Product(s):	OpenBuildings Designer
	Version(s):	Connect Edition
	Area:	Structural Design

Problem: 

There is a limited number of structural materials when placing slabs. How can I add new materials to this list?

Solution: 

Step 1: Go to the Configuration Variables dialog, search for the configuration variable PS_MATERIALFILE and check the path that is defined. To access the Configuration Variables dialog,you can use the  search field in the ribbon bar and then search for "Configuration Variables", or from the backstage choose Settings > Configuration > Configuration Variables.

Step 2: In Windows File Explorer, navigate to the path defined above and open the file named ProStructuresMaterial.mdb using MicroSoft Access. 

Step 3: After opening the file, in the Tables section on the left you will see multiple entries, but in this example we will select Concrete to add new materials under the concrete table. 

Step 4: Scroll down the concrete table and add a new index value such as 1700, as from that point onwards you will be adding the new materials as shown in the below image. 

Step 5: After adding your materials, save the MDB file and then restart OpenBuildings Designer. Now when you place a slab, under the Structural | Material property you will be able to see the new materials.