WebService and API

One thing is absolutely undisputed: WebService and API covers universal aspects in the construction industry. However, there is an issue. For the calculation and design, you need different features for each region, country, company, and civil engineer. Everyone has their own requirements. We have solved this problem. Since with WebService and API, you can easily create your very own calculation and design system. Always at your side: The performance and reliability of RFEM, RSTAB, and RSECTION.

The need for adapted and automated structural analysis and design is constantly increasing. WebService technology allows you to create special functionalities quickly and precisely. Our customers can develop such solutions independently or in cooperation with us. See for yourself and give it a try!

Communication is the key to success. This also applies to a client-server relation. WebService and API provides you with an XML based information exchange system for direct client-server communication. Programs, objects, messages, or documents can be integrated into these systems. For example, a web service protocol of the HTTP type runs for the client-server communication when you are looking for something in the Internet using a search engine.

Now back to Dlubal Software. In our case, the client is your programming environment (.NET, Python, JavaScript) and the service provider is RFEM 6. Client-server communication allows you to send requests to and receive feedback from RFEM, RSTAB, or RSECTION.

What is the difference between WebService and an API?

• WebService is a collection of open source protocols and standards used to exchange data between systems and applications. In contrast, an application programming interface (API), is a software interface through which two applications can interact without a user being involved.
• Thus, all web services are APIs, but not all APIs are web services.

What are the advantages of the WebService technology?
You will be able to communicate more quickly within and among organizations. A service can be independent of other services. By WebService you can use your application to make your message or feature accessible to the rest of the world. WebService helps you to exchange data between different applications and platforms. Several applications can communicate, exchange data, and share services with each other. SOAP ensures that programs created on different platforms and based on different programming languages can exchange data securely.

Communication between the web service client and server is optionally encrypted via the https protocol. To do this, you can install an SSL certificate with the corresponding private key in the settings.