Program Modules

INSTRUCTION TYPE:

Exploration

INSTRUCTION TITLE:

Navigating Dietrich's Building Modules

CATEGORY:

Software Navigation

OBJECTIVE:

Learn how to navigate between different building modules in Dietrich's software and understand their specific functions for timber construction design

PREREQUISITES:

• Basic understanding of timber construction terminology

• Familiarity with CAD/CAM software interfaces

• Access to Dietrich's software with appropriate licensing

EXPERTISE LEVEL:

Novice

PARAMETERS:

• Program Module: Different specialized interfaces for designing specific building elements

• Building Elements: Walls, floors, roofs, trusses, and other structural components

• Navigation Methods: Menu sequences and building navigation tree

• View Controls: Options for visualizing different aspects of the building model

STEPS:

1. Floor Plan module: Access the foundation of building design

   • Navigate using menu sequence 1-2-1 (File > Change program module > Floor plan)

   • Use this module to establish the basic layout of your building

2. Floor Plan module: View existing storeys in your project

   • Go to the Floor Plan module (1-2-1)

   • Observe all existing storeys in the storey list

   • To edit storey properties, click the "Edit" button

3. Wall Design module: Work with detailed wall construction

   • Access via menu sequence 1-2-2 (File > Change program module > Wall design)

   • Examine wall properties by right-clicking on a wall and selecting "Property"

   • Create and modify wall framing (studs, posts, plates)

4. Floor Decks module: Define horizontal structures

   • Navigate using menu sequence 1-2-3 (File > Change program module > Floor decks)

   • Establish floor heights and relationships to walls

   • Create openings for stairs and other features

5. Floor Design module: Detail floor structures

   • Access via menu sequence 1-2-4 (File > Change program module > Floor design)

   • Layout joists, subfloor, and ceiling materials

   • Generate connections to supporting walls

6. Roof Calculation module: Create roof geometries

   • Use menu sequence 1-2-5 (File > Change program module > Roof calculation)

   • Define roof slopes, pitches, and overhangs

   • Manage intersecting roof surfaces

7. Roof Design module: Detail roof components

   • Navigate using menu sequence 1-2-6 (File > Change program module > Roof design)

   • Layout rafters, ridge beams, purlins, and collar ties

   • Apply roofing materials and finishing details

8. Dormer Design module: Design dormers

   • Access via menu sequence 1-2-7 (File > Change program module > Dormer Design)

   • Create dormer framing with proper connections to main roof

   • Detail window openings within dormers

9. Truss Design module: Create trusses

   • Navigate using menu sequence 1-2-8 (File > Change program module > Truss design)

   • Design various truss types (king post, queen post, scissor)

   • Define connection details for truss members

10. D-CAM module: Use for custom design elements

    • Access via menu sequence 1-2-9 (File > Change program module > D-CAM: free design)

    • Create components not covered by other modules

    • Model complex connections and details

EXPECTED RESULTS:

You should be able to navigate confidently between different building modules, understanding which module to use for specific design tasks. You'll recognize how these modules interconnect to create a comprehensive building model where changes in one area appropriately affect related elements.

COMMON VARIATIONS:

• Module availability depends on your software license level

• Some modules only become accessible after creating prerequisite elements

• Interface appearance may vary between software versions

• Keyboard shortcuts may provide alternative navigation methods

TROUBLESHOOTING:

• If a module appears grayed out: Check if you need to create prerequisite elements first

• If the building navigation tree is not visible: Activate it through General Settings (1-7-2)

• If changes in one module don't appear in another: Use the Update function to refresh

• If you can't edit certain properties: Verify you're in the correct module for that element type

FOLLOW-UP ACTIONS:

• Explore the detailed functions within each module

• Learn how to generate construction documents from your model

• Practice creating a complete structure using the logical progression of modules

• Experiment with material specifications and connection details