The Extend Tool is used to modify the ends of a structural member.
By default, the tool constrains movement along the path line of the member, but you can move the ends freely by toggling Free Move with the ALT key.
The tool can be used for beams, columns, and bracing members.
Activate the Extend Tool by clicking the button in the main toolbar:
If you wish to extend multiple members at the same time, pre-select them prior to activating the tool.
Usage
- (Optional) Preselect members to modify
- Activate the tool
- Click the end of a selected member to choose which end to modify
- Move the mouse or key-in a distance to extend or shrink the length of the member
- Click to complete the operation
Example:
Here, we select two beams with the goal of extending them to the edge of the supporting beam flange:
We activate the Extend Tool, click the end of one of the selected beams and move the mouse towards the edge of the supporting beam:
To complete the operation, we click the edge of the supporting W12x26 beam.
Move the Member Ends in Any Direction (Free Move)
If you want to move the ends freely, press ALT while the Extend Tool is active to toggle Free Move.
In this mode, you can move the ends of the selected members in any direction.
Remember to use arrow axis-locking and inferencing for accuracy.
Example:
Here, one of the beams is selected. We will move the end exactly 18 inches to the right.
Activate the Extend Tool and click the end of the beam. Then press ALT to enter free move. Press the RIGHT arrow key to lock movement to the red (x) axis.
Next, we key in 18" to move the end exactly 18". This is the result.
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