06-04-2010, 04:39 PM
this is taken from the help file:
"Using the Cold Rolled Sections Wizard
The Cold Rolled Sections Wizard allows you to define the size and type of purlin, side rail and eaves beam which you want to use for your structure1. Although the true graphical display of such members is beyond the scope of Portal Frame, which shows a single line, when you transfer the structure to 3D+ you will find that all the information relating to the section size, shape and position has been transferred correctly.
When you use the Cold Rolled Sections Wizard it maps the existing layout of restraints to your frame, overlaying these with the purlin, side rail and eaves beam details you specify. You therefore need to have defined some restraints in your structure before you invoke the Cold Rolled Sections Wizard. "
Basically; you need to analyse your frame and then add member restraints and check each member's stability. At this stage you should be able to run the cold rolled section wizard. The wizard should recognize your restraint points and place the cold rolled in these locations. (i don't normally use the wizard, but design cold rolled manually based on manufacturer safe load tables. the cold rolled will never show up correctly in the portal frame program.
regards, sheb