The new Dlubal API Service (gRPC) is a Python-based solution that unlocks full access to the entire Dlubal product suite, providing seamless, high-level interaction with RFEM, RSTAB, and RSECTION. Whether you’re tackling parametric models or optimization tasks, you’ve come to the right place.
Our mission is to deliver an easily extensible library that, via Python functions, ensures quick and effortless access to all data and functionalities across Dlubal’s main programs and their add-ons.
Dlubal's successful structural analysis program RFEM is the best choice for demanding structural engineers. This 3D FEA software meets all the requirements in modern civil engineering.
RSTAB is an advanced 3D structural analysis solution, delivering efficient analysis and design for frame or member structures in concrete, steel, timber, and more.
The Dlubal API (Application Programming Interface) enables seamless integration of our software tools with external applications and systems. It allows for process automation, custom calculations, and the creation of tailored work environments based on specific needs. With the API, you can easily connect Dlubal Software to your own applications, enhancing efficiency and flexibility in your workflows.
For beginners, we provide online examples to guide you through the process step by step.
Boost your efficiency with the new Dlubal API, powered by high-performance gRPC technology. Enjoy a unified API and console syntax, optimized data serialization, and lightweight, bidirectional streaming. Experience faster development, precise result filtering, and seamless Docker deployment—all designed for scalable, high-speed applications.
1
Fast Communication
gRPC stands out for its power and efficiency, delivering up to 10× faster data exchange than traditional REST-based webservices. By leveraging its modern architecture, it provides seamless application interaction, minimal latency, and maximum data throughput—all essential for superior responsiveness.
2
Docker Containers
Docker lets you package, deploy, and manage solutions swiftly, reducing the effort of environment maintenance and updates. With containerization, applications remain isolated, scalable, and easily portable, enabling seamless deployment across diverse infrastructures without compatibility issues.
3
Simplicity
By streamlining the interface, we reduce complexity in maintenance and implementation. The API begins with 20 versatile functions, enabling fewer updates and a smoother transition to new versions. This concise approach simplifies integration, speeds development, and keeps the system adaptable for future enhancements.
4
Result Filter
Our result functions are now object-oriented and include a filter parameter to capture only relevant data. This targeted approach significantly reduces data transfer, optimizes network performance, and improves system responsiveness—ensuring your applications get only essential information in real time.
API Service vs. Webservice – Key Differences
Discover the benefits of modern gRPC API Service over outdated SOAP Webservice - faster performance, better security, and seamless scalability. Upgrade now for a smoother, more efficient experience!
gRPC is faster than traditional REST API because it uses a compact binary format (protobuf) instead of text-based JSON, reducing data size and speeding up transmission.
Additionally, HTTP/2 allows multiple requests to be sent simultaneously, resulting in lower latency compared to older HTTP/1.1.
Binary data streaming (5-10x faster)
XML text data streaming (slower)
Security
API key-based authentication - scalable security
Limited security options, relies on WS-Security
Connection Management
One port for multiple models - smooth
Each model/app needs its own port - complex
Remote Support
Native remote support - easy setup
Difficult setup, not widespread
Cloud (SaaS) Availability
Planned! API Service as SaaS via Cloud
No SaaS option - high initial cost
License Flexibility
Planned! Single license for multiple HW
Separate license for each HW
API Complexity
Simple and intuitive single API
Large API with different versions
Language & Consistency
Unified API + Python
Different APIs + languages, inconsistent
Documentation
Comprehensive online documentation
Limited and less structured documentation
Data Processing
Planned! Built-in filtering - efficient
Requires extensive post-processing
Advantages of API
Cost Efficiency
Automating repetitive tasks and optimizing calculations reduce manual effort, minimizing costs for engineering firms.
Time Saving
Workflows can be streamlined by automating model generation, load application, and result evaluation, significantly speeding up the design process.
Full Customization
You can tailor calculations, reports, and processes to meet specific project or company requirements without software limitations.
Better Integration
The API enables seamless data exchange between structural analysis software and other BIM & CAD solutions.
Access to Data
Get access to all objects, results and model data of the programs to transform design processes.
Innovation
API services enable developers to build new applications, foster collaboration, and facilitate rapid prototyping by leveraging existing data and functionality.
Certain API methods are monetized on the basis of their usage, whether for local or remote operations. The API pricing is divided into two parts. The first part is the subscription to the API, which is an annual fee of 800 EUR. The second part is the purchase of credits to use the API calls for calculating and saving models.
To access the Dlubal API, you need both authentication and authorization. Authentication is handled using an API Key, which is automatically included in all requests for validation. Authorization requires a valid license with an active API Service subscription.
The Dlubal Unified API streamlines your workflow by providing a single, versatile interface for the entire Dlubal ecosystem.
Key benefits:
One API for all Dlubal Apps – Start with RFEM, with more integrations coming
Direct in-app scripting – Use the same API syntax in the Console for easy exploration
Seamless model export – Generate Python scripts directly from models
Blocks & Components – Define reusable elements for efficient parametrization
AI-powered tools – Leverage advanced functionalities, including MIA
When should I switch to gRPC API?
If you need higher performance, lower latency, and better efficiency, gRPC is the way to go.
Switch to gRPC if you want:
Faster data transmission with a smaller payload size
Advanced streaming capabilities for real-time communication
Automatic client/server code generation for multiple languages
Stronger type safety and optimized performance in mobile networks
Stick with REST API if:
You need browser compatibility
You're integrating with legacy systems expecting JSON
You prefer a simpler, more testable API without generated clients
Ready to take the next step?
Leverage the power of the Dlubal API, compatible with RFEM 6, RSTAB 9, and RSECTION 1. Start now to unlock advanced capabilities for efficient and precise structural analysis and design across all three programs.
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