# 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
