Combining / Merging two or more models in ETABS
- Truly
- Mohamad
- Jessica Napier (Unlicensed)
Combining two or more models in ETABS
1) Open two ETABS sessions. For this example, let's say Model A and Model B.
Model A
Model B
2) If required add number of stories needed in Model B, using Edit>Edit Stories>Modify>Insert stories, Select the entire Model A by using the Edit > Copy Option command or Ctrl-C.
3) Now go to Model B and the use Edit > Paste Option or Ctrl-V to merge Model B into Model A.
4) Next, change the coordinates and rotation for the pasted model in the Paste Coordinates form. You can see a preview of the model if you place the cursor over OK.
5) Click OK and the two models will be merged.
6) Additional models can be added by repeating this process.
Notes:
1)The procedure above assumes that section properties used in Model B are also present in Model A. All frames that have same sections defined in both models will be pasted correctly, but slabs, walls and load assignments should be reassigned.
2) Copy operation in Model A is by default taken with respect to elevation z=0 while paste operation in Model B is taken by default with respect to the lowest/base level. This is not an issue when base level in both models is at elevation 0 but may cause some discrepancies when base elevation in both models is different than zero. In such case, user may need to apply an appropriate Delta Z to make up this difference to paste objects at the desired elevation in Model B. For example, if base level is at -12ft in both models then enter Delta Z=12ft when pasting objects into Model B so they get pasted at the desired elevation.
3) Model A and B must have the same database units (click on units > consistent units) to merge the two models without any scaling issue. To fix the scaling issue, go to File > Export > ETABS e2k file, select the same consistent units when prompted then import the e2k file back prior to the copy/paste operations.