I get asked quite often what controls cutback and the extension graphics distance on a beam, so I thought I would share some information on this.
For most structural elements, there is a symbolic representation and a modeled representation which varies with the level of detail.
If you draw a beam and look at it in course view, all you will see if a line representing the beam, at medium you will see a more accurate representation and a fine you will see a truer representation.
The variation in representation also carries over into the plan cut back and extension representation of the beam. If your plan view is set to course detail then the symbolic cutback is controlled through Structural Settings. The dimensional values shown is in plotted size. This only effects the symbolic graphics, not the actual modeled information tied to the beam.
If we look at the same view in medium or fine it is controlled based on the dimensions in properties
Of course how it attaches varies based on family type also as shown below.
Note: Cutback representation when there is an offset supporting beam, will vary depend on whether the supporting beams were already lowered when you placed the joists in which case no cutback will be shown, or if you lowered the supporting beams after the joists were in place, and then you will see the cutback.
For extensions like we would see on a K-Series bar joist that will also vary based on level of detail.
In course view you will see the extension but it will have the symbolic cutback, for modeled it will appear correctly.
Hopefully this helps clear up a few of your questions related to beam graphics.
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