Repeat Support Frame

To repeat a support frame:

1. Select Create > Repeat MDS Framework Support from the main menu.

   A prompt is displayed at the bottom of the main window: ‘Identify MDS Support Frame to Repeat’.

2. Click on the support frame that is to be repeated.

   Any member of a frame that has been created by the MDS application can be selected (atta, section, joints, etc).

   After selection the support frame is validated, and if it is not suitable (see ‘Limitations’ below, you are prompted to select another support frame until you pick one that does meet the conditions.

   Note: Frames for HVAC and cable racks can be selected.

   After the support frame has been validated, a prompt is displayed at the bottom of the main window: ‘Identify tube of pipe to Add Datum Atta of the Support Frame’.

3. Click on the piece of tube (or HVAC/tray section) where you want to create a copy of the source frame.

   Only the datum atta and SREF atta are copied; any other attas and additional crossbars are not copied.

   When the new frame is created, MDS performs the checks that are made when creating a support, to ensure it is suitable for the selected tube/HVAC/tray section (bore, steelwork size, orientation).

   If the selected tube, etc cannot accept the new support frame, an error message is displayed and the frame is deleted. Otherwise, the Modify Support Name form is displayed so that you can give a name to the new frame. This is the same form that is displayed when repeating a standalone ancillary.

4. Do one of the following:

   • Type a name for the new frame.

   • Use the MDS Autoname button, then click on OK.

   • Click Cancel to use the default name.

   The repeat function works in a loop: each time a new frame is created you are asked to identify another tube/HVAC/tray section for which a support frame is required.

5. To exit the procedure, press the Esc key on the keyboard.

Limitations

• If the frame FT22 (bedplate) is selected the procedure is terminated, and the standard form for copying of supports is displayed instead. (see Copy a Support).

• The above repeat functions cannot be used for some frames, as they require special treatment. They are:

  FT30	FT55A
  FT44	FT55B
  FT45	FT55C
  FT46	FT55D
  FT47	VT01 to VT06
  FT54A	VT20 to VT24
  FT54B
  FT54C
  FT54D