A simple ETABS plugin that automatically renames frame elements based on the closest grid point. Compatible with ETABS v22 and now ETABS v21 (standalone version)..
BetterAutoName helps structural engineers keep their models organized by applying a structured naming convention to frame elements using the grid system.
Only Unique Names are renamed — ensuring your model labels and sections remain untouched.
Renamed elements follow this pattern: {Story}{SectionName}{Grid}_{Suffix}
Story: The level or story name in ETABS.SectionName: The name of the frame section (e.g.,W250x33).Grid: The closest intersection point from your defined grid (e.g.,A-3,C-5).Suffix: A unique identifier added only if the element does not align exactly with the grid (e.g.,1,2, etc.).
- ✔ Automatically renames frame elements based on grid locations.
- ✔ Works even when elements are not perfectly aligned — assigns the nearest grid.
- ✔ Adds suffixes for non-grid-aligned or secondary beams.
- ✔ Compatible with ETABS v22 and ETABS v21 (standalone version).
- 🚀 Frist Realese: Added v0.1 supporting ETABS v22
- 🐞 Bug Fixes: Fixing error v0.1 in grid alignment detection.
- 🛠️ New Feature: Added Tolerance to nearest grid in v0.1 for adjust grid alignment detection.
- 🖥️ New: Added standalone version v0.1 supporting ETABS v21.
- 🚀 Realese: Added v0.1 supporting SAP2000 v26
- Download the latest release from the Releases tab.
- Run the plugin while your model is open in ETABS.
- Use the regular version for ETABS 22.
- For the standalone version for ETABS 21 make sure you Activate instance for API.
- The plugin will process and rename applicable frame elements automatically.
Found a bug? Have suggestions for improvements?
Feel free to open an issue or submit a pull request. Your feedback is welcome!