"Load Combinations" refer to combinations, factored or otherwise, of the basic load cases analyzed in Analysis mode. In this mode, all load combinations must be defined by the user. Load Combinations can consist of any of the previously defined load cases, but only those comprised entirely of analyzed load cases are available for investigation. These are referred to as "valid load combinations".

When entering the Load Combinations Mode, RAM Frame checks if load combinations have been previously defined and selected. If not all the commands under the Process menu will be unavailable.

To define additional load combinations, modify existing load combinations or change the selection of load combinations while within Load Combinations Mode select the Combination > Custom Combinations command. In the dialog that appears load combinations can be created in the grid. When adding load cases to create the load combination, they can be factored to increase or decrease their contribution to the load combination. Separate combinations of plus and minus factors must be created where appropriate; the program does not automatically reverse the signs of the factors on lateral load cases in user specified combinations.

Click Validate to have RAM Frame indicate which load combinations already defined are valid (all load cases in the combination are analyzed). A green dot at the beginning of a load combination row indicates the load combination is valid. Select the Use column of all load combinations for which results are to be obtained. Selections must be made before the results of load combinations can be displayed.

The results of the selected load combinations can then be investigated using the Process > View/Update function or the commands in the Results menu as explained previously.

See the Load Combination Generator manual for more information.