of two options:

* Town
* Country

Additionally, the distance of the structure from the shoreline and from the town boundary (if the structure is located within an urban area and further than 100 m from its border) must be determined.\
The datasets used to determine these distances come from publicly available geospatial data sources, including the UK CEH Environmental Information Data Centre, Tailte Éireann, and Urban Morphological Zones for Europe (see references).

Both parameters can be altered manually.

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2F2mWlU5VZuZv7en5zRana%2Funknown.png?alt=media&amp;token=a2b8f35b-197b-45ff-8b14-30f727bbf1fa" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

*Fig. 9. Editable list of distance inside town and distance to shoreline required in the analysis based on the British or Irish National Annex in Shapemaker*

#### **3. Orography Data Assessment**

Upwind and downwind terrain topography around the site is an important factor in wind load assessment, as the sites located near the crest of slopes, hills, ridges, escarpments, or cliffs are subject to higher wind loads than sites on flat terrain or far from such features, due to the speed-up effect that occurs around these landforms.

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2Ft0habtpbdPEaXTAitNEw%2Funknown.png?alt=media&amp;token=f24aecac-1ed1-4e70-9132-3bd37a361690" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

*Fig. 10. Wind speed-up effect around the top of the slope (illustrative sketch made for this article)*

According to Eurocode EN 1991-1-4, Annex A.3 describes the situations in which the influence of terrain topography must be considered.&#x20;

These include cases where:

* The feature is isolated from the surrounding terrain
* The average slope of the upwind terrain is greater than 3° (5.2408%)

Features with a downwind slope of less than 5% are considered escarpments (or cliffs).

To calculate the effect of terrain topography on a structure defined as the orography factor, several terrain profile parameters must be determined:

* Type of the feature
* Effective feature height (H)
* Length of the upwind slope in the wind direction (Lu)
* Length of the downwind slope in the wind direction (Ld) - not applicable for escarpments
* Horizontal distance from the site to the crest (X).

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2Fh5f88AJcc6bKsQVfveFu%2Funknown.png?alt=media&amp;token=f0e20d7a-cd07-4158-b73b-655acef04540" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

*Fig. 11. Terrain feature parameters required for the calculation of the orography factor (Eurocode snippet)*

In Shapemaker, the procedure follows the methodology defined in Annex A.3 of the generic version of EN 1991-1-4 or PD6688-1-4 document whenever the British Eurocode option has been chosen.\
The assessment is carried out individually for each wind direction considered in the analysis, since the direction corresponding to the maximum effective wind area of the tower and ancillaries rarely coincides with the wind direction producing the highest topographic speed-up or the roughness category with the greatest influence. Performing the assessment separately for each wind direction therefore results in lower tower utilization and greater capacity, which in turn positively impacts the tower owner’s income.

The orography data evaluation for a single wind direction proceeds as follows:

1. Elevation data are obtained from the GPXZ service for a range of points before and after the structure along the considered wind direction, within a radius defined by the minimum value from:

   * 10x feature height + length of the upwind slope + horizontal distance from the site to the crest
   * 3218.7 m (2 miles)

   The 2-mile distance is adopted from TIA-222-I, section 2.6.6.1, since the Eurocode does not specify the length of terrain to be analysed in the preliminary stage.

   The GPXZ service consolidates data from multiple sources and provides elevation data with a minimum resolution of 30 m - reaching up to 0.5 m in many Western and Northern European countries.
2. Then we calculate the inclination at each sample and list all potential slope starts and ends as:

   * Upwind slope start, where the inclination changes from < 3°to ≥ 3°
   * Upwind slope end, where the inclination changes from ≥ 3° to < 3°
   * Downwind slope start, where the inclination changes from < 3° to ≤ –3°
   * Downwind slope end, where the inclination changes from ≤ –3° to >-3°

   <figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FuaK0rTqXeUNB3XowbbSY%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=5e5ff6fe-147b-44ab-b9f6-0059604edddf" alt=""><figcaption><p><em>Fig. 12. Graphical representation of the slopes’ inclination</em></p></figcaption></figure>
3. We also identify all peaks, defined by a change in inclination from positive to negative.

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FKrlzviU4YaXikKCQNAyf%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=6ab6c559-2001-4117-a4e7-0e432fbac452" alt=""><figcaption><p><em>Fig. 13. Assessment of all peaks in the terrain profile</em></p></figcaption></figure>

4. We check all combinations of starts and ends and verify that, for all inclinations from the start to each point until the considered end, and from the end back to each point until the start, the inclination is:

* ≥3° for upwind slopes
* ≤–3° for downwind slopes

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2Fn0FK3rCLEZp8VONLEpRt%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=0f2915fa-69b2-4f84-acb7-22cfe7a57f21" alt=""><figcaption><p><em>Fig. 14. Slope inclination assessment</em></p></figcaption></figure>

5. Every slope whose height from start to end is less than 20% (or 5% in the BS-EN case) of the \[maximum altitude – minimum altitude] value in the terrain section in the scanned terrain profile is removed from the list of valid slopes. This step eliminates small terrain irregularities from the assessment.

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FJIrPELaiUgUFCm5VSmK3%2FUntitled1.png?alt=media&amp;token=e3c9b6de-dd0f-41e6-965f-a7cdc5290ef4" alt=""><figcaption><p><em>Fig. 15. Neglected small features</em></p></figcaption></figure>

6. All valid upwind and downwind slopes are then combined into all possible scenarios representing the following features:

* Hill: If the start of the downwind slope is the end of the upwind slope
* Hill: if the next slope found after the upwind slope end (along the wind direction) is the downwind slope, and the horizontal distance of the flat terrain connecting the upwind and downwind slopes is not more than 1 km
* Escarpment: if the next slope found after the upwind slope end (along the wind direction) is another upwind slope, or if there is no other slope after the considered upwind slope
* Escarpment: if the next slope found after the upwind slope end (along the wind direction) is the downwind slope and the horizontal distance of the flat terrain connecting the upwind and downwind slopes is more than 1 km

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2Fy3ziiZ3ByIDiVtonqoHz%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=93027c3c-8feb-433f-941c-e4e386c267be" alt=""><figcaption><p><em>Fig. 16. Feature definition found in the assessment</em></p></figcaption></figure>

7. Features that are fully included within other features (start at or after the start of the other feature and end at or before the end of the other feature) are excluded from further analysis.
8. If any feature is preceded by a peak whose height, measured from the lowest altitude in the windward profile, is greater than 80% of the height of the considered feature, then the feature is considered non-isolated (shielded by other features) and is excluded from further analysis.

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2F6ybUi5NbGgfoSFeuyJ38%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=516c982d-f805-464e-8c7d-0d7871be973b" alt=""><figcaption><p><em>Fig. 17. Shielding features check</em></p></figcaption></figure>

9. For all remaining valid features, the base and crest of the upwind and downwind slopes are assessed according to the following criteria:

* Base is the point on the upwind slope at the altitude defined as the maximum of:
  * the upwind slope start altitude
  * the average altitude of the terrain from the profile start to the start of the slope
* Crest is the end of the upwind slope

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FHpiGI7OmbSnDuceRCfFt%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=f68dff2f-f527-472d-896c-75ca40cac9e6" alt=""><figcaption><p><em>Fig. 18. Average altitude of upwind terrain</em></p></figcaption></figure>

10. The orography assessment parameters are calculated as:

* H: H\_crest – H\_base
* X: horizontal distance from site to crest
* Lu: horizontal distance from base to crest
* Ld: horizontal distance from downwind slope start to downwind slope end

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FFSNBaDqzJxzOitJY1bRm%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=da1d19f3-803a-4a6a-aec3-e54a3c8786b9" alt=""><figcaption><p><em>Fig. 19. Graphical representation of idealised feature</em></p></figcaption></figure>

11. For each feature, the orography factor at 10 m above ground is calculated. The feature for which this factor is greatest is selected as the governing one and is used in the wind loading calculations.

The BS-EN solution follows the procedure defined in PD 6688-1-4 (also BS 8100 Part 1, Appendix D). The typical slope input, derived from the above assessment, is converted into an idealised feature. Users can verify the resulting points and modify the typical slope if required.

Once the assessment is completed for all wind directions, the user can review the obtained values under the Orography tab. The assessment results are updated with the orography factor (co) calculated at 10 m above the terrain level.

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FmxHQVrpfXXWKUzPk7jNZ%2FScreenshot%202025-12-17%20103656.png?alt=media&amp;token=9e98289f-46cd-4469-ba7b-e3b0d8b61914" alt=""><figcaption><p><em>Fig. 20 BS-EN orography assessment details</em></p></figcaption></figure>

At this stage, the user is recommended to review the calculated parameters and adjust them if the terrain profile appears different from the one interpreted by the automatic algorithm.

Shapemaker allows for a fully automatic assessment of all site parameters required for wind load determination. However, it must be emphasized that the user is ultimately responsible for verifying the accuracy of the automatically generated data before performing any structural calculations.

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2Fve6rFwL4W0RUi0RNxl2a%2FScreenshot%202025-12-17%20103841.png?alt=media&amp;token=96184ba2-d237-4274-938d-f6b4e9621286" alt=""><figcaption><p><em>Fig. 21. Orography editor in Shapemaker</em></p></figcaption></figure>

#### References

* EN 1991-1-4:2005 - Eurocode 1: Actions on Structures – Part 1-4: General Actions – Wind Actions.&#x20;
* TIA-222-I - Structural Standard for Antenna Supporting Structures, Antennas, and Small Wind Turbine Support Structures.&#x20;
* PD 6688-1-4 - Background information to the National Annex to BS EN 1991-1-4 and additional guidance

For assessing the land coverage:

* ESA WorldCover 2021 land cover map - European Space Agency, 2021.\
  Available at:[ https://worldcover2021.esa.int/](https://worldcover2021.esa.int/)
* S2GLC Europe 2017 land cover map - Centre for Space Research, Polish Academy of Sciences (CBK PAN).\
  Available at:[ https://s2glc.cbk.waw.pl/](https://s2glc.cbk.waw.pl/)

For automatically assessing distance to edge of urban development in the UK and Ireland:

* Urban Morphological Zones for Europe - European Environment Agency (EEA).\
  Available at:[ https://www.eea.europa.eu/en/datahub/datahubitem-view/24129a43-4bc6-403a-aab8-7f500e69f8be](https://www.eea.europa.eu/en/datahub/datahubitem-view/24129a43-4bc6-403a-aab8-7f500e69f8be)

For checking the water reservoirs in the UK and Ireland:

* Lake Data for Ireland - Ordnance Survey Ireland (OSI).\
  Available at:[ https://data-osi.opendata.arcgis.com/datasets/osi::lakes-reservoirs-national-250k-map-of-ireland/about](https://data-osi.opendata.arcgis.com/datasets/osi::lakes-reservoirs-national-250k-map-of-ireland/about)
* Lake Data for the United Kingdom - UK Lakes Database, UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UK CEH).\
  Available at:[ https://uklakes.ceh.ac.uk/](https://uklakes.ceh.ac.uk/)

For determining the altitude above sea level

* GPXZ service - GPXZ.io, global topographic and elevation data platform.\
  Available at:[ https://www.gpxz.io](https://www.gpxz.io/)


# Frequently Asked Questions

Site-Specifics

<details>

<summary>How can I change the terrain category?</summary>

In the location tab of a site, you can manually update the terrain category as well as the orography factor by selecting `Edit wind profile` and making your changes.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can I elevate the tower above ground level?</summary>

Yes, you can set the base elevation of the tower shaft.&#x20;

You can either specify this directly or choose to calculate this value based on the selected foundation.

</details>

## Loading

<details>

<summary>Which force coefficient is used for linear ancillaries?</summary>

By default, we use

* 1.2 for feeders
* 2.0 for access ladders

You can manually override the force coefficient when editing your linear ancillaries.&#x20;

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can I adjust the load combination coefficients?</summary>

Yes. You can manually set the SLS partial coefficients, either per site or as a default for your organization.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Which ancillary types do you support?</summary>

We support a wide range of ancillaries. We're continuously expanding, and as of 18.07.25, we support

* GSM antenna
* MW Dish with shroud
* MW Dish without shroud
* MW Dish as grid
* MW Dish with radome
* Omni antennna
* GPS device
* Yagi antenna
* Dipole antenna
* RRU module
* ODU
* FTTA box
* PTTA box
* TMA device&#x20;
* MHA device
* Obstruction light
* Lightning rod
* Working platform
* Helix antenna
* Ice shield
* Combiner&#x20;
* Grid antenna

In addition, you can the custom ancillary types to create and model any ancillary type.

{% hint style="info" %}
We support multiple ways of calculating force coefficients for antennas, have a look at the deep dive into [How Ancillary EPA is Calculated](/technical-details/how-ancillary-epa-is-calculated).
{% endhint %}

</details>

<details>

<summary>How are wind loads applied to the structure?</summary>

Have a look at our deep dive [How Wind Loads Are Applied To The Structure](/technical-details/how-wind-loads-are-applied-to-the-structure).

</details>

<details>

<summary>Does Shapemaker support ice loading?</summary>

Yes, Shapemaker supports adding icing to the structure and ancillaries according to Annex NA.C of DIN EN 1993-3-1 (German Standard). The user can input the ice density and thickness.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Is it possible to change the reliability class?</summary>

Yes. This setting is available in the structure tab after enabling `advanced settings` for your users. You can enable advanced settings by clicking at your profile in the top right corner.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Does Shapemaker support patch loading?</summary>

Yes, Shapemaker support patch loading both for guyed masts and self supported structures, as according to the tower Eurocode.

</details>

<details>

<summary>How is ancillary EPA calculated?</summary>

Have a look at our deep dive here: [How Ancillary EPA is Calculated](/technical-details/how-ancillary-epa-is-calculated).

</details>

<details>

<summary>How are forces from an antenna distributed over the legs?</summary>

Have a look at [How Wind Loads Are Applied To The Structure](/technical-details/how-wind-loads-are-applied-to-the-structure#wind-forces-on-discrete-ancillaries).

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can I see the detailed loading of the load cases and load combinations?</summary>

Yes! In addition to the full report, you can use the FEA viewer located in the results tab to inspect both input & output to the FEA solver.

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FpcnQPdJXUibiC7UlUSL4%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=cc0621e7-9bde-468b-9519-847793c1af36" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

</details>

<details>

<summary>How is the <code>cscd</code> factor calculated?</summary>

The structural factor `cscd` is determined in accordance with **Chapter 6.3** and **Annex B**, and **Annex F** (logarithmic damping decrement only) of **EN 1991-1-4** for each wind direction.

</details>

## **Tower Family Modelling**

<details>

<summary>Which panel types do you support?</summary>

The TowerBuilder is continuously in development, but as of 18.07.25, we support a wide range of typically use panel types. See the photo for an extract.&#x20;

{% hint style="success" %}
Shapemaker is happy to onboard new panel types on request and as needed by our customers.
{% endhint %}

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2Fy9B5JQwkun8LXo7o1D50%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=5d57ca62-ee42-4d6b-8f28-657d504deae4" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can you add a custom panel type?</summary>

As of 18.07.25, we do not support having users creating new geometries of panels.

This feature is on our roadmap, but without a set timeline.

Shapemaker is happy to add panel types needed for you tower families.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Do you support built-up members/reinforced members?</summary>

Shapemaker supports a variety of built up members. A non-exhaustive list

* Back-to-back angular members
* Star angular members
* Various combinations of angular + circular members
* More

</details>

## Design Checks

<details>

<summary>Which foundations does Shapemaker support?</summary>

As of 23.09.25, Shapemaker supports the modelling and capacity checks of&#x20;

* Raft foundation without columns
* Raft foundation with single column
* Raft foundation with multiple columns
* Multiple piers anchored in rock
* Single pier anchorerd in rock
* Hold-down bolts
* Piers on circular pad

</details>

<details>

<summary>Do you calculate the criteria for equivalent static method?</summary>

Yes. You can see the result and the intermediate values used in the calculation in the full report.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Which design checks does Shapemaker do?</summary>

Check out [Which design checks does Shapemaker do?](/technical-details/which-design-checks-does-shapemaker-do).

</details>

## Analysis

<details>

<summary>Which tower types does Shapemaker support?</summary>

As of 18.07.25, Shapemaker supports full static analysis of

* Three and four legged self supported lattice stuctures
* Steel monopoles
* Hybrids: mono + lattice or lattice + mono
* Guyed masts
* Standardised rooftops - onboarded as agreement with client.

</details>

<details>

<summary>How can Shapemaker perform a structural analysis so fast?</summary>

As Shapemaker is telecom-only, it has enable us to optimise the force calculations and capacity checks to the structure types we support.

Even if we're evaluation hundreds of load cases, you'll experience that the analysis could finish in just seconds. Thanks to parallelisation of FEA runs, we're able to analyse 100+ meters guyed masts with non-linear analysis in just minutes.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can I edit limits for capacity checks, deformation or natural frequency?</summary>

Yes. You can edit the limits for checks, deformation and natural frequency both on a company level and on each specific site.

</details>

## Import & Export

<details>

<summary>Can Shapemaker be imported into a BIM software such as Revit or Robot?</summary>

Our [API](https://api.shapemaker.io/docs#/) is available for all our users, and it's possible to extract all information used by Shapemaker through our API.&#x20;

Through that, it's possible to extract the information needed to be inputted into a BIM software.

For our enterprise clients, we're happy to look into creating custom export functionality, or API integrations, to facilitate a good workflow between software.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can Shapemaker towers be exported into a CAD software such as AutoCAD?</summary>

Our [API](https://api.shapemaker.io/docs#/) is available for all our users, and it's possible to extract all information used by Shapemaker through our API.&#x20;

Through that, it's possible to extract the information needed to be inputted into a CAD software.

For our enterprise clients, we're happy to look into creating custom export functionality, or API integrations, to facilitate a good workflow between software.

Note that Shapemaker automatically produces drawings that could replace typical use-cases for CAD drawings, such as constructions drawings. See [#can-you-create-construction-drawings-in-shapemaker](#can-you-create-construction-drawings-in-shapemaker "mention").

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can Shapemaker integrate with other software?</summary>

Shapemaker is [API](https://api.shapemaker.io/docs) first, and all functionality in Shapemaker is possible to perform through the API.

Thus, Shapemaker is flexible and easy to integrate with.

We're already collaborating with several asset management systems, and are happy to extend to support your current architecture.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can you create construction drawings in Shapemaker?</summary>

Shapemaker automatically generates tower drawings of the structure, as well as front view and side-view drawings. You can find these drawings in the full report.&#x20;

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FpPhENm1SK3I3OJHmNlVR%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=0b323a9a-5272-42db-ae63-e3859bdef44e" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FC36wHApt5yA3Lxe1sCxz%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=d7575787-0841-4ac9-b08b-a0e65777a8c3" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://451777108-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6GQOhDmRM226SOi8J4Pp%2Fuploads%2FyjY9psOT8qzPHFuH63JT%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=775cf46f-1a79-41d9-9637-71d9da0edb02" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

</details>


# Get Demo Access!

Send us an email at <hello@shapemaker.io> to get demo access to Shapemaker.


# Feature Requests & Updates

We love hearing from our users - most of Shapemaker’s improvements come directly from your feedback.

✨ We update this list **every month**.

:writing\_hand: Read our [blog](https://www.shapemaker.io/blog) to dive into the details of our latest developments.

***

### 🚧 Next Up

Features we’re actively building right now. Expect these to land soon.

* Rooftop structures - Model and run structural analysis of rooftops
* Site versions - Experiment on your site with confidence and work with co-locations seamlessly
* TIA-222-G and TIA-222-F support
* Customer portal - Automate and increase your co-location business through a customer portal giving answers in minutes
* Improved equipment modelling user experience - Model your antennas, cables, mounting pipes easier with the right level of detail

***

### :white\_check\_mark: Done

* IFC import and export - Use Shapemaker in your BIM-workflows
* ASCE Hazard Tools API Integration - Get site parameters such as wind, ice, tornado and seismic conditions directly from ASCE tool before generating a wind profile with Shapemaker site-specifics
* tnxTower import - Quickly get your tnx sites into Shapemaker, either as reusable tower families or one-off sites
* [Structural analysis per TIA-222-I and TIA-222-H](https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/tia-222-i-and-h-are-now-live-in-shapemaker-advanced-lattice-tower-analysis-made-simple) is now supported
* [Tenant colors](https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/assign-colours-to-your-tenants) - define colors for your tenants to get consistent visualizations
* Materials database - use built-in materials or add your own
* [Improved foundation modelling and analysis](https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/foundation-design-update-rectangular-slab-eccentric-loading-and-enhanced-reporting) - Rectangular shapes, independent checks per wind direction, tower offset placement from center, and more
* [Site history](https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/foundation-design-update-rectangular-slab-eccentric-loading-and-enhanced-reporting) - A timeline of your site changes where users can comment&#x20;
* [Site import](https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/site-import-get-your-portfolio-into-shapemaker-in-minutes) - Bulk upload all your sites to Shapemaker
* [Open site specifics assessment](https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/introducing-our-free-wind-profile-generator) - try our industry-leading assessment
* [Panel builder](https://www.shapemaker.io/blog/custom-panel-builder) - model any lattice tower shape.
* Batch analysis filtered by tags
* Orography data assessment as per PD 6688-1-4
* See, edit, color, and delete tags
* Structural analysis accoding to the Bulgarian National Annex
* Leg-based positioning for more precise and simple antenna placement
* Simplified EPA-based analysis, requiring no tower data
* Multiple designs for one tower family in the Tower Builder
* All detailed analysis results for a site can be exported as a JSON
* Model monopoles with the Tower Builder
* Greater control and accuracy in where linear ancillaries (cables and ladders) are placed on a tower.
* Model and analyze circular pad foundations
* Edit base elevation for towers
* Make it possible to edit and delete structure tags
* Enable shared discrete ancillary groups
* Adjust zooming on precise ancillary positioning grid
* Remove natural frequency from monopole results
* Improve ease of use for discrete ancillaries CSV upload
* Make the deformation check user-configurable per site
* Make the natural frequency check user-configurable per site
* Show tower orientation in the Geometry and Ancillary tabs
* Support reports in French language
* Create an introductory video for the Tower Builder

***

### 💡 How to Suggest an Idea

Got an idea or a feature request?

* Send us a message directly **via the in-app chat**, or
* Email us at **<hello@shapemaker.io>**

Every suggestion is reviewed by our team. Even if something doesn’t get picked up right away, we keep it in our backlog for future consideration.

***

#### 🙌 Thanks!

Your feedback shapes Shapemaker.\
We’ll keep updating this page so you can see what’s happening with the features that matter most to you.