When working with lots of different sections for different projects, some thought has to be given to how to manage the section libraries. The best way to work with the section library is dependent on the number of different projects (simultaneously) and whether the projects are done in a multi-user network environment or not.

Approach 1. - Default

Sections Library is in same directory as Multiframe program

Use Section Maker to add custom sections and groups

Add add-hoc sections to custom groups or to Frame group

Approach 2. - Project based

Rename default library

Copy default library to project folder at start of each project

Optional - rename sections library to project name

Load appropriate library each time Multiframe starts up

Back up sections library with project data files

Tip 1. – Renaming the default library

By changing the name of the default section library, Multiframe will prompt you which library you wish to use each time it starts up. The default section library is: c:\program files\multiframe\sectionslibrary.slb.

Tip 2. – Frames Group

For sections that will only be used in one particular project and to prevent cluttering the library too much, Multiframe has the option to store sections in the “Frames Group”. The frames group is independent of the sections library and will be loaded each time you open the project.

Sections in the Frames Group can only be added/edited using Multiframe and cannot be accessed by Section Maker.

Note:

The correct library has to be loaded before opening the structural model. Else the members will loose their section properties and the following warning will appear:

It is best to close the model without saving, open the correct library and then re-open the model.