You can copy properties, such as names and values, from other objects and use them to determine the properties of a custom component. You can also copy property references. The link is dynamic, so when the property changes, the reference reflects the change. For example, you can use a beam length reference in variable formulas. Even if the length changes, the correct value is always used in calculations.

1. In the Custom component browser, browse for the object property you want to copy.

   To find the required component object more easily, select it in a custom component view. Tekla Structures highlights the selected object in the Custom component browser.

2. Right-click the property and select one of the following:
   • Copy name

     Copies the name of the object. For example, Material.

   • Copy value

     Copies the value the object currently has. For example, S235JR.

   • Copy reference

     Copies the link to the property. For example, fP(Material,"642dd994-5b5a-414e-8ac1-51fa026f3700").

   

3. Right-click where you want to insert the object property, and then select Paste.

   For example, you can paste a reference to the Formula box in the Variables dialog to use it in a calculation.