How to customize numbering rules for framing elements?

Introduction

To schedule and sort the Structural Framing and Structural Connection family elements, use the Number Elements command.

This will automatically input sorting data in FM SortMark and other instance parameters. As a result, your elements will be scheduled and sorted:

FM SortMark - a default instance parameter in Structural Framing and Structural Connections families that is used for sorting elements.

How to customize numbering rules?

1. Choose the default rule as a starting point

When you start using the Number Elements command, the data inputs are automated using default numbering rules. To change these rules, follow the guide below:

1. Go to Number Elements > Numbering Configuration

Note: in the Numbering Setup tab, there are two columns with its own Sort Mark Configuration:

• SortMark Structural Framings (left) - studs and tracks

• SortMark Structural Connections (right) - anchor bolts, angles, screws and other connections

Sort Mark Configuration columns contain Sort Mark rules that automate inputs in the chosen instance parameters:

1. To customize framing element data inputs, click on the ⚙️settings icon on the left side:

1. Choose one of the default FM SortMark configurations as a starting point:

• FM SortMark by Frame Host and Member Mark - suitable if stud and track labeling varies only by length, volume or position

For example, Bottom plates (BP) will have different numbers (BP-1 and BP-2) because the length or volume is different. If the element length and volume is the same, then elements get the same number (VS-1):

• FM SortMark by Frame Host Mark and Element ID - suitable if every stud and track in a frame needs a unique labeling

For example, all elements have a unique label regardless of their length, volume or other parameter values

2. Customize the FM SortMark output

In this guide, we'll use FM SortMark by Frame Host and Member Mark configuration as a starting point.

1. Open the Sort Mark tab:

Note: the output from the "FM SortMark=" table is written in the FM SortMark parameter:

Calculated: Sort mark Number: numeric (or alphanumeric) value given to an element based on the settings made in the previous tabs (Grouping, Numbering, Sorting, etc)

This parameter cannot be removed.

1. Click Show all parameters:

1. Customize the "FM SortMark=" table by adding/removing parameters, inserting prefixes/sufixes, etc.