download empty formatted spreadsheet "empty_dual.xls", open the file and let EXCEL know that it is o.k. to enable the macros - and the magic will unfold ...

It is important to keep the empty_dual.xls file alive and unchanged for former usage: save the file under a new name, say welded_connection_1.xls

place a sketch or image describing your problem in the description area, and widen the rows vertically to make the input headline visible, add verbal note

identify your initial parameters and place the name into column B, the short variable name into column C, and the numerical amount into column G, optional the unit in column H.

fill in all necessary equations with parameter name in B, variable shortcut in C, and equation as text in D, units in H, and (optional) Code reference in K to do the analysis

NOW: press Alt/F8 simultaneously, to bring up the macro table

FormatSheet is already selected, therefore only the Enter key needs to be pressed.

Please note, that the macro fills in all equal signs, and then parses the equations from text to working formulae in column G with relative referencing. Neat, eh?

9.

With some beautifications, we are done.

Now, let's assume, we want to change something in the input. As long as it is the numerical value in column H (highlighted light blue), say we increase the weld size to 12 mm, the entire spreadsheet will immediately change the results (highlighted light green).

If we change a formula or add another formula, as shown highlighted in yellow, we have to bo back to step 6: : press Alt/F8 simultaneously, and then press the Enter key. The resulting spreadsheet looks like

and so on and on …

If an error occurs, say in column H the text ?NAME? shows, just go with the cursor to that cell and investigate, what the content is. In many cases you will find that a parameter name is being used in the equation that was not previously defined. It shows up as text inside the cell in column G. Either you have misspelled something or the parameter is really missing. Fix it, Alt/F8, and you are in business again.

If you get an unsolvable error, it is best to start again with a clean sheet (empty_formatted.xls), of course.

For advanced users of the formatted spreadsheet, who want to develop steel design specific calculation sheets, there are now the empty_CISC_shapetables.xls and empty_AISC_shapetables.xls available. These templates have the CISC / AISC shape tables embedded.

Examples of completed sheets are in the monograph section.