In LIRA-FEM 2026, the capabilities of interaction with the system via API have been significantly expanded. To automate routine tasks, generate complex objects, and integrate with external software, LIRA-FEM uses an API based on COM technology.

Key API Features

• Automation of LIRA-CAD: creation of custom nodes for the Generator and development of plugins.
• Input tables: programmatic control of design model data — import, adjustment, and updating via user interface or programmatically using COM technology.
• Reading and visualization: functions for obtaining analysis results and displaying them as mosaic plots, contour plots, and diagrams directly in the model window.
• Versatility: support for any programming languages that work with COM objects: C#, C++, Python, JavaScript (including V8), VBScript, and others.

User Extensions

• The main innovation is loading modules into the address space of the LIRA-FEM process. This gives external developers access to previously closed API functions and allows them to extend the capabilities of the software.

  • Interface customization: embedding custom commands and buttons into the LIRA-FEM ribbon.
  • Calculation cycle management: introducing custom data into the overall task structure and integrating specific algorithms into the calculation “pipeline.”
  • Automated reporting: adding custom sections to the Report Book, including updatable CSV tables and screenshots.
  • Development of new modules: a framework has been created for porting applications as LIRA-FEM extensions.

API LIRA-CAD and LIRA-FEM

• New input tables have been added for setting and adjusting design model data:

  • pile stiffness — FE 57;
  • materials for reinforced concrete structures: bars, plates, concrete, reinforcement;
  • materials for steel sections: material, additional characteristics, selection restrictions;
  • design options;
  • DCF table;
  • structural elements;
  • element unification;
  • soil model: basic, collapsible, swelling, saline, permafrost characteristics, consolidation, creep, boreholes.
• For convenience, a tree-like structure of sections has been added, as well as the ability to simultaneously delete, copy, cut, and paste multiple input tables.

Expanded options to generate the model and get access to analysis results. Thus, you might use the API to generate your own modules. For example, generate complex objects, automate routine operations, and obtain information on architectural or design models so that the models can be transferred to other software and vice versa.

New input tables are added to define/edit the following data: arc grid lines; types of pilot reinforcement (PR) and their assignment to elements of the model; input data for dynamic load cases; selective consideration of masses in elements; eccentricities of mass application; loads; surface loads; loads on fragment; bar analogues; plate analogues.

Keep in mind that Input Tables can be used as an alternative way to define and edit data about design models, import data from other programs, and partially copy or update the model - through the user interface or programmatically, via COM technology.

• Enhanced automation tools for model generation and access to analysis results.

• New input tables to define and modify coordinate axes, height elevations, structural blocks, materials for reinforced concrete, composite (steel and reinforced concrete), masonry reinforcing, and steel and aluminium structures are added. New parameters are added to input tables for perfectly rigid bodies, offsets for bars, forces for bars, and subgrade moduli C1 and C2 for plates and bars.