The Excel File is not in the correct format... message apears when using AutoPIPE


 

 

 

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Applies To  
Product(s): AutoPIPE
Version(s): ALL;
Area: Import
Date Logged
& Current Version		 Oct 2024
24.00.01.152

Problem:

The following is shown when importing an excel file in with Imposed Support Displacements command:

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Invalid Format
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The Excel file is not in the correct format. Template format file can be found in Installation Directory/Templates.
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OK   
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Why and how to avoid it?

Solution:

The reason for this message to appear is that there is an issue with the format of the data that is trying to be imported. This file format needs to be 100% correct. Otherwise, the message above will continue to appear.

There can be any number of reasons:

    1.  Problem with MS Office / Excel?
    2. As mentioned on the dialog, did the file originate as a copy from the "Template - Imposed Support Displacements.xls" file found in the AutoPIPE installation folder?
    3. Are all of the cells containing values formatted as General or as Numbers / Text?
    4. Are all values "Real values" within the maximum and minimum bounds of AutoPIPE?
    5. Is there more than 1,048,576. records trying to be imported?
    6. Are there blank rows?
    7. Does the first tab in the workbook contain all of the information?
    8. Are there any extra spaces in the data entered?
    9. Are all of the load cases and node points indicated in the model where the file is being imported to? 
    10. Is the file extension correct
    11. Etc...

As a general set of instructions:

1.Repair Microsoft Office / Excel

a. Reboot your computer.

b. Open Installed APPS, Microsoft 365 Office and press the Repair and then Reset buttons.  

c. This may take period of time during which you should not use any application. 

d. After the message mentioning "You're all set!" appears, try to again import the Excel file into AutoPIPE.

2. Copy the template file from AutoPIPE's installation folder to another location 

3. Open the template file in Excel and rename

4. Confirm all cells in the Worksheet are set to General

5. All values entered into Translation and Rotation columns should adhere to the following format:

a. No more that 7 numbers, count does not include -ve sign or decimal

b. No more than 4 digits after the decimal

6. Try an iterative approach, remove half of the records, save to a new file, and try to import the file again. Keep repeating the step of removing half the rows from the Excel files, until the file is able to be imported. Then go back and narrow down the offending row causing the issue. 

7. If nothing helps to resolve this issue, please log a new case, mention this article, provide your AutoPIPE APC file and Excel file that is being imported for review.