Is there a way to quickly export max/min beam end forces?

Answer

Yes, beam end forces can be exported in two forms, these forms are:

1. Tabular reports which can be printed or exported to Excel
2. Drawings of the current plan in DXF form

The basic process required for these is to first create an envelope using Load > Envelope, using this option, simply create an envelope (call it Max/Min for example) and include all combinations.

For both drawings and reports it is important to note the sign conventions used, this can be found in Sign conventions and coordinate systems, refer to 1D member local coordinate systems for beam sign conventions, these differ slightly for local analysis results and end forces. 

This same method can be used to export foundation reactions if needed.

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Note, the analysis must be updated to include all combinations in the envelope.  Also note the analysis type, this example has been designed using Second Order Linear Analysis.

Reports

Reports for beam end forces can include a few different types of results, these include results of both beam ends or the higher ends only.  You also have the option to include coincident forces (will output the max/min force and also show the corresponding loads given in the max/min combination) if required.

The key part of the report will be the filters used, you can use the model filter to isolate certain parts of the model in the report, in this example I have exported only the end forces are levels 1 & 2.  Other filters include the loading filter, in this example only the max/min envelope was included.  The final filter will be the analysis method, simply select the critical analysis type used in the design.  Filters can be achieved by right clicking on the included chapter in the right hand side.  The example report structure is as shown below.

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The report will appear as follows:

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Drawings

To export a single drawing, simply open the plane you wish to export the results for.  Once the plane is open, please do the following:

1. Open the plan Results view
2. Select the appropriate analysis type from the analysis method dropdown
3. Select the envelope in question
4. In the Draw ribbon, select the drawing variant required – in this case it is Beam End Forces

Note: on step 1, note that you must be in a 2D plan view.  If you are in a 3D view of the plane you cannot create the required drawings

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You can also use Drawing Management to save iterations of drawings and also include numerous drawings in a single file.

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Note: Please refer to the grid in the bottom right corner to ensure the drawing created includes the correct results.

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