Version 11.

800 October 2013

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Disclaimer
This document has been published for the purpose of providing information of a general nature only.

Further, no guarantee, warranty, or any other form of assurance is given as to the accuracy, currency
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Copyright 2013 FRAMECAD Limited.

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 FRAMECAD ProDesign User Manual October 2013

Basic Table of Contents

1 PREFACE ...................................................................................................................................................9
2 INTENDED USE OF SOFTWARE ................................................................................................................ 10
3 STANDARD CAD HOT KEYS ..................................................................................................................... 13

4 SUGGESTED BASIC PROCEDURE ............................................................................................................. 14

5 WALL LAYOUTS ...................................................................................................................................... 15

6 TRUSS LAYOUTS ..................................................................................................................................... 45

7 FLOOR LAYOUTS ..................................................................................................................................... 73

8 ROOF LAYOUTS ...................................................................................................................................... 95

9 MISCELLANEOUS .................................................................................................................................. 111

10 COMMAND SUMMARY .................................................................................................................... 116

11 SOME COMMON PROBLEMS ............................................................................................................ 126

12 ENGINEERING STATEMENTS ............................................................................................................. 128

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 FRAMECAD ProDesign User Manual October 2013

Table of Contents
1 PREFACE ...................................................................................................................................................9
2 INTENDED USE OF SOFTWARE ................................................................................................................ 10
3 STANDARD CAD HOT KEYS ..................................................................................................................... 13

4 SUGGESTED BASIC PROCEDURE ............................................................................................................. 14

5 WALL LAYOUTS ...................................................................................................................................... 15

5.1 NEW LAYOUT DRAWING ............................................................................................................................. 15
5.2 BSET BORDER SETUPS ............................................................................................................................... 15
5.3 COMMAND REFERENCE............................................................................................................................... 18
5.4 PTF TRACE FRAME .................................................................................................................................... 19
5.5 PANEL EDITING ......................................................................................................................................... 23
5.5.1 PE Panel Extend............................................................................................................................ 23
5.5.2 PT Panel Trim ............................................................................................................................... 23
5.5.3 IP Inherit Properties ..................................................................................................................... 24
5.5.4 PF Panel Fillet ............................................................................................................................... 24
5.5.5 PJ Panel Join ................................................................................................................................. 24
5.5.6 PC Panel Cut ................................................................................................................................. 25
5.5.7 PS Panel Square ........................................................................................................................... 25
5.5.8 PM Panel Mitre ............................................................................................................................ 25
5.5.9 PL Panel Lengthen ........................................................................................................................ 25
5.5.10 PX Panel Crossing ......................................................................................................................... 26
5.6 INPUTTING OPENINGS................................................................................................................................. 26
5.6.1 UD User Defined Door Input......................................................................................................... 26
5.6.1 UW User Defined Window Input .................................................................................................. 26
5.7 PSA INSERT A STUD ARRAY ......................................................................................................................... 27
5.8 PIB INSERT BRACING ................................................................................................................................. 28
5.9 PLA PANEL LABELLING ............................................................................................................................... 29
5.10 REF REFERENCE POINTS ............................................................................................................................. 30
5.11 PIC PANEL INTEGRITY CHECK ...................................................................................................................... 31
5.12 PLI LIST FRAME ........................................................................................................................................ 32
5.12.1 Coding a Frame/Beam .................................................................................................................. 32
5.12.2 Listing an Opening ........................................................................................................................ 35
5.12.3 Listing a Brace Panel ..................................................................................................................... 37
5.12.4 Listing a 3D Entity ......................................................................................................................... 37
5.12.5 Listing a Beam ............................................................................................................................... 38
5.12.6 Listing a Reference Point............................................................................................................... 39
5.13 DIMENSIONING ......................................................................................................................................... 40
5.13.1 DH Dimension Horizontally .......................................................................................................... 40
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5.13.2 DV Dimension Vertically ............................................................................................................... 40

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5.13.3 DA Dimension Aligned .................................................................................................................. 40

5.13.4 DOH Dimension Ordinates Horizontally ....................................................................................... 40
5.13.5 DOV Dimension Ordinates Vertically ........................................................................................... 41
5.13.6 DL Dimension Lengths .................................................................................................................. 41
5.14 ADDING TEXT ............................................................................................................................................ 41
5.14.1 QT Quik Text ................................................................................................................................. 41

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5.14.2 Add/Edit Categories ...................................................................................................................... 42

5.15 OPENING LIBRARIES ................................................................................................................................... 43
5.15.1 The Basic Format .......................................................................................................................... 43
5.15.2 To Edit a File .................................................................................................................................. 44
5.15.3 To Create a File ............................................................................................................................. 44
5.15.4 PCNC CNC Output......................................................................................................................... 44

6 TRUSS LAYOUTS ..................................................................................................................................... 45

6.1 ROOF BLOCK THEORY ................................................................................................................................. 45

6.1.1 Basis of Operation ......................................................................................................................... 45
6.1.2 Roof Theory ................................................................................................................................... 46
6.1.3 The Basic Truss Procedure............................................................................................................. 49
6.2 THE BASIC SETTINGS .................................................................................................................................. 50
6.2.1 Border Setups ................................................................................................................................ 50
6.2.2 TSET Truss Setup Options ............................................................................................................. 50
6.2.3 Loading Settings............................................................................................................................ 53
6.2.4 Roof Batten Settings ..................................................................................................................... 54
6.3 THE BASIC OPERATION ............................................................................................................................... 55
6.3.1 Quick Truss Command Reference ................................................................................................. 55
6.3.2 RRS Creating Roof Shapes ............................................................................................................ 58
6.3.3 CRL Creating Roof Lines ............................................................................................................... 58
6.3.4 TR/TS Coding as Roof Lines or Support Lines ............................................................................... 59
6.3.5 DT Detailing Truss and Veranda Layouts ..................................................................................... 60
6.3.6 TLA Truss Labelling ....................................................................................................................... 61
6.3.7 TTO Truss Takeoff ........................................................................................................................ 61
6.3.8 NTD/STD Truss Building ............................................................................................................... 61
6.4 TRUSS ANALYSIS ........................................................................................................................................ 61
6.4.1 TAN/TAR Using Truss Analysis ..................................................................................................... 61
6.4.2 Hints on Fixing Truss Failures ........................................................................................................ 62
6.4.3 TLI Editing Truss Materials ........................................................................................................... 63
6.4.4 Listing a Truss Joint ....................................................................................................................... 64
6.4.5 TBM/TBP Boxing Truss Members ................................................................................................. 64
6.4.6 TWR Add Web Restraint .............................................................................................................. 64
6.4.7 Truss Member Loads ..................................................................................................................... 64
6.5 ADVANCED TRUSS LAYOUT TOOLS................................................................................................................. 66
6.5.1 TVC Visual Controls ...................................................................................................................... 66
6.5.2 CT Code Line As Truss ................................................................................................................... 66
6.5.3 TTC/TCM/TBR Cutting Off Trusses ............................................................................................... 67
6.5.4 TRB/TBB/TCB Adding Roof Bracing .............................................................................................. 67
6.5.5 Dimensioning Roof Trusses ........................................................................................................... 68
6.5.6 TIC Layout Integrity Checks .......................................................................................................... 68
6.5.7 Do’s and Don’ts of CAD Commands .............................................................................................. 68
6.6 LAYOUT REPORTS AND PRINTING .................................................................................................................. 69
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6.6.1 TOS/TOD/TOV On Sheet Summaries ............................................................................................ 69

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6.6.2 TLR Printable Reports ................................................................................................................... 69

6.6.3 PRIA Printing the Layouts ............................................................................................................. 70
6.7 DEFINITIONS ............................................................................................................................................. 70
6.7.1 Truss Marker Definition ................................................................................................................ 70
6.7.2 Common Truss Parts ..................................................................................................................... 71

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 FRAMECAD ProDesign User Manual October 2013

6.7.3 Common Roof End Type ................................................................................................................ 71

6.7.4 TCNC CNC Output ......................................................................................................................... 72
7 FLOOR LAYOUTS ..................................................................................................................................... 73

7.1 COMMAND REFERENCE............................................................................................................................... 73

7.2 NEW LAYOUT DRAWING ............................................................................................................................. 75
7.3 BSET BORDER SETUPS ............................................................................................................................... 75
7.4 JSET FLOOR SETTINGS ............................................................................................................................... 75
7.5 SYSTEM EDITOR......................................................................................................................................... 78
7.5.1 JAS Add Sectional Properties ........................................................................................................ 78
7.5.2 JAD Add a Detail Drawing ............................................................................................................ 78
7.5.3 JAP Add a Part .............................................................................................................................. 79
7.5.4 JAM Add a Member ..................................................................................................................... 79
7.6 CODE AS ROUTINES ................................................................................................................................... 80
7.6.1 TS Code As Support Line ............................................................................................................... 80
7.7 LAYOUT COMMANDS .................................................................................................................................. 81
7.7.1 JD Detail Floor .............................................................................................................................. 81
7.7.2 JLI List a Floor Member ................................................................................................................ 81
7.7.3 JFJ Find a Member........................................................................................................................ 81
7.7.4 JLA Label Members ...................................................................................................................... 81
7.7.5 QST Steel Sections ........................................................................................................................ 82
7.8 OTHER DETAILING...................................................................................................................................... 82
7.8.1 JDF Floor Sheeting ........................................................................................................................ 82
7.8.2 JID Insert a Detail Drawing........................................................................................................... 83
7.8.3 JIM Insert a Member .................................................................................................................... 83
7.8.4 J3D Create 3D View ...................................................................................................................... 84
7.8.5 JSC Create Section ........................................................................................................................ 84
7.8.6 JIS Insert a Service Line ................................................................................................................. 85
7.9 FLOOR EDITS............................................................................................................................................. 85
7.9.1 JEG Erase Guides .......................................................................................................................... 85
7.9.2 JIC Integrity Check ........................................................................................................................ 86
7.9.3 JSW Show Web Side ..................................................................................................................... 86
7.9.4 JSS Show Start .............................................................................................................................. 86
7.9.5 JEX Shrink/Expand Members ........................................................................................................ 86
7.9.6 JJC Cut a Single Member .............................................................................................................. 86
7.9.7 JJM Cut Multiple Members .......................................................................................................... 87
7.10 UNDER FLOOR PLANS ................................................................................................................................. 88
7.10.1 USET Under Floor Settings ........................................................................................................... 88
7.11 DIMENSIONING ......................................................................................................................................... 89
7.11.1 DH Dimension Horizontally .......................................................................................................... 89
7.11.2 DV Dimension Vertically ............................................................................................................... 89
7.11.3 DA Dimension Aligned .................................................................................................................. 89
7.11.4 DOH Dimension Ordinates Horizontally ....................................................................................... 89
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7.11.5 DOV Dimension Ordinates Vertically ........................................................................................... 89

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7.11.6 DJH Dimension Horizontally ......................................................................................................... 89

7.11.7 DJV Dimension Vertically ............................................................................................................. 90
7.11.8 DL Dimension Lengths .................................................................................................................. 90
7.12 REPORTS .................................................................................................................................................. 90
7.12.1 JOS Onpage Summary .................................................................................................................. 90

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 FRAMECAD ProDesign User Manual October 2013

7.12.2 JOF Floor Sheet Summary ............................................................................................................ 90

7.12.3 JOB Bracket Summary .................................................................................................................. 91
7.12.4 JLR Layout Report......................................................................................................................... 91
7.12.5 JUR Joist Usage Report ................................................................................................................. 91
7.13 FLOOR JOIST TAKEOFF ................................................................................................................................ 91
7.13.1 JTO Floor Takeoff ......................................................................................................................... 91
7.13.2 Small Panel Drawing ..................................................................................................................... 91
7.13.3 Std Panel Drawing......................................................................................................................... 92
7.14 FLOOR DETAILING ...................................................................................................................................... 93
7.14.1 JJD Detail Webbed Joists .............................................................................................................. 93
7.14.2 JWB Build a Webbed Joist ............................................................................................................ 93
7.14.3 JUS Update Single Joist ................................................................................................................ 93
7.14.4 JUA Update All Joists .................................................................................................................... 93
7.14.1 JCNC CNC Output ......................................................................................................................... 94
8 ROOF LAYOUTS ...................................................................................................................................... 95

8.1 COMMAND REFERENCE............................................................................................................................... 95

8.2 BASIS OF OPERATION.................................................................................................................................. 97
8.3 RSET MAIN SETTINGS ............................................................................................................................... 99
8.4 RTOL TOLERANCE SETTINGS ....................................................................................................................... 99
8.5 ROOF LAYOUTS ....................................................................................................................................... 100
8.5.1 TR Code as Roof Line .................................................................................................................. 100
8.5.2 RRS Create a Roof Shape ............................................................................................................ 101
8.5.3 RCR Copy a Roof Outline ............................................................................................................ 101
8.5.4 RCL Create Roof Lines................................................................................................................. 101
8.5.5 RAD Auto Detail ......................................................................................................................... 103
8.5.6 RCO Set Colours.......................................................................................................................... 103
8.5.7 RLI List an Item ........................................................................................................................... 103
8.5.8 RID Insert Detail ......................................................................................................................... 103
8.6 PURLIN DETAILS ...................................................................................................................................... 104
8.6.1 JP1 Detail a Purlin ...................................................................................................................... 104
8.6.2 JP2 Purlin Holes .......................................................................................................................... 104
8.7 DOWNPIPES............................................................................................................................................ 105
8.7.1 RLD Low Set Downpipes .............................................................................................................. 105
8.7.2 RHD High Set Downpipes ............................................................................................................ 105
8.7.3 RSP Spreader Downpipes ............................................................................................................ 105
8.8 ROOF SHEET DETAILING ............................................................................................................................ 106
8.9 FLASHING ............................................................................................................................................... 108
8.9.1 Flashing Commands .................................................................................................................... 108
8.9.2 RCG Change Gutter Types .......................................................................................................... 108
8.10 SOFFITS ................................................................................................................................................. 109
8.10.1 REL Eave Soffit............................................................................................................................ 109
8.10.2 RBL Barge Soffit ......................................................................................................................... 109
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8.10.3 RVL Verandah Lining .................................................................................................................. 109

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8.11 REPORTS ................................................................................................................................................ 109

8.11.1 ROS Onsheet Summary .............................................................................................................. 109
8.11.2 ROT Onsheet Totals .................................................................................................................... 110
8.11.3 RUR Materials Report ................................................................................................................ 110
8.11.4 RCNC CNC Output....................................................................................................................... 110

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9 MISCELLANEOUS .................................................................................................................................. 111

9.1 SOFTWARE FOLDER STRUCTURE.................................................................................................................. 111

9.2 BACKING UP AND ARCHIVING..................................................................................................................... 111
9.3 PWD - PASSWORD .................................................................................................................................. 112
9.4 UPGRADING SOFTWARE ............................................................................................................................ 112
9.5 UPGRADING DATA FILES ........................................................................................................................... 112
9.6 CREATING A CUSTOM BORDER ................................................................................................................... 112
9.7 PRIA PRINT LAYOUTS ............................................................................................................................... 113
9.8 RESETMENU ........................................................................................................................................... 115
9.9 RESETTING THE PATHS .............................................................................................................................. 115

10 COMMAND SUMMARY .................................................................................................................... 116

10.1 COMMANDS IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER ......................................................................................................... 116

11 SOME COMMON PROBLEMS ............................................................................................................ 126

11.1 SOFTWARE FAILS TO LOAD......................................................................................................................... 126

11.2 SOME COMMANDS DO NOT WORK ............................................................................................................ 126
11.3 THE MENU IS MISSING ............................................................................................................................. 127
11.4 CORRECTION PROCEDURES ........................................................................................................................ 127
11.4.1 Procedure 1 – Resetting the Alias Commands ............................................................................ 127
11.4.2 Procedure 2 – Resetting the Paths .............................................................................................. 127
11.4.3 Procedure 3 – Resetting the Menu.............................................................................................. 127
12 ENGINEERING STATEMENTS ............................................................................................................. 128

12.1 WALL PANEL ENGINEERING ....................................................................................................................... 128

12.1.1 Common Notations ..................................................................................................................... 128
12.1.2 Design Wind Loads...................................................................................................................... 129
12.1.3 Design Snow Loads ..................................................................................................................... 129
12.1.4 Stud Design ................................................................................................................................. 129
12.1.5 PAR Load Report ......................................................................................................................... 141
12.2 ROOF TRUSS ENGINEERING ........................................................................................................................ 143
12.2.1 Preface ........................................................................................................................................ 143
12.2.2 Principles of Operation................................................................................................................ 144
12.2.3 Truss Member Connections ......................................................................................................... 144
12.2.4 Load Combinations ..................................................................................................................... 146
12.2.5 Wind Loads ................................................................................................................................. 146
12.2.6 Design Snow Loads ..................................................................................................................... 146
12.2.7 Truss Design Statement for AS/NZS4600:2005 ........................................................................... 147
12.2.8 Truss Design Statement for SASFA Code 2007 ............................................................................ 149
12.2.9 Truss Design Statement for AISI S100-2007 LRFD ....................................................................... 151
12.2.10 Truss Design Statement for AISI S100-2007 ASD .................................................................... 153
12.2.11 Truss Design Statement for CSA S136-2007 LSD ..................................................................... 155
12.2.12 Truss Design Statement for BS5950-5:1998............................................................................ 157
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12.2.13 Truss Design Statement for EN 1990:2002 ............................................................................. 159

12.2.14 Truss Design Statement for EN 1993-1-3:2006 ....................................................................... 161
12.2.15 Truss Design Statement for GB50009-2001 ............................................................................ 163
12.2.16 Truss Design Statement for SNiP 2.01.07-85:2011 ................................................................. 165
12.2.17 Truss Design Statement for ABNT NBR14762:2009 ................................................................ 167
12.3 CONVERSIONS ......................................................................................................................................... 169

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1 Preface
FRAMECAD ProDesign is a detailing and engineering package for the use of light
gauge steel framing. The software is all written in C++ and operates as an add-on to
the IntelliCAD package. Its operation is all CAD based, therefore a basic knowledge
of CAD is a requirement. All ‘FRAMECAD ProDesign’ modules are CAD based
modules. Whilst the level of required CAD skills is not high, some CAD skills are
required. The drawing below is what we class as a qualifying drawing. If you are not
capable of reproducing this drawing using only standard CAD commands, then it is
recommended that they receive some basic training in CAD by a professional
training institute before the ‘FRAMECAD ProDesign’ training commences.
Each operator should have a basic knowledge of the following commands and be
capable of using them:
1. Line
2. Polyline
3. Copy
4. Move
5. Offset
6. Trim
7. Extend
8. Stretch
9. Object Snaps
10. Fillet
11. Explode

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2 Intended Use of Software

FRAMECAD Pro Design Capabilities

FRAMECAD ProDesign has three design modules. The design capabilities of these
modules are:
Walls
- Wall layout tools
- Automated frame panel detailer for specified framing system
- Stud member engineering design for uniform roof, floor, and face wind loading
- Top plate member engineering design for truss and floor joist loading
- Wall header beam engineering design for uniform roof and floor loading
- Wall bracing capacity calculator
- Wind and seismic lateral load calculator

Trusses
- Roof layout generator and tools
- Automated truss frame detailer for specified framing system
- Truss engineering design for uniform loading
- Roof bracing capacity calculator
- Wind lateral load calculator

Floors
- Floor layout generator and tools
- Automated floor joist detailer for specified framing system

FRAMECAD Pro-Design Application

The detailing of wall framing is a very wide spread discipline, for this reason the
software has been designed to perform best under the conditions listed below. This
does not mean that the software is restricted to these conditions, but means that
more vigilance is required paying special attention to structural engineering matters
and practicalities. It is not really possible to list the precise limitations as these will
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vary from system to system and region to region. The software also presumes that
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each operator has a degree of skill and knowledge in the areas of building design
and fundamental engineering mechanics. Therefore, the limitations below are a
guide and not a replacement for professional judgments.

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 FRAMECAD ProDesign User Manual October 2013

Building Limitations Reason

Parameter

Building size 200m2 to 400m2 The software’s speed if optimized for

building foot prints of this area. Buildings
outside of the region could be slow.
Larger Buildings generally will require
specific Engineered review and design
Wall height 3000mm Walls would still be designed regardless of
height, however in some cases more
detailed evaluation and different design
criteria may apply to those applicable for
standard height walls frames
Storey limits / Two to three / Up In theory, the software is capable of
Building Height to 10 m transferring vertical loads through 20
stories for a regular building. However
once beyond the two to three storey mark
other items such as bracing actions and
load alignment will need to be assessed at
in more detail. Buildings three storeys and
above will also need special attention to
the behaviour of wind and earthquake
loads.
Truss spacing 450mm to The software designs most items with
1500mm distributed loads. Therefore, once larger
point loads are introduced, the design will
not be correct.
Snow loads To 1.5kpa The software designs for general snow
load. However, locations where the snow
loads are high, special attention would be
required in areas where snow may build
up.
Earthquake loads Light to moderate In areas where earthquake loads are high
for lightweight or when heavy building material such as
buildings brick cladding or concrete floors are used,
special design will be required.
Wind speeds To 50m/s The software will design members
regardless of wind speed, however for
wind speeds above 50m/s special attention
will be needed for hold-downs and possibly
external claddings. Special design will be
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required lateral bracing.

Braced Wall 6m For building with large open rooms, special
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Spacing design will be required to ensure that wind

and earthquake loads can be transferred to
the braced walls

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Additionally, the following Limitations and Issues are highlighted for specific
component design.
Wall Framing Engineering:
- Openings do not take into account large point loads from girder trusses
(Warnings issued) or large trusses.
- Openings do not take into account large point loads from floor bearers
(Warnings issued) or large joists.
- Header Design uses the capacity calculated for downwards loading when
checking for uplift. This may not be valid for long or lintel plated headers.
- Head and Sill plates are not checked for wind loading on the wall face
- Studs are designed for the general distributed load and not the actual point
load. Studs are not design for bracing actions.
- Studs are designed assuming that studs on upper levels are aligned with
those on lower levels
- Hold-down quantities and their locations are prescriptive only and not
calculated.
- Brace overturning actions are not transferred to wall panels below.
- Brace distribution or diaphragm action is not designed (Warnings issued for
brace line spacing).
Trusses Engineering:
- Software does not make sure the quantity of screws actually fit at a joint.
- Girder trusses are being designed for the effective distributed load and not the
actual point loads.
- Engineering does not take any account of web notches. Web notches must
not be detailed in structural members unless they are reinforced in
accordance with an Engineers specification
Floor Engineering:
- Software does not Engineer floors in any shape of form.

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3 Standard CAD Hot Keys

Whilst CAD is mainly a menu based program, selection of items from menus is still a
slow process. To speed up this process, hot keys have been provided. The
standard keys supplied are listed below. The items marked with an asterisk are
specific to FRAMECAD ProDesign; all others are standard CAD commands. For
more information on the standard CAD commands please refer to the relevant help
files. The FRAMECAD ProDesign specific commands will be further explained later
in the training.

Hot Key Usage Hot Key Usage

C Copy P Polyline
CI Circle PO Polygon
D Dynamic test PU Purge unwanted entities
DD Attribute edit QS Quick Save
DE Text Edit R Redraw the screen
DI Distance RE* Reset cursor snap type
E Erase RO Rotate
EL Explode S Scale
EP* Cursor to end point SN* Set snap angle to 45
EX Extend ST Stretch
F Fillet T Trim
I Insert V Restore a view
L Line VM Make a view
LI List VR* Return to view 1
M Move VV* Advance through views
MI Mirror X Zoom previous
ML* Move last item XD List extended data
MP Match properties Z Zoom
O Offset ZE Zoom Extents

Should you wish to create more additional hot keys, this can be done through the
IntelliCAD customization command. This command is located on the drop down
menus. To access this, go to ‘TOOLS’ > ‘CUSTOMIZE’, then select the ‘ALIAS’ tab
on the top right hand end of the dialogue box. For more information on this topic
please refer to the IntelliCAD help files.
There are only two restrictions with hot keys, and the first is that you cannot use any
hot key that FRAMECAD ProDesign already uses. If you do use a ‘FRAMECAD
ProDesign’ key, then that ‘FRAMECAD ProDesign’ command will no longer operate.
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The second is more a common sense issue, there is no point having hundreds of hot
keys defined if you are unable to remember them, so please keep this in mind.
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4 Suggested Basic Procedure

Below is a suggested procedure. This procedure is not mandatory and you may wish
to develop your own style thus deviating from the procedure below.
You should also note that bracing should not be inserted until the ‘Reference Points’
stage is complete. This is because for the bracing calculations to be accurate, the
applied loads must all be known.

Start a new layout Setup borders as Draw in wall frame

drawing and 'Save As' required (BSET) layout (QSET, PTF)

Code wall frames and Check job with Add windows, doors
beams integrity check and openings
(PLI) (PIC) (AW,AD,UW,UD,PE,ED)

Insert reference points

from frames to trusses Make any Changes to
Complete roof, truss
and floors frames then Update All
and floor layouts
(PLI)
(REF)

Add bracing to frames Label wall panels and Check job with
(PCW) beams (PLA) integrity check (PIC)

Add on-page reports Dimension wall layout Add any other

as required as required (DH, DV, notations as required
(POS,POD,POB,POO) DHH & DVV) (QT)
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Create bracing plan

Check job with Produce wall panels
and uplift plan if
integrity check (PIC) (PPD)
required (PCW, TUP)

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 FRAMECAD ProDesign User Manual October 2013

5 Wall Layouts
Dialogue Styles
Most of the ‘FRAMECAD ProDesign’ dialogue boxes use a smart colour system.
When the software changes a value automatically, the colour of the text usually
changes to ‘RED’. When the user changes a value, the colour of the text usually
changes to ‘BLUE’.

5.1 New Layout Drawing

This creates a new layout drawing using the FRAMECAD ProDesign layout
prototype drawing as an overlay. No borders are created, however you should now
save the drawing as the required name, then use the border set-up utility.
It is important to use this when creating new layout drawings as it sets many settings
to the correct sizes and styles, etc. This includes units of measure, line type scales,
text heights and dimension styles.
NEVER start using a drawing supplied by a client. Always start by creating a new
layout drawing and insert your clients drawing into your new drawing. You can never
be sure on the client drawings integrity so always start with this command.
This prototype drawing is kept in the ‘C:\Program Files\Tanmari\IntelliCAD
6.6\Templates’ folder. It is called ‘[Link]’. This drawing should never be modified
by the user, and under the software license agreement you are not permitted to
change or alter it in any way, shape or form.

5.2 BSET Border Setups

When you first start a new layout, the first thing you should do is set up the drawing
sheet borders. The command for this is ‘BSET’. One of the main purposes of this is
to give the operator an impression of scale. The information that you input into the
dialogue box is what appears on your drawing sheet borders. Other items such as
drawing number or the current date are software generated. At any stage through
your drawing session you may add or remove drawing sheets as required, just rerun
the ‘BSET’ command again. All current information will be found and retained.
This border is not just for looks, it is a vital part of the software’s operation. Without
borders set up the software will not work.
The ‘Company’ field is the company name that you wish to appear. To change the
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current ‘Company’ name click on the dropdown combo box and the available options
will be shown. If the ‘Company’ name is not present, you can simply type in the
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company name desired within the field.

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The ‘Drawn By’ field is where you

put the detailers name or initials.
To change the current ‘Drawn By’
name click on the dropdown
combo box and the available
options will be shown. If the ‘Drawn
By’ name is not present, you can
simply type in the ‘Drawn By’ name
desired within the field.
The ‘Delivery/Checked’ field could
mean one of the two things,
depending whether your border
has been customised or not.
Border customisation is covered at
the end of this manual.
The ‘Job Number’ field may be left
blank, but is normally intended for
job numbers up to 10 characters
long. It should also be noted that
this field is in various printed
reports and also transferred to the
truss and joist detail sheets.
Fields one, two and three are where you put the client data. These fields all appear
on printed reports, however only field one is transferred to the truss/joist detail
sheets. Normally field one would have your clients name, with field two and three
containing the job address. The drawing below shows where each field is placed.

To select various border sizes, use the dropdown combo box ‘Sheet Size’ field.
Currently sheet sizes from A4 to A0 and B0 to B5 have been provided. Just what
sheet size is required will depend on the size of the job you are detailing.
FRAMECAD ProDesign also allows for
custom borders. In the ‘Border’ field, type
in the name of your custom border, and
that’s the border that will be used. A later
section deals with creating custom borders.
As supplied standard, the border name is
‘FRAMECAD’.
The ‘Border Qty’ field allows you to select
the number of borders you wish to set up.
The limit to borders is 25 sheets. Each
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border inserted creates a view. These

views are numbered ‘A’ to ‘Y’ depending on
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how many borders were created. All views

are created from left to right going up the
page. To restore a view, type ‘V’ ↵ followed
by the letter of the view you wish to restore.

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The ‘Number Rows’ field specifies how may borders high will be placed. We
recommend either two or three.
The ‘Border Scale’ field allows you to change the scale, just enter the scale required.
Normally a scale of 1:100 is sufficient for most jobs.
If the ‘Use Imperial Units’ field is ticked, then the current drawing will be set up for
imperial, otherwise it will be set up for metric units. This setting should not be
changed once a job has been commenced.

If you wish to update or change information within the border, the ‘BSET’ command
can do this without actually having to redo all the border insertions. Start ‘BSET’
normally, change the fields as required but instead of pressing the ‘Insert’ button,
press the ‘Update’ button.

The ‘Company’ name and ‘Drawn By’ name options are all stored in a data file
located at ‘C:\Program Files\Tanmari\Framing Module\Data\rc_0002.da1’. If for some
reason you decided to reinstall the software at any point in time, then any custom
names that you added would be lost. Therefore, we recommend that you back up
this file from time to time.
The only way to successfully add or remove borders is thru the ‘BSET’ command.
You could delete a border using the standard Cad ‘erase’ command, however certain
intelligence is stored within the border and losing this border could have an adverse
effect, so if you want to add or remove borders, please use the ‘BSET’ command.

REV – Border Revision

This routine allows the user to add revision notes to a drawing and increment the
revision number. The revision numbers are always incremented in a numeric
sequence.
Even if the user uses the ‘BSET’ command after adding revision notes, the revision
notes will be preserved.
The revision notes are added to the outside top left corner of ‘View A’. It should also
be noted that this command only works on layout drawings, and has NO effect on
detail drawings.
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5.3 Command Reference

Command Usage

ACNC Additional CNC Options

FO Frame offset
IP Inherit properties
MB Mirror Brace
MS Mirror Stud
P3D Panel 3D
PAB Panel Auto Break
PBI Insert bath rail
PC Panel cut
PCW Panel calculate wind
PCNC Create Panel CNC
PDC Detail ceiling panels
PDP Detail posts
PE Panel Extend
PEG Erase guides
PF Panel fillet
PIB Insert brace
PIC Check integrity
PJ Panel join
PL Panel Lengthen
PLA Panel Label
PLB Lap Beam
PLI List Panel (or any entity within a panel)
PM Panel Mitre
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PMI Mirror panel layout

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PRA Rake to angle

PRF Reverse Labels
PRH Rake to height

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PRP Rake to plane

PS Panel square
PSA Stud array
PSC Copy Stud Array
PSN Special nog
PT Panel Trim
PTF Panel Trace frame
PX Panels Crossing
QSET Frame settings

5.4 PTF Trace Frame

This is the main function for drawing in wall frames. It operates on a three point
selection process. The first point selected is the starting point of the frame, the
second point selected is the ending point of the frame. The final point selected
orientates the frame to that side. If you fail to select a third point, then the wall frame
will be centred through the first two points. An example of the points selected is
shown below. The snap modes on the first and second pick points are automatically
set to select an end point or intersection point. These may be overridden using the
standard Cad object snaps. The frame is drawn in at the ‘Drafting Width’, which has
already been set in the options.

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After activating the ‘PTF’ command, and before you select the first point, you are
given an option to run the ‘Setup’ options. To bring up the options, instead of

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selecting a point, right click the mouse or press the ‘Enter’ key. This will bring up the
options dialogue box (Note: ‘QSET’ will take you straight to this dialogue box). Most
of the options in this dialogue are basically pre-setup options and can be changed at
a later stage if desired with the ‘PLI’ command. However, there are two options that
cannot be changed at a later stage and MUST be correct at the time of drawing.
These options are ‘Drafting Width’ and ‘Offset Distance’.

The ‘System Name’ is the system to be used with the wall panels. You may mix
systems within a single job.
The ‘Current Model’ is the sub system to be used with the wall panels. You may mix
systems and sub systems within a single job. To find out specifically what the sub
system is, you will need to talk with your systems administrator.
The ‘Drafting Width’ field sets the drawing width of the wall frame drawn. This value
could be edited at a later stage with the ‘PLI’ command.
The ‘Actual Width’ field is the actual or final width of the frame. In a lot of systems the
frame may be considered as 90mm wide, but in fact the finished width is really
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92mm. With this setting, the software will allow clearances to compensate for these
differences. The diagram below shows this better.
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The ‘Offset Distance’ will offset the wall frame from the first two points selected in the
direction of the orientation selected by this offset distance. If the third point is not
selected, then the frame will be drawn using the centre line method and no offset will
occur. This setting is generally used where a plan has been supplied and the frame
width on the plan includes cladding thicknesses.

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If the ‘Code As You Go’ button is ticked, rather than just drawing in a raw frame, the
software will draw in a frame with the height and other relevant information added.
The first time the ‘PTF’ command is initiated with the ‘Code As You Go’ ticked, the
‘Code Frame’ dialogue box options appear.
The ‘Code Frame’ options box will not appear again unless you opt for it. Once
‘Code As You Go’ has been enabled, instead of showing the setting dialogue box
above, the ‘Code Frame’ dialogue box will now appear as the settings. To deselect
‘Code As You Go’, re-enter PTF and enter twice to bring the settings box up again.
The ‘Maximum Length’ field stores the desired maximum length of the wall panels.
This value is later used by the ‘PIC’ command to warn users of frames of excessive
length. This value could be edited at a later stage with the ‘PLI’ command.

The balance of the settings are to do with the panel creation rather than the layout
therefore these items could be set at a later date using the ‘PLI’ command.
The ‘Truss Location Tolerance’ number means that a stud will be placed under all
trusses found to be landing on the wall frame within the given number. This field
means that when placing a stud under a truss, if another stud is found within this
distance, then a stud will not be placed under that truss.
The ‘Joist Location Tolerance’ number means that a stud will be placed under all
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Joists found to be landing on the wall frame within the given number. This field
means that when placing a stud under a Joist, if another stud is found within this
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distance, then a stud will not be placed under that Joist.

These two fields override the automatic stud placement in such a way that only a
higher level of structural integrity is provided.

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‘Use LB Clusters’ - If this option is ticked, then cluster studs will be placed at the wall
frame intersections on load bearing wall frames. ‘Use ST Clusters’ - If this option is
ticked, then plaster studs or cluster studs will be placed at the wall frame
intersections on structural wall frames. ‘Use NLB Clusters’ - If this option is ticked,
then plaster studs or cluster studs will be placed at the wall frame intersections on
non-load bearing wall frames.

‘Plaster Stud Increase’ is the distance by which the plaster studs will be increased.
Normally the plaster studs will be spaced at the thickness of the wall frame. If the
dimension is set to ‘5’ and the frame thickness was set to 75mm, then the gap
between the end plaster studs would be 80mm. Alternately, if this dimension was a
negative number, then the gaps would decrease.

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5.5 Panel Editing

With the layout drawings and panels detailed within the CAD environment, we use
the entity type called a ‘Trace’. Whilst this serves our purpose well, it has a drawback
in the fact that most of the standard CAD editing tools cannot edit it. To overcome
this deficiency we have created a range of commands similar to the standard CAD
commands for this purpose. A description of their functionality is listed in the
proceeding section.

5.5.1 PE Panel Extend

This function will extend one member to meet another member. First select the
member you wish to extend too, next select the member or members you wish to
extend.

This command allows you to continue to select members to extend until the return
key is pressed, right mouse button is pressed or no members are selected. This
routine will work on all ‘trace’ entities only and retains all intelligence, layer and
colour properties.

5.5.2 PT Panel Trim

This command is used to trim off a member using another member as a cutting line.
First select the member to be used as a cutting edge with the following members
selected to be trimmed.

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When selecting the members to trim, the side selected is the side that is kept. This
is opposite to the standard CAD command. This command allows you to continue to
select members to extend until the return key is pressed, right mouse button is
pressed or no members are selected. This routine will work on all ‘trace’ entities only
and retains all intelligence, layer and colour properties.

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5.5.3 IP Inherit Properties

This routine is used to copy the properties of one wall frame to another. This
included layers, colours, line types and all extended data.
Very useful when you have coded the whole job and discovered that you have
missed one frame. It saves having to remember what was done some time ago.
This routine will work on all ‘trace’ and ‘line’ type entities.

5.5.4 PF Panel Fillet

This command will fillet trace corners. To operate, select the two points close to the
corners to be filleted. The first entity selected is the wall that will go the long
distance. This routine will work on all ‘trace’ entities.

5.5.5 PJ Panel Join

This function is used to join two adjoining members. To operate, select one
member, then select the other member. If the two members are not adjoining or in
the same plane, then a new member will be drawn from the furthest points of the
members selected.

With this command, it does not matter which end of each member is selected as the
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new member will be drawn from the furthest points of the members selected. This
routine will work on all ‘trace’ entities.
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5.5.6 PC Panel Cut

This function cuts a wall panel at a given point. To operate first select the wall panel
to cut, next select the point where you wish to cut the panel. When selecting the
cutting point, the cursor snap mode has been set to select an end point or
intersection. If needed you may wish to draw in a guideline to represent the cutting
point. This routine will work on all ‘trace’ entities.

5.5.7 PS Panel Square

5.5.8 PM Panel Mitre

This command will mitre trace corners. To operate, select the two points close to the
corners to be mitres. This routine will work on all ‘trace’ entities.

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5.5.9 PL Panel Lengthen

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Enter a value to lengthen or shorten a wall by.

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5.5.10 PX Panel Crossing

5.6 Inputting Openings

5.6.1 UD User Defined Door Input

Use this command to input user defined doors. This will prompt the user for the door
trim height, trim opening width and location.
Refer section 5.15 on creating Opening Libraries.

5.6.1 UW User Defined Window Input

Use this command to input user defined windows. This will prompt the user for the
window trim opening height, trim opening width and location. The finished head
height for windows is set in the ‘Windows’ tab of the wall settings dialogue box
(‘QSET’) or by selecting ‘S’ at the beginning of the ‘UW’ command.
Refer section 5.15 on creating Opening Libraries.

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5.7 PSA Insert a Stud Array

The stud array routine is used
to place studs at specific
locations overriding the
automatic stud placement
routines. This is very useful
when studs need to be
located at specific locations
for the fixing of claddings.
For this command to work
correctly the wall panel must
already be coded. When first
initiating this command, the
user is given the option to
press return for setup. A
dialogue box will then appear
showing all available settings.
The ‘Material Type’ combo box shows the type of stud to be used. To change stud
type, select a stud as required from the drop down list. Only studs available within
your system are shown within this list. If the required stud is not on the list, then you
would need to contact the system administrator to have it added. If the user selects
‘Auto’ then whatever type of common stud that would normally be used in that wall
would be used.
The ‘Starting Position’ field is the location or position of the first stud. This is the
distance from the starting point to the face or web of the stud. If the ‘By Entity’ or
‘Single Insert’ options were selected in ‘Insert Type’ field then this field would be
disabled.
The ‘Stud Spacing’ field is the spacing of all the other studs after the first stud. This
distance is measured from face to face of the studs. If the ‘Single Insert’ options
were selected in ‘Insert Type’ field then this field would be disabled.
The ‘Stud Type’ combo box shows the available methods of insertion that will be
used. The options available are ‘Single Stud’, ‘Back to Back Studs’ and ‘Boxed
Studs’. If the stud type selected was a closed rectangular section (SHS or RHS),
then the ‘Boxed Stud’ option will only generate a single stud.
The ‘Insert Type’ option allows the user to select either ‘Single Insert’, ‘By Points’ or
‘By Entities’ methods. With the ‘Single Insert’, the user selects a single point
anywhere along a wall frame, the cursor snap mode remains set at end point or
intersection. The stud is inserted in the wall with the insertion point being the middle
of the flange of the stud, unless a ‘Back to Back’ option was selected. In this case
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the insert point is the middle of the ‘Back to Back’ studs. With the ‘By Entities’
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method, the user is prompted for a reference point and the setout is calculated from
this point. For the selection of the set out point, the cursor snap mode has been set
to select end points or intersection and may be overridden using the standard Cad
object snaps. With the ‘By Points’ method, the studs are set out from the first point
selected through to the second point selected.

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These dialogue settings are stored in your systems register plus within ‘Layer Zero’
of the current drawing for future reference. When studs are inserted, the software will
not insert studs at the ends of each wall panel or within a stud’s thickness of the
starting and ending point of a window. The tolerance for this is 1.25 times the stud
width.

5.8 PIB Insert Bracing

This function allows the operator to insert bracing into the wall panel whilst they are
in the layout stage. This command works with several different styles of bracing.
The types of bracing available are K-Brace, Double Strap bracing and Single Strap
bracing.
When the command is first initiated, you are given the option to ‘Enter for Setup’, this
is where you can change the desired brace type. The setup will load a dialogue box
showing all brace types available in your system, to change the bracing type simply
select the option required from the dropdown combo box. If the brace type desired
does not appear, you will need to confer with your systems administrator to see if it
can be added. To exit the setup press either the ‘Save’ or ‘Cancel’ button as
required. These dialogue settings are stored in your systems register plus within
‘Layer Zero’ of the current drawing for future reference. For convenience, the
command prompt also shows the bracing style that is current.
The command works as a continuous command, in other words whilst you continue
to pick points, it continues to insert bracing. To end the command either pick a point
in the middle of nowhere, fail to pick a point, press the right mouse button or press
the ‘Enter’ key on the keyboard.
To insert a brace select a point where you want the brace to start and the software
will do the rest. The point selected should be a located somewhere between the
studs, there is no need to be accurate as the software will find and calculate all other
necessary items. The command only inserts a single brace with every point selected.
If the bracing layer is not visible when the command is first initiated, then the
software will make the layer visible. If no studs are found within the drawing, then the
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‘PCW’ command will be initiated to update the drawing.

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Your data file contains all the settings governing the minimum and maximum lengths.
In all cases the software endeavours to insert a brace is such a way that the
maximum strength is obtained. If the brace is less than the minimum length, then no
brace will be drawn and a warning will be issued in the command prompt area.

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Where a brace is allowed to go over multiple stud bays, the brace will be drawn
away from the closest end found. The closest end is defined as a wall panel end or
an opening end. If there is an RHS or SHS post within a panel, then this is treated as
another stud. If an existing brace is found within the last stud bay, then this brace
will be deleted and the new brace inserted.
On completion of each brace insertion, its racking resistance and overturning
capacities are calculated and stored within the entity. Braces are inserted on a layer
called ‘BRACE’ with single braces shown in the colour ‘50’ with double braces shown
in the colour ‘100’. The entity type ‘TRACE’ is the only entity type used for drawing
braces.
‘Bracing’ can be manipulated with all the standard cad commands and trace editing
commands. The ‘PLI’ command will allow you to view the bracing strengths and
capacities. If you wish to change the associated material type, this can be done by
listing the associated panel and edit the material definitions there.

5.9 PLA Panel Labelling

To label the wall panels, use the ‘PLA’ command. This command gives the option of
selecting the required panels or doing a global selection. If you select panels, a
secondary dialogue box will ask you what number you wish to start the labelling at.
The height of the labelling text is currently fixed at the same height as the
dimensioning text. Labelling prefixes can be altered in the ‘Misc’ tab in ‘QSET’.
If you want to label your panels in a specific order, go into the ‘Misc’ tab in ‘QSET’
and tick on ‘Disable Sorting’, then select the panels in the required order within the
PLA command.

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5.10 REF Reference Points

The software is basically a 2D program however with the ‘Reference Point’ system it
has all the functionality of a 3D program. By inserting a ‘Reference Point’ on the wall
layouts and corresponding ‘Reference Points’ on a truss layout or floor layouts, the
software will see this as an overlay, thus transferring loads automatically.
The first point inserted is called the primary point and subsequent points are called
secondary points. The primary point is the point where the structure is built from.
When the software needs to transfer loads, or build 3D views etc, the primary point is
where they are built from and all entities associated with secondary points are
transferred to the primary point location.
For the ‘Reference Point’ system to work correctly there are four rules which must
apply:
1. The first rule is that there can only be one ‘Reference Point’ within a border.
2. The second rule is that there must be a minimum of two ‘Reference Points’ for
each reference number used.
3. The third rule is that there can only be one ‘Reference Point’ number for each
structure.
4. The final rule is that each ‘Reference Point’ must be placed in a
corresponding point within a border to the primary ‘Reference Point’.

The ‘PIC’ command will check and warn if any of the rules one to three are broken,
however the software cannot check the forth rule, so it is up to the user be aware
and be careful.
When the first ‘Reference Point’ is inserted into the drawing, it is automatically a
primary point and will be given an ID of one. All subsequent points inserted will be
secondary points given the same ID number. The ID number will not change until
such time as a new primary ‘Reference Point’ is inserted. To insert a new primary
point, press ‘P’ before inserting the ‘Reference Point’. The ID number will be
automatically incremented. There is no way to add a specific ID number however,
the ID number can be edited through the ‘PLI’ command.
When a ‘Reference Point’ is inserted, it is placed on the layer ‘Defpoints’. This is a
special layer that does not print therefore ‘Reference Points’ are only visible to the
operator. The primary ‘Reference Point’ is shown in a bright green colour and
secondary reference points are shown in a dull green colour.
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5.11 PIC Panel Integrity Check

This command is used to check for drafting errors and simple mistakes made by the
detailer. It checks for eleven major errors and issues two types of warnings. It should
be stressed that this command could not be used enough. It should be used several
times on EVERY job. Whilst it should not be relied upon, this command could be
your best friend, and save much embarrassment by attempting to eliminate errors.
The eleven major errors detected are listed below:
1. Integrity of reference points (critical warning)
2. Wall panels that are not coded (cyan) (warning only)
3. Wall panels that are not labeled (yellow) (warning only)
4. Wall panels that are short (blue) (warning only)
5. Wall panels that are overlapping (yellow) (warning only)
6. Wall panels exceeding maximum length (magenta) (warning only)
7. Wall panels exceeding transport limitations (magenta) (warning only)
8. Openings spread over two wall panels (brown) (warning only)
9. Braces spread over two wall panels (brown) (warning only)
10. Entities of very small lengths (red) (critical warning)
11. Entities with a ‘Z’ coordinate value (red) (critical warning)
12. Engineering failures (red++) (warning only)

The two types of warnings issued are ‘Critical Warnings’ and ‘Warning Only’. Should
you receive a ‘Critical Warning’ then this MUST be fixed before proceeding any
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further, but a ‘Warning Only’ is purely up to your own discretion. Whilst ever a
‘Critical Warning’ is being generated or present, the ‘PPD Panel Builder’ command
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will not operate. Once a ‘Critical Error’ has been detected, the only way to clear the
error is to fix the problem and run the ‘PIC’ command until the ‘Critical Error’ warning
does not appear.
Of the eleven warnings, only the first nine are optional and can be accessed via the
settings option. We do recommend that options 1 (Reference Points), 4 (Panel

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Length Shortage) and 5 (Panel Overlaps) remain on at all times as these are a major
cause of drafting errors.
When the command is first initiated, the user is given the option to press ‘S’ for setup
or ‘Enter’ to continue. If you press ‘S’ then this will take you into the setting options.
The ‘PIC’ settings are saved globally and are not saved within each drawing. If you
opt for ‘Enter’, then all wall panels in the current view only will be checked. It is
important to remember that the ‘PIC’ command will only check items found in the
current view.
When an error is found, the location is marked with an asterisk and a warning box
appears showing the errors found. An example of the warning box is shown to the
left. The asterisk is colour coded making it easy to identify the error at that point. The
colours used are listed above beside each error type.

5.12 PLI List Frame

The ‘PLI’ function is basically the command centre for the wall frame software. It is a
truly multi-functional command. Its function varies with the type of entity selected,
and where no entity is selected it shows the available commands for that section. If
you want to perform a task and don’t know what to do, then ‘PLI’ should be able to
help you. Below the functionality of each of its operations are described in much
more detail. This command allows the user to select one or multiple entities; the first
entity selected is the type of entity that will be displayed.
5.12.1 Coding a Frame/Beam
If you select an entity that has been created with the ‘PFT Trace Frame’ function and
that item has not yet received its intelligence then this option will be initiated. This is
where you give the wall or beam its intelligence. When the command is first initiated
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a dialogue box appears. This box has two tabs on the top; one is for coding as a wall
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frame ‘Code Frame’ and the other is for coding as a beam ‘Code Beam’.

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Code Frame
Most items within the dialogue box are
editable. When the box appears, it will
show where the settings came from on
the top right hand side of the box. The
settings will either come from the register
or the current drawing or from the first
entity selected. If the first item that was
selected already had intelligence applied
to it, then this intelligence would be
shown in the dialogue box. If the first
item selected had no intelligence applied,
but the command was previously used
within the current drawing, then the last
used settings within the current drawing
would be shown. If the first item selected
had no intelligence applied, and the
command had not been previously used
within the current drawing, then the last
used settings that were stored within the
register would be shown. If no settings were found anywhere then a set of default
settings would be shown.
Regardless of what settings are shown, you need to make sure and adjust so that
the settings are as you require them for the current entities selected.
The ‘Structural Code’ field contains the name of the design code that will be used.
This is not relevant at this part of the framing stage and will be altered later in the
roof setup stage (tset).
The ‘Earthquake Code’ field settings are brought through from the ‘PTF’ settings.
The ‘System’ field is the system to be used with the wall panels. You may mix
systems within a single job. If you need to change the system name now, you may
have left to too late as changing this name will not change the width of the drawn
item.
The ‘Wind Load’ field is the wind load that will be used for design. This field shows
the ‘Design Wind Speed’ as described in our ‘Engineering Statement’. The unit of
measure is either metres per second or miles per hours depending on the units of
measure used. Where a roof truss layout exists, this field is only used in the design
of the horizontal wind loads. However if no roof truss layout exists, then this field is
used for the design of horizontal and vertical wind loads. If you press the ‘C’ button
to the left of this field, then the ‘Wind Load Calculator’ will appear.
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The ‘Vertical Load’ field is the field that sets the roof load on the structure. Where a
roof truss layout exists, this field is not used. However if no roof truss layout exists,
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then this field is used for the design of vertical roof loads. If the roof load type you
desire does not appear on the list, then you will need to contact your systems
administrator to have it added.

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The ‘Support Type’ field sets what type of wall frame it is. There are three choices
here, ‘Load Bearing’, ‘Non Load Bearing’ and ‘Structural’. A ‘Load Bearing’ wall
means that the wall will be designed for vertical and horizontal loads. These loads
can be either evenly distributed or point loaded. A ‘Non Load Bearing’ wall means
that the wall will not be designed for vertical or horizontal loads (with some
exceptions). A ‘Structural’ wall means that the wall will be designed for vertical and
horizontal loads but presumes that the wall is not point loaded in any way. If you
have any sort of doubts as to what sort of wall to use, then make it a ‘Load Bearing’
wall.
The ‘Floor Type’ field shows what type of floor the wall is fixed to. There are currently
three choices, ‘Concrete’, ‘Steel’ and ‘Timber’. This field is used to calculate bills of
materials or the strength of hold down fasteners.
The ‘Current Model’ is the sub system to be used with the selected entities. You may
mix systems and sub systems within a single job. To find out specifically what the
sub system is, you will need to talk with your systems administrator. If you need to
change the current model now, you may have left to too late as changing this name
will not change the width of the drawn item.
The ‘Wall Height’ sets the height at which the wall frames will be detailed. This is the
height from the base to the top of the top plate, assuming that the wall is not raked.
The ‘Base RL’ field is the base RL of the wall panel in the 3D world environment. It is
vital that this field be correct as the software uses the levels to create 3D models for
the purpose of load transfers. The ‘P3D’ command will show you quickly whether you
are right or wrong.
The ‘Truss Span’ and ‘Pitch’ only needs to be correct if you have a roof truss layout
in the current drawing. If the truss layout drawing is ‘Referenced’ to the wall frames,
the truss information is updated from the trusses found and these fields are not used.
The ‘Floor Span’ only needs to be used if you have a floor load landing on the walls
and will not have a detailed floor system referenced in the current drawing. If there is
no floor load involved, then this value should be zero.
The ‘Colour’ field allows you to set the colour for the walls being coded. This is useful
when differentiating different wall types. To use standard wall colours, leave this field
set to ‘Bylayer’. By default ‘Load Bearing’ walls are drawn in colour ‘20’ with
‘Structural’ walls drawn in colour ‘212’ and ‘Non Load Bearing’ walls drawn in colour
‘60’.
The ‘Snow’ field allows you to set the vertical snow loads. If the truss layout drawing
is ‘Referenced’ to the wall frames the truss information is transferred from the
trusses and this field is in addition to the snow load inherited from the trusses. So if
no additional snow loads are required, this field should be left at zero. The unit of
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measure is either kPa or psf depending on the units of measure used.

The ‘Wall Mass’ fields show the weight of the cladding that is attached to the wall. At
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this stage the software does not know whether the walls are external of internal, so
both are shown. Generally they are set on a job basis, so therefore there is no need
to change them regularly. The unit of measure is either kPa or psf depending on the
units of measure used.

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The ‘Run FSET’ button is only of use when you are tracing frames with ‘Code As
You Go’ enabled. This button is needed to get back to the main settings to turn off
‘Code As You Go’.

Code Beam
When coding beams use caution as if the
beam width varies from the drawn width,
the software will adjust the width. It is up
to the user to ensure that the correct size
has been adjusted. If the beam width was
adjusted, the software will issue a
warning so the user is aware of it. Please
make sure you check all intersection and
corner points when this happens.
Regardless of what settings are shown,
you need to make sure and adjust so that
the settings are as you require them for
the current entities selected.
The ‘System Name’ field is the name of
the system file that contains the beam
definitions. You may mix systems within a
single job. If you need to change the system name now, you may have left to too late
as changing this name will not change the width of the drawn item.
The ‘Beam Name’ field is the name of the beam you wish to use. If the beam you
wish to use does not appear on the list, you could use the ‘Add Beam’ button to add
the required beam. Not only can you add a beam here, but you can also edit or
delete existing beams. To exit or delete an existing beam, click or double click the
desired beam and its properties will fill the appropriate fields.
The ‘Beam Clearance’ will shorten the beam by this length. E.g. if a beam was
6000mm long and the clearance was set at 5mm, then the final length detailed would
be 5995mm. A point to remember is that this clearance is not shown in the layout -
the beam still remains drawn at the full length.
The ‘Beam Top RL’ sets the top level or vertical location of the beam. It is essential
to have this correct as it is used for load calculations and by the ‘Beam Lapping’
function.
The ‘Beam Note’ field allows you to add notes to the beam that will appear on the
detailed beams.
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5.12.2 Listing an Opening

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If the first item selected after PLI had been an opening then the following dialogue
box would have appeared. This box shows most of the properties associated with
openings.

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When there have been

multiple items selected
beware. Only the
properties for the first item
are displayed, but
changes made here will
be reflected within all the
opening entities selected.
Where multiple items were
selected and not the
same, the colour of the
text within the relevant
fields will be changed to a
magenta colour. It should
also be noted that only the
fields changed will be the
fields amended on
pressing of the ‘Change’ button.
The ‘Library’ field shows what window library if any was used. This field cannot be
edited as it is far too late by that stage to edit it.
The ‘Opening Head Location’ shows the location of the head within the frame. This
field can be edited if desired. The button ‘C’ to the left of the field will show the
‘Opening Head Calculator’. When changing the value, the overall height stays the
same and the sill height is varied.
The ‘Opening Overall Height’ shows overall height of the opening. This is the height
of the opening within the steel frame. This field can also be edited if desired. When
changing this value, the sill height is varied and the head location stays the same.
The ‘Opening Sill Height’ shows height of the sill in relation to the bottom plate of the
steel frame. This field can also be edited if desired. When changing this value, the
window head location remains the same however the overall height changes.
The ‘Opening Overall Width’ shows overall width of the opening. This is the between
the jamb studs within the steel frame. This field can also be edited if desired, when
the window on the layout is changed, it is increased or decreased in width centrally
around the openings midpoint.
The ‘Opening Code’ is the code or text used to describe the opening. This can also
be changed if desired. Not only will this change the embedded data but it will also
update the text on the layout drawing.
The ‘Clearance Allowed’ shows the clearance that was used when the opening was
inserted. This field could be edited if desired, but its only effect now would be on
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fitting openings to brickwork.

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If the opening had been fitted to suit brickwork then the text field at the base of the
dialogue box will indicate that. The example above had not been fitted to suit
brickwork.
The ‘Change’ button will not be enabled till at least one entry has been changed. If
multiple items are being changed, you are the following option: ‘Amend This

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Opening...Y for Yes, N for No or A for All...’. If you press ‘Y’ then that item will be
amended, if you press ‘N’ then that item will not be amended and if you press ‘A’
then all selected items will be amended. Make your decision wisely.

5.12.3 Listing a Brace Panel

If the first item selected was a brace, then the dialogue box below would appear.
Where multiple items were selected and not the same, the colour of the text within
the relevant fields will be changed to a magenta colour. The only item editable is this
dialogue box is the ‘Brace Quantity’, and then this is only possible if it is a strap
brace that has been listed.
The ‘Brace Type’ shows the exact
type of bracing; it could be either a
strap brace, or a K-brace or an X-
brace or a type A or B sheet brace
as defined in the ‘Australian Timber
Framing Code’.
The ‘Brace Length’ field shows the
overall plan length of the brace.
The ‘X Contribution’ in the total
value of ‘Racking’ or ‘Overturning’
resistance offered in the ‘X
Direction’ only.
The ‘Y Contribution’ in the total
value of ‘Racking’ or ‘Overturning’ resistance offered in the ‘Y Direction’ only.
The ‘Brace Quantity’ refers to strap bracing only and has two possible values of
either single or double quantity.
The ‘Change’ button will not be enabled till at least one entry has been changed. The
only item currently editable is the ‘Brace Quantity’ field and this is only enabled on
‘Strap Brace’ types.
If multiple items are being changed, you are the following option: ‘Amend This
Opening...Y for Yes, N for No or A for All...’. If you press ‘Y’ then that item will be
amended, if you press ‘N’ then that item will not be amended and if you press ‘A’
then all selected items will be amended. Make your decision wisely.

5.12.4 Listing a 3D Entity

On listing a 3D wall entity, the listing box for the associated 2D entity will be shown.
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From here you can edit the entities properties as desired. However the 3D entity will
not change. If you want to see changes in the 3D entity, you will need to build the 3D
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entities again.

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5.12.5 Listing a Beam

Almost everything within the ‘List a Beam’ dialogue is editable, and almost
everything can be changed. This dialogue box also serves as the command centre
for beam related commands.
The ‘System’
field displays
the name of the
system from
where these
particular
beams
properties were
acquired from.
Changing this
field now will
not affect the
current beam in
any way,
however it could
change the
available beams
listed in the
‘Beam Type’
field.
The ‘Beam Type’ field displays the name of the current beam. By dropping down this
combo box, a list of all available beams within the current system will be shown and
can be selected as desired. On changing the beam type the ‘Beam Profile’, ‘Beam
Height’, ‘Beam Width’ and ‘Beam Weight’ fields will be automatically updated.
The ‘Beam Profile’ field is not editable or changeable and merely shows the shape of
profile of the current selected field.
The ‘Beam Top RL’ field shows the location of the beam relative to the 3D axis. The
location shown is to the top of the beam. It is important that this location be correct
as its information needs to be correct for the ‘Beam Lap’ functions to operate
correctly as well as the 3D viewing.
The ‘Beam Clearance’ field is the overall clearance or length that will be deducted
from the overall beams length when it is detailed or within any reports. This
‘Clearance’ has been pre-set within your data file, but can be edited if desired.
The ‘Beam Note’ is a note this is included on any detail sheets where the beam is
detailed. This is similar to the ‘Red Line Text’ field immediately below. The only
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difference is that the ‘Beam Note’ is stored within your data file and appears every
time that beam is used, whereas the ‘Red Line Text’ is added by the user on a job by
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job basis.
The ‘Beam Colour’ is the colour that the beam will be shown on the layout. This
colour is initially stored within your data file but you can change it as desired.

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The ‘Beam Label’ fields shows the label that was given when the ’PLA’ command
was used. Only the prefix portion of this is editable. Under normal circumstances this
should never need to be changed, however if you want to you can.
The ‘Beam Height’ field shows the actual height of the beam. This height has come
from the beam data stored within your data file, so normally you should not need to
change it. However if you do change if be aware of the other downstream items you
could effect, such as 3D views and beam laps.
The ‘Beam Width’ field shows the actual width of the beam as detailed. This width
has come from the beam data stored within your data file, so normally you should
not need to change it. However, if you do change the width, the beam shown on the
layout will change. You would be well advised to check all intersections and corners
as quite often these will need to be adjusted or cleaned up.
The ‘LH Beam Lap’ and ‘RH Beam Lap’ shows the distance (if any) that the beam is
lapped into the frame. The length of the beam on the layout does not change,
however the detailed length and
reported length will be adjusted
by these amounts. If you change
a lap back to zero, then the
marker circles on the layout will
be removed. Likewise when you
change a lap from zero to a
positive number the marker
circles will be added.
The ‘Raw Length’ field shows the
length of the beam as drawn on
the layout. The ‘Finished Length’
shows the length of the beam as
detailed or reported.
The ‘Change’ button will not be
enabled till at least one entry has
been changed. If multiple items
are being changed, you are the following option: ‘Amend This Opening...Y for Yes, N
for No or A for All...’. If you press ‘Y’ then that item will be amended, if you press ‘N’
then that item will not be amended and if you press ‘A’ then all selected items will be
amended. Make your decision wisely.
You should also note that only the fields that were changed are the fields that will be
amended or updated. So if you don’t edit a particular field, then this field will not be
changed. This is very useful when you have selected multiple entities that are not all
the same and only want to change one particular field. This basically applied to all of
39

the dialogue boxes listings.

5.12.6 Listing a Reference Point
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There is very little to edit of a ‘Reference Point’ however if required, you can change
the point type and it’s ‘Reference Index’.

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The ‘Change’ button will not be enabled

until at least one item has been changed.
If you change a ‘Reference Point’ from a
primary of secondary, you will see the
item change colour. The ‘Primary’ points
are shown in a bright green whereas a
‘Secondary’ point is shown in a dull green.
On changing anything within this dialogue,
the ‘PIC’ command will check integrity of
‘Reference Points’ on completion.

5.13 Dimensioning

5.13.1 DH Dimension Horizontally

This routine will dimension horizontally from point to point. Select the dimension
location then select the points you wish to dimension. When selecting points to
dimension, the cursor has been set to pick end points or intersections. This routine
will only dimension using the ‘X’ coordinates.

5.13.2 DV Dimension Vertically

This routine will dimension vertically from point to point. Select the dimension
location then select the points you wish to dimension. When selecting points to
dimension, the cursor has been set to pick end points or intersections. This routine
will only dimension using the ‘Y’ coordinates.

5.13.3 DA Dimension Aligned

This routine will dimension wall between two points. Select the dimension location
then select the points you wish to dimension. When selecting points to dimension,
the cursor has been set to pick end points or intersections. This routine will
dimension at whatever angle the second point is from the first.

5.13.4 DOH Dimension Ordinates Horizontally

This routine will produce a series of running ordinate dimensions from a given
reference point. This routine will only dimension using the ‘X’ coordinates. To use
this function first select the location where you want the dimensions to appear, then
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continue selecting point to dimension. The first point selected will be considered to
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be ‘0’, the rest of the points will be set from this point.

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5.13.5 DOV Dimension Ordinates Vertically

This routine will produce a series of running ordinate dimensions from a given
reference point. This routine will only dimension using the ‘Y’ coordinates. To use
this function first select the location where you want the dimensions to appear, then
continue selecting point to dimension. The first point selected will be considered to
be ‘0’, the rest of the points will be set from this point.

5.13.6 DL Dimension Lengths

This routine will only operate on lines. It is a simple routine, which labels the length
of each segment of the line. It is a very useful routine for producing a simplified
concrete slab set out.

5.14 Adding Text

5.14.1 QT Quik Text

‘Quik Text’ is a simple method of labelling and adding simple text to your drawings.
Whilst the Cad environment does provide excellent text functions, ‘Quik Text’
provides a user with consistency between drawings. All text entries are stored in the
‘rc_0001.DA1’ file contained within the ‘\Tanmari\Framing Module\Data’ folder.
Text is pre-stored in a data file. The height, layer, rotation angle, font and size are
also pre-set. Text is also stored under different categories, with each category
having its own settings.
To operate, all you need to do is click on
the required text and press the insert
button. The user is then prompted to
select a location for the text to appear.
The rotation has been pre-set within the
category, so if required you will be to
select an angle or orientation.
To change category, select from the drop
down box.
To add text to a the current category, type
the text in the ‘Add Text’ field at the
bottom of the ‘Quik Text’ dialogue box and
press the ‘Add Text’ button. The text will
then be added to the data file for future
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reference.
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This routine also has a few hidden

features. If you insert text with an
insertion point within the text width of a
dimension, then the text will be aligned to
the dimension and inserted as a

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dimension post text. If you insert text with an insertion point within the text width of a
border, then the text will be aligned to the bottom of the border at a pre-set height
above the borders title line.
At the top of the dialogue box, there is an additional dropdown menu labelled ‘Edit’.
This menu gives you several editing options to add, amend or delete categories plus
the ability to delete a text entry.

5.14.2 Add/Edit Categories

With this function, you can add, edit or delete a category. If deleting a category, be
absolutely sure what you are doing as that category and all other entries under that
category will be deleted.
To edit a category, double click on the text in the right hand list box. Information will
then be transferred to the left hand details. Amend as desired then press the
‘Add/Update’ button.
Double click on the text in the right hand list box. Information will then be transferred
to the left hand details, then press the ‘Delete’ button. The category and all its
entries will then be removed.

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5.15 Opening Libraries

FRAMECAD ProDesign Software has the capacity of storing unlimited opening
libraries. These opening library files are stored in the ‘C:\Program
Files\Tanmari\Framing Module\Library’ folder with all data in a simply text format.
The files have an extension type of ‘da2’. All users have access to the these files and
by following the notes below you may edit, amend or create new library files as
desired.

5.15.1 The Basic Format

The file structure is broken into eight main sections and sub sections. The main
sections are listed in the table below:
Code Use Opening Type

H_AW Heights Aluminium

windows
W_AW Widths Aluminium
windows
H_AD Heights Aluminium doors
W_AD Widths Aluminium doors
H_TW Heights Timber windows
W_TW Widths Timber windows
H_TD Heights Timber doors
W_TD Widths Timber doors

The sub sections relate to the main sections and any information must be located
below the main section marker and before the next main section marker. The sub
sections are made up of single lines of data containing the code and the required
size with the ‘=’ symbol in between. Below is an extract from a library:
H_AW
10=1029
12=1200
14=1372
W_AW
06=610
09=850
12=1210

So when a user inserts an aluminium window with a code of ‘1012’, the software
43

reads the heights for the opening from the information under the ‘H_AW’ section, it
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finds the ‘10’ line and therefore sets the height distance to 1029mm. For the widths
the software looks for the ‘W_AW’ section, it finds the ‘12’ line and therefore sets the
height distance to 1210mm.

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5.15.2 To Edit a File

To edit, change or amend an existing file please follow the procedure below:
• Start Windows Explorer
• Change to the ‘C:\Program Files\Tanmari\Framing Module\Library’
• Double click on the file you wish to edit

It is recommended that you open this file with ‘Notepad’ or any other similar text
editor. If the file extensions are not visible then it is recommended that you turn
them on. If you do not know how to do this, then please do not proceed any further
without first consulting FRAMECAD.

Once the file is opened, you may insert additional lines or delete, alter or change
existing lines.
DO NOT delete or remove the section markers. All eight main section masters must
be present and should, under no circumstances, be removed. When editing sub
sections, the window code is restricted to two characters and must be followed by
the equals (=) symbol and a length. There must be no spaces within the line.

5.15.3 To Create a File

The easiest way to create a new opening library file is to copy an existing file and
edit it. To copy existing files please follow the procedure below:
• Start Windows Explorer
• Change to the ‘\Tanmari\Framing Module\Library’
• Single click on the file you wish to edit
• Press Ctrl C to copy the file
• Press Ctrl V to paste the new file
• Right click on the new file and select rename
• Rename the file as required but make sure you do not change the file
extension
• Follow the procedure above to edit the file as required

Also note the opening library file names should be limited to eight (8) characters and
this file name should not contain spaces or punctuation characters.

If the file extensions are not visible, then it is recommended that you turn them on.

5.15.4 PCNC CNC Output

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This command works from the items detailed. It generates the required files needed
to drive the roll formers. Most routines give the user the option to select the desired
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items or return for a global selection.

Upon completion of this routine, the ‘CNC File’ is deposited in the
‘C:\Users\username\Documents\CNC’ folder.

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6 Truss Layouts
Dialogue Styles
Most of the ‘FRAMECAD ProDesign’ dialogue boxes use a smart colour system.
When the software changes a value automatically, the colour of the text usually
changes to ‘RED’. When the user changes a value, the colour of the text usually
changes to ‘BLUE’.

6.1 Roof Block Theory

6.1.1 Basis of Operation

The software operates as an add-on to the IntelliCAD cad package, thus providing a
very powerful all in one drawing, detailing and engineering package.
The truss package operates basically as a 2D detailing package with its own built in
structural design engine. Whilst it does have 3D viewing capacities, it is primarily a
2D package.
The truss package has two distinct parts, the first part is the roof truss layout and the
second part is the actual truss building. These two parts are linked via a text base
output file generated from the truss layout.
To detail the roof trusses, you first need to draw in the roof plan. This is usually the
hardest part of the detailing process. Once this has been done, usually the creation
of the roof truss layout is relatively simple. Generation of the trusses is a fully
automated process, but should it be required, they may be edited using standard cad
commands or our custom routines.

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6.1.2 Roof Theory

The truss software operates on the basis that every roof is a rectangle or a collection
of rectangles. Throughout this training manual these rectangles will be referred to as
roof blocks.
Sometimes these roof blocks may merge or overlap, and sometimes they may have
more than four sides, but broadly speaking they are still a collection of blocks.
The trick to creating accurate roof plans and truss layouts is to be able to identify the
roof blocks. When identifying roof blocks, it is usually easier to start with the
smallest blocks and work up to the largest block. Using this method you can usually
simplify the drawing as you go.
The drawing below shows an example of a roof consisting of two roof blocks.

Where the entire roof is of one pitch, all roof lines will be at right angle to each other,
with the hips and valleys at 45 degree angles.
Regardless of the complexity of the roof, the direction of fall is ALWAYS towards a
gutter or valley. If ever you have a roof falling to a hip or ridge, you have a problem
as water will not run up hill.
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This example is a more complex roof consisting of four roof blocks.

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The example below shows a good example of a complex roof. Note the overlap of
the two roof blocks. Generally when you have an overlap of roof blocks, you have a
complex roof. The larger the overlap, the more complex the roof.

Note the direction of fall. On each occasion the roof MUST fall to a valley or gutter.

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6.1.3 The Basic Truss Procedure

Draw basic roof plan Code roof lines and

Check truss settings
including pitching support lines
(TSET) lines and eaves lines (TS & TR)

Add balance of roof

Detail trusses Label trusses
lines
(TDT or DT) (TLA)
(CRL)

Add on-page reports Dimension truss Add any other

as required layout as required notations as
(TOS,TOD & TOA) (DH, DV, DTH & DTV) required (QT)

Run truss takeoff Open new ‘Truss

Layout complete!
(TTO) Detail Dwgs’

Check all detailed Amend trusses as

Build trusses
trusses as required required
(NTD) (VR & VV) (BT, TAR, TAN)

Print off required

Create XML File
reports Save Project
(TCNC)
(TUR)
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6.2 The Basic Settings

6.2.1 Border Setups

Refer Section 5.2

6.2.2 TSET Truss Setup Options

All of the main truss settings are contained in one dialogue box. This dialogue box is
accessed from the ‘TSET’ command. When ‘TSET’ is initiated within an existing
truss layout drawing, it will show all of the last used settings within that drawing.
When initiating ‘TSET’ on a new drawing, it will only show the last settings used.

• To change the truss system, select the appropriate option from the drop down
box next to ‘System Name’. After selecting a truss system, all truss settings
50

will be restored to the selected system defaults, however the truss pitch and
the wind load will remain unchanged.
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• Each roof type has its own set of loadings. The types of roofing that are
available have been pre-set within your systems data file. To change the roof
type, click on the drop down box to the right of the ‘Roof Load’ field. When a
new roof type is selected, the current settings are retrieved from the current
drawing. If there are no load settings in the current drawing, then the settings

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are retrieved from the ‘INI’ file. If there are no settings found, then default
settings are restored and the operator is warned of this. Roof loads can be
altered in the loadings tab.
• To select the required wind and roof load click on the drop down box to the
left of the field. All available options have been pre-set within the data file,
therefore only these options can be used. On selecting a wind load all truss
settings associated with that load will be restored to the selected system
defaults with the truss pitch and the wind load will remain unchanged.
• The ‘Roof pitch’ field is the nominal pitch of the roof. In the case of dual pitch
roofs, it is the pitch used for the main body. In the case of multiple roof
pitches, it is only the default or starting point for the roof pitch. There is no
need to enter hip pitches or other associated pitches as the software will look
after these values.
• Clicking on the ‘#’ to the right of this label
brings up a simple roof pitch calculator
which can convert the rise over run to a
decimal roof pitch. Click on the ‘Transfer’
button to transfer the new calculated pitch
back to the main dialogue box.
• The ‘Sub Pitch’ or secondary pitch option
is used for bell trusses or multi-pitched
roofs.
• The ‘Roof RL’ field sets the relative RL to
the roof truss layout. Its only purpose is
for viewing of trusses in 3D. This is used by some operators to do visual
checks on more complex type roof structures.
• The ‘Hip Method’ field sets the type of hip end to be used. Currently there are
two options, Truss Style and Rafter Style. It will depend on your preference
as to which method you will use.
• The ‘O/H Method’ sets the method required to achieve the gable overhangs.
All options are hard codes, to make sure your truss system is capable of using
the method employed. The gable frame option currently has no effect on the
drawings; it is used only as an indicative setting only.
• The ‘Pitch Type’ option enables single or dual pitch mode. In this mode the
ends of the roof block may have different pitches to the main body of the
block, allowing a maximum of three pitches per block.
• The ‘Detailing Type’ option allows you to change between ‘Full Truss’, ‘Half
Truss’ or ‘Rafter’ roofs.
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• The ‘Truss Spacing’ field is the spacing of the standard trusses. Click on the
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‘Truss Spacing’ wording to change between equal (or nominal) (E), and actual
(A). If the spacing was set to equal (E) then this setting would be the
maximum spacing of the standard trusses. If the spacing was set to actual (A)
then this setting would be the precise spacing between standard trusses.
Defined as ‘Dimension A’ in the definition drawing below.

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• The ‘First Trunc Truss’ field is the location of the first truncated truss from the
end pitching line. If a truss offset should have been used, then the location of
this truss would have been taken from that offset defined as ‘Dimension B’ in
definition drawing below.
• The ‘Truncated Spacing’ field is the spacing of the truncated trusses after the
first truncated truss. The ‘First Jack Position’ locates the position of the first
jack rafter. This distance is calculated from the nearest corner of the roof
block. If this value was to be set at zero, then no first jack rafter will be
inserted. Defined as ‘Dimension D’ in definition drawing below.
• The ‘Next Jack Position’ locates the position of the second jack rafter. This
distance is also calculated from the nearest corner of the roof block. If this
value was to be set at zero, then the second jack rafter will be drawn on the
corner point of the roof block. Defined as ‘Dimension E’ in definition drawing
below.
• The ‘Jack Rafter Spacing’ field is the spacing of the balance of the jack
rafters. Defined as ‘Dimension F’ in definition drawing below.
• The ‘Eave Search Distance’ field is the maximum length eave that will be
inserted. It would be possible to have the software search to infinity to find an
eave but this would not be very practical so this setting is provided to limit that
search distance. As everybody has a different style of work with different
requirements, this setting has been provided. In most circumstances the
default values set in the data file should be sufficient. If you do set this value,
remember to allow for the eave on hips, as these are usually longer than all
other eaves.

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• The ‘Minimum Eave Length’ field sets the minimum length of an eave that will
be drawn. Should you wish for the software to draw eaves of any length, then
this value can be set to zero, however under normal circumstances eaves

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less than 100mm are not desirable. Defined as ‘Dimension G’ in definition

drawing above.
• The ‘Truss Offset’ field will offset the truss pitching line by this distance. This
will give a virtual cantilever to all trusses and jack rafters. This offset is
generally used with fixed toe height truss systems, where the toe heights
need to be raised to meet a specific toe height requirement.
• If you press the ‘Save’ button, all settings will be saved in the current drawing
and to the computers system register. If you press the ‘Cancel’ button the
dialogue box will close and any changes made will be lost.
• On the top left hand corner of the ‘TSET’ dialogue box, there is a drop down
menu called ‘More Options’. Each one of these options will be explained more
in detail later in the training.

6.2.3 Loading Settings

These settings are accessed from the ‘TSET’ - ‘Loadings’ tab. This is where the
truss loads are set. Only loads that may be variable are shown here. Other loads and
coefficients that are fixed by the codes are not shown as they are hard coded within
the software.

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• The ‘Roof Live Load’ sets the live load on the top chord. This load is
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expressed as a distributed load as a pressure.

• The ‘Ceiling Live Load’ sets the live load on the bottom chord. This load is
expressed as a distributed load.

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• The ‘Roof Dead Load’ sets the dead load on the top chord. This load is
expressed as a distributed load. By clicking on the ‘#’ you will see a variety of
predefined roof loads. If the roof type is not on the list then you will need to
add the correct load by just typing within the field.
• The ‘Ceiling Dead Load’ sets the dead load on the bottom chord. This load is
expressed as a distributed load. By clicking on the ‘#’ you will see a variety of
predefined ceiling loads. If the ceiling type is not on the list then you will need
to add the correct load by just typing within the field.
• The ‘Ceiling Services Load’ sets the services dead load on the bottom chord.
This load is expressed as a distributed load.
• The ‘Bottom Chord Restraints’ sets the restraint spacing on the bottom chord.
If ceiling battens are to be used, please ensure your battens are of sufficient
strength to complete this task. An incorrect setting here could and will
generate false compression values on the bottom chords.

6.2.4 Roof Batten Settings

The batten settings form an integral part of the truss detailing, so therefore it is
important to have these setting correct. These settings are accessed from the ‘TSET’
’Roof Battens’ tab.

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• The ‘First Batten Type’ field show the type of batten selected as the first
batten. This batten is defined as the batten at the start of the run of battens or
the batten immediately at the fascia. If you are detailing concrete tiles and
wish to tilt the tile using the fascia, then select the batten type as ‘None’.

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• The ‘Next Batten Type’ field show the type of batten selected for the roof
excluding the first batten. If the type of batten you wish to use is not on the
list, then it will need to be added to the data file.

• The ‘End Ceiling Batten’ field is the material used to support the ceiling
battens at the end walls. If the type of batten you wish to use is not on the list,
then it will need to be added to the data file. The ‘First Valley Batten’ field
defines the type of material used as the valley support. The ‘Next Valley
Batten’ is required in some systems require two types of materials for each
valley support. That second type of material is selected here. If you don’t
want to a second type of material then select ‘None’.
• The ‘Length’ field sets the length of the. This length should be the actual
ordering length of the batten.
• The ‘Lap’ field sets the distance or overlap required when joining battens.

6.3 The Basic Operation

6.3.1 Quick Truss Command Reference

Command Usage
BSET Setup borders
REV Revision marking and updating feature
TSET Main truss settings
CRL Roof line wizard
TR Code as roof line
TS Code as support line
TH Code as a hanging beam
TCT or CT Codes lines as trusses
TIC Truss integrity check
TDT or DT Main truss layout engine
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TLA or TL Label roof trusses

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TFT Find a truss on a layout

TRB Add roof bracing to layout
STL Split a truss layout

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T3D Toggles 3D view on and off

TTC Cuts a single truss
TTM Cuts multiple trusses
TCE Rebuilds eaves
TVS Splits a truss
TBR Breaks a truss
TAD Add drawing to library
TAP Adds packers
TRL Amends Truss RL
ETG Erase Trusses
STH Converts a square end to a hex end
DH Dimensions horizontally
DV Dimensions vertically
DA Dimensions aligned
DOH Dimensions horizontally ordinate style
DOV Dimensions vertically ordinate style
DTH Dimensions trusses only horizontally
DTV Dimensions trusses only vertically
DL Dimensions lengths only
TLI Lists a truss
QT Quick text insertions
TID Insert Detail
TOD On sheet design summary
TOS On sheet truss summary
TOA On sheet accessories list
TOV On sheet veranda rafter summary
TTO Main truss take-off
NTD Details all trusses
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STD Details selected trusses

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BT Builds a single truss

TFT Find a specified truss
PS Re-squares a truss member

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TSC Splices a truss chord

TBM Fully boxes a member
TBP Partially boxes a member
TEW Eases selected webs
TMI Mirrors selected webs
TAW Adds webs
TAN Analysis without report
TAR Analysis with report
TSF Shows truss failures
TAS Adds support points
TPL Adds point loads
TUS Updates a single cutting list
TUA Updates a multiple cutting list
TUR Creates a truss materials usage report
TXL Creates a truss materials usage export to Excel
TWH Re-calculates chord to web connection holes
TMH Re-calculates chord to chord connection holes

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6.3.2 RRS Creating Roof Shapes

The first part of any truss job is to draw the roof plan. There are several ways to
achieve this. It could be drawn using basic cad commands, or you could import the
roof plan if supplied in cad format.
However, if it is a regular roof
shape you could use one of our
wizards. The roof shape wizard is
located under the ‘Roofing’ menu.
To access this command go
‘Roofing’ >> ‘Roof Layouts’ >>
‘RRS Create Roof Shape’. The
hot key for this command is ‘RRS’.
To use this command, click on the
required roof shape and follow the
prompts in the cad command area.
This will create a basic roof outline
with pitching points and eave lines.
To add the balance of the roof
lines you will need to use the
‘CRL’ - ‘Create Roof Lines’
command which is described next.

6.3.3 CRL Creating Roof Lines

To create roof lines, use the ‘CRL’ command. The command is located on the
‘Trusses’ menu. To access the command ‘Trusses’ >> ‘Code As Routines’ >> ‘CRL
Create Roof Lines’. It works on the basis that every roof is a block or a collection of
blocks as was previously explained under the ‘Roof Block Theory’ section.
To use this command, you need to select three points on each roof block. The first
two points selected represent one end of the roof block, the third point can be
anywhere along the other end of the roof block. When selecting the roof points, the
cursor is set to select end points or intersections.

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After selecting the three roof points, the user is prompted to select a roof type at
each end.
The options for the first end are Hip, Dutch, Gable, Saddle or More. To select one of
these options, just type the first letter of the roof type, followed by the enter key.
The options for the second end are Hip, Dutch, Gable, Saddle or More. To select
one of these options, just type the first letter of the roof type, followed by the enter
key.
If the roof end type options do not suit your needs, then roof lines may be drawn
using your standard cad command. Next, use the ‘TR’ - ‘Code as Roof Lines’ on
completion; this will be described shortly.

6.3.4 TR/TS Coding as Roof Lines or Support Lines

The ‘TR’ command codes lines as roof lines. It serves three purposes:
It changes the line to a different linetype and colour, plus it breaks the lines at all roof
line intersection points and imbeds a mark to allow the software to recognise it as a
roof line. To use the command, just select the desired line or lines with the cursor.
The roof lines are a vital part of truss layouts, as they are used to detect eave
overhangs.
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The ‘TS’ command codes lines as support lines. Its main purpose is to enable the
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software to see where the trusses are being supported. The command is used in the
same way as the ‘Code as Roof Lines’ command.
The colour and linetype of both these commands are set from the ‘Drawing Settings’
dialogue box which can be accessed through the ‘Options’ tab in the ‘TSET’
command.

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Both the ‘TS’ and the ‘TR’ command allow the user to select either lines or polylines.
However if you select a polyline, it will be converted to ordinary lines. This command
will not work on heavy weight polylines. If you were to select a heavy weight poly
line a warning will be issued.
Both roof and support lines may be copied, moved, extended, trimmed, mirrored or
stretched using your standard cad commands. However you cannot use the offset
command. Whilst it may appear to have worked, all intelligence is lost.

6.3.5 DT Detailing Truss and Veranda Layouts

The ‘TDT or ‘DT’ tool is used for the creation of roof layouts. Full truss, half truss or
rafter input is determined in the ‘Detailing Type’ drop down box in ‘TSET’.
The ‘TDT’ command works very similar to the ‘CRL’ - ‘Create Roof Lines’ command,
with the exception that with truss layouts you select the pitching points, not the eave
extremes. The pitching point is shown in the diagram.
When detailing a roof truss layout, you will be prompted for
a roof type on each end; there are many options available
here. Below is a table of available roof types.
When detailing half truss layouts, the first point selected is
the high point of the roof truss. To make it easy to
remember, just think you are up on the high edge of the roof
and looking down.

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The ‘DT’ rafter input mode works slightly different in that you need to select four
points to define the parallelogram. Also the rafter input does not recognise eaves
lines. If you need to include eaves, then you should include them within your point
selection. Once again the rafter input is best if you assume that you are up on the
high edge of the roof looking down.

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6.3.6 TLA Truss Labelling

To label the trusses, use the ‘TLA’ command. This command gives the option of
selecting the required trusses or doing a global selection. If you select trusses, a
secondary dialogue box will ask you what number you wish to start the labelling at.
The height of the labelling text is currently fixed at the same height as the
dimensioning text. Labelling prefixes can be altered in the ‘Labels’ tab in ‘TSET’.

6.3.7 TTO Truss Takeoff

As previously explained, the truss software two parts to it. To get the information
from the layout to the detail sheets, you need to run a takeoff. The command for this
is ‘TTO’. This command will then check your drawing for integrity and create an
output file ready for truss building.

6.3.8 NTD/STD Truss Building

To actually build the trusses, you will need to start a ‘Truss Detail Dwg’. To do this
from the menu go to ‘FILE’ >> ‘TRUSS DETAIL DWG’ and then select an
appropriate drawing size. When you open this new drawing, you will see borders
already set up. These borders are an integral part of the truss building process, so
please do not explode or erase them.
After opening the new drawing, use the ‘NTD’ or ‘STD’ command to actually build the
trusses. The two commands are almost identical, except that the ‘STD’ command
allows you to select which trusses to import and detail, and the ‘NTD’ command will
import and detail all trusses.

6.4 Truss Analysis

6.4.1 TAN/TAR Using Truss Analysis
Two tools have been provided for truss analysis, the ‘TAN’ ‘Truss Analysis’ and the
‘TAR’ - ‘Truss Analysis with Report’ command. Both commands operate identically,
with the exception that the ‘TAR’ command also shows the report. For normal truss
building with the ‘NTD’ or ‘BT’ command, the truss analysis works automatically.
The only time one needs to run these commands is after doing manual alterations to
trusses. The truss analysis will give one of five results:
1. Analysis Status = Passed
2. Analysis Status = Failed
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3. Analysis Status = Support Failure

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4. Analysis Status = Error

5. Analysis Status = Incorrect Data

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If you try to analyse a non-structural item, e.g. ceiling tie, then no action will occur. If
there is more than one truss in the current border then the outcome could generate
inconsistent or unreliable results.
‘Passed’ means that with the information supplied, the truss is within the design
code limits as set in the truss loading settings. When a truss has passed, all
members on that truss are automatically re labelled and the cutting lists are updated.
‘Failed’ means that with the information supplied, the truss is outside the design
code limits as set in the truss loading settings. This means that the truss will need to
be reconfigured in some form to pass analysis. The appendix in the rear of this
manual will give some assistance in this area. When a truss fails, the members are
not labelled, and no cutting lists are generated.
‘Support Failure’ means the failure occurs when the software detects less than two
support points on the truss. In this case you need to check to see if the lack of
supports is genuine, if not, you can use the ‘TAS’ command to add the required
support points and reanalyse. If the lack of supports is genuine, then a structural
engineer’s advice should be sort.
‘Error’ occurs when the analysis engine has generated an internal error. This could
occur when the software malfunctions or when there is a total and absolute truss
failure. If it is a software malfunction, then a copy of the truss should be forwarded to
the software developers for debugging.
‘Incorrect Data’ occurs when your data file is out of date in this case you will need
an updated data file. For this you should contact you network administrator or
software support person.

6.4.2 Hints on Fixing Truss Failures

In all cases, reducing the load on the truss by either reducing the truss spacing or
adding additional support points will fix failure problems. However, if this is not
possible then the guidelines below may help. If a chord has failed with a failure of
greater than 200%, then there is nothing that can be done to that truss with the
exception of reducing the load on the truss. In all cases, you will need to go back to
the layout and find additional internal supports or redo the layout with an alternate
configuration.

Compression Failures
1. If a top or bottom chord, decrease panel point spacing.
2. For bottom chords, chord restraint spacing could be reduced.
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3. For webs, add a midpoint web restraint.

4. The gauge thickness or size of the member could be increased.
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5. Boxing of the member could also assist.

Shear Failures
1. The gauge thickness or size of the member could be increased.

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2. Boxing of the member could also assist.

3. If it is a chord with a support point between panel points, then locating
a web above this support point will help.
Bending Failures
1. For bottom chords, chord restraint spacing could be reduced.
2. For webs, add a midpoint web restraint.
3. The gauge thickness or size of the member could be increased.
4. Boxing of the member could also assist.
Deflection Failures
1. The gauge thickness or size of the chord member could be increased.
2. Boxing of the chord member could also assist.
3. If points 1 & 2 do not fix the problem or is not practical, then point 1 is
the only alternative as the load on the truss must be reduced.
Support Failure
1. Add additional supports to the truss.
Crushing Failures
1. If there is a support point mid-way between panel points, then bringing
a web to this point could assist.
2. Partially boxing the members between the panel points could also help.
3. Increasing the gauge or material thickness could also fix the problem.

6.4.3 TLI Editing Truss Materials

Editing of truss materials is done
through the ‘TLI’ - ‘Truss List’
command. To operate, just select the
material or materials to edit and a
dialogue box will appear showing all
available materials within your truss
system.
You should also note the material
height and width to the right of the
material descriptions. This is here
because it is possible to use the
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materials in either orientation but the

materials structural properties will be
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different for each orientation, so make

sure you use the correct one.
Also at the bottom of the box, is an

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option to ‘Re-Engineer’. If ticked, the truss will be automatically re-engineered after

editing of the materials.
Once you have changed materials, you will notice that the cutting lists are
automatically updated.

6.4.4 Listing a Truss Joint

There is an option in the ‘TLI’ dialogue box to ‘List Joint’ for the purpose of listing
each truss joint. This command will bring up a dialogue box showing all available
data.
The ‘First Fixing Capacity’ refers to the allowed capacity of the first fixing type.
Currently the software allows for a maximum of two fixing types per system, but this
will be changing in the near fixing.
The ‘Second Fixing Capacity’ refers to the allowed capacity of the every other fixing
after the first fixing type.
The ‘Joint Capacity’ is the total capacity of fixings at that joint.
The ‘Applied Load’ is the total load on that joint as determined by the truss analysis.

6.4.5 TBM/TBP Boxing Truss Members

To box a truss member, use the ‘TBM’ - ‘Truss Box Member’ command. This
command will fully box a truss member. This command also has the added feature
in that not only will it box a member, but it will also un-box a member if it is already
boxed.
When using the command to un-box, you are better off selecting the member(s) with
a crossing, this is the only sure way of selecting the correct member.
If you wish to only partially box a member, use the ‘TBP’ - ‘Truss Box Partial’
command. This command requires you to select two points, the starting point and
the ending point. This command will not un-box a member, to un-box a partially
boxed member use the ‘TBM’ command.

6.4.6 TWR Add Web Restraint

The ‘TWR’ - ‘Truss Web Restraint’ will add a restraint to any webs. To use the
command just select a point on the web where you require the restraint.
WARNING: When adding a web restraint make sure it is noted on the layouts so you
can be sure this restraint will be added on site, as this will be a structural
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requirement.
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6.4.7 Truss Member Loads

Various parts of a truss have different load conditions applied. For the definition of
various truss parts, please refer to the definitions section of this manual. So if you

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copy parts of a truss, ensure you use the correct member for the load condition
required. Failure to do this will create an inaccurate analysis result.

Top Bottom Horiz Veranda

Web Rail
Chord Chord Chord Rafter
Live Roof
Yes Yes Yes
Load
Live Ceiling
Yes
Load
Dead Roof
Yes Yes Yes
Load
Dead
Ceiling Yes Yes
Load
Service
Yes
Load
Snow Load
Yes Yes Yes

External
Yes Yes Yes
Wind Load
Internal
Yes Yes
Wind Load

The only exception to the above would be a girder truss. The bottom chord of a
girder truss would also carry the imposed load of the oncoming bridge trusses.

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6.5 Advanced Truss Layout Tools

6.5.1 TVC Visual Controls

Sometimes truss layouts become very confusing,
with lines of top of lines. FRAMECAD ProDesign
has provided a tool called ‘TVC’ - ‘Truss Visual
Control’ to allow the operator to easily show or
hide various aspects of a truss layout.
The command is located on the dropdown
menus, to access go ‘TRUSSES’ >> ‘TVC Visual
Controls’. By clicking on the desired tick box
various aspects will be shown or hidden.
Alternately you could also just use the CAD
systems standard ‘Layer’ command.

6.5.2 CT Code Line As Truss

Sometimes when detailing roofs, you want a truss at a specific location but the
software will not automatically do it. In those circumstances the routine ‘CT’ has
been provided. The operator is
required to draw the line, which
represents the truss then use the ‘TCT
Code Line as Truss’ routine.
When the command is first activated, a
dialogue box appears. Select the
required truss type, pitch and truss
spacing. If applicable also select the
required truss height and dutch rail
height location.
When selecting the line to code as
truss, the end closest to the point
selected will be the starting end or left
hand end. This is especially important
with half trusses, as eaves are only
added to the starting end of a half truss.
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The ‘D’ field beside the toe height field,

restores the toe height to the default
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value.
If the ‘Create By Points’ box is ticked, then the user is prompted to select both the
starting and finishing ends of the new truss. If it is unticked, the user is required to
select an existing line to convert to a truss.

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6.5.3 TTC/TCM/TBR Cutting Off Trusses

Three commands have been provided to cut trusses. They are ‘TTC’, TCM’ and
‘TBR’. These commands can be accessed from the drop down menu, go ‘TRUSS’
>> ‘LAYOUT EDITS’
The ‘TTC’ command cuts off one end on a single truss.
The ‘TCM’ - ‘Truss Cut Multiple’ cuts off one end of multiple trusses
The ‘TBR’ - ‘Truss Break’ cuts a truss into two trusses at a specific point.

6.5.4 TRB/TBB/TCB Adding Roof Bracing

Three types of roof bracing can be added. There is bracing along the top chord,
bracing along the bottom chord and construction from brace to brace. The
commands for these are ‘TRB’, ‘TBB’ and ‘TCB’. They are all accessed from the
drop down menu ‘TRUSSES’ >> ‘OTHER DETAILING’.
The ‘TRB’ - ‘Truss Roof Brace’ adds roof bracing to the top chord. The user needs
to select three points for this command.
The ‘TBB’ - ‘Truss Bottom Brace’ adds roof bracing to the bottom chord. The user
needs to select three points for this command.
The ‘TCB’ - ‘Truss Construction Brace’ adds in construction brace and only two
points need to be selected.

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6.5.5 Dimensioning Roof Trusses

Four commands are sufficient to dimension most roofs. These commands are ‘DH’,
‘DV’, ‘DA’ and ‘DO’. The ‘DH’, ‘DV and ‘DA’ commands produce regular style
dimensions whereas the ‘DO’ command produces
ordinate style dimensions.
All commands require the operator to select three
points, the first being the location for the dimensions,
and the second and third points are the starting and
finishing points for the dimensions.

6.5.6 TIC Layout Integrity Checks

This command is a quick way of checking for drafting errors or simple oversights.
The command name is ‘TIC’ - ‘Truss Integrity Check’. It can be accessed from the
main ‘Trusses’ drop down menu. If any errors are found, then a warning box will
appear showing what errors were suspected. Different levels of warnings can be
pre-set within the data file, so not all systems have the same warnings. However
most systems will check for the presence of roof bracing and warn on trusses over
the maximum length.

6.5.7 Do’s and Don’ts of CAD Commands

Whilst our software operates within the cad environment, not all cad commands are
compatible. The two main commands which cause big problems are the ‘OFFSET’
command and the ‘MIRROR’ command.
Whilst the offset command may appear to have worked, in many if not all cases it
does not copy the intelligence with the associated entity. An example of this would
be if you offset a roof line, it looks like it has offset the entity okay, but the new item
now is only a line, it has lost all intelligence. Whilst this is a problem, if you are
aware of it, the command can still be useful.
Be very aware about using the ‘MIRROR’ command. Its results can be unreliable. If
you must use it just be aware.
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6.6 Layout Reports and Printing

6.6.1 TOS/TOD/TOV On Sheet Summaries

There are currently four available on sheet reports, the ‘TOS’, ‘TOD’, ‘TOV’ and the
‘TOA’ commands. These are designed as short summaries intended to adorn the
roof truss layout.
The ‘TOS’ - ‘Truss Onsheet Summary’ gives a short summary of the truss types
used on the truss layout.
The summary includes quantities and a
tally of bottom chord lengths.

The ‘TOD’ - ‘Truss Onsheet Design’ summary gives a brief summary of the design
including various critical settings.
This summary is possibly the most
important summary as it shows the
operator has used the correct loading
methods.
The ‘TOA’ - ‘Truss Onsheet
Accessories’ summary given a list of other associated item required to go with the
roof trusses.
This command has a settings dialogue box associated with it containing many
options.
By pressing the ‘Default’ button, the default options will be restored from your truss
data file. Currently there is no way to set a default, except by direct editing the data
file.

6.6.2 TLR Printable Reports

Currently there is only one layout report available. This is the ‘TLR’ - ‘Truss Layout
Report’. Through this report you may export to a text file or a CSV type file and print
to a printer. The options menu allows you to hide or show components, brackets
and fasteners.
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6.6.3 PRIA Printing the Layouts

If you are using IntelliCAD Version 5 or above, we have provided a spool printer that
will print all views through one command. The command for this is ‘PRIA’. It has an
options dialogue box associated with it containing several settings.
Here you can select the appropriate printer, paper size, number of copies etc. Once
you press ‘GO’ all views will be printed automatically.

6.7 Definitions

6.7.1 Truss Marker Definition

The truss marker that is drawn on truss layouts

refers to the face of the truss with the truss
sitting on the marker.
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6.7.2 Common Truss Parts

6.7.3 Common Roof End Type

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Gable Roof End Hip Roof End Dutch Roof End

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6.7.4 TCNC CNC Output

This command works from the items detailed. It generates the required files needed
to drive the roll formers. Most routines give the user the option to select the desired
items or return for a global selection.
Upon completion of this routine, the ‘CNC File’ is deposited in the
‘C:\Users\username\Documents\CNC’ folder.

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7 Floor Layouts
Dialogue Styles
Most of the ‘FRAMECAD ProDesign’ dialogue boxes use a smart colour system.
When the software changes a value automatically, the colour of the text usually
changes to ‘RED’. When the user changes a value, the colour of the text usually
changes to ‘BLUE’.

7.1 Command Reference

Command Usage

BSET Border setup

REV Revision notes
DA Dimension aligned
DL Dimension lengths
DH Dimension horizontally
DV Dimension vertically
DJH Dimension joists horizontally
DJV Dimension joists vertically
DOH Dimension horizontally ordinate style
DOV Dimension vertically ordinate style
FJSET Floor sheet setup
FO Offset a trace
IP Inherit properties
J3D Floor to 3D
JAD Add a detail drawing
JAM Add a member to data file
JAP Add a part to data file
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JAS Add a sectional properties to data file

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JBP Create a bracket plan

JCNC Generate CNC output
JD Detail a floor layout

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JDF Detail floor sheeting

JEG Erase guides
JFJ Find a floor member
JIC Floor integrity check
JID Insert a detail drawing
JIM Insert a member
JIS Insert service holes
JJC Cut a floor member
JJD Detail webbed floor joists
JJM Cut multiple floor members
JLA Label floor members
JLI List a floor member
JLR Layout report
JOB Onpage bracket report
JOF Onpage sheeting report
JOS Onpage member summary
JP1 Detail purlins
JP2 Add holes to purlins
JSET Main floor settings
JSS Show members starting edge
JSV Create a sectional view
JSW Show web side
JTO Take off webbed joists
JUA Update all webbed joist cutting lists
JUR Joist usage report
JUS Update single webbed joist cutting lists
JWB Detail a single webbed beam
PC Cut a trace
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PE Extend a trace
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PJ Join a trace
PT Trim a trace
QST Insert a steel section profile

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SW Show old wall layer

SWA Add to old wall layer
ULE Run of engaged piers
ULI Run of isolated piers
ULP Run of steel posts
URU Rough in under floor plan
USE Insert single engaged pier
USET Under floor settings
USI Insert single isolated pier
USP Insert single steel post

7.2 New Layout Drawing

See 5.1 New Layout Drawing

7.3 BSET Border Setups

Refer Section 5.2

7.4 JSET Floor Settings

This is the main setup routine for floor detailing. This command may be accessed
directly from the menu, or directly from the command line as ‘JD’. Each field is
explained here in detail.
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♣ ‘Current System’ - This field contains the name of the floor system to be used.
System files are kept in the ‘\Tanmari\Framing Module\Library’ folder and all
floor files have a file extension of ‘.da7’.
♣ ‘End Bearer Type’ - This field shows the type of ‘End Bearer’ to be used. The
image to the right of the dialogue box will show the definition of an ‘End
Bearer’. This image is a dynamic image which changes as each field receives
focus. An ‘End Bearer’ is a member that carries terminating joints. If you do
not wish to use any ‘End Bearer’ select ‘None’ from the drop down box.
♣ ‘Side Bearer Type’ - This field shows the type of ‘Side Bearer’ to be used.
The image to the right of the dialogue box will show the definition of a ‘Side
Bearer’. This image is a dynamic image which changes as each field receives
focus. A ‘Side Bearer’ is a member that usually does not carry joints. If you
do not wish to use any ‘Side Bearer’ select ‘None’ from the drop down box.
♣ ‘Internal Bearer Type’ - This field shows the type of ‘Internal Bearer’ to be
used. The image to the right of the dialogue box will show the definition of an
‘Internal Bearer’. This image is a dynamic image which changes as each field
receives focus. An ‘Internal Bearer’ is a member that usually carries joists on
each side. If you do not wish to use any ‘Internal Bearer’ select ‘None’ from
the drop down box.
♣ ‘Joist Type’ - This field shows the ‘Joist’ type to be used. The image to the
right of the dialogue box will show the definition of a ‘Joist’. This image is a
dynamic image which changes as each field receives focus. The value used
here will be dictated by the available engineering, and the type of floor
sheeting used.
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♣ ‘Joist Spacing’ - In this field, the spacing of the joists are set. Normally this
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field is a multiple of 150, however under some circumstances this may need
to be changed.
♣ ‘Internal Bearer Spacing’ - This field is the spacing of the ‘Internal Bearers’.
The value used here will be dictated by the available engineering.

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♣ The ‘Floor Datum’ function is only used when you view the floor system in 3D,
or generate accurate sectional views.
♣ The ‘Dead Load’ sets the dead load on the joist. This load is expressed as a
distributed load. There is a button to the left of this field. By pressing this
button you will see a variety of predefined loads.
♣ The ‘Live Load’ sets the live load on the joist. This load is expressed as a
distributed load.
♣ The ‘Ceiling Load’ sets the ceiling load on the joist. This load is expressed as
a distributed load. There is a button to the left of this field. By pressing this
button you will see a variety of predefined loads.
♣ The ‘Snow Load’ sets the snow load on the joist. This load is expressed as a
distributed load.
♣ The ‘Inline End Bearers’ toggle will set the ‘End Bearers’ to be located inline if
this box is ticked. If the box is unticked, then the ‘End Bearers’ will be located
under the ‘Joists’. The image in the dialogue box will show the definition of
this. This image is a dynamic image which changes as each field receives
focus.
♣ The ‘Inline Int Bearers’ toggle will set the ‘Internal Bearers’ to be located inline
if this box is ticked. If the box is unticked, then the ‘Internal Bearers’ will be
located under the ‘Joists’. The image in the dialogue box will show the
definition of this. This image is a dynamic image which changes as each field
receives focus.
♣ If the ‘Double Int Bearers’ tick box is ticked, then double internal bearers will
be used. If it is unticked, then only a single bearer will be used. The value
used here will be dictated by the available engineering.

‘More’ Options Button

The ‘Floor Label Options’ is explained in a section below. The ‘Cutting List Options’
are also explained in a section below.
The ‘Save As Default’ option means that after ‘Saving As Default’, every time you
restore this system, then these ‘Save As Default’ options will be reloaded.
The ‘Save As A Model’ means that if desired all settings in the ‘JSET’ dialogue box
can be saves as a model, making it available for future restoration. When you save
as a model, a dialogue box appears where you can enter a short description. But
please keep this description very short.
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The ‘Restore A Model’ will restore any previously saved settings. This can be very
useful, as it saves having to reselect members every time.
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The ‘Delete a Model’ will remove a model from the data file.

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7.5 System Editor

7.5.1 JAS Add Sectional Properties

With this routine, you can add the sectional properties to members. Currently this
routine as no effect in the software, but shortly an engineering package will be added
and these properties will be required.
Not only will it add properties, but you can also edit or delete properties.
To delete an entry, double click on the entry in the right hand list, this item will
appear in the details, then to delete the entry click in the ‘Delete’ button.
To edit an entry, double click on the entry in the right hand list, this item will then
appear in the details. Amend as required then press the ‘Add/Update’ button.
To add an entry, add all the appropriate information then press the ‘Add/Update’
button. The software performs a check of all data to ensure it is in the correct format
with no errors.

7.5.2 JAD Add a Detail Drawing

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With this function, you can add, edit or delete various details from your block library.
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All these blocks are stored in the ‘\Tanmari\Framing Module\Blocks\Qfloor’ folder,

with all relevant data stored within the selected data file.
To edit an existing item, double click on the member in the left hand list, and all its
properties will show on the right hand side. Change the fields as required then press
the ‘Add’ button.

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To delete an existing member, double click on the member in the left hand list, and
all its properties will show on the right hand side. Press the ‘Delete’ button and the
item will be removed from the list and the associated data file. Also note that the
block will be deleted.
To add a new item, double click on an existing detail in the left hand list, and all its
properties will show on the right hand side. Change the fields as required then press
the ‘Add’ button. The dialogue box will disappear and then you will be prompted to
select the block, followed by the blocks insertion point.
In the ‘Drawing Name’ field you must insert drawing name. The name should be
short and sweet and should not contain any spaces. The extension ‘.dwg’ is not
necessary and should not be used.
The ‘Description’ field allows you to enter a short description so you can identify its
intended use. There is no limit to its length, but shorter is better.

7.5.3 JAP Add a Part

This routine allows you to add, edit or delete parts.
To delete an entry, double click on the entry in the right hand list, this item will
appear in the details, then click in the ‘Delete’ button.
To edit an entry, double click on the entry in the right hand list, this item will then
appear in the details. Amend as required then press the ‘Add/Update’ button.
To add an entry, add all the appropriate information then press the ‘Add/Update’
button. The software performs a check of all data to ensure it is in the correct format
with no errors.

7.5.4 JAM Add a Member

This routine gives you the capacity to add, edit or delete members at will. The
members that appear here are the members that appear in the ‘JSET’ routine. All
fields are required and MUST be filled in accurately. All fields are self-explanatory
with exception to the ‘Orientation’ field.
The ‘Orientation’ field sets the direction of ‘Channel’, ‘Lipped Cee’ or ‘Open Cee’
members. It does not affect symmetrical sections. This field consists as a group of
four numbers, either 0 or 1. Zero means that the toes or open side face outwards.
One means that the toes or open face faces inwards. The first digit refers to ‘End
Bearers’, the second digit refers to ‘Side Bearers’, the third digit refers to ‘Internal
Bearers’ and the fourth and last item refers to ‘Joists’.
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To delete an entry, double click on the entry in the right hand list, this item will
appear in the details, then click in the ‘Delete’ button.
To edit an entry, double click on the entry in the right hand list, this item will then
appear in the details. Amend as required then press the ‘Add/Update’ button.

7.6 Code As Routines

7.6.1 TS Code As Support Line

The ‘TS’ command codes lines as support lines. Its main purpose is to enable the
software to see where the members are being supported. The ‘TS’ command allow
the user to select either lines or polylines. However if you select a polyline, it will be
converted to ordinary lines. This command will not work on heavy weight polylines.
If you were to select a heavy weight polyline, a warning would be issued.
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Support lines may be copied, moved, extended, trimmed, mirrored or stretched using
your standard cad commands. However you cannot use the offset command. Whilst
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7.7 Layout Commands

7.7.1 JD Detail Floor

This is the main command used to detail a floor. To use this command, all you need
to do is select the boundaries of the floor you wish to detail. The boundaries could
be either lines or polylines and should be a closed area. The boundaries could
consist on any shape or collection of shapes and several separate boundaries could
be included.
When this command is first initiated you are prompted to select the boundaries or
press ‘Enter’ for set up. If you press ‘Enter’ you will be taken to the ‘JSET’ command.
On completion of ‘JSET’ you will be returned to this routine.
Once the boundaries have been selected, you will be prompted for a set out point.
This is the point from which all the joists are set from.
Next you will be prompted for the direction of the joists. Here you could just drag the
mouse in the direction required and press ‘Enter’ or select a point to in reference to
the set out point or just enter an angle for the joist direction.

7.7.2 JLI List a Floor Member

With this command you may list and amend floor members as necessary. Currently
it will only amend the first member found.
After selecting a member, the starting end of the member is marked with a yellow
marker with the finishing end marked with a red marker.
As far as editing goes, there are some options you can change or if really desired,
you can show the member as a line or if already a line, you can re-expand the
member to full width.

7.7.3 JFJ Find a Member

Sometimes floor layouts can get very complex. And sometimes you can never find
that joist you are looking for. With this command, all you do is enter the joist or
member number and a marker will show you its location.

7.7.4 JLA Label Members

This routine labels all floor members. When the command is first initiated, you are
prompted to select the members to label or return for global selection.
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If you have opted to select members to label, then you will prompted to set the
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starting number of the labelling. This is very useful for labelling a job with more than
one level of floors.
When selecting members for global or individual numbering, any previous text labels
selected will be deleted.

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Members will be labelled in the format that was set with ‘JSET’ ‘Labelling Options’.
All members are labelled from the top left corner radiating outwards. The height of
the text will be the same as the variable setting ‘DIMTXT’.

7.7.5 QST Steel Sections

This function is a utility for generating profiles of standard steel sections.
All member shapes, sizes and profiles are
contained within the systems data file.
Members may be inserted at any scale with
the ability to rotate the section after
insertion.
When each section is generated, it is
generated as a single polyline. Should the
need arise, it may be exploded or edited as
required.

7.8 Other Detailing

7.8.1 JDF Floor Sheeting

This command is used to create floor
sheet layouts. The command works
similar to the ‘JD’ command. All you
need to do is select the boundaries of
the floor you wish to add sheeting to.
The boundaries could be either lines or
polylines and should be a closed area.
The boundaries could consist on any
shape or collection of shapes and
several separate boundaries could be
included.
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Once the boundaries have been

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selected, you will then be prompted for a

set out point. This is the point from
which all the sheeting is set from. Once
the sheeting is detailed, a small circle is
drawn at this setout point.

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Next you will be prompted for the direction of the joists. Drag the mouse in the
direction required and press ‘Enter’ or select a point in reference to the set out point
or just enter an angle for the joist direction.
When this command is first initiated, you are prompted to select the boundaries or
press ‘Enter’ for set up. If you press ‘Enter’ you will be takes to the floor sheeting
options. On completion of the settings, you will be returned to this routine.
To select a new sheet type, click on the
dropdown box for all available options. If the
option desired is not on the list, then contact
your systems administrator as there is
currently no options available for the user to
add additional sheeting.

7.8.2 JID Insert a Detail Drawing

This routine allows the user to insert special
details into their drawing. When the
command is initiated, a list box appears
showing a list of all available details.
The ‘Drawing Insertion Scale’ field allows
the user to alter the scale of the drawing if
desired.
By using the ‘JAD’ command the user is
able to add details as they are created.
7.8.3 JIM Insert a Member
With this command, you have the facility to
add a member into the floor layout at any
desired location. To use this command, you
need to select a ‘Member Type’ from the list,
set the correct ‘Member RL’, plus any other
desired settings, then select two points
where you want the member inserted.
In some cases it could be a good idea to
draw in a temporary construction line, and
use this as your insertion points.
Once the two points have been selected, you
are prompted for a side to offset the
member. If a side is not selected, then the
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member is inserted along the centre line.

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If the ‘Double Member’ box is ticked, then

two members will be inserted side by side.
The orientation of the members is governed
by the data contained within the data file.

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If the ‘Show as Line’ is ticked then the member will not be drawn with thickness.
This can be useful when inserting a member underneath a floor.
If the ‘Cut in Member’ box is ticked, then the new member will be cut into the existing
floor erasing a section from the existing floor equal to the width of the member
inserted.

Third Point
Selected

First Point Second Point

Selected Selected

7.8.4 J3D Create 3D View

‘Floor’ is mainly a 2D program. However this function creates a full wire frame
diagram of the floor system. This is a very handy function when checking very
complex jobs with many floor levels.
To remove the 3d entities just use this command again. If 3D floors are found they
will be deleted, if no 3D floors are found then they will be created.
All 3D floors are created on a layer called ‘3D_Floor’ and the 3D colours will be
similar to the original entities.

7.8.5 JSC Create Section

This command creates a sectional view between any two given points. This
command has no other options. The command is very useful when you need to
show joist or member orientations.
To use the command, you need to select three points, the first point is the location of
the sectional view, and the second and third points are the starting point and ending
point of the section.
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First Point
Selected

Second Point
Selected Third Point
Selected

7.8.6 JIS Insert a Service Line

This command is only used by systems where machinery and CNC can cater for the
processes of service penetrations in floor members. To see if you can use this
provision, please contact your systems administrator.
To use the command, you need to select two points, representing the starting and
finishing points of the run of service holes. The software will then draw a line
between these two points with imbedded information within. This line is drawn on a
layer called ‘Service_Hole’.

7.9 Floor Edits

7.9.1 JEG Erase Guides

Usually when drawing or roughing in floor systems, guide lines and temporary lines
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are often drawn. To erase these guides is sometimes difficult but with this command
you can select the whole region and only items not associated with the floor layout
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will be erased.
The biggest trick to good detailing is to create a clean and accurate drawing that is
pleasing to the eye. This function is a great aid in achieving this.

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7.9.2 JIC Integrity Check

This command performs some basic member checks. At the time of writing, the only
check performed was a check for floor members exceeding the maximum allowed
length.
The maximum allowed lengths have been pre-set within
the data file.
Any member found is marked with a red marker and an
alert box warning is issued.

7.9.3 JSW Show Web Side

This command will show which side of the member is the web side. This only
applies to ‘Cee Section’ or ‘Lipped Cee Section’ members as there is no need to use
this with symmetrical members or closed sections.

7.9.4 JSS Show Start

Every member has a starting end and a finishing end. This command will mark the
starting end and finishing end of all members. The starting end is marked with a
yellow marker and the finishing end is marked with a red marker.
Normally the members are orientated with the starting end being the left or the top
side.

7.9.5 JEX Shrink/Expand Members

This command is a toggle. It reduces members to a drafting width or expands
members to full width.
With some systems the drafting width is different from the member’s actual width.
From a detailing or calculation point of view, the drafting width is desired, but from a
presentation the actual width is desired. This command gives you the best of both
worlds.
7.9.6 JJC Cut a Single Member
This function cuts a member at a given point. When this command first initiates, you
can select a member or return for setup. The setup allows you to initiate the ability to
update the cut end types.
To operate, first select the member to cut, and then select the point where you wish
to cut the member. When selecting the cutting point, the cursor snap mode has been
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set to select an end point or intersection. If needed, you may wish to draw in a guide
line to represent the cutting point.
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If the options were set to update end types, then a dialogue box would appear asking
you to select the appropriate end type for that particular member, the current
member end type should be highlighted. This dialogue box also shows a slide view
of the end type.

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7.9.7 JJM Cut Multiple Members

This command operates similarly to ‘JJC’ except here you can cut many members at
once.
To use this routine, you need to select two points to represent the cutting line. All
members intersecting these two points will be cut. When selecting the cutting point,
the cursor snap mode has been set to select an end point or intersection. If needed
you may wish to draw in a guideline to represent the cutting point.

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7.10 Under Floor Plans

7.10.1 USET Under Floor Settings

This sets the main parameters for all under floor detailing. This is where all pier
sizes and spacing are set
When ‘USET’ is first
initialized, it scans the
current drawing for active
settings. If no active
settings are found, then it
retrieves settings from any
previously detailed under
floors in the current
drawing. If still no settings
are found then it retrieves
the last used settings from
the system registry.
If no last used settings are
found, then the default
settings are used. When the default settings are used, a warning is issued, as it is
most likely that these settings will need to be changed.
When exiting via the OK button, all settings are saved in the current drawing and
also in the system’s registry. If the CANCEL button was pressed, then no settings
are changed, and the drawing plus system’s registry remain unchanged.
The drawing below explains what each parameter means.

Engaged Pier

Depth

Engaged Pier
Spacing

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Engaged Pier Isolated Pier

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Isolated Pier Size

Width
Spacing
Bearer
Spacing

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7.11 Dimensioning

7.11.1 DH Dimension Horizontally

This routine will dimension horizontally from point to point. Select the dimension
location then select the points you wish to dimension. When selecting points to
dimension, the cursor has been set to pick end points or intersections. This routine
will only dimension using the ‘X’ coordinates.

7.11.2 DV Dimension Vertically

This routine will dimension vertically from point to point. Select the dimension
location then select the points you wish to dimension. When selecting points to
dimension, the cursor has been set to pick end points or intersections. This routine
will only dimension using the ‘Y’ coordinates.

7.11.3 DA Dimension Aligned

This routine will dimension walls between two points. Select the dimension location
then select the points you wish to dimension. When selecting points to dimension,
the cursor has been set to pick end points or intersections. This routine will
dimension at whatever angle the second point is from the first.

7.11.4 DOH Dimension Ordinates Horizontally

This routine will produce a series of running ordinate dimensions from a given
reference point. This routine will only dimension using the ‘X’ coordinates. To use
this function first select the location where you want the dimensions to appear, then
continue selecting point to dimension. The first point selected will be considered to
be ‘0’. The rest of the points will be set from this point.

7.11.5 DOV Dimension Ordinates Vertically

This routine will produce a series of running ordinate dimensions from a given
reference point. This routine will only dimension using the ‘Y’ coordinates. To use
this function first select the location where you want the dimensions to appear, then
continue selecting point to dimension. The first point selected will be considered to
be ‘0’. The rest of the points will be set from this point.
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7.11.6 DJH Dimension Horizontally

This routine will dimension wall panels horizontally. To operate select a point where
you wish the dimension line located, then draw a fence through the wall panels you

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wish to dimension. This routine will only dimension floor joists, it will ignore all other
entities. This routine will only dimension using the ‘X’ coordinates.

7.11.7 DJV Dimension Vertically

This routine will dimension wall panels vertically. To operate select a point where
you wish the dimension line located, then draw a fence through the wall panels you
wish to dimension. This routine will only dimension floor joists, it will ignore all other
entities. This routine will only dimension using the ‘Y’ coordinates.

7.11.8 DL Dimension Lengths

This routine will only operate on lines. It is a simple routine which labels the length
of each segment of the line. It is a very useful routine for producing a simplified
concrete slab set out.

7.12 Reports

7.12.1 JOS Onpage Summary

The ‘Onpage Summary’ creates a summary showing the total quantity of the floor
members found. This summary is inserted onto the drawing sheet only.
The command gives the user the opportunity to make a
selection of panels, or just do a global selection. A
secondary prompt also given the user the opportunity to
align the report box either ‘Left’ aligned or ‘Right’
aligned.
This summary is a relative low tech report as it does not update automatically. If you
wish to update it, then first you will need to use the cad ‘Erase’ command to remove
it.

7.12.2 JOF Floor Sheet Summary

This command creates a summary of all floor sheeting and its accessories that were
found.
The command gives the user the opportunity to make a selection of panels, or just
do a global selection. A secondary prompt also given
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the user the opportunity to align the report box either

‘Left’ aligned or ‘Right’ aligned.
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This summary is a relative low tech report, as it does not update automatically. If
you wish to update it, then first you will need to use the cad ‘Erase’ command to
remove it.

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7.12.3 JOB Bracket Summary

This command creates a summary of all brackets that were calculated. Please note
that this is a calculation and caution should be used.
The command gives the user the opportunity to make a selection of panels, or just
do a global selection. A secondary prompt also given the user the opportunity to
align the report box either ‘Left’ aligned or ‘Right’ aligned.
This summary is a relative low tech report, as it does not update automatically. If
you wish to update it, then first you will need to use the cad ‘Erase’ command to
remove it.

7.12.4 JLR Layout Report

The ‘Joist Layout Report’ operates from the layout drawings. It creates a detailed list
of components and members found.
At the top of the report there is a menu containing various options. Under the export
item, you can export the report to a text file or a CSV type file. The ‘CSV’ format can
be very useful as it will open up in ‘Excel’. You can also print the report.
Under the ‘View’ option you can change the way the data is viewed. It can be
viewed in a variety of methods, and showing or hiding various material types. Just
which method you use, depends on your specific requirements.

7.12.5 JUR Joist Usage Report

The ‘Joist Usage Report’ operates from the detailed webbed joists. It creates a
detailed list of components.
At the top of the report is a menu containing various options. Under the export item
you can export the report to a text file or a CSV type file. The ‘CSV’ format can be
very useful as it will open up in ‘Excel’. You can also print the report.

7.13 Floor Joist Takeoff

7.13.1 JTO Floor Takeoff

This command is used to create a take-off file from the floor layout. This command
only works in ‘Webbed Floor Joists’. It does not work, nor can you detail any other
sort of floor member. This command operates in a similar manner to the ‘PPD’ or
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‘TTO’ command in the wall frame and truss package.

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7.13.2 Small Panel Drawing

This creates a new layout drawing using the SMALL ‘FRAMECAD ProDesign’
prototype drawing as an overlay. The borders are already set up in this prototype

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depending on maximum joist length. You will find this on the menu under ‘File =>
Small Panel Drawing’.

As with the layout prototype drawings, many settings including units of measure, line
type scales, text heights and dimension styles are pre-set.
This drawing, along with its borders, is an integral part of the software’s operation.
These borders cannot be altered in any fashion, as the panel builder needs these
borders to function correctly. No customization or alterations are possible.
This prototype drawing is kept in the ‘\Tanmari\Framing Module\Blocks’ folder. It is
called ‘[Link]’. This drawing should never be modified by the user, and under
the software license agreement you are not permitted to change or alter it, so
consider this as a formal warning.

7.13.3 Std Panel Drawing

This creates a new layout drawing using the STANDARD ‘FRAMECAD Pro’ panel
prototype drawing as an overlay. The borders are already set up in this prototype
and are designed for longer webbed joists. You will find this on the menu under ‘File
=> Std Panel Drawing’.

As with the layout prototype drawings, many settings including units of measure, line
type scales, text heights and dimension styles.
This drawing, along with its borders, is an integral part of the software’s operation.
These borders cannot be altered in any fashion, as the panel builder needs these
borders to function correctly. No customization or alterations are possible.
This prototype drawing is kept in the ‘\Tanmari\Framing Module\Blocks’ folder. It is
called ‘[Link]’. This drawing should never be modified by the user, and under
the software license agreement you are not permitted to change or alter it, so
consider this as a formal warning.

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7.14 Floor Detailing

7.14.1 JJD Detail Webbed Joists

This is the main command to detail webbed joists. To use this command you must
be in a ‘Panel Drawing’. This command will detail all joists starting at joist one and
continuing in numeric order until no more sequenced numbers are found.

7.14.2 JWB Build a Webbed Joist

This command details single webbed joists or it could be used to amend an existing
detailed webbed joist. To use this command, you must be in a ‘Panel Drawing’ and
your floor system must be capable of ‘Webbed Joists’.
To amend an existing
joist, press the ‘Inherit’
button whilst the joist
to be amended is
visible on the screen.
To add additional
support points, place a
space between each
support point.
Support points are
calculated from left to
right.
Should it be required,
the user may select different end types on the LH and RH ends. The bitmap pictures
make this self-explanatory.

7.14.3 JUS Update Single Joist

The ‘JUS’ command will update the cutting list on a single page only. There are no
options and it only updates the cutting list on the current page. If you have a fully
automated processing system, then you should not need to use this command.

7.14.4 JUA Update All Joists

The ‘JUA’ command will update the cutting list on all pages in the current panel detail
drawing. There are no other options available. If you have a fully automated
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processing system, then you should not need to use this command.
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7.14.1 JCNC CNC Output

This command works from the items detailed. It generates the required files needed
to drive the roll formers. Most routines give the user the option to select the desired
items or return for a global selection.
Upon completion of this routine, the ‘CNC File’ is deposited in the
‘C:\Users\username\Documents\CNC’ folder.

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8 Roof Layouts
Dialogue Styles
Most of the ‘FRAMECAD ProDesign’ dialogue boxes use a smart colour system.
When the software changes a value automatically, the colour of the text usually
changes to ‘RED’. When the user changes a value, the colour of the text usually
changes to ‘BLUE’.

8.1 Command Reference

Command Usage
BSET Border setup
DA Dimension aligned
DH Dimension horizontally
DL Dimension lengths
DV Dimension vertically
PWD Software password
QT Quik text
PRIA Spool Printing
R3D Create 3D roof
RAD Auto detailer
RAE Eaves creation
RAO Apron flashing only
RBO Detail barge capping
RCB Detail ceiling battens
RCG Change gutter type
RCL Create roof lines
RCNC Generate CNC output
RCO Set rainwater goods colours
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RCR Copy layout from border to border

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RDO Detail dutch flashing

REL Detail eave linings
REV Add revision notes

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RFB Detail fascia and barge

RFG Detail fascia and gutter
RFO Detail fascia only
RGO Detail gutter only
RHD Detail high set downpipe
RHO Detail hip capping
RID Insert detail drawing
RIS Detail individual sheets (work in progress)
RLD Detail low set downpipe
RLI List a rainwater item
ROS Add onpage summary
ROT Add onpage totals
RRA Calculate roof area
RRO Detail ridge capping only
RRS Draw a roof shape
RSA Detail roof sheeting
RSB Detail roof sheeting
RSC Detail roof sheeting
RSD Detail roof sheeting
RSE Detail roof sheeting
RSET Rainwater goods settings
RSF Detail roof sheeting
RSG Detail roof sheeting
RSH Detail roof sheeting
RSO Detail soaker flashing
RSP Detail a spreader downpipe
RTOL Tolerance setups
RUR Rainwater goods usage report
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RVL Detail verandah linings

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RVO Detail a valley gutter

RVV Detail a valley flashing
STH Convert a square end to a hex end

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SVV View 3D
SW Show/hide old wall layer
SWA Add to ‘Old Wall’ layer
TR Code as a roof line

8.2 Basis of Operation

Quik Roof is an aid to the roof detailing package. It has been designed as a semi-
automated system allowing user intervention making the system capable of detailing
any arrangement of roofing.
Before a roof can be detailed the operator first needs to draw in all appropriate roof
lines. Once this has been done, the roofing and rainwater goods can be detailed.
To draw in the roof lines, we have created many tools to aid this procedure.
Every roof is a rectangle or a collection of rectangles. Throughout this manual these
rectangles will be referred to as roof blocks. Sometimes these roof blocks may
overlap, and sometimes they may have more than four sides, but broadly speaking
they are still collections of blocks. By selecting just three points the operator is able
to define each block of the roof.
The two diagrams below show the roof blocks. The roof on the left contains two
blocks whereas the roof on the right contains three blocks.

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Even the roof below consists of one roof block.

If you are a novice, is would be advisable to identify your roof blocks before you
commence detailing the roof truss layout. The easiest way to do this is with a plain
roof layout and an artline pen. Five minutes spent identifying blocks could save half
an hour on undo and redo on the computer.
When dissecting the roof into blocks, try starting with the smallest block or the wings,
and when they are all done, usually the largest block or blocks are well defined.

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8.3 RSET Main Settings

When ‘RSET’ is first initialized, it scans the current drawing for active settings. If no
active settings are found, then it retrieves settings from the last previously detailed
roof. If still no settings found then it retrieves the last used settings from the system
registry. If no registry settings are found, then the default settings are used.
When exiting via the ‘Update’ button, all settings are saved in the current drawing
and also in the systems registry. If the ‘CANCEL’ button was pressed, then no
settings are changed, and the drawing, plus systems registry remain unchanged.
Most of the entries are self-explanatory, to change a field, press the ‘S’ button to the
right of the field and select the required item from the options dialogue box.
It is recommended that the ‘Select Flashings by Entity Method’ remain ticked as this
means that to detail flashings etc. you only need to select the line and not each end
of it.
The ‘Roof Pitch’ field contains two values, the first or left hand value refers to the
main roof pitch, and the second or right hand value refers to the verandah roof pitch.
The ‘Radius’ field also contains two values, the first or left hand field refers to the
radius on a curved main roof, with the second or right hand field referring to the
curve on a bullnose roof.
The ‘Truss Spacing ‘ field contains two values, the first or left hand value refers to
the main roof truss spacing, and the second or right hand value refers to the
verandah rafter spacing. These fields are used for the calculation of roof batten
screws.
The ‘Roof Construction’ refers to the type of material used for roof framing. It is used
to ensure the correct style of fasteners is used for the roof battens.
Pressing the ‘Default’ button will restore the default settings from the current system
data file. ‘Quik Roof’ data files are kept in the ‘\Tanmari\Framing Module\Library’
folder, and they all have an extension of ‘.da10’.
Pressing the ‘Tolerance’ button brings up the ‘RTOL Tolerance Settings’ dialogue
box. For more information please refer to the appropriate section.

8.4 RTOL Tolerance Settings

These settings set the maximum lengths, tolerances and length increases for all
rainwater goods.
The first part of these settings is connected to the roof sheeting only. The balance of
the settings is to do with the cappings and flashings etc.
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♣ ‘Roofing A’ is the increase in length of standard main roof sheeting

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♣ ‘Roofing B’ is the increase in length of main roof sheeting when going onto a
broken pitch verandah
♣ ‘Roofing C’ is the length increase of verandah roof sheeting
♣ ‘Roofing D’ is the length increase of verandah roof sheeting when it is a
broken pitch verandah

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The remainder of the settings consists of four columns. The first column defines the
maximum length of the item. Items which exceed this length will be cut so as not to
exceed this length.
The second column is the increment in length of materials that are not associated
with a pitch. E.g. If a piece of gutter is detailed at 6000mm, then its length will be
detailed as 6000mm + 300mm, thus giving a length of 6300mm.
The third column is similar to the second; however this increment is the length of
materials that are associated with a pitch. E.g. If a piece of ridge is detailed at
6000mm, then its length will be detailed as 6000mm + 300mm, thus giving a length
of 6300mm.
The forth column is the length increase of material when it has been cut. This is the
amount of material used for the lap. E.g. If a piece of gutter, measuring 10000mm, is
detailed, then its length will be increased by 300mm plus the increase of lapping. As
there is only one lap then only one lap increase will be added. Therefore the finished
length of the material will be 10000mm + 300mm divided by two plus 100mm for the
overlap, thus giving 5250mm.

8.5 Roof Layouts

8.5.1 TR Code as Roof Line

The ‘TR’ command codes lines as support lines. This command serves no purpose
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except in the visual appearance of the drawing. This command changes the line
type to ‘Dot’ type line with a colour of ‘Cyan’ on a layer called ‘Roof_lines’.
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The ‘TR’ command allows the user to select either lines or polylines. However if you
select a polyline, it will be converted to ordinary lines. This command will not work
on heavy weight polylines. If you were to select a heavy weight poly line a warning
would be issued.

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Roof lines may be copied, moved, extended, trimmed, mirrored or stretched using
your standard cad commands. However you cannot use the offset command. Whilst
it may appear to have worked, all intelligence is lost.

8.5.2 RRS Create a Roof Shape

This routine is as quick method of

drawing in a roof outline. In the
dialogue box there are several
pre-drawn roof shapes. Select
the desired shape by clipping on
the appropriate slide, followed by
the ‘OK’ button. Next the
software will prompt the operator
for a length of each leg on the
structure, and finally the operator
is prompted for the eave
overhang width.
If the desired roof shape was not
available, then it will need to be
drawn using standard cad
drawing techniques.
In the real world this command
has proved to be totally useless. However if you need to do some testing or a small
demonstration, this it becomes a very useful command.

8.5.3 RCR Copy a Roof Outline

This command copies the roof lines from one border to another. Sometimes when
detailing a roof, you realize you need an additional roof plan. Rather than redrawing
a roof plan or trying to copy the required pieces of a partly detailed plan, this routine
will do it for you. It filters out and leaves behind the all entities that are not on layer
‘0’ or coded as a roof or support lines.
If this command does copy more than was desires, then use cad’s ‘Erase’ command
to remove what was not wanted.

8.5.4 RCL Create Roof Lines

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This command will create or model a 3D roof of ANY shape or complexity. Its main
purpose is to prove or disprove whether a complex roof works or does not work.
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When the command is first initiated, you are given the option to start selecting points
or ‘Return for Setup’. The ‘Return for Setup’ brings up a settings dialogue box. Here
you can set the roof pitch and the desired ‘RL’ of the roof.

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You need to select three sets of points for each

roof face. The first set of points define the
corner points of the roof face, the number of
points selected will vary with the roof face
shape, there is no limit to the number of point
that can be selected. However the selected
points should be either selected in a clockwise
or anti clockwise sequential order. The second
set of points defines the pitching axis, with the
third set defining the direction of the pitch or
raking direction.
In the example below, points 1, 2 and 3 are used to define the roof face with points 4
and 5 defining the pitching axis or where the ‘RL’ is taken from. Point 6 is created by
the software and point 7 sets the direction of the pitch or raking direction.

Point One

Point Four

Point Six
Point Seven

Point Three

Point Two
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Point Five
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On completion of the 3D roof, you can use the ‘SVV’ command to view the roof in
3D. The ‘SVV’ command is a toggle, stepping through four 3D views and back to the
plan view.

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8.5.5 RAD Auto Detail

This routine will automatically detail all flashings and cappings that were created
using the ‘RCL Create Roof Lines’ command. Items that are codes as a roof line, but
not identified as a particular part will be marked with a red asterisk and will need to
be manually detailed.
To use this command you will need to select the entities to be detailed. Any existing
detailing within the selection will be deleted.

When first initiated the user is given the option to select the entities to ‘Auto Detail’,
or ‘Return’ for a global selection. This global selection should be used with caution,
as it will delete any existing detail. Also if you have a roof plan on two separate
borders, ‘Auto Detail’ will delete existing and detail both roof plans.

8.5.6 RCO Set Colours

This command will embed the colours into the selected items. When this command
is initiated, the user is prompted to select entities or return for a global selection.
Once a successful selection has been made, a dialogue box will appear.
As entity types are found then the corresponding field on the dialogue box will be
enabled.
To select a colour, click on the button to the right of the appropriate field, then select
the required colour.
The colour lists are kept within the data file. So if the desired colour does not appear
on the list, you will need to contact your systems administrator to have it added.
At any point through the job you can set or change the colours. All colours are
embedded within each entity for future reference.

8.5.7 RLI List an Item

This command is used to list or edit an item. Only the quantity, colour and length
fields can be edited.
When selecting items with this command, the user may select the item or the text
associated with it.
If multiple items are selected, only the first item is displayed, and if changes are
made then only the first item will be amended.
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8.5.8 RID Insert Detail

With this command you can insert detail drawings into the current drawing. Detailed
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drawing definitions are stored within the data file and are listed against product
names. This command only shows details that are appropriate to the items found
within the current drawing.

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Currently there is no function to add items to this library, so if the detail is not found
or you wish to add more details, then you will need to contact your systems
administrator to have these items added.
After inserting an item from the list, you should note that this item does not appear
on the list next time. Any blocks found within the current drawing are not shown in
this list.
All items inserted, are inserted on to the current layer. Also the cursor snap mode
has been pre-set to select end points or intersections.

8.6 Purlin Details

8.6.1 JP1 Detail a Purlin

This command is used to detail
simple purlin diagrams. After
initiating the command, a
dialogue box appears. After
filing out the dialogue box as
required and pressing the
‘Build’ button, the user is
prompted for an insertion point.
If the ‘Continue With Punching’
box is ticked, then after drawing
the initial purlin shape, the
‘Purlin Punching’ dialogue box
appears.
This routine only draws a very basic diagram intended for the ordering of purlins. It
is not intended for fabrication drawings.

With this command, there is no option to

add purlins to the list. What is in the list
is hard coded and compiled within the
software.
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8.6.2 JP2 Purlin Holes

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This command adds the punching locations to purlins.

The user has a possible choice of three holes styles and any combination of holes
could be used. Please consult your purlin supplier to ensure they have all
combinations of holes available and that no restrictions apply.

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If ‘Auto Holes’ is ticked, holes will be inserted into the purlin from the start to the
finish at this exact spacing.
If it is not ticked, then the user will be prompted for each punch location.
Either way the software prompts the user for the starting location of the first hole.
If this command is used as a continuation of the ‘JP1’ command, then the user is not
prompted for the purlin otherwise the user is required to select the purlin to add holes
to.

8.7 Downpipes

8.7.1 RLD Low Set Downpipes

This option allows the user to detail low set downpipes. Low set downpipes allows
1.5 lengths of length per downpipe. To use the command, just select a point where
you wish the downpipe to appear.
If desires a user may opt to press return to enter ‘RSET’ rather than picking a point,
upon exit of ‘RSET’ the user will once again be prompted to select a point. A
downpipe will be added to the drawing drawn on a layer called ‘qr_downpipe’.

8.7.2 RHD High Set Downpipes

This option allows the user to detail high set downpipes. High set downpipes allows
2.5 lengths of length per downpipe. To use the command, just select a point where
you wish the downpipe to appear.
If desires a user may opt to press return to enter ‘RSET’ rather than picking a point,
upon exit of ‘RSET’ the user will once again be prompted to select a point. A
downpipe will be added to the drawing drawn on a layer called ‘qr_downpipe’.

8.7.3 RSP Spreader Downpipes

This option allows the user to detail spreader downpipes. Spreader downpipes
allows 0.5 lengths of length per downpipe. To use the command, just select a point
where you wish the downpipe to appear.
If desires a user may opt to press return to enter ‘RSET’ rather than picking a point,
upon exit of ‘RSET’ the user will once again be prompted to select a point. A
downpipe will be added to the drawing drawn on a layer called ‘qr_downpipe’.
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8.8 Roof Sheet Detailing

To detail roof sheet, you need to select three points. The first and the second point
are used to calculate the quantity of roof sheeting; the third point is used for the
length calculation. The drawing below shows the three points selected.
Similar to all other commands, you can access the ‘RSET’ command when this
command is first initiated.

Point 3

35
1 5/45
RS

Point 1 Point 2

Within the roof sheet detailing options, there are eight different types of roof sheeting
which may be detailed. Each type and its hot key are listed below:

♣ RSA Standard main roof sheeting extended into a gutter

♣ RSB Broken main roof sheeting going onto a skillion verandah
♣ RSC Dropped verandah type roof sheeting going into a gutter
♣ RSD Broken pitch verandah sheeting going into a gutter
♣ RSE Dropped verandah bullnose roof sheeting going into a gutter
♣ RSF Broken pitch bullnose verandah sheeting going into a gutter
♣ RSG Curved roof sheeting into gutter at both ends
♣ RSH Curved roof sheeting into gutter at one end only
♣ RCB Details ceiling battens
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RSB
RSA
RSD

RSC

RSB
RSA
RSF

RS E

RSG

RSH

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8.9 Flashing
For the detailing of flashings and cappings, we have provided 12 different
combinations. Select the type required. To detail, you are given the option of detail
by ‘Entity’ or by ‘Points’. By ‘Entity’ means that the length of the item selected will be
takes as the length of the flashing (plus clearances etc).
The ‘Entity’ method allows you to select more than one entity at a time. The ‘Points’
method requires the operator to select the starting point and ending point of each
flashing. When using this method the cursor is automatically set to select end points
or intersections. All flashings are drawn on the layer ‘qr_flashings’.

8.9.1 Flashing Commands

Items marked with the ‘р’ use the pitch component in their length calculations.
♣ RFG – Fascia Gutter This details fascia and gutter simultaneously.
♣ RFBр – Fascia Barge This details fascia and barge simultaneously.
♣ RHOр – Hip Capping This details hip cappings only.
♣ RRO – Ridge Capping This details ridge cappings only.
♣ RVOр – Valley Gutters This details valley gutters only.
♣ RFO – Fascia Only This details fascia only.
♣ RGO – Gutter Only This details gutters only.
♣ RBOр – Barge Only This details barge cappings only.
♣ RDO – Dutch Flashing This details dutch flashings only.
♣ RAOр – Apron Flashing This details apron flashings only.
♣ RSO – Soaker Flashing This details soaker flashings only.

8.9.2 RCG Change Gutter Types

Quite often, you are requested to change the gutter type after completion of all
detailing. Therefore this command has been provided to fulfil that function. To use
this command, select the desired gutter entities then select a new gutter type from
the list.
There is no need to set the colours again as the colour settings are preserved.
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8.10 Soffits

8.10.1 REL Eave Soffit

This command is used to detail soffit linings to the eaves. Similar to all other
commands, you can access the ‘RSET’ command when this command is first
initiated.
To use the command you need to select three points similar to the roof sheet
detailing functions. All detailed soffits are placed on the ‘qr_soffit’ layer.
The ‘Eave Soffit’ does not use any pitch component in its quantity calculations.

8.10.2 RBL Barge Soffit

This command is used to detail barge linings to the eaves. Similar to all other
commands, you can access the ‘RSET’ command when this command is first
initiated.
To use the command you need to select three points similar to the roof sheet
detailing functions. All detailed soffits are placed on the ‘qr_soffit’ layer.
The ‘Barge Soffit’ uses the main roof pitch in its quantity calculations.

8.10.3 RVL Verandah Lining

This command is used to detail verandah linings to the eaves. Similar to all other
commands, you can access the ‘RSET’ command when this command is first
initiated.
To use the command you need to select three points similar to the roof sheet
detailing functions. All detailed soffits are placed on the ‘qr_soffit’ layer.
The ‘Verandah Soffit’ uses the verandah roof pitch in its quantity calculations.

8.11 Reports

8.11.1 ROS Onsheet Summary

The ‘Onsheet Summary’ creates a summary showing the total quantity and the
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length of the materials and their accessories. This summary is inserted onto the
drawing sheet only.
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The command gives the user the opportunity to make a selection of items or just do
a global selection. A secondary prompt also given the user the opportunity to align
the report box either ‘Left’ aligned or ‘Right’ aligned.

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When selecting a point for the report, the user is given the option to set some report
options. These should be set on an individual needs basis.
This summary is a relative low tech report, as it does not update automatically. If
you wish to update it, then first you will need to use the cad ‘Erase’ command to
remove it.

8.11.2 ROT Onsheet Totals

The ‘Onsheet Totals’ creates a summary showing the total quantity for each item
found along with its accessories. This summary is inserted onto the drawing sheet
only.
The command gives the user the opportunity to make a selection of items, or just do
a global selection. A secondary prompt also given the user the opportunity to align
the report box either ‘Left’ aligned or ‘Right’ aligned.
When selecting a point for the report, the user is given the option set some report
options, these should be set on an individual needs basis.
This summary is a relative low tech report, as it does not update automatically. If
you wish to update it, then first you will need to use the cad ‘Erase’ command to
remove it.

8.11.3 RUR Materials Report

The ‘Material Usage Report’ operates from the detailed wall panels. It creates a
detailed list of components.
At the top of the report is a menu containing various options. Under the export item
you can export the report to a text file or a CSV type file. The ‘CSV’ format can be
very useful as it will open up in ‘Excel’. You can also print the report.

8.11.4 RCNC CNC Output

This command works from the items detailed. It generates the required files needed
to drive the roll formers. Most routines give the user the option to select the desired
items or return for a global selection.
Upon completion of this routine, the ‘CNC File’ is deposited in the
‘C:\Users\username\Documents\CNC’ folder.
Each system basically has a different routine, but the software is indigent in this
respect, so it uses the correct routine for each system. As each system is different,
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the file extension can vary from system to system, so to find out your file extension,
please contact your systems administrator.
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9 Miscellaneous
9.1 Software Folder Structure
The FRAMECAD ProDesign Software is contained within one folder on your hard
drive.
At installation, by default the software is installed into ‘C:\Program Files
(x86)\FRAMECAD\Tanmari’.
Below is a brief outline of the folder structure:

Main Folder Sub Folder Nested Folders

Tanmari\Framing Module Blocks Qfloor
Qframe
Qroof
Qtruss

Data
Exe
Library
Manual
Menu
Training

9.2 Backing Up and Archiving

It is recommended that you backup your data files regularly. We recommend you do
the data files weekly and your drawing work daily.
We recommend that you use WinZip to archive these files to a removable type
storage disk. The only folder that you need to backup for data files is the
‘\Tanmari\Framing Module\Library’ folder.
Your drawing files are located in a directory of your own choice.
We also recommend that you leave your auto save set to do auto saves at 10 minute
intervals. The auto save options can be accessed via the drop down menu ‘TOOLS’
>> ‘OPTIONS’.
To restore an auto save drawing, you will need to go to the location of your operating
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systems temporary files, find the file of the appropriate name and change its
extension from ‘.$SV’ to ‘.dwg’.
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9.3 PWD - Password

If you are wondering what your
reference number is, or when your
software is due to expire then use
this command. In the command
prompt area type ‘PWD’ followed
by the enter key and a dialogue
box will appear showing all
relevant details.
It should be noted this is also the
same dialogue box that was used
to input your ‘Authorization Code’.
Each computer has a unique ‘Reference Number’. The number is made up from the
hard disk and motherboard serial number. So therefore if you need to apply for an
‘Authorization Code’, then you will need to obtain the ‘Reference Number’ from each
individual computer.

9.4 Upgrading Software

♣ Close FRAMECAD ProDesign
♣ Go to website location [Link]
♣ Download latest upgrade and save to a location on your hard disk
♣ After download is complete, run the upgrade file that was just downloaded
♣ Operation complete. Start FRAMECAD ProDesign, and press the F2 key. The
new version number should now be visible.

9.5 Upgrading Data Files

♣ These files are normally received by email in the WinZip format
♣ Close FRAMECAD ProDesign
♣ Open the reviewed zip file with WinZip
♣ Extract to the ‘\Tanmari\Framing Module\Library’ folder
♣ Operation complete. You may now re-start FRAMECAD ProDesign as data
files are upgraded.

9.6 Creating a Custom Border

♣ By default FRAMECAD ProDesign border setup routines use a border called
‘FRAMECAD’. However, customers have the facility to create a customized
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border to reflect their company’s image.

♣ There is a blank border located in the ‘C:\Program Files\Tanmari\Framing
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Module\Blocks’ folder called ‘blank [Link]’. To create a custom border,

open this drawing in IntelliCAD and use the ‘Save As’ command to rename the
drawing to the desired name.

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♣ In the blank border, a space has been left where you may insert your company
logo or any required text. You may alter or rearrange any text within the blank
border as you see fit. Lines may be copied, moved or erased as required.
♣ Please do not delete any of the attributes. These attributes are vital to the
borders operation. Existing attributes may be moved or rearranged as
required. If desired attributes visibility may be changed from visible to
invisible.
♣ When inserting company logo’s make sure they are in dwg format. Inserting
bitmaps seldom works and is generally a waste of time. Also watch the size of
the logo used. There is no point creating a custom border if the border winds
up several megabytes in size. Whilst the border may look pretty the speed
penalty taken will certainly overrule the border size.
♣ Once you have created your custom border you must go to BSET and change
the border name to the same as which you have called your filename.

9.7 PRIA Print Layouts

This section only applies to those using IntelliCAD Version 5 onwards. This routine
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will print the entire layout drawing views or detailed drawing views to the current
printer.
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Drawings are actually printed to a scale that fits the selected paper size. Therefore,
on this basis it is actually the paper size that determines the scale.

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For the purposes of architectural or

detailing work this is usually
adequate. However if you do need to
print to a precise scale, you will need
to use the IntelliCAD print command.
When the command is first initiated a
dialogue box appears. Here you can
manipulate printing in almost any way
you wish.
♣ ‘Printer Name’. By pressing the
‘S’ button to the left of this field, you
can select the printer that you wish to
print with.
♣ ‘Number of Copies’. This field lets you set any number of copies you desire.
When the drawings are printed, they are collated into groups.
♣ ‘Print Layouts’. If this field is ticked, then all alpha views, views named a, b, c
etc, will be printed. Under normal circumstances this is used to print layout
drawings. When printing, the software advanced from view a to view b to view
c etc, and stops printing when no more sequenced views are found.
♣ ‘Print Details’. If this field is ticked, then all numeric views, views named 1, 2,
3 etc, will be printed. Under normal circumstances this is used to print the
panel detail drawings. When printing, the software advanced from view 1 to
view 2 to view 3 etc, and stops printing when no more sequenced views are
found.
♣ ‘Select’. After pressing this button, the user is prompted to select the borders
that will be printed. Only borders selected will be printed. This function works
with both layout and detailed drawings. Before using this command, make
sure your printer has been selected, as you will have no further option to
change it after selecting the borders. If you do wish to cancel printing, try
pressing the ‘ESC’ button on the keyboard. You may need to press this button
repeatedly.
♣ ‘GO’. By pressing this button, all views of the selected type will be spool
printed. Before using this command, make sure your printer has been
selected, as you will have no further option to change it. If you do wish to
cancel printing, try pressing the ‘ESC’ button on the keyboard. You may need
to press this button repeatedly.

Print Manager
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This section only applies to those using IntelliCAD Version 5 onwards. For more
information on this item, please refer to the IntelliCAD help files.
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9.8 ResetMenu
Sometimes, for reasons unknown, the top dropdown menus need to be reset from
time to time. That is the purpose of this function. In the command prompt area type
‘Resetmenu’ followed by the enter key and the menus will be reset.
So if you notice that your menu bar is incomplete, or dropdown items are incomplete,
then try this ‘Resetmenu’ command. One should also note that each time an
upgrade is installed; the software will automatically reload the menu for you.

9.9 Resetting the Paths

- On the top menus select ‘Tools’
- On the top menus select ‘Options’
- On the ‘Options’ dialogue box select the ‘Paths/Files’ tab on the top.
- In the drawings field the path should read: ‘C:\Users\Username\Documents;
C:\Program Files\Tanmari\IntelliCAD 6.6\;’
- In the menu field the path should read ‘C:\Program Files
(x86)\Tanmari\IntelliCAD 6.6’
- Press ‘OK’ to close the dialogue box and save settings.
- With these two paths set, FRAMECAD ProDesign should now load correctly.

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10 Command Summary
Below is a summary of the FRAMECAD ProDesign hot keys. There is no need to memorize
these keys as with repeated use that will come naturally. If you look at any of the drop down
menus at the top or the CAD screen you will notice that these hot keys are also listed beside
the command description.

10.1 Commands in Alphabetical Order

Command Description
ACNC Additional CNC Options
AD Aluminium Sliding Door
AR Square arch
AW Aluminium Windows
BSET Setup borders
BT Builds a single truss
C Copy
CA Calculator
CI Circle
CL Current layer
CRL Roof line wizard
CS Single cavity slider
CSD Double cavity slider
CT Codes lines as trusses
CTXT Replace text
D Dynamic test
DA Dimensions aligned
DD Attribute edit
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DE Text Edit
DH Dimensions horizontally
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DHH Dimensions walls only horizontally

DI Distance
DJH Dimensions joists only horizontally

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DJV Dimensions joists only vertically

DL Dimensions lengths only
DO Dimensions ordinate style
DT Main truss layout engine
DTH Dimensions trusses only horizontally
DTV Dimensions trusses only vertically
DV Dimensions vertically
DVV Dimensions walls only vertically
E Erase
EA Erase a Layer
EBR Brick Fit Ext. Corner
ED Single door
EL Explode
EP Cursor to end point
ETG Erased truss layouts
EX Extend
F Fillet
F1 Help
F2 Prompt history
F3 End snap
F4 Tablet
F5 Isoplane
F6 Coordinate
F7 Grid
F8 Orthogonal
F9 Snap
FL Freeze a Layer
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FO Frame offset
FS Single FOW (Face of Wall Sliding)
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FSD Double FOW (Face of Wall Sliding)

FTXT find text
I Insert

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IBM Insert bubble mark

IBR Brick Fit Int. Door
ICD check dimensions
IIM Insert item mark
IL Isolate layer
ILT Insert leader text
IP Inherit properties
J Join Line
J3D Make Floor 3D
JAD Add Drawing Detail
JAM Add a Member
JAP Add Part Details
JAS Add Sectional Properties
JBP Create Bracket Plan
JCNC Create Joist CNC File
JD Joist detail
JDF Floor Sheeting
JEG Erase guides
JEX expand shrink members
JFJ Find Joist
JIC Integrity check
JID Insert Connection Detail
JIM Insert a Member
JIS Insert Service Line
JJC Joist Single Cut
JJD Auto floor detailer
JJM Joist multiple cut
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JLA Joist label

JLI Lists joist properties
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JLR Layout report

JOB On page bracket summary
JOF On page sheet summary

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JOS On page joist summary

JP1 Detail purlin
JP2 Add holes
JSET Floor setup
JSS show start
JSV Create Section
JSW show web side
JTO Joist take off
JUR Creates a joist materials usage report
L Line
LI List
M Move
MBUTTONPAN Middle mouse button set to pan
MI Mirror
ML Move last item
MP Match properties
NR Nibbed Robe Opening
NTD Details all trusses
O Offset
P Polyline
P3D Panel 3D
PAR Panel engineering report
PBI Insert bath rail
PBS Update Stud Positions (without engineering)
PC Panel cut
PCNC Create Panel CNC File
PCW Panel calculate wind
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PD Single door
PDC Detail ceiling panels
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PDD Double door

PDP Detail posts
PE Panel Extend

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PEG Erase guides

PF Panel filet
PFF Find A Panel
PHH Calc Head Location
PIB Insert brace
PIC Check integrity
PID Insert Detail
PJ Panel join
PL Panel Lengthen
PLA Panel Label
PLI List A Member
PM Panel mitre
PMI Mirror panel layout
PO Polygon
POB Beam summary
POD On page design summary
POO Opening summary
POP Post summary
POS On page summary
PPD Panel Detailer
PR1 Single Robe Door
PR2 Double Robe Door
PR3 Triple Robe Door
PRA Rake to angle
PRH Rake to height
PRP Rake to plane
PS Panel square
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PS2 Double Sliding Door

PS3 Triple Sliding Door
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PS4 Four Sliding Door

PSA Stud array
PSC Copy Array Studs

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PSN Special nog

PST Panel stacking
PT Panel Trim
PTF Panel Trace frame
PU cleans out library to make file smaller
PUJ Panel unlock
PVC Visual Controls
PX Panels Crossing
QGL Grid lines
QS Quick Save
QSET Frame settings
QST Quick Steel
QT Quick text insertions
R Redraw the screen
R3D Model 3D Roof
RAD Auto Roof Detail
RAO Apron flashing
RBL Barge soffits
RBO Barge only
RCB Ceiling Battens
RCG Change gutter type
RCL Create Roof Lines
RCNC CNC
RCO Set Colours
RCR Copy a Roof Outline
RDO Dutch flashing
RE Reset cursor snap type
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REF Reference Point

REL Eave soffits
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REV Revision marking and updating feature

RFB Fascia barge
RFG Fascia gutter

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RFO Fascia only

RGO Gutter only
RHD High Set Downpipe
RHO Hip capping
RID Insert detail
RLD Low Set Downpipe
RLI List an Item
RO Rotate
ROS On sheet summary
ROT On sheet totals
RRA Get Roof Area
RRO Ridge capping
RRS Create Roof Shapes
RSA Standard Main Sheeting
RSB Broken Pitch Main Sheeting
RSC Standard Verandah Sheeting
RSD Broken Pitch Verandah Sheeting
RSE Standard Bullnose
RSET Qroof Setup
RSF Broken Pitch Bullnose
RSG Double End Curved
RSH Single End Curved
RSO Soaker flashing
RSP Spreader Pipes
RUR Materials Report
RVL Verandah linings
RVO Valley capping
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S Scale
SE Select layer
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SL Show Layers
SM Section mark
SN Set snap angle to 45

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SNAPANG Set snap angle to specified angle

ST Stretch
STD Details selected trusses
STH Converts a square end to a hex end
STL Split a truss layout
SW Turn ON / OFF working layer
SWA Add to working layer
T Trim
T3D Create 3D view
TA Thaw All Layers
TAD Add / edit detail drawing
TAL Analysis with report
TAN Analysis without report
TAP Adds packers
TAR Analysis with report
TAS Adds support points
TAW Adds webs
TBB Bottom Chord Brace
TBM Fully boxes a member
TBP Partially boxes a member
TBR Breaks a truss
TBT Builds a single truss
TCB Construction Brace
TCE Rebuilds eaves
TCNC Create Truss CNC File
TCT Codes lines as trusses
TCW Calculate wind
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TD Timber Sliding Door

TDT Main truss layout engine
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TES Truss engineering status

TEW Eases selected webs
TFT Find a truss on a layout

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TH Code as a hanging beam

TIC Truss integrity check

TID Truss insert detail
TJD Inserts joint details
TL Label roof trusses
TLA Label roof trusses
TLI Lists a truss
TLJ List a truss joint
TLR Truss Layout Report
TMH Re-calculates chord to chord connection holes
TMI Mirrors selected webs
TMW Mirror Webs
TOA On page accessories list
TOD On page design summary
TON On Sheet Hip Locations
TOR Truss Optimization Summary
TOS On page truss summary
TOV On page verandah rafter summary
TPL Adds point loads
TR Code as roof line
TRB Add roof bracing to layout
TRL Amend truss RL (3D height)
TS Code as support line
TSC Splices a truss chord
TSET Main truss settings
TSF Shows truss failures
TTC Cuts a single truss
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TTM Cuts multiple trusses

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TTO Main truss take-off

TUA Updates a multiple cutting list
TUP Truss uplift plan

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TUR Creates a truss materials usage report

TUS Updates a single cutting list
TVC Truss visual controls

TVS Splits a truss Horizontal

TW Timber Window
TWH Re-calculates chord to web connection holes
TWR Add Web Restraint
TXL Creates a truss materials usage export to Excel
UD User Defined Door
ULE Run of Engaged Piers
ULI Run of Isolated Piers
URU Rough in Under floor
USE Single Engaged Pier
USI Single Isolated Pier
USP Single Support Post
UW User Defined Windows
V Restore a view
VM Make a view
VR Return to view 1
VV Advance through views
X Zoom previous
XD List extended data
Z Zoom
ZE Zoom Extents
ZOOMFACTOR Changes the mouse scroll speed
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11 Some Common Problems

11.1 Software Fails to Load
FRAMECAD ProDesign Software modules are loaded via the FRAMECAD ProDesign
shortcut file which is located in the \Tanmari folder. This file loads the ‘[Link]’ file which in
turn loads the rest of the FRAMECAD ProDesign modules. Should this file ever be
overwritten with another ‘[Link]’ file then the FRAMECAD ProDesign Software package
will fail to load. If it appears that the software has failed to load, the easiest way to check is
to press the ‘F2’ key immediately after FRAMECAD ProDesign has been started. Your
screen should look something like the text below. If it does not, then you can be relatively
sure that the ‘[Link]’ file is not the FRAMECAD ProDesign version, or is corrupted or is
missing altogether. But if you screen does look similar to the screen below, then the software
has loaded and the ‘[Link]’ file is not your problem.

FRAMECAD Pro Licence Expires on 30-09-2010...

FRAMECAD Pro Software Version 11.591...

FRAMECAD Pro Roofing Module Loaded...

FRAMECAD Pro Truss Module Loaded...

FRAMECAD Pro Tools Module Loaded...

FRAMECAD Pro Floor Module Loaded...

FRAMECAD Pro Wall Module Loaded...FRAMECAD ProDesign Software Tools Module Loaded...

11.2 Some Commands Do Not Work

Most of the FRAMECAD ProDesign command are two or three letter commands, and most
of the standard IntelliCAD alias commands are also two or three letter commands, however
some of the FRAMECAD ProDesign commands clash with some of the more obscure
IntelliCAD commands. For this reason when the software was loaded, the FRAMECAD
ProDesign alias commands were loaded.
To check if the alias commands are correct, type ‘TR’. If the trim command is activated
instead of the ‘Code as Roof Line’ command, then the Alias commands need to be reset. To
reset the Alias commands please refer to ‘Procedure One’ outlined below.
This problem can occur for several different reasons; one cause would be logging on using a
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different name, loading an IntelliCAD only upgrade, or accidentally resetting the alias
command. At installation time this problem occurs if you do not have administrator access.
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11.3 The Menu is Missing

FRAMECAD ProDesign Software uses a menu with many more options than the standard
IntelliCAD menu. This menu is supplied with and installed with the software. It is also
included within most of the FRAMECAD ProDesign upgrades.
From time to time the menu seems to get screwed up for any of several different reasons.
To resolve this problem, a special command has been provided called ‘RESETMENU’. To
use the command, start IntelliCAD and type ‘RESETMENU’.
Should the ‘RESETMENU’ command fail to work please refer to ‘Procedure Three’ outlined
below.

11.4 Correction Procedures

11.4.1 Procedure 1 – Resetting the Alias Commands

♣ Start IntelliCAD
♣ On the top menus select ‘Tools’ => ‘Customize’
♣ On the ‘Customize’ dialogue box select the ‘Aliases’ tab on the top
♣ Next press the ‘Import’ button
♣ In the ‘File Name’ box type ‘C:\Program Files\Tanmari\Framing
Module\Menu\[Link]’
♣ Make sure the ‘Append to existing’ is not ticked
♣ Press ‘Open’ to close the alias box
♣ Press ‘Close’ to close the customise box

11.4.2 Procedure 2 – Resetting the Paths

♣ Start IntelliCAD
♣ On the top menus select ‘Tools’ => ‘Options’
♣ On the ‘Options’ dialogue box select the ‘Paths/Files’ tab on the top.
♣ In the drawings field the path should read ‘C:\Users\Username\Documents;
C:\Program Files\Tanmari\IntelliCAD 6.6\’
♣ In the menu field the path should read ‘C:\Program Files\Tanmari\IntelliCAD 6.6’
Press ‘OK’ to close the dialogue box and save settings.
♣ With these two paths set, FRAMECAD ProDesign should now load correctly

11.4.3 Procedure 3 – Resetting the Menu

♣ Start IntelliCAD
♣ On the top menus select ‘Tools’ => ‘Customize’
♣ On the ‘Customize’ dialogue box select the ‘Menus’ tab on the top
♣ Next press the ‘Import’ button
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♣ Make sure the ‘Append to current menu’ is not ticked

♣ In the ‘File Name’ box type ‘C:\Tanmari\Framing Module\Menu\[Link]’ or change
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the file type dropdown to ‘IntelliCAD Menu File (icm)’ and navigate to the above
location.
♣ Press ‘Open’ to close the menu box
♣ Press ‘Close’ to close the customise box

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12 Engineering Statements
12.1 Wall Panel Engineering
Engineered items are designed when ‘PAR’, ‘PCW’ and ‘PPD’ commands are initiated on the
wall panel layouts, or when the user uses the ‘Update Engineering’ feature. The software
finds the imposed loads from the roof truss and floor framing layouts and converts these
loads to uniformly distributed loads. The horizontal wind loads are also calculated according
to the usage of the wall panels, external walls use external wind coefficients and internal
walls use internal wind coefficients. Through these calculations and checks the top plates,
window heads, wind bracing, stud density and stud spacing’s are determined.

12.1.1 Common Notations

G = Gravity load
Q1 = Roof or floor live load (maximum)
Q2 = Roof live load
Q3 = Floor live load
Q4 = Roof plus floor live load
P1 = 1.1kN point load
P2 = 0.7kN impact load per metre of wall
Wu = Wind upward force = Kp quCpu
Wd = Wind downward force = Kp quCpd
Wh = Wind horizontal force = Kp quCph
Cpu = Nett pressure coefficient
Cpd = Nett pressure coefficient
Cph = Nett pressure coefficient
Kp = Action combination factor
qu = Reference pressure
Vs = Design wind speed (minimum 25m/s)
S = Snow load vertically
L = Length of stud being designed
ks = Load redistribution factor
s = Maximum spacing between noggins
n = Number of noggins
∆ = Deflection

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12.1.2 Design Wind Loads

The wind speed expressed is the basic design wind speed expressed in metres per second
for metric users and miles per hour for imperial users. From this wind speed, the free stream
gust wind pressures are derived unless specified otherwise. If the wind speed has a trailing
‘C’ then cyclonic conditions are assumed.

12.1.3 Design Snow Loads

The snow load is the basic design pressure to be applied to the roof surface (not the site
ground snow – the software user must factor the ground snow load as specified by the
applicable loadings standard to determine the roof snow load).

12.1.4 Stud Design

The ‘Y’ direction lengths of the studs are calculated to be the maximum spacing between the
noggins and the ‘X’ direction length is the overall length of the stud between the top and
bottom plates. Where a restraint height has been set in ‘PLI’, the height in the ‘X’ direction is
assumed to be this value.

Design checks are carried to the following design standards for the listed load combinations.
Stud capacities are calculated to the design standards using effective section properties
calculated using the AISI-AS/NZS4600 method. For EN 1993-1-3:2006, material factors are
then modified to produce results consistent with EN 1993-1-3:2006

For LC8 the point load is applied at the mid height of the stud and is considered to be
distributed over a panel length of 1m.

For serviceability limits For LC7 ∆ ≤ L / 240mm or 20mm

For LC8 ∆ ≤ L / 200mm or 12mm

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[Link] For AS/NZS 4600:2005

qu = ultimate wind pressure = 0.0006(Vu)2

P = Design Wind Pressure = Kp Cp q
where,
Kp = Action combination factor: = 0.9 Wh only
= 0.8 Wh & Wd only

Wh Wind load horizontal:

Non-cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.00
Non-cyclonic Internal Wall Ch = 0.50
Cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.35
Cyclonic Internal Wall Ch = 0.85
Wu Wind load upwards:
Non-cyclonic Cp = 0.90
external pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ce + = 0.20
Wd Wind load downwards:
external pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ce + = 0.30
external pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ce + = 0.65
Load Combinations LC1 1.2G + 1.5Q2+ 0.4Q3 Strength check
LC2 1.2G + 1.5Q3 Strength check
LC3 1.2G + 0.4Q3 + 1.0S Strength check
LC4 1.2G + 1.5P1 Strength check
LC5 1.2G + 0.4Q3 + Wd + Wh Strength check
LC6 0.9G + Wu + Wh Strength check
LC7 0.44Wh Serviceability check
LC8 P2 Serviceability check

Effective length k factor of 0.8 for studs in ‘X’ direction.

Effective length k factor of 0.8 for studs in ‘Y’ direction.
Moment Shape Factor (Cb) of 1.00

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[Link] For SASFA:2007

qu = ultimate wind pressure = 0.0006(1.4vb)2

NOTE: User must input the site basic wind speed (peak mean) – vb.

P = Design Wind Pressure = Kp Cp q

where,
Kp = Action combination factor: = 1.0

Wh Wind load horizontal:

Non-cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.00
Non-cyclonic Internal Wall Ch = 0.50
Cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.35
Cyclonic External Wall Ch = 0.85

Load Combinations LC1 1.2G + 1.6Q2 + 1.0Q3 Strength check

LC2 1.2G + 1.0Q2 (or S)+ 1.6Q3 Strength check
LC3 1.2G + 1.0Q3 + 1.6S Strength check
LC4 1.2G + 1.6P3 Strength check
LC5 1.2G + 1.3Wd + 1.3Wh Strength check
LC6 0.9G + 1.3Wu + 1.3Wh Strength check
LC7 0.6Wh Serviceability check
LC8 P2 Serviceability check

Effective length k factor of 0.8 for studs in ‘X’ direction.

Effective length k factor of 0.8 for studs in ‘Y’ direction.
Moment Shape Factor (Cb) of 1.00

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[Link] For AISI S100-2007 LRFD

qu = ultimate wind pressure =0.85 x 0.000613(Vu)2

P = Design Wind Pressure = Kp Cp q
where,
Kp = Action combination factor: = 1.0

Wh Wind load horizontal:

Non-cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.20
Non-cyclonic Internal Wall Ch = 0.40
Cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.55
Cyclonic External Wall Ch = 0.75

Load Combinations LC1 1.2G + 1.6Q2 + 1.0Q3 Strength check

LC2 1.2G + 0.5Q2 (or S)+ 1.6 Q3 Strength check
LC3 1.2G + 1.0Q3 + 1.6S Strength check
LC4 1.2G + 1.6P1 Strength check
LC5 1.2G + 0.5Q4 (or S) + 1.6Wh Strength check
LC6 0.9G + 1.6Wu + 1.6Wh Strength check
LC7 0.7Wh Serviceability check
LC8 P2 Serviceability check

Effective length k factor of 1.0 for studs in ‘X’ direction.

Effective length k factor of 1.0 for studs in ‘Y’ direction.
Moment Shape Factor (Cb) of 1.25

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[Link] For AISI S100-2007 ASD

qu = ultimate wind pressure =0.85x0.000613(Vu)2

where,
Kp = Action combination factor: = 1.0

Wh Wind load horizontal:

Non-cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.20
Non-cyclonic Internal Wall Ch = 0.40
Cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.55
Cyclonic External Wall Ch = 0.75

Load Combinations LC1 1.0G + 1.0Q1 Strength check

LC2 1.0G + 0.75Q2 (or S)+0.75Q3 Strength check
LC3 1.0G + 1.0S Strength check
LC4 1.0G + 1.0P1 Strength check
LC5 1.0G +0.75Q4 (or S)+0.75Wh Strength check
LC6 1.0G + 1.0Wh Strength check
LC7 0.7Wh Serviceability check
LC8 P2 Serviceability check

Effective length k factor of 1.0 for studs in ‘X’ direction.

Effective length k factor of 1.0 for studs in ‘Y’ direction.
Moment Shape Factor (Cb) of 1.25

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[Link] For CSA S136-2007

qu = ultimate wind pressure = 0.0006(Vu)2

P = Design Wind Pressure = Kp Cp q
where,
Kp = Action combination factor: = 1.0
Cp = Net pressure coefficent
Wh Wind load horizontal:
Non-cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.00
Non-cyclonic Internal Wall Ch = 0.50
Cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.35
Cyclonic External Wall Ch = 0.85

Load Combinations LC1 1.25G + 1.5Q2 + 0.5Q3 Strength check

LC2 1.25G + 1.5Q3 + 0.5S Strength check
LC3 1.25G + 0.5Q3 + 1.5S Strength check
LC4 1.25G + 1.5P1 Strength check
LC5 1.25G + 0.5Q3+0.5S+1.4Wh Strength check
LC6 1.0G + 1.4Wu + 1.4Wh Strength check
LC7 0.6Wh Serviceability check
LC8 P2 Serviceability check

Effective length k factor of 1.0 for studs in ‘X’ direction.

Effective length k factor of 1.0 for studs in ‘Y’ direction.
Moment Shape Factor (Cb) of 1.25

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[Link] For BS5950-5:1998

NOTE: BS5950-5:1998 has been superseded by EN 1993-1-3:2006
We recommend that BS5950-5:1998 should not be used.

qu = ultimate wind pressure = 0.000613(Vu)2

P = Design Wind Pressure = Kp Cp q
where,
Kp = Action combination factor: = 1.0
Cp = Net pressure coefficent
Wh Wind load horizontal:
Non-cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.00
Non-cyclonic Internal Wall Ch = 0.50
Cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.35
Cyclonic External Wall Ch = 0.85

Load Combinations LC1 1.4G + 1.6Q2 + 1.0Q3 Strength check

LC2 1.4G + 1.6Q3 + 1.0S Strength check
LC3 1.4G + 1.0Q3 + 1.6S Strength check
LC4 1.4G + 1.6P1 Strength check
LC5 1.2G + 1.2Q4+ 1.2Wh Strength check
LC6 G + 1.4Wu + 1.4Wh Strength check
LC7 0.6Wh Serviceability check
LC8 P3 Serviceability check

Effective length k factor of 1.0 for studs in ‘X’ direction.

Effective length k factor of 1.0 for studs in ‘Y’ direction.
Moment Shape Factor (Cb) of 1.25

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[Link] For EN 1990:2002

qu = ultimate wind pressure = 1.7x 0.000613(vb)2

User must input the site peak mean wind speed, vb (EN 1991-1-4)
NOTE: Calculations consider a ce(z) factor of 1.7
For other ce(z) values use, input vb = vbo x √[ce(z)/1.7]
Where the local standard specifies peak gust wind speed, input:
vb = Vu / √(1.7)
P = Design Wind Pressure = Kp Cp q
where,
Kp = Action combination factor: = 1.0
Cp = Net pressure coefficent
Wh Wind load horizontal:
Non-cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.10
Non-cyclonic Internal Wall Ch = 0.50
Cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.10
Cyclonic External Wall Ch = 0.50

Load Combinations LC1 1.35G + 1.5Q2 + 1.05Q3 Strength check

LC2 1.35G + 1.5Q3 + 0.75S Strength check
LC3 1.35G + 1.05Q3 + 1.5S Strength check
LC4 1.35G + 1.5P3 Strength check
LC5 1.35G+1.05Q3+1.5*Wh+0.75S Strength check
LC6 1.0G + 1.5*Wu + 1.5*Wh Strength check
LC7 0.65Wh Serviceability check
LC8 P2 Serviceability check
* 1.75 Factor when ‘C’ (cyclone) wind specified.

Effective length k factor of 1.0 for studs in ‘X’ direction.

Effective length k factor of 1.0 for studs in ‘Y’ direction.
Moment Shape Factor (Cb) of 1.25

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[Link] For EN 1993-1-3:2006

qu = ultimate wind pressure = 0.000613(Vu)2

NOTE: User must input the site peak gust wind speed - Vu.
For use with EN 1991-1-4: Vu = vb x √[ce(z)]
P = Design Wind Pressure = Kp Cp q
where,
Kp = Action combination factor: = 1.0
Cp = Net pressure coefficent
Wh Wind load horizontal:
Non-cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.10
Non-cyclonic Internal Wall Ch = 0.50
Cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.10
Cyclonic External Wall Ch = 0.50

Load Combinations LC1 1.35G + 1.5Q2 + 1.05Q3 Strength check

LC2 1.35G + 1.5Q3 + 0.75S Strength check
LC3 1.35G + 1.05Q3 + 1.5S Strength check
LC4 1.35G + 1.5P3 Strength check
LC5 1.35G+1.05Q3+1.5*Wh+0.75S Strength check
LC6 1.0G + 1.5*Wu + 1.5*Wh Strength check
LC7 0.65Wh Serviceability check
LC8 P2 Serviceability check
* 1.75 Factor when ‘C’ (cyclone) wind specified.

Effective length k factor of 1.0 for studs in ‘X’ direction.

Effective length k factor of 1.0 for studs in ‘Y’ direction.
Moment Shape Factor (Cb) of 1.25

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[Link] For GB 5009-2001

qu = ultimate wind pressure = 0.0006(Vu)2

NOTE: User must input the site peak gust wind speed - Vu.
For use with GB 50009-2001: Vu = √ [1/.0006 x βz x µz x ωk]
P = Design Wind Pressure = Kp Cp q
where,
Kp = Action combination factor: = 1.0
Cp = Net pressure coefficent

Wh Wind load horizontal:

Non-cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.00
Non-cyclonic Internal Wall Ch = 0.50
Cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.35
Cyclonic External Wall Ch = 0.85
Load Combinations LC1 1.2G + 1.4Q4 Strength check
LC2 1.2G + 1.4Q3 + 1.0S Strength check
LC3 1.2G + 1.0Q3 + 1.4S Strength check
LC4 1.2G + 1.4P1 Strength check
LC53 1.2G +0.85Q3 +1.4Wh +1.0S Strength check
LC63 1.0G + 1.4Wu + 1.4Wh Strength check
LC7 0.6Wh Serviceability check
LC8 P2 Serviceability check

Effective length k factor of 0.8 for studs in ‘X’ direction.

Effective length k factor of 0.8 for studs in ‘Y’ direction.
Moment Shape Factor (Cb) of 1.00

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[Link] For SNiP 2.01.07-85:2011

qu = ultimate wind pressure = 1.7 x 0.00043(vo)2

NOTE: User must input the site speed (peak mean) - vo.
For use with SNiP 2.01.07-85:2011: vo = √ [wo/0.43]
P = Design Wind Pressure = Kp Cp q
where,
Kp = Action combination factor: = 1.0
Cp = Net pressure coefficent

Wh Wind load horizontal:

Non-cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.00
Non-cyclonic Internal Wall Ch = 0.50
Cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.35
Cyclonic External Wall Ch = 0.85
Load Combinations LC1 1.1G + 1.2Q4 Strength check
LC2 1.1G + 1.2Q3 + 1.25S Strength check
LC3 1.1G + 1.1Q3 + 1.4S Strength check
LC4 1.1G + 1.2P1 Strength check
LC53 1.1G+ 0.85Q3+1.4Wh +1.25S Strength check
LC63 0.9G+ 1.40Wu+1.4Wh Strength check
LC7 0.6Wh Serviceability check
LC8 P2 Serviceability check

Effective length k factor of 1.0 for studs in ‘X’ direction.

Effective length k factor of 1.0 for studs in ‘Y’ direction.
Moment Shape Factor (Cb) of 1.25

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[Link] For ABNT NBR14762:2009

qu = ultimate wind pressure = 0.000613(Vu)2

P = Design Wind Pressure = Kp Cp qwhere,

Kp = Action combination factor: = 1.0
Cp = Net pressure coefficent

Wh Wind load horizontal:

Non-cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.00
Non-cyclonic Internal Wall Ch = 0.50
Cyclonic External Wall Ch = 1.35
Cyclonic External Wall Ch = 0.85
Load Combinations LC1 1.25G + 1.5Q4 Strength check
LC2 1.25G + 1.5Q3 + 1.0S Strength check
LC3 1.25G + 0.75Q3 + 1.4S Strength check
LC4 1.25G + 1.4P1 Strength check
LC53 1.25G +0.75Q3 +1.4Wh +1.0S Strength check
LC63 1.0G + 1.4Wu + 1.4Wh Strength check
LC7 0.6Wh Serviceability check
LC8 P2 Serviceability check

Effective length k factor of 0.8 for studs in ‘X’ direction.

Effective length k factor of 0.8 for studs in ‘Y’ direction.
Moment Shape Factor (Cb) of 1.00

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12.1.5 PAR Load Report

The ‘PAR’ command generates a load report. This report shows the calculated load at the
top and bottom plate of each wall panel. All these loads are not factored. This report also
shows the upward and downward reaction for each wall panel. The reactions are factored.
The reactions are factored from the load combinations listed below. The downward reaction
is the maximum value for all load combinations evaluated.

For AS/NZS 4600:2005

Load Combinations LC1 1.2G + 1.5Q2+ 0.4Q3 Downwards

LC2 1.2G + 1.5Q3 Downwards
LC3 1.2G + 0.4Q3 + 1.0S Downwards
LC5 1.2G + Wd Downwards
LC6 0.9G + Wu Upwards

For SASFA:2007

Load Combinations LC1 1.2G + 1.6Q2 + 1.0Q3 Downwards

LC2 1.2G + 1.0Q2 + 1.6Q3 Downwards
LC3 1.2G + 1.0Q3 + 1.6S Downwards
LC5 1.2G + 1.3Wd Downwards
LC6 0.9G + 1.3Wu Upwards

For AISI S100-2007 LRFD

Load Combinations LC1 1.2G + 1.6Q2+ 1.0Q3 Downwards

LC2 1.2G + 0.5Q2 + 1.6 Q3 Downwards
LC3 1.2G + 1.0Q3 + 1.6S Downwards
LC5 1.2G + 0.5Q2 + 1.6Wd Downwards
LC6 0.9G + 1.6Wu Upwards

For AISI S100-2007 ASD

Load Combinations LC1 1.0G + 1.0Q2+ 1.0Q3 Downwards

LC2 1.0G + .75Q3 + .75S Downwards
LC3 1.0G + 1.0S Downwards
LC5 1.0G + .75Q2 + .75Wd Downwards
LC6 1.0G + 1.0Wu Upwards

For CSA S136-2007

Load Combinations LC1 1.25G + 1.5Q2+ 0.5Q3 Downwards

LC2 1.25G + 0.5Q2+ 1.5Q3 Downwards
LC3 1.25G + 0.5Q3 + 1.5S Downwards
LC5 1.25G + 0.5Q2 + 1.4Wd Downwards
LC6 1.0G + 1.4Wu Upwards
141

For BS5950-5:1998
Page

Load Combinations LC1 1.4G + 1.6Q2+ 1.0Q3 Downwards

LC2 1.4G + 1.6Q3 + 1.0S Downwards
LC3 1.4G + 1.0Q3 + 1.6S Downwards
LC5 1.2G + 0.8Q2 + 1.4Wd Downwards
LC6 G + 1.4Wu Upwards

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For EN 1990:2002

Load Combinations LC1 1.35G + 1.5Q2+ 1.05Q3 Downwards

LC2 1.35G + 1.5Q3 + 0.75S Downwards
LC3 1.35G + 1.05Q3 + 1.50S Downwards
LC5 1.35G + 0.75Q2 + 1.5Wd Downwards
LC6 1.0G + 1.5Wu Upwards

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12.2 Roof Truss Engineering

12.2.1 Preface
This document applies only the 2007 edition of FrameCAD ProDesign Software. The
software’s engineering modules are operated purely from first principals; this means
that all sectional properties and section capacities are calculated from scratch each
time in real time. This document gives a basic outline of the calculations performed
and methods used.
Cold Formed Steel Design requires the extensive use of effective sectional
properties at varying stress level, plus the section capacities are a variable against
the effective lengths of the material, because of this requirement it is not possible to
give worked examples as each sample would run into many hundreds of pages.
A list of sections that are covered by this software is provided in the following figure.

Available Sections

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12.2.2 Principles of Operation

The method of analysis is via a 2D plane frame analysis using the displacement
method with skyline matrix technology used to solve the equilibrium. The software
takes the truss or rafter from the screen and reduces it to a single line drawing using
the centroid of each member as the reference points. Apparent intersections are
created thus creating node points with connecting lines. Each line is then subdivided
into four more points; this enables us to do far more accurate bending and deflection
calculations.
Full sectional properties are calculated from the shape information stored. These full
properties also take into account the radii of all corners. The warping constant and
St Venants torsion constant are also calculated totally from first principles mostly
using matrix methods or methods of integration.
For each load case, the software calculates the forces imposed on each node and
element within the truss. Also calculated are the effective sectional properties for
both members under uniform compression and members under stress gradient.
These effective sectional properties vary with the imposed load and length of each
member, therefore the length of the member is taken to be the distance between the
major node points.
On the completion of the analysis, the overall truss is checked for serviceability
deflections and each member is checked for compliance with the code. The
screwed, riveted or bolted joints are all designed by the software based on the
largest terminating load at that point. Whilst the software designs the required
fasteners at each joint, it does not do any checks to ensure that the quantity of
fasteners will fit within the allowed space. This may be addressed in future versions.

12.2.3 Truss Member Connections

Screwed joints and other connections between truss members are calculated in
accordance to the selected design code, using either the prescribed analytical
procedure, or test verified procedures as applicable. It is therefore essential that the
connectors specified on the design detail drawings are used for fabrication. If the
specified connectors are not provided, or if users modify the connectors specified in
the system data files, the Engineering design is no longer valid.

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[Link] Units of Measure

The software is not flexible with the units of measure. Units of measure used are listed
below.
Abbreviation Report Type Unit of Measure
Metric Imperial
Location coordinates Node inputs Nominal units
Lengths and distances Various mm
Applied Point Loads Node inputs kN
Applied moments Node inputs N/m
Applied distributed loads Node inputs kPa/m
Yield/Tensile strength Section Data mpa
Moment of Inertia Sectional Properties mm4
Torsion constants Sectional Properties mpa
Warping constant Sectional Properties mpa
Rotation Node Results Degrees
Reactions Node Results N
Joint loads and capacities Node Results N
Axial forces Member Results N
Bending moments Member Results Nmm
Shear force Member Results N
Compression capacity Member Capacities N
Bending capacity Member Capacities Nmm
Shear capacity Member Capacities N
Effective area Member Capacities mm2
Section modulus Member Capacities mm3
Bearing Capacity Member Capacities N
Various Code Compliance Percentage %

[Link] Common Notations

Ag = gross area of section
An = nett area of section
lx = effective length in X axis
ly = effective length in Y axis
Ix = second moment of inertia about X axis
Iy = second moment of inertia about Y axis
Zx = section modulus about X axis
Zy = section modulus about Y axis
rx = radius of gyration about X axis
ry = radius of gyration about Y axis
xo = distance from X centroid to X shear centre
yo = distance from Y centroid to Y shear centre
ro1 = polar radius of gyration
J = torsional constant
145

Iw = warping constant
E = Young’s modulus of elasticity 200000
Page

G = shear modulus 80000

df = screw diameter
tw = material thickness
fy = material yield strength
fu = material ultimate design strength

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12.2.4 Load Combinations

Load combinations are a regional or location base item and not directly coupled to the actual
design code. The load combinations used for each code option as listed in the following
sections.
In addition to uniform load cases, each member is checked for strength and stability by
applying a nominal point load of 1.1kN mid span of each major segment. This check is
applied to members where the length of the major segment if greater than five time the
height of the section. For analysis the applied load is factored down to a value of 0.7 kN to
take account for load redistribution in accordance with NASH Standards.
12.2.5 Wind Loads
The wind speed expressed is the design wind speed expressed in m/s for metric users and
mph for imperial users. From this wind speed, the free stream gust wind pressures are
derived unless noted otherwise. If the wind speed has a trailing ‘C’ then cyclonic conditions
are assumed.
12.2.6 Design Snow Loads
The snow load is the basic design pressure to be applied to the roof surface (not the site
ground snow – the software user must factor the ground snow load as specified by the
applicable loadings standard to determine the roof snow load).

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12.2.7 Truss Design Statement for AS/NZS4600:2005

[Link] Load Parameters
Wind Load
Vu = ultimate design wind speed
qu = ultimate wind pressure = 0.0006(Vu)2
qs = Non-cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.44 qu
qs = Cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.44 qu
P = Design Wind Pressure = Kp Cp q
where,
Kp = Action combination factor: = 0.9
Cp = Net pressure coefficent = (Ce + Ci)
Wu Wind load upwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.90
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.20
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.70
Wd Wind load downwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.40
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.30
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.65
Snow Load
S = user input snow load
Ss = serviceability snow load = 0.7 S
[Link] Load Combinations
Load Combinations from AS/NZS/1170 & NASH Standard:
Load Case 1 G + Ss
Load Case 2 Ws
Load Case 3 1.2G + 1.5Q
Load Case 4 0.9G + Wu
Load Case 5 1.2G + Wd (not used for the -D version)
Load Case 6 1.2G + 1.0S
Load Case # 1.2G + 1.5P
# - one load case for each chord panel
where
G = gravity load or dead load
Q = live load or short term load
S = snow load
Ws = wind serviceability load
Wu = wind load upwards
Wd = wind load downwards
147

P = 0.7 kN applied mid span

Load Cases 1 & 2 are used for serviceability checks, and all load cases are checked for
Page

strength and stability checks.

Snow loads will not appear when there is no snow load present.

Internal wind pressure is applied to the truss top chord.

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[Link] Serviceability Checks

For serviceability checks, all members are checked for displacement at each node point on
the bottom chord.
Serviceability limits Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 300mm or 15mm
(L / 150mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 240mm
(L / 120mm for cantilevers)

Where a suspended ceiling is specified, the serviceability limits are increased

Suspended Ceiling Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 200mm or 30mm
(L / 100mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 150mm
(L / 75mm for cantilevers)

[Link] Strength and Stability Checks

Strength and stability checks are carried out to AS/NZS4600:2005. For strength and stability
checks, all members in all load cases are checked without exception. Items check for are
listed below:
• Compression
• Bending
• Shear
• Tension
• Combined bending and compression
• Combined bending and tension
• Combined bending and shear

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12.2.8 Truss Design Statement for SASFA Code 2007

[Link] Load Parameters
Wind Load
vb = basic design wind speed
NOTE: User must input the site basic wind speed (peak mean) – vb.

qu = ultimate wind pressure = 0.0006(1.4vb)2

qs = Non-cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.6 qu
qs = Cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.6 qu
P = Design Wind Pressure = Kp Cp q
where,
Kp = Action combination factor: = 1.0
Cp = Net pressure coefficent = (Ce + Ci)
Wu Wind load upwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.90
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.20
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.70
Wd Wind load downwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.40
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.30
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.65
Snow Load
S = user input snow load
Ss = serviceability snow load = 1.0 S
[Link] Load Combinations
Load Combinations from SASFA Code:
Load Case 1 1.0G + 1.0Ss
Load Case 2 1.0Ws
Load Case 3 1.2G + 1.6Q
Load Case 4 0.9G + 1.3Wu
Load Case 5 1.2G + 1.3Wd
Load Case 6 1.2G + 1.6S
Load Case # 1.2G + 1.6P
# - one load case for each chord panel
Where
G = gravity load or dead load
Q = live load or short term load
S = snow load
Ws = wind serviceability load
149

Wu = wind load upwards

Wd = wind load downwards
P = 0.7 kN applied mid span
Page

Load Cases 1 & 2 are used for serviceability checks, and all load cases are checked for
strength and stability checks.

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Snow loads will not appear when there is no snow load present.

Internal wind pressure is applied to the truss top chord.

[Link] Serviceability Checks

For serviceability checks, all members are checked for displacement at each node point on
the bottom chord.
Serviceability limits Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 300mm or 15mm
(L / 150mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 240mm
(L / 120mm for cantilevers)

Where a suspended ceiling is specified, the serviceability limits are increased

Suspended Ceiling Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 200mm or 30mm
(L / 100mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 150mm
(L / 75mm for cantilevers)

[Link] Strength and Stability Checks

Strength and stability checks are carried out to AS/NZS4600:2005. For strength and stability
checks, all members in all load cases are checked without exception. Items check for are
listed below:
• Compression
• Bending
• Shear
• Tension
• Combined bending and compression
• Combined bending and tension
• Combined bending and shear

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12.2.9 Truss Design Statement for AISI S100-2007 LRFD

Load & Resistance Factor Design (LRFD)

[Link] Load Parameters

Wind Load
Vu = basic design wind speed
qu = ultimate wind pressure = 0.000613(Vu)2
qs = Non-cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.7 qu
qs = Cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.7 qu
P = Directional Design Wind Pressure = 0.85 Kp Cp q
where,
Kp = Action combination factor: = 1.0
Cp = Net pressure coefficent = (Ce + Ci)
Wu Wind load upwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.90
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.20
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.70
Wd Wind load downwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.30
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.20
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.65

Snow Load
S = user input snow load
Ss = serviceability snow load = 1.0 S
[Link] Load Combinations
Load Combinations from IBC2009:
Load Case1 G+Ss
Load Case 2 Q
Load Case 3 Ws
Load Case 4 1.2G + 1.6Q + 0.8Wd
Load Case 5 0.9G + 1.6Wu
Load Case 6 1.2G + 1.6Wd + 0.5Q
Load Case 7 1.2G + 1.6S + 0.8Wd
Load Case # 1.2G + 1.6P
# - one load case for each chord panel
Where
G = gravity load or dead load
Q = live load or short term load
151

S = snow load
Wu = wind load upwards
Wd = wind load downwards
Page

P = 0.7 kN applied mid span

Load Cases 1, 2 & 3 are used for serviceability checks, and all load cases are checked for
strength and stability checks.

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 FRAMECAD ProDesign User Manual October 2013

Snow loads will not appear when there is no snow load present.

Internal wind pressure is applied to the truss top chord.

[Link] Serviceability Checks

For serviceability checks, all members are checked for displacement at each node point on
the bottom chord.
Serviceability limits Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 300mm or 15mm
(L / 150mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 240mm
(L / 120mm for cantilevers)

Where a suspended ceiling is specified, the serviceability limits are increased

Suspended Ceiling Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 200mm or 30mm
(L / 100mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 150mm
(L / 75mm for cantilevers)
[Link] Strength and Stability Checks
Strength and stability checks are carried out to AISI S100-2007 LRFD. For strength and
stability checks, all members in all load cases are checked without exception. Items check
for are listed below:
• Compression
• Bending
• Shear
• Tension
• Combined bending and compression
• Combined bending and tension
• Combined bending and shear

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12.2.10 Truss Design Statement for AISI S100-2007 ASD

Allowable Stress Design (ASD)

[Link] Load Parameters

Wind Load
Vu = basic design wind speed
qu = ultimate wind pressure = 0.000613(Vu)2
qs = Non-cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.7 qu
qs = Cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.7 qu
P = Directional Design Wind Pressure = 0.85 Kp Cp q
where,
Kp = Action combination factor: = 1.0
Cp = Net pressure coefficent = (Ce + Ci)
Wu Wind load upwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.90
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.20
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.70
Wd Wind load downwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.30
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.20
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.65
Snow Load
S = user input snow load
Ss = serviceability snow load = 1.0 S
[Link] Load Combinations
Load Combinations from IBC2009:
Load Case1 G+Ss
Load Case 2 Q
Load Case 3 Ws
Load Case 4 1.0G + 1.0Q
Load Case 5 0.6G + 1.0Wu
Load Case 6 1.0G + 1.0Wd
Load Case 7 1.0G + 0.75Wd + (0.75S or 0.75Q)
Load Case 8 1.0G + 1.0S
Load Case # 1.0G + 1.0P
# - one load case for each chord panel
Where
G = gravity load or dead load
Q = live load or short term load
153

S = snow load
Wu = wind load upwards
Wd = wind load downwards
Page

P = 0.7 kN applied mid span

Load Cases 1, 2 & 3 are used for serviceability checks, and all load cases are checked for
strength and stability checks.

©2013 FRAMECAD Limited [Link]

 FRAMECAD ProDesign User Manual October 2013

Snow loads will not appear when there is no snow load present.

Internal wind pressure is applied to the truss top chord.

[Link] Serviceability Checks

For serviceability checks, all members are checked for displacement at each node point on
the bottom chord.
Serviceability limits Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 300mm or 15mm
(L / 150mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 240mm
(L / 120mm for cantilevers)

Where a suspended ceiling is specified, the serviceability limits are increased

Suspended Ceiling Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 200mm or 30mm
(L / 100mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 150mm
(L / 75mm for cantilevers)

[Link] Strength and Stability Checks

Strength and stability checks are carried out to AISI S100-2007 ASD. For strength and
stability checks, all members in all load cases are checked without exception. Items check
for are listed below:
• Compression
• Bending
• Shear
• Tension
• Combined bending and compression
• Combined bending and tension
• Combined bending and shear

154
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12.2.11 Truss Design Statement for CSA S136-2007 LSD

[Link] Load Parameters
Wind Load
Vu = basic design wind speed
qu = ultimate wind pressure = 0.0006(Vu)2
qs = Non-cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.6 qu
qs = Cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.6 qu
P = Design Wind Pressure = Kp Cp q
where,
Kp = Action combination factor: = 1.0
Cp = Net pressure coefficent = (Ce + Ci)
Wu Wind load upwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.90
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.20
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.70
Wd Wind load downwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.40
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.30
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.65
Snow Load
S = user input snow load
Ss = serviceability snow load = 1.0 S
[Link] Load Combinations
Load Combinations from CSA S136-2007:
Load Case1 G+Ss
Load Case 2 Q
Load Case 3 Ws
Load Case 4 1.25G + 1.5Q +0.4Wd
Load Case 5 0.9G + 1.4Wu
Load Case 6 1.25G + 1.4Wd + (0.5S or 0.5Q)
Load Case 7 1.25G + 0.5Q + 1.5S
Load Case # 1.25G + 1.5P
# - one load case for each chord panel
Where
G = gravity load or dead load
Q = live load or short term load
S = snow load
Wu = wind load upwards
Wd = wind load downwards
155

P = 0.7kN applied mid span

Load Cases 1, 2 & 3 are used for serviceability checks, and all load cases are checked for
Page

strength and stability checks.

Snow loads will not appear when there is no snow load present.

Internal wind pressure is applied to the truss top chord.

©2013 FRAMECAD Limited [Link]

 FRAMECAD ProDesign User Manual October 2013

[Link] Serviceability Checks

For serviceability checks, all members are checked for displacement at each node point on
the bottom chord.
Serviceability limits Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 300mm or 15mm
(L / 150mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 240mm
(L / 120mm for cantilevers)

Where a suspended ceiling is specified, the serviceability limits are increased

Suspended Ceiling Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 200mm or 30mm
(L / 100mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 150mm
(L / 75mm for cantilevers)

[Link] Strength and Stability Checks

Strength and stability checks are carried out to CSA S136-2007 (also numbered AISI S100-
2007). For strength and stability checks, all members in all load cases are checked without
exception. Items check for are listed below:
• Compression
• Bending
• Shear
• Tension
• Combined bending and compression
• Combined bending and tension
• Combined bending and shear

156
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12.2.12 Truss Design Statement for BS5950-5:1998

NOTE: BS5950-5:1998 has been superseded by EN 1993-1-3:2006
We recommend that BS5950-5:1998 should not be used.

[Link] Load Parameters

Wind Load
Vu = basic design wind speed
qu = ultimate wind pressure = 0.000613(Vu)2
qs = Non-cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.6 qu
qs = Cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.6 qu
P = Design Wind Pressure = Kp Cp q
where,
Kp = Action combination factor: = 1.0
Cp = Net pressure coefficent = (Ce + Ci)
Wu Wind load upwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.90
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.20
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.70
Wd Wind load downwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.40
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.30
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.65
Snow Load
S = user input snow load
Ss = serviceability snow load = 1.0 S
[Link] Load Combinations
Load Combinations from BS5950:
Load Case 1 G+S
Load Case 2 Q
Load Case 3 Ws
Load Case 4 1.4G + 1.6Q
Load Case 5 G + 1.4Wu
Load Case 6 1.4G + 1.4Wd (not used for the -D version)
Load Case 7 1.4G + 0.8Q + 1.4S
Load Case # 1.4G + 1.6P
# - one load case for each chord panel
Where
G = gravity load or dead load
157

Q = live load or short term load

S = snow load
Ws = wind serviceability load
Page

Wu = wind load upwards

Wd = wind load downwards
P = 0.7kN applied mid span

©2013 FRAMECAD Limited [Link]

 FRAMECAD ProDesign User Manual October 2013

Load Cases 1, 2 & 3 are used for serviceability checks, and all load cases are checked for
strength and stability checks.

Snow loads will not appear when there is no snow load present.

Internal wind pressure is applied to the truss top chord.

[Link] Serviceability Checks
For serviceability checks, all members are checked for displacement at each node point on
the bottom chord.
Serviceability limits Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 300mm or 15mm
(L / 150mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 240mm
(L / 120mm for cantilevers)

Where a suspended ceiling is specified, the serviceability limits are increased

Suspended Ceiling Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 200mm or 30mm
(L / 100mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 150mm
(L / 75mm for cantilevers)

[Link] Strength and Stability Checks

Strength and stability checks are carried out to BS5950-5:1988 with effective section
properties calculated using AISI-AS/NZS4600 method. For strength and stability checks, all
members in all load cases are checked without exception. Items check for are listed below:
• Compression
• Bending
• Shear
• Tension
• Combined bending and compression
• Combined bending and tension
• Combined bending and shear

158
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12.2.13 Truss Design Statement for EN 1990:2002

Wind Load
vb = basic design wind speed
User must input the site peak mean wind speed, vb (EN 1991-1-4)
NOTE: Calculations consider a ce(z) factor of 1.7
For other ce(z) values use, input vb = vbo x √[ce(z)/1.7]
Where the local standard specifies peak gust wind speed, input:
vb = Vu / √(1.7)
qu = ultimate wind pressure = 1.7x 0.000613(vb)2
qs = Non-cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.65 qu
qs = Cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.65 qu
P = Design Wind Pressure = Kp Cp q
where,
Kp = Action combination factor: = 1.0
Cp = Net pressure coefficent = (Ce + Ci)
Wu Wind load upwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.90
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.20
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.20
Wd Wind load downwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.20
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.30
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.30
Snow Load
S = user input snow load
Ss = serviceability snow load = 1.0 S
[Link] Load Combinations
Load Combinations from EN 1990:2002:
Load Case 1 G+S
Load Case 2 Wu
Load Case 3 Q
Load Case 4 1.35G + 1.5Q
Load Case 5 G + 1.5Wu
Load Case 6 1.35G + 1.5Wd
Load Case 7 1.35G + 1.5Wd + 0.75S
Load Case 8 1.35G + 0.9Wd + 1.5S
Load Case # 1.35G + 1.5P
# - one load case for each chord panel
* 1.75 Factor when ‘C’ (cyclone) wind specified.
Where
159

G = gravity load or dead load

Q = live load or short term load
Page

S = snow load
Ws = wind serviceability load
Wu = wind load upwards
Wd = wind load downwards
P = 0.7kN applied mid span

©2013 FRAMECAD Limited [Link]

 FRAMECAD ProDesign User Manual October 2013

Load Cases 1, 2 & 3 are used for serviceability checks, and all load cases are checked for
strength and stability checks.

Snow loads will not appear when there is no snow load present.

Internal wind pressure is applied to the truss top chord.

[Link] Serviceability Checks
For serviceability checks, all members are checked for displacement at each node point on
the bottom chord.
Serviceability limits Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 300mm or 15mm
(L / 150mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 240mm
(L / 120mm for cantilevers)

Where a suspended ceiling is specified, the serviceability limits are increased

Suspended Ceiling Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 200mm or 30mm
(L / 100mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 150mm
(L / 75mm for cantilevers)

[Link] Strength and Stability Checks

Strength and stability checks are carried out to AISI-AS/NZS4600 method. For strength and
stability checks, all members in all load cases are checked without exception. Items check
for are listed below:
• Compression
• Bending
• Shear
• Tension
• Combined bending and compression
• Combined bending and tension

160
Page

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12.2.14 Truss Design Statement for EN 1993-1-3:2006

Wind Load
Vu = basic design wind speed
NOTE: User must input the site peak gust wind speed - Vu.
For use with EN 1991-1-4: Vu = vbo x √[ce(z)]
qu = ultimate wind pressure = 0.000613(Vu)2
qs = Non-cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.65 qu
qs = Cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.65 qu
P = Design Wind Pressure = Kp Cp q
where,
Kp = Action combination factor: = 1.0
Cp = Net pressure coefficent = (Ce + Ci)
Wu Wind load upwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.90
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.20
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.20
Wd Wind load downwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.20
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.30
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.30
Snow Load
S = user input snow load
Ss = serviceability snow load = 1.0 S
[Link] Load Combinations
Load Combinations from EN 1990:2002:
Load Case 1 G+S
Load Case 2 Wu
Load Case 3 Q
Load Case 4 1.35G + 1.5Q
Load Case 5 G + 1.5Wu
Load Case 6 1.35G + 1.5Wd
Load Case 7 1.35G + 1.5Wd + 0.75S
Load Case 8 1.35G + 0.9Wd + 1.5S
Load Case # 1.35G + 1.5P
# - one load case for each chord panel
* 1.75 Factor when ‘C’ (cyclone) wind specified.
Where
G = gravity load or dead load
Q = live load or short term load
S = snow load
161

Ws = wind serviceability load

Wu = wind load upwards
Page

Wd = wind load downwards

P = 0.7kN applied mid span

Load Cases 1, 2 & 3 are used for serviceability checks, and all load cases are checked for
strength and stability checks.

©2013 FRAMECAD Limited [Link]

 FRAMECAD ProDesign User Manual October 2013

Snow loads will not appear when there is no snow load present.

Internal wind pressure is applied to the truss top chord.

[Link] Serviceability Checks

For serviceability checks, all members are checked for displacement at each node point on
the bottom chord.
Serviceability limits Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 300mm or 15mm
(L / 150mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 240mm
(L / 120mm for cantilevers)

Where a suspended ceiling is specified, the serviceability limits are increased

Suspended Ceiling Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 200mm or 30mm
(L / 100mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 150mm
(L / 75mm for cantilevers)

[Link] Strength and Stability Checks

Strength and stability checks are carried out to AISI-AS/NZS4600 method with material
factors modified to produce results consistent with EN 1993-1-3:2006. For strength and
stability checks, all members in all load cases are checked without exception. Items check
for are listed below:
• Compression
• Bending
• Shear
• Tension
• Combined bending and compression
• Combined bending and tension

162
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12.2.15 Truss Design Statement for GB50009-2001

[Link] Load Parameters
Wind Load
Vu = basic design wind speed
NOTE: User must input the site peak gust wind speed - Vu.
For use with GB 50009-2001: Vu = √ [1/.0006 x βz x µz x ωk]

qu = ultimate wind pressure = 0.0006(Vu)2

qs = Non-cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.6 qu
qs = Cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.6 qu
P = Design Wind Pressure = Kp Cp q
where,
Kp = Action combination factor: = 1.0
Cp = Net pressure coefficent = (Ce + Ci)
Wu Wind load upwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.90
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.20
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.70
Wd Wind load downwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.40
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.30
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.65
Snow Load
S = user input snow load
Ss = serviceability snow load = 1.0 S
[Link] Load Combinations
Load Combinations from GB50009-2001:
Load Case 1 G+S
Load Case 2 Wu
Load Case 3 Q
Load Case 4 1.2G + 1.4Q
Load Case 5 G + 1.4Wu
Load Case 6 1.2G + 1.4Wd + 1.0S
Load Case 7 1.2G + 0.85Wd + 1.4S
Load Case # 1.2G + 1.4P
# - one load case for each chord panel
Where
G = gravity load or dead load
163

Q = live load or short term load

S = snow load
Ws = wind serviceability load
Page

Wu = wind load upwards

Wd = wind load downwards
P = 0.7kN applied mid span

Load Cases 1, 2 & 3 are used for serviceability checks, and all load cases are checked for
strength and stability checks.

©2013 FRAMECAD Limited [Link]

 FRAMECAD ProDesign User Manual October 2013

Snow loads will not appear when there is no snow load present.

Internal wind pressure is applied to the truss top chord.

[Link] Serviceability Checks
For serviceability checks, all members are checked for displacement at each node point on
the bottom chord.
Serviceability limits Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 300mm or 15mm
(L / 150mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 240mm
(L / 120mm for cantilevers)

Where a suspended ceiling is specified, the serviceability limits are increased

Suspended Ceiling Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 200mm or 30mm
(L / 100mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 150mm
(L / 75mm for cantilevers)

[Link] Strength and Stability Checks

Strength and stability checks are carried out to AISI-AS/NZS4600 method. For strength and
stability checks, all members in all load cases are checked without exception. Items check
for are listed below:
• Compression
• Bending
• Shear
• Tension
• Combined bending and compression
• Combined bending and tension

164
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12.2.16 Truss Design Statement for SNiP 2.01.07-85:2011

[Link] Load Parameters
Wind Load
vo = basic design wind speed
NOTE: User must input the site speed - vo.
For use with SNiP 2.01.07-85:2011: vo = √ [wo/0.43]
qu = ultimate wind pressure = 1.7 x 0.00043(vo)2
qs = Non-cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.6 qu
qs = Cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.6 qu
P = Design Wind Pressure = Kp Cp q
where,
Kp = Action combination factor: = 1.0
Cp = Net pressure coefficent = (Ce + Ci)
Wu Wind load upwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.90
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.20
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.70
Wd Wind load downwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.40
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.30
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.65
Snow Load
S = user input snow load
Ss = serviceability snow load = 1.0 S
[Link] Load Combinations
Load Combinations from SNiP 2.01.07-85:2011:
Load Case 1 G+S
Load Case 2 Wu
Load Case 3 1.1G + 1.2Q
Load Case 4 0.9 + 1.4Wu
Load Case 5 1.1G + 1.4Wd + 1.25S
Load Case 6 1.1G + 1.25Wd + 1.4S
Load Case # 1.1G + 1.2P
# - one load case for each chord panel
Where
G = gravity load or dead load
Q = live load or short term load
S = snow load
Ws = wind serviceability load
165

Wu = wind load upwards

Wd = wind load downwards
P = 0.7kN applied mid span
Page

Load Cases 1, 2 & 3 are used for serviceability checks, and all load cases are checked for
strength and stability checks.

Snow loads will not appear when there is no snow load present.

©2013 FRAMECAD Limited [Link]

 FRAMECAD ProDesign User Manual October 2013

Internal wind pressure is applied to the truss top chord.

[Link] Serviceability Checks
For serviceability checks, all members are checked for displacement at each node point on
the bottom chord.
Serviceability limits Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 300mm or 15mm
(L / 150mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 240mm
(L / 120mm for cantilevers)

Where a suspended ceiling is specified, the serviceability limits are increased

Suspended Ceiling Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 200mm or 30mm
(L / 100mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 150mm
(L / 75mm for cantilevers)

[Link] Strength and Stability Checks

Strength and stability checks are carried out to AISI-AS/NZS4600 method. For strength and
stability checks, all members in all load cases are checked without exception. Items check
for are listed below:
• Compression
• Bending
• Shear
• Tension
• Combined bending and compression
• Combined bending and tension

166
Page

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12.2.17 Truss Design Statement for ABNT NBR14762:2009

[Link] Load Parameters
Wind Load
Vu = basic design wind speed
qu = ultimate wind pressure = 0.000613(Vu)2
qs = Non-cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.6 qu
qs = Cyclonic serviceability wind pressures = 0.6 qu
P = Design Wind Pressure = Kp Cp q
where,
Kp = Action combination factor: = 1.0
Cp = Net pressure coefficent = (Ce + Ci)
Wu Wind load upwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.90
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.20
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.70
Wd Wind load downwards case:
external pressure coefficient Ce = 0.40
internal pressure coefficient Non-cyclonic Ci = 0.30
internal pressure coefficient Cyclonic Ci = 0.65
Snow Load
S = user input snow load
Ss = serviceability snow load = 1.0 S
[Link] Load Combinations
Load Combinations from ABNT NBR14762:2009:
Load Case 1 G+S
Load Case 2 Wu
Load Case 3 Q
Load Case 4 1.25G + 1.5Q
Load Case 5 1.0 + 1.4Wu
Load Case 6 1.25G + 1.4Wd + 1.0S
Load Case 7 1.25G + 0.85Wd + 1.4S
Load Case # 1.25G + 1.5P
# - one load case for each chord panel
Where
G = gravity load or dead load
Q = live load or short term load
S = snow load
Ws = wind serviceability load
Wu = wind load upwards
167

Wd = wind load downwards

P = 0.7kN applied mid span
Page

Load Cases 1, 2 & 3 are used for serviceability checks, and all load cases are checked for
strength and stability checks.

Snow loads will not appear when there is no snow load present.

Internal wind pressure is applied to the truss top chord.

©2013 FRAMECAD Limited [Link]

 FRAMECAD ProDesign User Manual October 2013

[Link] Serviceability Checks

For serviceability checks, all members are checked for displacement at each node point on
the bottom chord.
Serviceability limits Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 300mm or 15mm
(L / 150mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 240mm
(L / 120mm for cantilevers)

Where a suspended ceiling is specified, the serviceability limits are increased

Suspended Ceiling Dead load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 200mm or 30mm
(L / 100mm for cantilevers)
Wind or Live load combinations ∆ ≤ L / 150mm
(L / 75mm for cantilevers)

[Link] Strength and Stability Checks

Strength and stability checks are carried out to AISI-AS/NZS4600 method. For strength and
stability checks, all members in all load cases are checked without exception. Items check
for are listed below:
• Compression
• Bending
• Shear
• Tension
• Combined bending and compression
• Combined bending and tension

168
Page

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12.3 Conversions
From To Forward Back

Length in mm 25.400000 0.393700

ft mm 304.800000 0.003281
ft m 0.304800 3.280840

Area in2 mm2 645.160000 0.001550

ft2 mm2 92903.040000 0.000011
ft2 m2 0.009290 107.642626

Force kip kN 4.448222 0.224809

kN kg 101.971621 9.806650

Stress Ksi MPa 6.894745 0.145038

Ksi kN/m2 0.006895 145.038000
Psf kN/m2 20.8854 0.047880

Wind Speed Mph m/s 0.447040 2.236936

Kph m/s 0.277778 3.600000
Mph kph 1.609344 0.621371

Misc in4 mm4 416231.425600 0.000002

in3 mm3 16387.064000 0.000061

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