I am currently in the process of writing my bachelor's thesis on the development of a Python client for the calculation of timber-concrete composite systems using frame models. For this, I am using the Dlubal API in conjunction with RFEM 6.
The development of my client is going quite well so far, but I am slowly coming to the question of how I could make it available to other people. Specifically, my question is how I can enable people who have no programming knowledge and do not have an IDE or Python environment installed to use my client as simply as possible. Especially with regard to the API keys, how can I allow other users access as simply as possible, perhaps even without them having to save/enter their own key?
On this occasion, I also have a question about the version used: I started working with RFEM version 6.12.0007 in conjunction with Python 3.10. Should the RFEM version be updated to the latest after a certain period, or can work continue with the older versions?
Furthermore, I have another question, which I think is more directed at the Dlubal sales team. Namely, I am in talks with an HBV screw manufacturer who might want to use my client for themselves. However, we face the question of whether, as part of a cooperation with the manufacturer, an extended access for customers to the RFEM calculations via a server or similar could be enabled in order to also address customers without a Dlubal license. I suppose I should probably ask this inquiry elsewhere, right?
Thank you very much for any helpful contributions.
Best regards, Fabian
Hi Fabian147,
first of all, a warm welcome to the community.
It's great to hear that you are making good progress with your bachelor's thesis. We are always pleased when our products come into play in such work. Regarding your questions, I hope I can provide you with some answers.
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The question about distributing your application to other users without an IDE, as far as I understand it correctly, is more about distributing an app rather than sharing your code. If you actually want to share your code, you can use, for example, GitHub. If you want to distribute an app, there are various options available to you, but we cannot provide detailed information about this here in the forum. However, if you enter the following prompt into an AI of your choice: 'How can I distribute a solution created in Python to other users?' you will be presented with numerous options. Of course, you can refine the prompt; the one I created here was just 'quick & dirty'.
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It definitely makes sense to keep both the app and the API up to date, as they are constantly being developed further. However, you should ensure that the versions match, i.e., RFEM 6.13.0005 should only be used with API 2.13.5. If necessary, the code may need to be adjusted a bit; this can be found in the Release Notes (keyword 'Action Required').
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For use by the HBV bolt manufacturer, this would actually need to be discussed in a different setting than here in the community. We have already implemented similar projects and would be very happy about a corresponding exchange. If you wish, our sales team will be happy to get in touch with you.
I hope this information helps you a little and wish you continued success with your bachelor's thesis.
Best regards Robert Milrath
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