title: Maatwebsite/Laravel-Excel exports blank excel when using Input::get() in model
body: <p>I developed a Laravel application that connects to a external MySQL database for reports. I'm using Maatwebsite/Laravel-Excel 3.1 to be able to export to excel.</p>
  
  <p>In this app, I have a method in my model that uses Input::get() for 3 variables ($from, $to, $paymentType). This method is called whenever the user chooses date range and payment type as filter for their reports. Everything works as it should since data is displayed in my view.</p>
  
  <p>Now this same method is called when the user chooses to export the file to excel. Again, all that works except the files is blank.</p>
  
  <p>The curious thing is that if I replace all Input::get() for static values such as '2018-11-14' for the dates and 'n' for payment type, then the file exports with data.</p>
  
  <p>I've been struggling with this for a couple of days so I hope someone can help me.</p>
  
  <p>Thanks,</p>
  
  <p>Ernesto</p>