TxDOT and FHWA engineering software
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TxDOT and FHWA engineering software

Engineering Software

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The following table lists free TxDOT and FHWA engineering software to assist in highway design. It provides an overview and minimum system requirements for each application.

Technical Support

For technical support for the listed engineering software please contact us.

Description System Requirements

BGS-TxDOT Bridge Geometry System

The TxDOT Bridge Geometry System (BGS) is useful for bridge geometric design. Included in the text output are geometric data and reports that may be imported into various MicroStation design files to include angles, dimensions, elevations, etc. in the bridge plans as needed to accurately fabricate and place the various bridge elements during construction as well as determine bid item quantities during preparation of the PS&E package.

BGS Version 8.1, the initial release of BGS (June 2007), was developed from TxDOT Roadway Design System (RDS) Version 8.0 by removing all non-bridge related RDS commands. The result of these changes to RDS is BGS, a "scaled down" implementation of TxDOT RDS that focuses on bridge geometrics. BGS v8.1.7.2 was deployed in November of 2011 as a technical release to address OS issues with v8.1.7 (i.e. 8.1) released June 2007.

BGS, Version 9.1 includes a large number of fixes to bugs reported since the release of BGS Version 8.1 as well as enhancements to address user's concerns, including reducing system limitations on numbers such as the number of diaphragm lines that could be defined. Such limitation existed since long before the release of RDS Version 8.0. For a complete listing of the changes made to BGS Version 8.1 to yield BGS Version 9.1, see the Release Notes for BGS Version 9.1 installed with the software. This software product was developed by TxDOT for the use of TxDOT engineers and consultants and is maintained by the Texas Department of Transportation.

The current draft of the BGS v9.1 User Guide is over 360 pages long. Due to file size and for other reasons it is not deployed directly to the end user's machine but is rather stored on TxDOT_s FTP server. Users can access the guide via a link to it installed in the Bridge Geometry System (BGS) program group. This decoupling of the BGS User Guide from the packaging of the software allows for revision on an as-needed basis throughout the life of BGS v9.1. This BGS User Guide, like the old RDS User Manual, should provide all the information that the user will need to run the software.

See the BGS Support Information document, linked in the same manner as the BGS User Guide, for instructions on how to report bugs and wishes about program functionality or get technical support. Technical support is available to all TxDOT BGS users and any consultant BGS users designing bridges for TxDOT.

IMPORTANT NOTE: This 2/20/2020 release of BGS, Version 9.1.6 is a technical release intended to address Windows 10 compatibility and the false positives for malware by malware scanning software issues. The false positive for malware issue has persisted since shortly after the 02/12/2016 posting of BGS 9.1.6, as malware detection software began becoming increasingly more sensitive. The repackaging of the installer includes revised names and content for some documentation. The functionality of the compiled elements of the BGS software have not changed, hence the compile program version remains 9.1.6.

Processor: See recommended minimum for OS.
Memory: See recommended minimum for OS.
Free Disk Space: 12.8 MB for installation.
Operating System: Windows (Vista, 7, 10).
Version: 9.1.6
Date: 2/18/2020
Size: 3.64MB

Prerequisite Software: The Bentley Systems MicroStation [V8-2004, V8-XM, V8i, V8i (Select Series 3) or V8i (Select Series 4)] software must be installed in order to process BGS plot commands.

BMCOL51- Beam-column analysis

Generalized beam-column discrete element model to analyze simple and continuous beam subjected to concentrated, uniform, uniformly varying, and non-uniformly varying static and movable traverse loads. The program considers the effect of axial load on stiffness. It models spring supports, rotational spring restraints, and concentrated applied torques, It analyzes a beam-column of up to 999 discrete increments of user defined length. Flexural stiffness may be prismatic, uniformly varying, or non-uniformly varing.

Processor: Pentium 133Mhz
Memory: 32mb
Free Disk Space: 200kb
Operating System: Win 32-Bit
Version: 5.2.3
Date: 08/07/2009
Size: 1.0mb

BridgeLink v7.0.2 (PGSUPER - Prestressed Girder Superstructure Design and Analysis)

PGSuper is now part of the BridgeLink application framework. BridgeLink is an integrated suite of bridge engineering software. BridgeLink links together several different bridge engineering software tools into one convenient and easy to use platform. The software tools included in BridgeLink are BEToolbox, PGSplice, PGSuper, TOGA, and XBRate.

BridgeLink has been collaboratively developed and maintained by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) under the Alternate Route Project initiated and managed by WSDOT. (http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/eesc/bridge/alternateroute/licenses.htm)
BridgeLink User Guide (March 2020)

This TxDOT-customized version of PGSuper is versatile, user friendly, Windows-based software for the design, analysis, and load rating of multi-span precast-prestressed concrete bridge beams/girders in accordance with the AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications (thru the 9th Edition, 2020) and by TxDOT design policies and guidelines. Properties of TxDOT standard I-girders (TxGirders), U beams, slab beams, decked slab beams, box beams, and X-beams and TxDOT specific design criteria are included in templates and libraries published by TxDOT on a server accessible via the Internet. Thus, the software is capable of periodically updating the installed templates and libraries with the most current versions published by TxDOT. Though these templates and libraries are subject to change, the user may save PGSuper project data with its associated templates, libraries and settings in a .pgs file which can subsequently be opened by PGSuper preserving the templates, libraries, settings and design data of the bridges as originally designed.

Custom defined beam shapes that fit within each family of girder types supported by PGSuper can also be added to the user copy of the templates, thereby extending the girder shapes that the user can design, analyze, and load rate with the program.

The flexural design feature computes the required number and pattern of prestressing strands and the minimum required release and final concrete strengths. Specification checking evaluates girders for compliance with strength, serviceability, and detailing criteria. Horizontal and vertical shear design, analysis, and load rating is also facilitated.

A variety of results reporting is provided, including exhaustive and comprehensive reports, reports tailored to specific design or analysis features, fabricator optional design evaluation reports, and a TxDOT Girder Schedule Report ("TxDOT CAD Output").

Certain functionalities of this version of PGSuper have been enhanced over that of the previous release, and most known issues/bugs present in the previous release are fixed in this release. For a list of these changes see the PGSuper support Information Document.

Report all bugs or request technical support via email to BRG_TxDOT_PGSuperHelp@txdot.gov

Processor: Equivalent to Pentium 4, 1.0 GHZ or faster
Memory: 2 GB
Free Disk Space: 122 MB
Operating System: Windows 10
Version: 6.1
Date: 05/13/2021
Size: N/A

C2C Tools- Center to Center (C2C) Development Toolkit

Contains the Interface Control Document, XML Schemas and WSDL files needed to develop plugin software compatible with the Center to Center Infrastructure. This download also contains the Center to Center Test Suite application, used to validate the plugin against the defined interface, and the Status Logger application needed for the Test Suite application.

Processor: Pentium 133Mhz
Memory: 256mb
Free Disk Space: 30 MB
Operating System: Win 32-Bit
Version: 7.6.7.4354
Date: 08/27/2020
Size: 21.8 MB

CAP18 - Bent Cap Analysis Program

A specialized structural analysis program using a discrete element model that produces envelopes of maximum bending and shear forces acting on bridge bent caps. Analytical results are for working stress and/or load factor design in accordance with the AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications or the AASHTO Standard Specifications for Highway Bridges. Users input live loads are automatically placed within users defined lanes to generate maximum forces at users specified points.

Processor: Pentium 133Mhz
Memory: 256mb
Free Disk Space: 30mb
Operating System: Windows 2000, 2003, XP, Vista, Windows 7
Version: 6.2.2
Date: 10/10/11
Size: 1.4mb

ConcreteWorks

ConcreteWorks was developed at the Concrete Durability Center at the University of Texas as part of research funded by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). The system improves the constructability and durability of mass concrete bridge members and other structural members. Features include concrete mixture proportioning, thermal analysis, crack prediction, and chloride diffusion service life. It contains design modules for several mass concrete shapes, bridge decks types, precast concrete beams, and concrete pavements.

Processor: see recommended minimum for OS
Memory: see recommended minimum for OS
Free Disk Space: 350 mb for installation
Operating System: Win 2000, 2003, XP, Vista
Version: 2.1.3
Date: 05/07/2010
Size: 171.5 mb

COSB1

Analyzes cantilever overhead sign bridge typically built in Texas. Structure geometry and analysis are based on the assumptions and limitations described in the help document.

Processor: Pentium 133Mhz
Memory: 32mb
Free Disk Space: 600kb
Operating System: Win 32-Bit
Version: 3.00
Date: 8/1/2001
Size: 0.28mb

CULV5 - Concrete Box Culvert Analysis

CULV5 was developed and is maintained by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).

CULV5 is an analysis tool for concrete box culverts. The program determines the forces acting on each of the different members of the culvert using the direct stiffness method. The user provides input data for loading conditions, structure geometry, and member sizes. The program outputs the member forces for use in either a working stress design or a load factor design in accordance with the AASHTO Standard Specifications for Highway Bridges, 17th Ed. for highway loadings, and AREMA 2006 in the case of E72 and E80 loadings.

Processor: Intel Pentium
Memory: 256mb (1GB recommended)
Free Disk Space: 10mb
Operating System: Windows (XP, Vista, or 7)
Version: 2.2.2
Date: 07/13/2012
Size: 1.6mb

ESS Tools

Environmental Sensor Station (ESS) software development toolkit containing the Protocol Document, XML Schemas, and XML Tester Application with Schema Panels needed to develop software capable of interfacing with TxDOT's Environmental Sensor Station software.

Processor: Pentium 133Mhz
Memory: 512mb
Free Disk Space: 5mb
Operating System: Win 32-Bit
Version: 1.0.2
Date: 8/28/2013
Size: 3.1MB

FM Tools

Flow Manager (FM) software development toolkit containing the Protocol Document, XML Schemas, and XML Tester Application with Schema Panels needed to develop FM compatible software.

Processor: Pentium 133Mhz
Memory: 512mb
Free Disk Space: 5mb
Operating System: Win 32-Bit
Version: 1.0.3
Date: 5/23/2008
Size: 2.0mb

HY-8

HY-8 is a computerized implementation of FHWA culvert hydraulic approaches and protocols. The HY-8 program is available at no charge to the hydraulic and transportation communities.

The FHWA has been producing computerized culvert hydraulic software since the early 1960's (with the HY-1 program). The FHWA released the initial version of the HY-8 program in the early 1980's. FHWA released the original Windows version (7.0) in March 2007 and the second phase update (7.1) in July 2008. The HY-8 program has successfully operated on all current "flavors" of the Windows operating system.

HY-8 7.2 represents a "maintenance phase "of the FHWA's multi-phase culvert hydraulic software upgrade plan. In the future, the plan calls for using a pooled fund effort1 to fund and support incremental upgrades and additions of features, based on available time, budget, and adoption of new hydraulic practices and techniques.

Quick Start Guide (.pdf, 14 pages, 1 mb)

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Free Disk Space: 31 mb
Operating System: Win 32-Bit
Version: 7.2
Date: 4/6/2011
Size: 41 mb

OSB6

Use approximate analysis method for overhead sign bridge customarily built in Texas. Structure geometry and analysis are based on the assumptions and limitations described in the help document.

Processor: Pentium 133Mhz
Memory: 32mb
Free Disk Space: 1.2mb
Operating System: Win 32-Bit
Version: 3.00
Date: 8/1/2004
Size: 0.32mb

Overheight Vehicle Detection System

Vehicle Compliance Subsystem (VCS) documentation containing the Protocol Document and XML Schemas needed to develop VCS compatible software for use in Overheight Vehicle Detection Systems.

Processor: Pentium 4 or Higher
Memory: 512MB
Free Disk Space: 30MB
Operating System: Win 32-Bit
Version: 2.0.0
Date: 10/20/2015
Size: 1MB

PIER - Non-Linear Analysis of Concrete Piers

Specialized program which performs non-linear analysis of slender, non-prismatic, and hollow core concrete

Reference Guide[zip, 4 file,22mb]

Processor: Pentium 133 Mhz
Memory: 864kb
Free Disk Space: 513kb
Operating System: Win 32- Bit
Version: 2.01
Date: 7/19/2004
Size: 0.69mb

PSTRS14-TxDOT Prestressed Concrete Beam Design/Analysis Program

PSTRS14 has been developed and is maintained by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). The program can design and analyze standard and user defined non-standard, simple span prestressed concrete beams having fully bonded draped or straight strands, or partially debonded straight strands, in accordance with the AASHTO Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) Specifications (3rd Edition, 2004-2006; 4th Edition, 2007-2009; 5th Edition, 2010; and 6th Edition, 2012), AASHTO Standard Specifications for Highway Bridges (15th Edition, 1994 Interim thru 17th Edition, 2002), or American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association (4th Edition, 2008-2009).

Properties of standard I beams, Dbl-T beams, U beams, Slab beams, Box beams, TxGirders, Decked Slab beams and X-beams are included in the program's beam section library. User defined beam shapes can be designed and analyzed using the non-standard beam option.

PSTRS14 Version 6.1, incorporates enhancements and modifications versus v5.2, including:

  • consideration of End Distance, Transfer Length, and Beam Length that were ignored in all prior versions of PSTRS14;
  • updating provisions of the AASHTO LRFD BDS (thru the 12th Edition);
  • implementing the new loss method proposed in Research Project 0-6374, "Effects of New Prestress Loss Predictions on TxDOT Bridges";
  • bug fixes to the v5.1 implementation of the complex AASHTO LRFD loss of prestress methodology, that was introduced in the 4th Edition (2007) and remains the AASHTO method beyond the 6th Edition; and
  • implementation of an Optional Life Cycle Camber Report allowing PSTRS14 users to get a report on estimated time dependent camber history based on critical stages in the life of the beam/bridge, including at end of service life.

PSTRS14 Version 6.1.1 is a repackaging of version 6.1 to all installation on Windows 10 systems.

Note on appropriate use: PSTRS14 is not intended to take the place of PGSuper in production design but rather is a tool for doing comparison design and analysis, for investigating non-standard sections, for prestressed concrete beam design and analysis for railroad bridges, and for investigating existing bridges designed in accordance with either the AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications or AASHTO Standard Specifications for Highway Bridges listed above.

Following the precedent set by the release of BGS v9.1 the PSTRS14 v6.1.1 User Guide is not deployed directly to the end user's machine but is stored on the TxDOT FTP server. Users access the guide via a link installed in the Prestressed Concrete Beam Design & Analysis Program (PSTRS14) program group.

See the PSTRS14 Support Information Document, linked in the same manner as the PSTRS14 v6.1.1 User Guide, for instructions on how to report bugs and wishes about program functionality or get technical support. Technical support is available to all TxDOT PSTRS14 users and any consultant PSTRS14 users designing bridges for TxDOT.

Processor: Intel Pentium or AMD Atlon
Memory: Operating System recommended minimum
Free Disk Space: 15mb
Operating System: Windows 7, Windows 10
Version: 6.1.1
Date: 10/19/2021
Size: 5.2mb unzipped

RideQuality

Used when Special Specification 5880 or Item 585 applies to construction projects. Prior to invoking these Ride Quality Specifications, the user should review the appropriate information in the Pavement Manual [Chpt. 11: Ride Quality, Sec. 5: Surface Test Type B for Concrete and Hot-Mix Asphalt Surfaces] from TxDOT's Maintenance Division to determine the proper pay schedule for the type of construction work to be done. The user should also read the specification and the associated Test Method Tex-1001-S.

Click here to access the Ride Quality Web Application. (See the Ride Quality User Guide if you need additional instructions.)

Signal

Analyzes traffic signal or strain pole assemblies. Analysis is based on the assumptions and limitations described in the help document.

Processor: Pentium 133Mhz
Memory: 32mb
Free Disk Space: 500kb
Operating System: Win 32-Bit
Version: 3.00
Date: 8/1/2001
Size: 0.02mb

SignsPC

SignsPC - TxDOT Traffic Sign Detailing Program

The SignsPC application is used in conjunction with the MicroStation computer-aided drafting application. SignsPC extends MicroStation by providing the user with a toolkit for generating and labeling traffic signs. The toolkit also includes a lettering feature to accurately place lettering cells spaced according to standard specifications.

Processor: Determined by MicroStation requirements
Memory: Determined by MicroStation requirements
Free Disk Space: 10mb
Operating System: Windows (XP, Vista, or 7)
Version: 3.2.4
Date: 11/16/2011
Size: 5.0 mb

Prerequisite Software: The Bentley Systems MicroStation (V8-2004, V8-XM, or V8-i Edition) software must be installed on the destination computer in order to install and run SignsPC.

SPRT - Shop Plan Review Tools for Acrobat Pro

For use only by Engineering Consultants under contract to TxDOT to perform shop plan review. The Shop Plan Review Tools add-in for Adobe Acrobat Professional provides functions to expedite approval stamp placement, hiding/showing reviewer markups, and document flattening. Prior installation of Adobe Acrobat Professional is a pre-requisite.

The default installation is for Adobe Acrobat DC and can be change for other versions at the time of installation. This add-in has been tested for compatibility with Adobe Acrobat Pro version XI and DC. It is advisable to ensure that critical markups are retained on plan sets when using different versions of Adobe Acrobat Pro.

For questions or comments, contact Bridge Division at Engineering.Software@txdot.gov.

Processor: Pentium, AMD Athlon, or newer
Memory: Operating System recommended minimum
Free Disk Space: 6 mb
Operating System: Windows 7, Windows 10
Version: 1.1.4
Date: 8/27/2021
Size: 2mb unzipped

TBLRP

TBLRP - Texas Bridge Load Rating Program

The Texas Bridge Load Rating Program (TBLRP) uses a working stress (WS) analysis method which produces an allowable stress load rating. This load rating methodology is in accordance with the AASHTO Manual for Condition Evaluation of Bridges, 1993, and the AASHTO Standard Specifications for Highway Bridges, 14th Ed., 1989. This program simplifies the load rating of nonstandard bridges that are commonly found on rural roads off the state and federal highway systems. The program emphasizes standardized and efficient load rating with a goal of minimizing clerical and computational errors inherent in manual methods.

Processor: Pentium 133Mhz
Memory: 3mb
Free Disk Space: 4mb
Operating System: Windows XP, Windows 7
Version: 6.1.4
Date: 10/05/12
Size: 1.8mb

THYSYS

THYSYS hydrologic and hydraulic is no longer provided or supported by TxDOT nor will use of the software typically be accepted for TxDOT projects. HY-8 or HEC-RAS are preferred for open channel hydraulics. Please call Design Division, Hydraulics Branch with questions at (512) 416-2219.

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TxDOT NTCIP Tester (TNT)

The TxDOT NTCIP Tester (TNT) is a tool used to test Dynamic Message Signs against the NTCIP standard.

Processor: Pentium 4 or Higher
Memory: 512mb
Free Disk Space: 200mb
Operating System: Windows 10 and newer
Version: 8.0.1.179
Date: 6/2/2023
Size: 85.5mb

TSS Tools

Transportation Sensor Subsystem (TSS) software development toolkit containing the Protocol Document, XML Schemas, and XML Tester Application with Schema Panels needed to develop TSS compatible software.

Processor: Pentium 133 Mhz
Memory: 512mb
Free Disk Space: 5mb
Operating System:
Version: 1.06
Date: 12/22/2007
Size: 2.2mb

TxCRCP-ME

TxCRCP-ME was developed under research project 0-5832, "Develop Mechanistic/Empirical Design for CRCP." This is a simple Excel spreadsheet that determines CRCP performance (punch-outs per mile) based on user inputs for location, traffic, concrete properties and support layers.

Processor: n/a
Memory: n/a
Free Disk Space: n/a
Operating System: n/a
Version: v07b
Date: 11/04/2016
Size: 370KB

UT Lift and UT Bridge

Researchers at the Ferguson Structural Engineering Laboratory at the University of Texas at Austin developed UT Lift and UT Bridge under TxDOT sponsored research projects (0-5574 and 0-6816) to predict the behavior of straight and horizontally curved steel girders during lifting and erection. These tools were previously packaged together and posted to the TxDOT Engineering Software webpage as UTCGAT - UT Curved Girder Analysis Tools.

UT Lift is an easy to use, macro-programmed Excel spreadsheet for determining the behavior during lifting of straight and horizontally curved steel I-girders with one crane and two lift clamps.

Follow the link below to access the webpage for downloading UT Lift: http://fsel.engr.utexas.edu/facilities/software/software

UT Bridge is a 3-dimensional finite element program for the analysis of curved steel I-girders and steel tub girders. Computations include linear elastic analysis (first-order and second-order) and eigenvalue buckling analysis for both girder erection and concrete deck placement.

Due to having no software maintenance mechanism, UT Bridge is no longer available from TXDOT and UT Austin. However, a similar and actively maintained MBrace3D https://www.mbrace3d.com, could substitute, as well as other commercial software.

VCS Tools

Vehicle Compliance Subsystem (VCS) software development toolkit containing the Protocol Document, XML Schemas, and XML Tester Application with Schema Panels needed to develop VCS compatible software.

Processor: Pentium 133 Mhz
Memory: 512mb
Free Disk Space: 5mb
Operating System: Win 32-Bit
Version: 1.0.5
Date: 1/15/2008
Size: 2.2 MB

WINCORE

Analyzes and reports soil borings in accordance with TxDOT Standards. Accompanying MicroStation macros allow WinCore files to be accessed from inside MicroStation for automated drawing of core logs in design files. Macros compatible with MicroStation Versions J and V8.

See supporting documentation for more information.

Processor: 486-33Mhz
Memory: 16mb
Free Disk Space: 4mb
Operating System: Win 32-Bit
Version: 3.3.0
Date: 10/4/2017
Size: 3mb

WinStorm

WinStorm is no longer provided or supported by TxDOT nor will use of the software typically be accepted for TxDOT projects. GEOPAK Drainage is preferred for storm sewer hydraulics. Please call Design Division, Hydraulics Branch with questions at (512) 416-2219.

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