3.7.

6 "Loads" tab

Triangular and area loads: The loads with

vertical direction are always intelligently
interconnected so that you are able to draw
almost any load images. The loads in the
horizontal direction are not interlinked.

Load arrows: The load arrows are defined by

their direction and their length. The appropriate
arrow must be selected. The character direction
is requested. This is independent of the direction
of the arrowhead.

Moments: Moments are inserted as individual characters. Their size cannot be influenced.

3.7.7 "Draw" tab

Elements for individual drawings are contained

on this tab. It is possible to draw simple cross-
sections or details with this collection.

Code button: You can select and draw

individual characters from the three VCmaster
fonts with this button. The character sets can
be viewed by opening and, if necessary,
printing the ZeichenXVCmaster.pdf file in the
VCmaster directory. Select the font and then
the ASCII number accordingly.

Bold button: If Bold is active, the characters are written in a heavier font. The
corresponding mode can be seen on the depressed button or on the display of the
individual characters.

Notes: In the Bold mode, the characters have the same thickness as the beam, frame,
support and roof elements. While drawing, the cursor can be positioned so that drawing
can be continued. It is therefore possible to draw horizontal and vertical lines by
repeatedly clicking on the relevant character.

Individual buttons:
Earth level can be indicated with this button.
Reinforcing bars can be shown with these buttons.

59
 3.7.8 "Predefinitions" tab

Start size: The start size is the font size that

is preset if a new diagram is inserted.

Modify size: The font size of the current

diagram can be changed here. You can track
the effects directly in the VCmaster
document. An approximate specification for
enlarging the drawing can be found
immediately below.

Standard indentation: Here you can set at which indent the graphic should be started.

Indentation: You can shift the current diagram in the document by indenting.

copy, cut, delete:

copy - Copy to clipboard
delete - Deletes the current drawing
cut - Copies and deletes

Example

60
3.8 Combining loads according to DIN 1055

3.8.1 Load module (German language only) Insert-

Loads according to
DIN
The Load module is a completely newly developed software that connects the features of a
viewer with those of a database. This enables the electronic administration of standard Purpose: Values and
texts from the norm can
texts, load specifications and load coefficients. This absolutely new technology makes it
be transferred by
possible to completely replace searching through the literature. The particular advantage is mouse click.
being able to carry out further calculations with all numerical values. Text passages from
standards can be transferred to the structural analysis by clicking with the mouse

The especially interesting feature is that all load tables can be extended. Loads or
coefficients can be added individually with the database module.

The Load module, including the tables from DIN 1055, DIN 1055 new, DIN 4421, DIN
18218 and DIN 1072, is available as an option.

Procedure

1) Select the load type in the left window.

2) Select the text layout and calculation line
format (top left)
3) Transfer the load to VCmaster. The value can
be multiplied here (e.g. with d / see example
below).
4) If necessary, transfer the next load. A table
is added up at the end in VCmaster.

3.8.2 Special features

Loads are compiled line-by-line in the dialog. Thus you can work in VCmaster in parallel.
Before transferring into VCmaster, determine the position where the load is to be inserted.

You can insert several loads at various locations in the document without ending the
dialog. The dialog remains in the foreground. If you do not need the dialog immediately
but you do not want to end it, you can minimise the dialog and activate it again later via
the Task bar.

By clicking to tick the box before with variable, with unit or with value, the three fields can
be activated and deactivated. They appear on a grey background when deactivated. The
information from the selected fields are transferred into the load line. Alignment is carried
out using tabs in accordance with the selected calculation line format.

61
 3.8.3 Manual entries

If you want to multiply a load with a corresponding thickness, for example, click on the
multiplication sign and the thickness specification as a numerical value or a variable
defined in VCmaster (d = 12 cm in the example).

If an arithmetic operator is entered in the field, the dialog assumes you want to make a
calculation.

It converts the contents into the load line. You can see how this line will appear after the
transfer. The line must be inserted in VCmaster for the calculation to be carried out;
"<0.00>" is therefore written instead of a result. The text in front of the variable can be
changed directly in the load line

3.8.4 Formatting

All the formats defined in VCmaster are available in the

Load module. These can be set by clicking on the right
selection field. The load line will be realigned.

The left selection field allows selection of the text length

and hence the scope of information to be written in front of
the variable in the load line. This text can be changed as
required in the load line.

3.8.5 Explanations

The field with the explanations is automatically enlarged if you selected a note from the
standard in the tree. If a load has been selected, this normally contains important
information on the selected table values. These notes and explanations are sometimes
very extensive. The field is enlarged by double-clicking on the text field. By double-clicking
again, the original condition can be restored.

62
3.9 Knowledge database

Purpose

Valuable know-how is collected in all phases of planning, design and development activity.
These important resources are wasted if they are not generally and permanently available.
When needed, all relevant information must be available to those project team members
who require it.

The complex software solutions available in the field of knowledge management

correspond little to the practical requirements of the engineer in terms of efficiency and
handling. Our objective was to create a simple and easily understood means of compiling
and describing digital documents and templates by topic.
For this purpose, the user can create VCmaster Wikis which are linked to any number and
type of other documents. The Wikis generally contain explanatory texts and comments.
Any document format and storage location can be used. The only prerequisite is that the
PC is able to open a document of the specified type. Assignment is by means of the file
extension.

What is a Wiki?

Quotation: A Wiki (Hawaiian for “quick“)is a hypertext system for web sites whose
contents are not only read by users but can also be modified online directly in the
browser. The best-known application is the Wikipedia online encyclopedia (Source:
Wikipedia).
We have adopted the basic idea of cooperative working and the compilation of
information. We therefore use the term Wiki, although we have adapted the procedure to
the practical needs of the enginee.

Fundamental properties of a VCmaster Wiki

A VCmaster Wiki can be described as follows:

• This is a file in VCmaster format (*.hed). It can be edited by the program like any
other text file. This file is the basis for the collection of information by topic because
any files can be linked with it.
• Linking is carried out via so-called hyperlinks. Everyone is familiar with this technology
from the HTML pages of the Internet. A VCmaster Wiki can establish links to any file
formats.
• The storage location of the linked files is immaterial. The file can be stored on the hard
disk, on the network or even on the Internet.

63
 • The application is assigned by means of the file extension of the linked file which is to
be opened by clicking on the hyperlink. This is done automatically based on the
Windows system settings. Example: If a PDF file is linked, the program which is
assigned the ".pdf" file extension starts automatically. This is usually Acrobat Reader.
The default browser opens the HTML-page.
• Wikis are opened with the Template Explorer. The procedure is basically the same as
Loading a template.

Application examples

Wikis can be used in lots of different ways. The fields of application are e.g.:
File-
Knowledge database
• Collection of calculation templates on a
specific topic. One example is our
structural engineering formula collection
which contains formulae for static
systems, strength of materials and
geometry (see figure on the right).
• Documentation of calculation templates:
For example manufacturer’s
documentation, measurement tables or
information from the literature can be
assigned to a template.
• Description of templates: The fields of
application and boundary conditions of one
or more templates can be explained (see
figure on the right).
• Collection of external data: Documents
with standards or guidelines can be clearly
linked and compiled in a VCmaster Wiki.
Access to such information is thus
considerably more efficient.

64
Link data

File–
Knowledge database–
Edit links

Figure: Editing the links

Designation in Wiki: Text to be displayed

Linked file: File to be opened when clicking on the designation

Read link on the cursor: Reading of the data at the cursor position in order to
edit the link

Save link: Save entry

Testing the link: Function test of an entered link

Special features
It is immaterial whether the files are VCmaster files or not. VCmaster files are opened in
the Template Explorer. For all other files, the Template Explorer opens the application
assigned to the file extension.

Special case: Link to a template

When compiling template libraries, it can be useful to have references available to
different points. To simplify maintenance of the template, it is sensible only to generate
one reference (similar to linking in the Windows operating system). An empty file is
created for this which contains solely a link to this template in the first line. The Template
Explorer recognises this and automatically opens the linked file.

65
 4. Organising and designing

The calculating capacity and compilation of documents are the main focus in the first
chapters. VCmaster also includes many tools for designing documents. For example, this
applies to:

• the page header with page

numbering
• the cover sheet
• the table of contents
• headings

and further useful tools such as

• data fields and file information

• the navigator (see right)
• automatic data backup
• the organisation on the PC
• and export functions

Many of the functions described in the chapter cannot be looked at in isolation from one
another because they interact with each other. It is, therefore, advisable to read the whole
chapter and not only individual sections of it.

Important information on the interaction of functions:

The functions interact
with each other in • The headings are automatically adopted in the table of contents. The table of
many situations. contents is designed according to the hierarchy of the chapter.
• Headings and Navigator: The headings are also used to navigate in the document
(see image above).
• Page numbering and page header: The page numbers are created automatically.
The numbering includes inserted or modified pages and hidden areas.
• Data fields: The page numbers, table of contents, etc. are placed by means of the
data fields. These fields are automatically assigned with the corresponding data during
printing.
• File information: Project data can be used consistently in headers and footers or the
first page. The corresponding data (e.g. project name) is automatically preallocated for
the current project.
• Headings and Export or Import: During a PDF export, the document structure is
generated from the headings and saved with the PDF file. When importing from
reference projects, data can be searched for and adopted on the basis of the chapter
structure.

66
4.1 Page headers

Entering headers and footers

Select the Edit - Page-header and -footer function (see below). Enter the headers and
footers. Save this file as a standard template under File - Template manager - Save as
standard template.

The standard template contains the current header and is automatically loaded when the The standard
template contains the
program starts. Information on the project is entered using fields and can be changed
current header and is
without having to edit the header again. If several headers are used, it may also be automatically loaded
worthwhile to save the header as a format template. When the project is changed, this when the program
format template is loaded with File - Template manager - Load formatted template and starts.
Save as standard template. This saves re-entering.

The header is displayed in the upper area and the footer in the lower area of the split
window. It doesn't matter whether the fields are entered in the header or the footer. The
project and position description can, of course, also be placed in the header (not shown in
the example).

Note on tables in headers and footers

To place text blocks and graphics next to each other, please use the simple table. The
frames can be shown or hidden. If you use a table, please leave a blank line before and
after the table (to do this, you may need to reduce the top edge of the page). Please
design the headers and footers using the VCmaster tables only. Headers from other
programs that were copied via the clipboard sometimes cause problems later.

Fields in headers and footers

Page numbers, index
The project data are linked to the header via fields. etc. are placed by
data fields.
Prerequisite is that the data for the project are entered
under File – Project data - File information (see figure).
The headers and footers are automatically updated.

67
 Chapter headings and page numbers

Insert- Chapter headings and page numbers can be set in headers and footers via the Fields -
Fields-Fields with Fields with updating function. See also Chapter 4.3 Headings and table of contents.
updating
There are two fields available which allow
Note:
VCmaster creates the consistent page numbering: Page No.
required entries for after 'Page': and Page No. The difference
print or print preview. If here is that the first field automatically
quick view is being
writes the text "Page:" before the page
operated, there is no
update. number if there is a page number,
otherwise just the actual number
appears.

The function Insert- Fields – Link to project manager is available for transferring
information from the project administration.

Frames and background illustrations

Any graphic can be used as a background in the As background image function. Two
different background illustrations can be specified. The first one is used on the pages
without headers and footers, the second on the other pages. See also Chapter 4.3
Headings and table of contents.

Background illustrations can also be frames if the document is to be issued on standard

pages. Another area of application is design where this is specified with respect to
Corporate Identity.

The procedure is as follows:

1) Create or open the required background illustration with a

program of your choice (e.g. CAD program, PDF document,
etc.).
2) Print the document via the t2W interface. The interface
window opens.
3) Select File - As Page Frame from the menu. Save this file
under a name.
4) Swap to VCmaster. Under File - Settings - Print options /
Hiding, select background illustration 1 for pages without
headers and footers and background illustration 2 for pages
with headers and footers.

68
4.2 Functions for page numbering

With the consistent alignment of VCmaster as a tool for digitally setting up structural
Format-
analyses, the management of modified and added pages plays an increasingly important
Section / Index
role. The functions for page numbering have been extended accordingly. Placeholders can
also be inserted for pages from external programs. The following options are available: Purpose:
Control of page
• Inserted pages: These pages are given separate numbering in addition to the existing numbering and
number. For example, if three pages are added after page 16, these are given the page chapters.
numbers 16.1, 16.2 and 16.3.
• Modified pages: If pages are modified, they can be provided with an index. For
example, if pages 12-15 are modified, the page numbers will be 12a to 15a. Any
upper/lower case letter can be specified as the index.
• Place holder for pages:
Any pages, such as the outputs of other programs, can therefore be integrated in the
document later. The number of pages to be inserted later is specified by the user.
These are skipped when
numbering the pages. The table of
contents also takes them into
account. A heading can even be
specified for the pages to be
added, e.g. "Electronic calculation
with FE program". Example: If ten
pages of another program are to
be included after page 23, the
24th page is given page number
34 on the printout, etc.
• Chapters: Chapters can begin
with a new page number (see
Section with specified page
number). A chapter ID can be
prefixed to the page number.

Note:
Section change in Supplements can be
VCmaster printed separately.

Inserted and modified pages each require a start and an end mark. For transparent
assignment, it is useful to insert a fixed page break after the start and end mark or to set
the marks before the corresponding breaks. The input is similar for modified pages.

Leaving the option has the effect that the preceding data is retained when new data is
entered. This makes nesting of the functions possible. For example, an inserted page can
be given the index of a modification (e.g. 12.5a).

69
 In a placeholder, the number of pages that are to be inserted later is specified by the user.
These are skipped in the page numbering. A heading can even be specified for the pages
to be added, e.g. "Electronic calculation with FE program". Example: If ten pages of
another program are to be included after page 23, the 24th page is given page number 34
when printed, etc.

The table of contents includes all information. Supplements can be printed separately (see
File - Print).

Edit a section change

All details can be changed with the context menu (right mouse key). The section change
can be copied and deleted in the context menu.

Edit a section change

Cover sheets and preliminary remarks

The deactivation of page numbering on the cover sheet and the numbering of preliminary
remark pages with Roman numerals are controlled by the automatic table of contents.

We have decided on this procedure because this enables

the normal case to be realised without the additional
setting of section formatting.

The dialog is displayed in the page preview and when

printing if a table of contents is present in the text. See
also next chapter.

The following order is assumed:

1) Pages without numbers, optionally with or without

header
2) Preliminary remarks with Roman numerals (I-XX)
3) Normal pages beginning with page number 1

Query from cover

sheet and pages with
preliminary remarks

70
4.3 Headings and table of contents

Headings
CRTL+H
Any lines can be marked as headings. There are four different Format-
levels: Main Title, Heading, Position and Paragraph. In Line as heading
addition to designing the heading, it is also possible to select
whether it is entered in the table of contents. At the same
time, the navigator uses this information to display the
document structure.

The position number or designation that is behind "Pos:" or

"Position:" can be specified in the header for printing. To do
this, the line must be defined as a position and the corresponding field placed in the
header (for more details, see Chapter 4.1). This is position "202" in the example below.
Please do not enter any empty spaces in the position designation.

Example: Pos: 202 Console

Generating the table of contents

Insert-
Fields-Fields with
The table of contents can either be generated as text or updating
completely automatically positioned via the Field function. Note:
VCmaster generates
In the former, just a text is created. If the page numbers the table of contents
change, they must be corrected manually or the table for printing or the
page preview.
regenerated. To do this, use the Table of contents as text Quick view: here the
function under Insert - Fields. current document is
shown without
In the latter, the position of the table is defined using a updating the fields,
such as page numbers
field. The table of contents is automatically generated at
and contents
this location for the printout and/or page preview. Please directory.
use the Table of Contents field function (under Insert -
Fields - Fields with updating).

Designing the table of contents

The cover sheet and pages with preliminary remarks are normally part of a document. The
first page often has no page header. Preliminary remarks are numbered using Roman
numerals if necessary. The prompt for printing or page preview appears when generating
the table of contents. This window allows heading levels (e.g. of paragraphs) to be
switched off.

Fonts, positioning of page numbers and line spacing are administered with Extras –
Settings. Extras-Settings

71
 4.4 Navigating in the document

Navigator
F6
The navigator allows control of the display
Extras–Navigator
via the document structure (see figure).
Headings and positions for this must be
marked as such (see Chapter 4.2). The Back
view window uses the same data.
The navigator can be started in parallel to
the program. In this case, the current
chapter is displayed when working in
VCmaster.

Turn and View Page

Information from preceding pages is often required for structural analyses. The Turn +
View Page function allows previous pages to be displayed. Skipping back to the current
view is possible. This means the values required for subsequent calculation can be viewed
and copied. Note: The Back view window is also suitable for this.

This is called up by pressing the middle mouse wheel. The navigator allows control of the
display via the document structure (see figure). Headings and positions for this must be
marked as such. For details, see also Chapter Headings.

Quick deletion and copying of chapters

A context menu is assigned to the headings (click right

mouse key). The complete chapter can be edited here.

Unlike deleting, the heading remains intact when cleared. A

blank line is released. In the case of modifications, a new
transfer can be added quickly and easily at this location.
This is particularly useful when using the t2W interface.

72
4.5 Notes and comments

Notes, supplementary information and explanations make it easier to use the templates. Insert-Comment
The VCmaster document can save this information. The entries are displayed on the
screen, but not printed. The context menu is available for editing.

Example:
Comment in
VCmaster

4.6 Editing images

Size and location

If a image is marked, the displayed context

menu appears by clicking the right mouse
key.

The dialog for formatting the image is called

up with Size and Location. You can scale or
shift the image horizontally.

Editing graphics

System diagrams, details and the transfer of the t2W interface must be frequently edited
or comleted in practice. You can add or modify comments, notes or graphic elements.
Deleting areas and rotating the graphic are also possible.
The user must select the graphic. The dialog for editing the graphic can then be started via
the Edit item in the context menu or by double-clicking.

73
 The following graphic elements have been realised:

• Lines with different stroke weights

• Rectangles (filled or as frames)
• Text with access to all installed
Windows fonts

The following functions are also

available:

• Rotate the entire graphic in steps of

90° or counterclockwise.
• Editing the elements mentioned
above for better placement or for
correcting input errors.

Note: The focal point in the development of this tool was the aim of adding information to
existing graphics. At no time did we ever want to develop a new CAD program. We still
recommend using the available CAD software for creating graphics. Many interfaces allow
the transfer of graphics from any other program. Graphics from CAD programs can be
directly integrated in VCmaster using the OLE interface. Prerequisite is that they also have
the corresponding interface.

Scaling in the case of distortions

For some wide screens, a scaling factor must be

specified if the display of the transfer is
distorted.

This is usually calculated from:

Px = horizontal screen pixels

Py = vertical screen pixels

74
4.7 Instructions for data organisation

4.7.1 Organisation on the PC and in the network

We recommend
We recommend specifying different directories for the program, the templates and the specifying different
data. For work groups, templates and data can be placed on network hard drives. directories for the
program, the
We favour a central path for the projects (e.g. d:\projects). We create the project folders templates and the
data.
under this directory. The description can be a project number and the name. In our
engineering office all data (including the other programs) are saved using this structure. In
addition, we have a central directory for templates and libraries (e.g. d:\lib). We also put
data of all programs here. The VCmaster templates are then located under
d:\lib\VCmaster, for example. Please bear this in mind during the installation as the
templates can only be moved by reinstalling them.

Insert a new folder

Example: Project with

project number and the
name

You can, of course, configure your PC as you wish, but the structure mentioned above has
advantages for searching and reusing calculations as well as for backing up projects and
libraries (the latter are often forgotten).

VCmaster does not include special project administration. The path under which a project
was saved last time is taken as the default for opening and saving.

The size of the calculation that can be administrated in a document generally depends on
the processor performance. With optimum hardware, the limit is 300 to 500 pages. Larger
calculations are joined together at the end via the Batch function (see below).

The larger the monitor, the more pleasant and ergonomic the work. Functions such as the
Back view window and From reference project can only be used efficiently if two views can
be displayed at the same time.

75
 4.7.2 Working with sub documents
VCmaster supports
the division of a VCmaster supports the division of a document into several files. In the process, one
document into document acts as the main document which is linked with one or more sub documents.
several files. The result of this for extensive documentation is that central memory is saved and the
processing is accelerated. You can thereby edit targeted sections without opening the
whole document. Additionally, you have a better overview of the storage process as large
sections or items, such as framework or FE calculations are saved in separate files.

When printing or calling up the page view in the main document, the whole document is
compiled. No updating is carried out with Quick view activated.

Principle

VCmaster also offers two basic options:

• An existing document is linked as a sub document with the main document.

Extras- This makes sense if the sub document exists already and the whole documentation is
Sub document- to be compiled. To do this, select the sub document function in the window shown
Insert link above.
• A part of the document is stored in a sub
document. This option is generally used if it is
Extras- established when working with the document that it
Sub document-
Store selected area too large and editing it is taking too long.

File name and storage location

The stored file can be linked in various ways:

• Relative to the main document: This generally makes sense as all files for a project
can be assigned again when copying files. When doing this, the sub documents should
be saved in the same directory as the main document (cf. example in the illustration
above).

Example:
Linked file: attachement.hed
Current path: D:\Projects\2010\015\

In some cases it may be a good idea to set up a separate sub directory for the sub
documents.

Example:
Important note:
If a globally saved Linked File: sub documents\attachement.hed
sub document is Current path: D:\Projects\2010\015\
changed, all projects
which are connected
with it also change
• Fixed data file path: This only makes sense if information is to be linked with the
document which is not usually edited. This could be, e.g. documentation from the
when printed again.
manufacturer, norms or general preliminary notes. The advantage is that these are
only stored once.

76
Important note

• The functions described above require the storage location of the main document. This
means: The main document must have been saved in advance at least once.
• When the project is transferred, all linked subfiles must be transferred as well. It is
therefore recommended that a folder be set up for each project and that the main file
and subfiles are saved in this folder (see above).
• When copying a link the linked subfile is also physically copied onto the hard drive.
"attachement.hed" becomes "attachement001.hed", for example. This prevents a sub
document being linked several times with a main document. Otherwise, it could be that
when editing a sub document the complete documentation is inadvertently changed in
various places. The user should observe this when manually linking documents.
• The headers and footers for the main document are decisive.

4.7.3 Batch management

A batch is a list of several files that can be Extras-

combined to form a single document. Batch management
Note:
For larger projects, it makes sense to divide the The function is only
documentation over a number of files. The batch included for
compatibility reasons.
management option allows you to combine them
Please use the
into a single document. This is required to create outsourced subfiles.
a table of contents, for example.

Batch management can be called up via the

Extras - Batch management menu item. Existing
batches are inserted at the cursor position via
Insert Batch.

Important note: The batch is normally inserted in an empty file which only contains the
header and footer with page numbering. Please note that headers and footers of this
document must agree in the height with those of the batch files. If not, it cannot be
guaranteed that the page breaks will be set correctly.

Edit list: The file list that is displayed on the left in the large field can be extended and
edited. Add is used to append the selected file at the end. Insert is used to integrate it
before the file on the blue background. Delete is used to remove the current file from the
list. Upward and Downward are used to change the order of the batch files in the list.

Options: Select:
- whether the files should be recalculated when inserting the batch with Calculate,
- whether the files are each inserted on a new page with New page or,
- whether to switch directly to the page preview with Preview.

77
 4.7.4 Hiding areas

Insert- The Hide begin/Hide End field functions are

Fields-Fields with used to hide areas on the printout.
updating
See also Chapter 4.1.

4.8 Export

VCmaster exports the data in

File-Export
the following formats:
Statics as a digital
PDF file (see
• Adobe Acrobat (*.pdf)
illustration) • Microsoft Word (*.doc)
• Rich Text File (*.rtf)
• ASCII-Text (*.txt)
• ZIP-File (*.zip)

Please note that the calculating

intelligence is lost through the
export. Saving in VCmaster
format is mandatory.
We recommend the PDF format
for forwarding calculations to
third parties.

4.8.1 ZIP format

File- The VCmaster file is compressed in ZIP format. If t2W-Hybrid Objects are present, the
Export-Save ZIP file corresponding sub-folder is also exported in the ZIP file. This is especially advantageous
when transferring data in order to ensure complete datasets.

78
4.9 Automatic data backup

The time interval for backing up the document Extras-

is specified under Extras - Settings - Automatic Settings–Automatic
file saving. file saving

VCmaster also copies the files with the name

"_SaveFile*.* " into BAK files (double data
backup). These are automatically deleted after
72 hours.

The file name contains the time of the backup. If the backup copy is required, the BAK file
must be renamed to a HED file or opened with the Open automatic backups function
mentioned below. All backup files are located in the Application Data directory under
"Christoph_GmbH (see below). They are called "_SaveFile*.* ".

Installation directories

Extras-
Settings-
Installation
directories

Opening backups

Data backups can be opened at any Extras-

time under Extras. Open automatic
backups
If VCmaster has not been ended
correctly, the program starts this dialog
automatically.

Example: Backup of file

"Document1.hed".

79
 5. Instructions for editing text

All text processing functions correspond to the Windows standard. The most important
instructions for effective use are given in this chapter. We nevertheless recommend that
users who have a good working knowledge of Windows also read this chapter as some
All text processing
functions specific questions are explained.
correspond to the
Windows standard For example, this applies to:

• special characters,
• selecting and copying,
• tabs and control characters and
• tables.

Note: We do not explain basic Windows functions. We assume a basic knowledge of

Windows text editing, tabs and the marking and formatting of text.

User interface

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5.1 Selecting, copying and cutting

In order to edit text (e.g., change, delete, copy font type, etc.), the text must be selected.
Use the mouse or keyboard for this. Edit-

Selecting Cut
CTRL+X
1) cut
2) copy Copy
3) paste CTRL+C
4) fast copying on/off
Paste
CTRL+V
Notes
Delete
• Selecting with the keyboard is often more precise and efficient. To do this, press the DEL
SHIFT key and move the Picture up or Picture down key or the cursor keys. This
procedure is recommended for marking larger areas.
• Working with shortcut keys for frequently used functions is quicker than using the
Note:
Selecting with the
mouse. Use function keys such as CTRL+C, CTRL+V and CTRL+X. This is considerably keyboard is often
quicker when writing than using the mouse. Most keyboard combinations are the same more precise and
in all Windows programs. For details, see Chapter 5.5. efficient.

• Blank lines: If the line is locked because it is a calculation line, a line for writing can be Working with shortcut
inserted using Edit - Line -Insert blank line (CTRL+K). keys is quicker.

Fast copying on/off

If fast copying is activated, copying operations are only possible within VCmaster. This
saves a lot of memory capacity and thus considerably accelerates the copying of large
segments or graphics. To copy into other programs, the option must be de-activated. For
copying large JPG files a query appears asking if you wish to copy externally.

Properties of calculation lines

• Calculation lines and tables must always be moved or copied as a complete entity. This
is checked by the program.
• Please place the cursor at the leftmost position when inserting calculation lines. Edit-Line
Calculation lines always require a complete line. Incorrect inputs are normally
Insert blank line
corrected by the program.
CTRL+K
• VCmaster verifies that all calculation results are okay when inserting, moving, deleting
or copying. The program automatically checks the consequence of the process and Cut line
CTRL+Y
adjusts all affected results.
• This means it is possible, for example, to copy a structural analysis if it needs to be Copy line
carried out in the same way at a number of measurement positions. The new input CTRL+Z
values are immediately taken into account when inserted.

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 5.2 Tabs and control characters

Format- Basis
Paragraph / Tab
The exact placing of text is only possible
using tabs. The following tabs are
differentiated for this:

The exact placing of Note, e.g.: Specify the placing of tabs (in
text is only possible cm) under Format – Paragraph / Tab (see
using tabs.
mask below). Then write the words
"Column1", "Column2", "Column3", and
"24.00". Press the TAB key after each word.

Editing tabs

Shifting a tab: Click the line you want to change with the mouse pointer. Move the
mouse pointer with the tip exactly on the tab symbol to be shifted. Press and hold down
the left mouse key. Move the mouse pointer along the line ruler until it comes to the
desired position. Release the mouse key again. The tab and the characters you have
positioned are now shifted to the new position.

Deleting a tab: Click the line where you want to remove the tab. Point to the
corresponding tab symbol with the mouse pointer. Press and hold down the left mouse key
and drag the mouse pointer downwards out of the line ruler. Release the mouse key again.
The tab will be removed and the display readjusted.

Important! Never move a tab beyond another tab.

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Properties of calculation lines

Tabs are also used for formatting calculation lines. These are set automatically by the
calculating component. VCmaster requires three tabs for each calculation line:

In calculation lines: A typical effect of Windows programs is that at times the tab needs
to be moved to the right in order to move the formula to the left. This applies, for
example, if 6 cm is provided for the text but the formula contains a longer text. In this
case, please move the first tab in the paragraph ruler (see above) to the right until it is
behind the text preceding the formula. Then set the other tabs accordingly. You should
never move a tab over another one as it is important to maintain the order of left-justified,
right-justified and decimal tabs.

Control characters
Extras-
Control characters such as paragraph marks and space marks can be displayed on the Display-Show all
screen by clicking on the Display hidden characters button. These characters are hidden by characters
clicking again.

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 5.3 Inserting tables

Basics

Table- It is often easier to arrange numerical and text columns in tables than by using tabs. A
Insert table table consists of rows and columns. The intersections of each row and column form cells
which you can fill with text or images. Within each cell, the text is wrapped in the same
way as text in a document is wrapped at the margins of the page.

This kind of table can also be used to display text in two parallel paragraphs. In this way
you can create a section with several columns or place an image alongside the text (e.g. in
headers and footers).

Calculations can be performed if a table is marked as a calculation table. Frames can be

set in text with simple tables, e.g.:

Editing tables

• Moving within a table: You can switch between the cells in a table by using the
mouse or TAB or SHIFT+TAB.
• Selecting: When selecting the rows of a table with the mouse, it is easier to mark
from right to left.
• Changes within the table: You can insert or delete rows and columns in the table,
change the width of the columns and rows, add borders and shading. The best thing is
to use the context menu (right mouse key).

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5.4 Special characters, spelling, layout

5.4.1 Special characters

The special characters are set out on three F2

tabs. If you have ticked the active checkbox,
Insert-
the dialog closes as soon as a character is Special characters
inserted.

Format-
Set font-style

5.4.2 Font style and layout

Format-Align

5.4.3 Spelling check

Structural analysis calculations can be checked for spelling mistakes with VCmaster.
With standard text programs this is almost impossible as the structural analysis contains
technical terms, formula symbols and output data.

In addition to a German and English

dictionary, VCmaster includes a technical
dictionary with more than 15,000 terms from Extras-
the building and construction industry. Terms Spelling check
that are not already in the dictionary can be
added.

85
 5.4.4 User interface layout

Extras- The settings are made under the item: Extras – Settings - Program interface.
Settings-Program
interface Four different menu views are possible. After a change, VCmaster must be closed and
started again. The layout view and its colour design are set in the same menu. The layout
view can be deactivated. VCmaster then appears in the classic view (see below).

Layout-View Classic-View

5.4.5 Page view

The page view or print preview shows the finished document on the screen. Two modes
are offered for this:

F8 • The standard view: here the complete document is compiled with Page numbers,
Table of contents and all Sub documents.
File-
Page preview • The quick view (right button is activated): here the current document is shown
without updating the fields, such as page numbers and contents directory and without
Note:
The quick view is sub documents.
advisable during
editing as this can be The quick view is advisable during editing as this can be
called up considerably
called up considerably faster. There is a great difference
faster.
for large documents in particular. For the final
compilation of the documentation (e.g. before PDF
export or printing), the option must be deactivated
again.

86
5.5 The most important hotkeys

These shortcut commands speed up input. You can, of course, also use all functions with
the mouse.

Help ..................................................................... F1

Calculate line ......................................................... ALT+ENTER

Modify calculation line ............................................ ALT+ENTER

Graphic formula ..................................................... CTRL+F9

Variable list ........................................................... F9

Add calculation lines ............................................... F12

Indent off/on ......................................................... ALT+POS1

Cut ...................................................................... CTRL+X

Copy .................................................................... CTRL+C

Paste .................................................................... CTRL+V

Copy line .............................................................. CTRL+Z

Cut line ................................................................. CTRL+Y

Insert blank line ..................................................... CTRL+K

Save .................................................................... CTRL+S

Bold on/off ............................................................ CTRL+B

Italics on/off .......................................................... CTRL+I

Underline on/off ..................................................... CTRL+U

Superscribe on/off ................................................. CTRL+D

Subscribe on/off .................................................... CTRL+E

Line as Heading ..................................................... CTRL+H

Line Bold .............................................................. CTRL+Q

Template Explorer .................................................. F10

Special characters .................................................. F2

Navigator .............................................................. F6

Page preview ......................................................... F8

Page break on/off .................................................. CTRL+ENTER

87
 6. Installation, help and videos

Online help

VCmaster includes an extensive and well-designed help function. This has the advantage
of being easier to update than the manual. It also allows you to search for information on
a specific question. Notes on using the Help function.

In contrast to many other software manufacturers, we do not provide our documentation

only on electronic media. We think that both media have their advantages and optimally
supplement one another. With this in mind, a printed manual has also been designed.

Introductory videos
? - Training videos
The use of our software is explained in short
animated films (see figure). The films make it
easier to approach the program. We strongly
recommend first-time users to watch the following
videos:

• How does VCmaster calculate?

• How do I load a template?
• Which functions are available for digital
technical documentation?
• How does the t2W-Technology work?
• How do I combine loads and results in a table?

Instructions for using the help

F1
Operation of the help complies with current standards and is straightforward to use. We
took particular care in compiling the index. This makes it possible to search for solutions
by entering a keyword (Search). Use this option please. The help lists all chapters with
information that matches the term you are looking for.

88
Installation

Installation occurs fully automatically after inserting the CD. If the CD does not start
automatically, please select the CD drive in Windows Explorer and start the „install“
program.
Please read Chapter
4.8. This contains
Please read Chapter 4.8. This contains important instructions for organising your work in
important
VCmaster. instructions for
organising your
You can transfer your settings from another PC under Extras - Export Settings or Import work in VCmaster.
Settings.

The release code is required to release the full version. The

first two letters of the code stand for the version (e.g. V12
for VCmaster 2012). The matching code is required for the
respective program version. This is supplied with the order
or with the update. The code and licensee must be entered
correctly. The code is independent of the hardware.

System recommendations (status: August 2011)

• Windows 32 Bit: XP, Vista or 7 / Windows 64 Bit: Vista or 7

• Processor greater than 2.0 GHz
• Main memory from 2.0 GB
• Hard disk space: 200-400 MB (depending on the template libraries)
• Monitor from 20’’ / at least 1280 x 1024 pixels
• topical information see help

Note on the monitor: It is generally true that a large monitor greatly improves the speed
parallel working with several applications. A smaller monitor is sufficient for use of the
templates. If you want regularly to create structural analyses, it makes sense to display
two A4 pages or VCmaster and a structural analysis program in parallel. This is possible
from a monitor size of 24" upwards. Alternatively, two monitors from 20" upwards can also
be used. At today's hardware prices, the purchase pays off very quickly as it makes the
work considerably more efficient.

Notes on the memory and processor: Notes on the memory and processor: The
principle that the size of document that can be processed increases with the performance
of the PC applies here. We would like to point out that VCmaster documents, and thus
memory requirements, can be quite large. Memory-intensive graphics, in particular,
increase the resource requirement in areas that correspond to those of FEM or CAD
software. By splitting them up into sub-documents, however, large structural analyses can
also be produced on less powerful PCs. Documentation comprising PDF files of up to 1,000
pages can be and regularly is produced in practice.

89
 Index

Cross section values 29 Functions

Hide 32
Logical 13
A Mathematical 12
D Summation 14
Address management 71 Trigonometric 12
Automatic Data backup 79
Alignment 16 Data entry wizard 19
Saving 79 Database
Manage 29 G
Purpose of 25
Query assistent 27 Graphic 51, 56, 73
B Query from 25 Graphic formulas 6, 9
Search in several 28 Greek characters 85
Back view window 36 Select from 25
Display
Multi-column 84
Of formulae 6 H
C Print preview 86
Tabular 84 Headers and footers
CAD Enter 67
Embed 51 Zoom 85
Document Hide 70
Import 42, 44 Page numbers 68
Calculate Check 85
Compile 33, 76 Headings
Lines 6 Defining 71
Tables 22, 24 Display twice 36
Export 78 Settings 71
Calculation With the PDF export 88
Of functions 12 Manage 75
Navigate in 72 Hidden areas 78
Of tables 20, 24 Hide
Principle 6 Of the support structure
planning 38 Areas 78
Variables to 7 Database query 32
Calculation line Set up 66
Header on cover sheet 70
Adding 20 Hotkeys 87
Aligning 16
Changing 15, 18, 19
Entering 9
E
Formatting 15 Equation see formula I
Principle 6 Export 78
Change Import see Insert
Align lines 17 Index
Calculation lines 15 In variables 7
Decimal places 11, 18 F Of Page numbers 69
Formula 18 Online help 88
Positions 53, 72 Fields Insert
Table result 20 Data 66 Autotext 37
Unit of measurements 15, For items 71 Comment 73
32 In headers and footers 67 Dlubal 55
Variables 18 Insert 68 Fields 68
Chapters 69 Table of contents 71 Friedrich+Lochner 53
Check Format From CAD 42
Analyses 31 Align lines 16, 17 From other project 35
Spelling 85 Calculation lines 15, 17, From reference project 35
Check analyses 31 32 From statics programs 38
Compilation Pages 66 Graphics 42, 43
Of loads 61 Query the 15 In the menu 39
Of stresses 22 Format templates 67 Macros 37
Tools 34 Formula OLE object 51
Component templates Calculate 6 PDF file 44
Insert 35 Display options 6 Special characters 85
Manage 37 Edit 10 Table of contents 71
Overview 34 Formula editor 9 Template 35
Construction tables 25 Functions 12 Text 81
Copy Graphic 6, 9 via t2W 41, 44
Fast -ing 81 Summation 10 Insert blank line 81, 87
Items 36 Frame 68 Installation
Text 81 Functional keys 87 Directories 79

90
 File structure 75 Format templates 67 Template Explorer 36
Recommendations 89 Frame 68 Unit of measurements 32
Integrate from programs 38 Load automatically 67 Sketches 56
Interface Page numbers 69 Special characters 85
BML 41 Page setup 66 Spell checker 85
CAD 42, 44 Pages Statics, digital 33, 38
Dlubal 55 Header 67 Sub documents 76
Excel 51 Index 69 Sum of calculation lines 20
Friedrich+Lochner 53 Preview 71, 86 Surface
Glaser isb cad 43 With preliminary remarks Functions 80
Graphics formats 51 70 Set up 86
Integrate applications 39 PC setup 75 t2W interface 46
Nemetschek 42 PDF System images 56
OLE 51 Insert 44 System recommendations
Overview 38 Output 78 89
t2W 41, 44 Phrase template 37
To CAD 42 Place holder for pages 69
Position
Change 53, 72 T
Define 71
K Display 72 t2W-Hybrid-Technology 50
In the header 68 t2W-Technology 41, 44
Knowledge database 63 Print option Table
Hide functions 32 Calculation 22
Print in black 32 Change the result text 20
Supplement 70 Database 29
L Print preview 86 Design 24
Project Generate 20
Load composition 61 Insert 84
Load module 61 Create 75
Data 67 Integrate EXCEL 24
Header 66 Table of contents
Reference 34 Entries 71
Generate 71, 86
M Splitting 76
Tabulators
Macros 37 In calculation lines 15, 32,
Material properties 29 83
Mathematical functions 12 R Principle 82
Template
Reference project 35 From library 35
Remarks 73 In the same document 36
N Result single-lined 21 Text 37
Template Explorer 35
Navigator 72 Toolbox 11, 17, 18
Norm
Data from 33 S
Load 61
Notes 73 Search U
For templates 35
In other projects 35 Unit of measurement
Not fulfilled analysis 31 Expand list 32
O Section change 69 Query 15
Settings
Online help 88 Apply 89
Organise Calculation lines 15
Batch 77 Cover sheet 70 V
Database tables 29 Directories 79
File structure 75 Fast copying 81 Variables
Hidden areas 78 Font 85 Change 18
Projects 75 Friedrich+Lochner 54 Descriptions 7
Sub documents 76 Headings 71 List 11
Templates 35 Interfaces 38 Principle 7
Overview Macros 37 View
Document structure 72 Monitor 49, 74 Document structure 72
Template library 34 OLE 52 Reference project 35
Page format 67 Same document 36
Page numbers 69
Print options 32
P Sketch editor 60
Surface 86
W
Page break 87 t2W 46
Page header Wiki 63
Tabulators 82
Edit 67

91