A tool designed to simplify the process of determining material quantities and dimensions needed for constructing wooden frameworks, such as those used in residential and commercial building construction. These tools often provide calculations for studs, joists, rafters, and sheathing, accounting for factors like spacing, span, and load requirements. As an example, a user might input the dimensions of a wall, the desired stud spacing (e.g., 16 inches on center), and the tool would then calculate the number of studs required, the total board footage, and potentially even a cutting list.
The employment of such instruments offers several advantages. They contribute to increased accuracy in material estimation, thereby reducing waste and minimizing project costs. Furthermore, these calculation aids accelerate the planning phase, allowing for faster project starts and improved efficiency in the construction process. Historically, these calculations were performed manually, a time-consuming process prone to errors. The advent of digital solutions has significantly streamlined this aspect of building.
This introduction will pave the way for an exploration of the specific functionalities available, discuss the different types of tools that exist, and analyze the best practices for utilizing these solutions effectively in diverse construction projects.
1. Material Estimation
Material estimation, in the context of wooden framework construction, directly determines the quantities of lumber, fasteners, and other related items required to complete a project. A calculation tool designed for wooden framework construction serves as a central instrument in this process. Inaccurate material estimates can lead to cost overruns due to purchasing excess materials, or project delays stemming from insufficient supplies. As a specific example, consider a scenario involving the construction of a residential home’s exterior walls. Without the accurate calculations provided by a dedicated tool, an estimator might underestimate the number of studs needed, resulting in a delay while additional lumber is procured. Conversely, overestimating stud quantities ties up capital in unused materials and increases storage requirements. Therefore, accurate material estimation is a critical function embedded within the utility of framework calculators.
The capabilities of wooden framework calculators extend beyond simply summing lengths of lumber. These tools often incorporate features that account for waste factors, cut allowances, and optimized material usage based on standard lumber lengths. Furthermore, they can factor in the specific framing techniques being employed, such as advanced framing methods designed to reduce lumber consumption. The interplay between the calculator’s features and the precision of the input data determines the accuracy of the material estimation. For instance, specifying incorrect dimensions for window and door openings will inevitably skew the calculated lumber requirements, potentially resulting in shortages or surpluses.
In conclusion, material estimation forms an integral part of the utility. The accuracy and efficiency of the tool directly impacts project costs, timelines, and material waste. Understanding the relationship between accurate material estimation and the appropriate application of these calculators is therefore crucial for successful construction project management. The challenges associated with manual estimation, such as human error and time consumption, are significantly mitigated through the adoption and proper utilization of these instruments.
2. Dimensional Accuracy
Dimensional accuracy in wooden framework construction is fundamentally linked to the effectiveness of calculation tools. These instruments are designed to minimize discrepancies between planned dimensions and the realized structure, a critical aspect of structural integrity and code compliance.
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Calculation Precision
The underlying algorithms and computational capabilities directly affect the precision with which dimensions are determined. A tool that utilizes accurate trigonometric functions and considers material shrinkage will produce more reliable results. For example, calculating the length of rafters for a roof requires precise angle measurements and accounting for the thickness of the ridge board. An error in these calculations, even a small one, can accumulate across the entire roof structure, leading to significant discrepancies.
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Input Parameter Sensitivity
The responsiveness of the tool to changes in input parameters is a crucial aspect of dimensional control. The impact on calculated dimensions must be immediate and predictable when alterations are made to parameters such as wall height, span lengths, or stud spacing. For example, if the designed spacing between floor joists is reduced to increase floor load capacity, the calculation tool should immediately reflect the increased number of joists required and the adjusted overall material list.
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Error Mitigation
Effective tools incorporate error-checking mechanisms and unit conversion capabilities to minimize dimensional inaccuracies. Built-in features that flag illogical or conflicting inputs, such as specifying a stud spacing that exceeds the length of the wall, serve as a safeguard against user error. Similarly, automatic conversion between imperial and metric units prevents mistakes arising from unit confusion.
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Iterative Refinement
These tools facilitate iterative design refinement by allowing users to quickly test different dimensional configurations and evaluate their impact on structural performance. For instance, a design team might explore alternative roof pitches to optimize solar panel placement. The calculation tool enables rapid recalculation of rafter lengths, sheathing requirements, and overall material costs for each design iteration, promoting informed decision-making and minimizing dimensional uncertainties.
In summary, the utility of these calculators hinges on their ability to ensure dimensional accuracy. The facets described abovecalculation precision, input parameter sensitivity, error mitigation, and iterative refinementcollectively contribute to the production of dimensionally sound and structurally reliable wooden frameworks. The reliance on manual calculation methods introduces a greater probability of error, emphasizing the importance of employing well-designed and properly utilized computational tools.
3. Load Calculation
Load calculation, a fundamental aspect of structural engineering, directly influences the design and construction of wooden frameworks. A properly executed load calculation ensures that the framework can safely withstand anticipated forces, preventing structural failure. The integration of load calculation principles within a tool designed for wooden framework construction is therefore paramount for guaranteeing structural integrity and adherence to building codes.
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Dead Load Assessment
Dead load refers to the weight of the building’s permanent components, including roofing materials, sheathing, and the wooden framework itself. The accurate determination of dead load is a crucial input for framework calculators. For instance, a calculator must account for the weight of multiple layers of roofing material, such as asphalt shingles over plywood sheathing, to determine the total dead load acting on the rafters. Failure to accurately assess dead load can result in an under-designed framework prone to deflection or collapse.
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Live Load Determination
Live load encompasses variable forces acting on the structure, such as occupants, furniture, and accumulated snow. Framework calculators must incorporate live load requirements as stipulated by local building codes. For example, a calculator used for designing a residential floor system must account for the anticipated weight of occupants and furniture, typically expressed in pounds per square foot. Insufficient consideration of live load can lead to excessive floor deflection or structural instability.
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Environmental Load Analysis
Environmental loads, including wind and seismic forces, exert significant lateral stresses on wooden frameworks. Framework calculators are often equipped with features that incorporate wind and seismic design parameters based on geographic location and building occupancy. In regions prone to high winds, a calculator must accurately determine the wind load acting on walls and roof structures, ensuring that the framework is adequately braced to resist overturning or collapse. Similarly, in earthquake-prone areas, the calculator must account for seismic forces to prevent structural damage during ground motion.
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Load Combination Effects
Building codes typically require consideration of load combinations, which involve the simultaneous application of different types of loads to determine the most critical loading scenario. For example, a framework calculator might need to analyze the combined effects of dead load, live load, and snow load to ensure that the structure can withstand the most demanding loading conditions. The calculator should facilitate the evaluation of various load combinations as specified by relevant building codes to ensure structural safety and compliance.
In conclusion, the accurate determination and integration of load calculations within a framework construction tool is essential for ensuring structural safety and compliance with building regulations. The accurate assessment of dead load, live load, and environmental loads, coupled with the analysis of load combination effects, allows for the design of robust and reliable wooden frameworks. The use of framework calculators equipped with load calculation capabilities minimizes the risk of structural failure and promotes safe building practices.
4. Spacing Optimization
Spacing optimization, in the realm of wooden framework construction, directly impacts material efficiency, structural performance, and overall project cost. A calculation tool designed for wooden framework construction serves as a vital aid in determining optimal spacing for various structural members.
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Stud Spacing and Wall Integrity
The spacing of studs within a wall dictates its load-bearing capacity and resistance to lateral forces. Calculation tools permit users to evaluate the impact of varying stud spacings on wall strength, allowing for the selection of the most efficient spacing that meets structural requirements. Reducing stud spacing increases wall strength but also increases material usage, while widening stud spacing reduces material usage but can compromise structural integrity. Finding the optimal balance requires careful calculation and consideration of code requirements.
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Joist Spacing and Floor Load Capacity
Floor joist spacing directly affects the floor’s ability to support applied loads. Wooden framework calculators facilitate the determination of appropriate joist spacing based on span lengths, anticipated loads, and lumber species. A tool allows exploring different lumber dimensions and joist spacings to find the most cost-effective solution that satisfies structural demands. Wider joist spacing requires stronger, and therefore more expensive, lumber, while narrower spacing increases material costs.
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Rafter Spacing and Roof Load Resistance
Rafter spacing influences the roof’s ability to withstand snow, wind, and dead loads. These tools enable users to assess the impact of different rafter spacings on roof load resistance, facilitating the selection of the most efficient spacing that complies with building codes. For example, in regions with heavy snowfall, closer rafter spacing may be necessary to prevent roof collapse. Framework calculators allow for the assessment of these site-specific requirements.
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Sheathing Span and Material Usage
The span of sheathing materials between structural members, such as studs, joists, or rafters, is directly related to spacing optimization. Framework calculators can assist in determining the maximum allowable sheathing span based on material properties and anticipated loads. Optimizing sheathing span minimizes material waste and reduces overall construction costs. The relationship between structural member spacing and sheathing span must be carefully considered to ensure both structural integrity and material efficiency.
In summary, tools for wooden framework construction play a crucial role in spacing optimization. Through careful calculation and consideration of load requirements, material properties, and building codes, these tools enable the selection of optimal spacing for studs, joists, and rafters, maximizing material efficiency, enhancing structural performance, and reducing overall project costs.
5. Cost Reduction
The utilization of tools designed for calculating wooden frameworks directly influences cost reduction across multiple stages of a construction project. One primary mechanism is the increased precision in material estimation. These instruments minimize overestimation, preventing the unnecessary purchase of excess materials, which directly translates to reduced expenditure. Conversely, underestimation can lead to project delays and increased labor costs associated with procuring additional materials mid-construction. The mitigation of both scenarios through accurate calculation directly contributes to cost savings. For example, consider a residential project requiring 1000 studs. A manual calculation might overestimate the need to 1100, incurring costs for 100 unnecessary studs. The calculation tool, factoring in precise dimensions and optimized layouts, accurately determines the need for 1020 studs, accounting for waste and cuts, leading to a more efficient use of resources.
Beyond material procurement, these instruments contribute to cost reduction by streamlining the planning and design phases. Accurate calculations facilitate efficient layouts and optimized use of standard lumber lengths, minimizing waste and reducing the need for custom cuts. Moreover, they aid in identifying potential structural inefficiencies that could lead to increased material usage or more complex construction methods. For instance, the tool may reveal that adjusting the span of a joist system slightly allows for the use of readily available lumber dimensions, eliminating the need for custom-milled lumber, which is significantly more expensive. Furthermore, by ensuring compliance with building codes, the calculators can help prevent costly rework due to non-compliant framing, which is a recurring source of budget overruns in construction projects.
In conclusion, the capacity to reduce costs is an integral aspect of calculation instruments for wooden framework construction. By increasing accuracy in material estimation, streamlining planning, optimizing layouts, and ensuring code compliance, these tools offer substantial financial benefits. The implementation of these tools represents a tangible strategy for enhancing cost efficiency within the construction industry. However, the effectiveness of these tools relies on the accuracy of the input data and the user’s understanding of construction principles; therefore, proper training and due diligence are essential.
6. Waste Minimization
Waste minimization in wooden framework construction is intrinsically linked to the effective application of calculation tools. Framework construction inevitably generates waste in the form of offcuts, damaged materials, and incorrect dimensions. Tools are employed to reduce the quantity of wasted material by optimizing material usage and improving the precision of cuts. If construction proceeds without proper calculation, over-ordering or mis-cutting materials becomes common, significantly increasing the amount of unusable waste generated. For example, a framework tool can determine the most efficient layout of studs within a wall, minimizing the need for unnecessary cuts and optimizing the utilization of standard lumber lengths. By implementing tools, one can reduce material waste.
Framework tools facilitate the adoption of advanced framing techniques designed to minimize waste. These techniques, such as optimizing stud spacing and aligning framing members with sheathing seams, require precise calculations to implement effectively. For instance, aligning studs with sheathing edges minimizes the need for cutting sheathing panels to fit, significantly reducing waste. A tool aids in this process by providing accurate measurements and cut lists that account for these advanced framing strategies. Additionally, it can assist in identifying opportunities to repurpose offcuts for smaller framing components, such as blocking or bracing, further reducing waste. The tools’ ability to generate accurate cutting lists minimizes human error and ensures that cuts are made correctly the first time, thereby reducing the creation of unusable scrap.
In conclusion, the utility of calculation instruments for wooden framework construction extends significantly to waste minimization. By optimizing material usage, facilitating advanced framing techniques, and providing accurate cutting lists, these tools directly contribute to a reduction in material waste and associated costs. The economic and environmental benefits of waste reduction underscore the importance of integrating these tools into construction planning and execution. While proper training in tool operation is essential for achieving maximum effectiveness, the potential for waste minimization is substantial and contributes directly to more sustainable construction practices.
7. Project Planning
Project planning in wooden framework construction is inextricably linked to the capabilities of calculation instruments. The efficiency and accuracy of the planning phase directly impact project timelines, material costs, and overall structural integrity. These instruments provide essential data for informed decision-making during the critical stages of project inception and development.
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Material Procurement Scheduling
Calculation tools facilitate precise material estimation, enabling accurate procurement schedules. By determining the exact quantities of lumber, fasteners, and other materials required, these instruments allow project managers to schedule deliveries efficiently, minimizing delays and preventing material shortages that can disrupt construction progress. For example, a construction project requiring specialized lumber dimensions can leverage the calculation tool to determine the exact quantities needed, allowing for proactive ordering and preventing costly delays while awaiting custom materials.
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Labor Resource Allocation
Precise material take-offs, generated by calculation tools, enable effective labor resource allocation. Understanding the scope of the framing work, including the quantity of studs, joists, and rafters required, allows project managers to accurately estimate labor hours and assign appropriately sized crews to the task. For instance, a project involving complex roof framing can utilize the calculator to determine the number of rafters, their dimensions, and the complexity of their connections. This information enables accurate allocation of skilled carpenters and ensures efficient use of labor resources.
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Cost Budgeting and Control
Calculation tools provide accurate cost estimates by quantifying material requirements and factoring in labor costs. This information is essential for developing realistic project budgets and implementing effective cost control measures. For example, comparing multiple framing design options using the calculation tool allows project managers to evaluate the cost implications of different approaches and select the most cost-effective solution that meets structural requirements. Accurate cost estimates minimize the risk of budget overruns and improve project financial performance.
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Risk Mitigation and Contingency Planning
By identifying potential material shortages or construction complexities, calculation tools aid in risk mitigation and contingency planning. These instruments enable project managers to anticipate potential challenges and develop strategies to address them proactively. For instance, if the calculation reveals that a particular lumber dimension is in short supply, the project team can explore alternative materials or adjust the framing design to mitigate the risk of delays. Proactive risk mitigation reduces the likelihood of unforeseen problems and ensures project success.
The integration of calculation instruments into the project planning phase of wooden framework construction streamlines operations, enhances accuracy, and facilitates informed decision-making. The resulting benefits include improved resource allocation, reduced costs, and mitigated risks. This underscores the critical role that these tools play in ensuring the successful completion of construction projects.
8. Efficiency Improvement
The integration of calculation tools into wooden framework construction directly improves efficiency across multiple facets of the building process. Reductions in material waste, minimized labor hours, and optimized resource allocation collectively contribute to enhanced project timelines and decreased overall costs. The efficiency gains are realized through the tool’s capacity to provide precise material estimations, accurate dimensional layouts, and adherence to code requirements, each factor influencing the speed and accuracy with which a framework can be erected.
For instance, a framing crew using manual calculation methods may require significantly more time to lay out and cut framing members compared to a team employing a tool that generates detailed cut lists and optimized material usage plans. This reduction in on-site labor translates directly to cost savings and accelerated project completion. Further, the ability of these tools to quickly evaluate alternative framing designs allows project managers to identify and implement the most efficient construction methodologies. For example, a contractor might use a framing calculator to compare the costs and labor requirements of different stud spacing options, selecting the configuration that minimizes material usage while still meeting structural load requirements. This proactive optimization leads to improved resource utilization and streamlined workflows.
In conclusion, the demonstrable improvements in efficiency constitute a significant advantage for those utilizing the tool. The benefits derived from reduced material waste, optimized labor allocation, and accelerated construction timelines collectively contribute to enhanced project outcomes and improved financial performance. The understanding and application of such calculation tools offer a clear pathway to streamlining the building process and realizing tangible efficiency gains in wooden framework construction.
9. Code Compliance
Adherence to building codes is a non-negotiable aspect of wooden framework construction, and a tool designed to simplify those calculations plays a crucial role in ensuring this compliance. Building codes establish minimum requirements for structural integrity, fire safety, and energy efficiency. The proper application of a calculation tool enables builders to design and construct frameworks that meet these mandated standards. Failure to comply with building codes can result in costly rework, legal liabilities, and potentially, structural failures. Consider, for example, a situation where a deck is constructed with inadequate joist spacing, violating code requirements for load-bearing capacity. This non-compliance could lead to deck collapse under load, resulting in injuries and significant legal repercussions for the builder. A proper calculation tool, used correctly, would have prevented this scenario by providing the correct joist spacing based on the applicable building code. Code compliance is thus not merely a legal obligation, but a critical component of ensuring structural safety.
The practical applications of calculation instruments in achieving code compliance are varied. These tools often incorporate relevant building code provisions directly into their algorithms, automatically adjusting calculations based on factors such as geographic location and building occupancy. This eliminates the need for manual reference to complex code documents, reducing the potential for human error. For example, a tool designed for roof framing calculations will incorporate wind load requirements specific to the building’s location, ensuring that the rafter size and spacing are adequate to withstand anticipated wind forces. Furthermore, some tools offer features that generate code compliance reports, documenting the calculations performed and demonstrating adherence to relevant code sections. This documentation can be invaluable during building inspections and permit approvals.
In conclusion, the integration of building code provisions within calculation tools is essential for ensuring code compliance in wooden framework construction. These tools simplify the process of adhering to complex regulations, minimize the risk of errors, and provide documentation to demonstrate code compliance. The challenges associated with manual code interpretation and calculation are significantly mitigated through the adoption and proper utilization of these tools, underscoring their importance for safe and legally sound building practices. While a wood framing calculator is useful, you need a competent construction professional such as a licensed structural engineer to analyze building code requirements and building plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following addresses common inquiries regarding the application and utility of computational tools designed for wooden framework construction.
Question 1: What advantages does a calculation tool offer over manual calculation methods for wooden frameworks?
Computational tools significantly reduce the potential for human error inherent in manual calculations. These instruments automate complex calculations, ensure consistency, and accelerate the planning process. Furthermore, they often incorporate advanced features such as load calculation and material optimization, capabilities typically absent in manual methods.
Question 2: How does a tool ensure accuracy in material estimation for wooden framework construction?
Accuracy in material estimation is achieved through precise input parameters, such as dimensions, spacing requirements, and material specifications. The calculation tool applies these parameters to standardized algorithms that account for waste factors and cutting allowances. Regular verification of input data and understanding of the tool’s limitations is crucial for maintaining accuracy.
Question 3: What building codes are typically incorporated within a tool?
The integration of building codes varies depending on the specific calculation instrument and its intended market. Generally, these tools incorporate provisions from established codes such as the International Building Code (IBC) or regional and local building regulations. Users must verify the specific codes included and ensure they align with the relevant jurisdiction.
Question 4: Can a tool be utilized for complex roof framing calculations?
Yes, many calculation tools are equipped to handle complex roof framing scenarios, including calculations for rafter lengths, angles, and load distribution. These tools often provide specialized features for calculating hip roofs, valley roofs, and other intricate roof designs. However, users require a thorough understanding of roof framing principles to interpret the tool’s output correctly.
Question 5: How does the user account for material waste when using a calculation instrument?
Many calculation tools include a waste factor setting, allowing users to specify a percentage of material waste based on their experience and the complexity of the project. This factor is applied to the calculated material quantities, providing a more realistic estimate of material needs. Users should adjust the waste factor based on project-specific conditions and historical data.
Question 6: Is specialized training required to effectively utilize a tool for framework construction?
While some tools offer user-friendly interfaces, a fundamental understanding of wooden framework construction principles is essential for effective utilization. Specialized training in blueprint reading, structural load calculations, and building code interpretation is highly recommended to ensure accurate and safe application of the tool’s output.
In summation, while these tools provide substantial advantages, competent construction professionals such as structural engineers should be consulted when doing construction and/or building projects.
This concludes the Frequently Asked Questions section. The following sections will delve into practical applications of calculation instruments and best practices for optimizing their utility in diverse construction scenarios.
Tips for Maximizing Utility of the wood framing calculator
The following tips are provided to enhance the effectiveness of computational tools for wooden framework construction. These recommendations are intended to optimize accuracy, efficiency, and code compliance in construction projects.
Tip 1: Thoroughly Review Input Parameters: Prior to commencing calculations, meticulously verify all input parameters. Errors in dimensions, material specifications, or load assumptions will propagate through the calculations, resulting in inaccurate outputs. Double-check all entries and consult blueprints or structural plans as needed.
Tip 2: Account for Material Waste Realistically: Implement a realistic waste factor. Overly optimistic waste estimations can lead to material shortages and project delays. Base the waste factor on historical project data, material complexity, and crew experience. Increase the waste factor for projects involving intricate cuts or unconventional framing techniques.
Tip 3: Validate Code Compliance: Independently verify that the calculations generated align with applicable building codes. While many tools incorporate code provisions, it remains the user’s responsibility to ensure compliance. Consult local building officials or a qualified structural engineer to confirm adherence to relevant regulations.
Tip 4: Understand Structural Load Calculations: Acquire a fundamental understanding of structural load calculations. This knowledge enables users to interpret the tool’s output intelligently and identify potential structural vulnerabilities. Familiarize yourself with concepts such as dead load, live load, wind load, and seismic load.
Tip 5: Optimize Lumber Lengths: Utilize the tool to optimize lumber lengths and minimize waste. Experiment with different framing layouts and member spacing to maximize the use of standard lumber dimensions and reduce the need for custom cuts. This practice can significantly reduce material costs.
Tip 6: Utilize Iterative Design Refinement: Employ the tool’s iterative design capabilities to explore alternative framing configurations. Experiment with different stud spacings, joist sizes, and rafter pitches to identify the most efficient and cost-effective design that meets structural requirements and code compliance standards.
Tip 7: Document All Calculations: Maintain thorough documentation of all calculations performed using the tool. This documentation serves as a valuable reference during construction and can be essential for obtaining building permits or resolving disputes. Include a clear record of input parameters, output results, and any assumptions made during the calculation process.
Effective application of this tool relies upon an understanding of construction principles and a commitment to accuracy. Diligent adherence to these tips will enhance the utility of this tool and contribute to the successful completion of wooden framework construction projects.
These tips provide a framework for maximizing the effectiveness of calculation tools. The subsequent section will focus on common pitfalls and troubleshooting techniques to further enhance user proficiency.
Conclusion
This exploration of wood framing calculator technology has highlighted its crucial role in contemporary construction. Its capacity to optimize material usage, enhance dimensional precision, and enforce code compliance marks a significant advancement over traditional, manual methodologies. The efficiency gains and cost reductions afforded by these tools are demonstrably beneficial across a diverse range of construction projects.
The ongoing refinement of calculation methodologies and the increasing integration of advanced features portend an even greater reliance on such tools in the future. Continued professional development and a commitment to accurate data input remain paramount for maximizing the potential of wood framing calculator technology and ensuring the safety and integrity of constructed frameworks. Prudence and sound judgment should guide every construction project regardless of whether a wood framing calculator is used.
