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Linking wind loads: MWFRS Envelope Procedure is required

Only the MWFRS (Envelope Procedure) wind method exports pressures that can be linked into the Diaphragm Analysis calculator. Components and Cladding β€” the default wind method on a new Wind Loads sheet β€” and MWFRS (Directional Procedure) do not support linking. If the link icon does not offer your Wind Loads sheet, or the linked pressures are missing, this is almost always the reason.
To link wind pressures into the Diaphragm Analysis calculator:
  1. Open your Wind Loads calculation.
  2. Set Calculation Type to MWFRS (Envelope Procedure). Do this before linking β€” switching after the fact will not backfill the linked values.
  3. Return to the Diaphragm Analysis calculator and link the wind load from the Envelope Procedure Wind Loads sheet.
If you need Components and Cladding pressures for cladding design, keep that as a separate Wind Loads sheet β€” one project can have both.

Scope: simple flexible diaphragms without torsion

The Diaphragm Analysis calculator models a simple flexible diaphragm without torsion β€” essentially a 1D load path between braced wall lines. You define the diaphragm length and the braced walls that support it; the calculator distributes lateral load to those walls. It is not a general 2D diaphragm model. Systems that need torsion, irregular plan geometry, or open/cantilevered layouts should be analyzed with another method outside this calculator.