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PySees
Open Studio

Getting started

What is PySees

A browser-based GUI for building, running and reviewing structural models.

PySees is a web app for building structural models, analysing them and reviewing the results, all in your browser. There is nothing to install and no account is needed.

PySees Studio with a 3D frame template: the Model panel on the left, the 3D viewport in the centre and the Command panel on the right

How it works

You build a parametric model: nodes, materials, sections, elements, supports and loads. You then author an analysis (static, pushover, earthquake or eigen). Everything else is derived from those two things:

  • The 3D viewport draws the model and, after a run, the results.
  • Carapace, a finite-element solver compiled to WebAssembly, runs the analysis inside your browser. See Carapace solver.
  • An OpenSeesPy script can be exported so you can run the same model in OpenSees yourself.

What you can model

  • 2D and 3D models. A 3D model is Z-up: the plan is the X–Y plane and levels rise in Z. A 2D model lies in the XY plane with Y up.
  • Truss, elastic and fiber beam-column elements, plus 3D shell elements.
  • Fiber sections from templates, AISC shapes, or fibers and patches you define.
  • Static, pushover, earthquake (ground motion) and modal analyses.

Where to go next

Quick start