Default Values: Tutorial 1

OBJECTIVE:

Learn how default values work by exploring variable settings, organization, and implementation

Benefits:

Variables in Dietrich's provide powerful automation and consistency benefits that dramatically improve workflow efficiency and reduce manual errors. By using system variables like #WNr# for wall numbers or #KINr# for item numbers, users can create dynamic file names, plan titles, labels, and documentation that automatically update based on the actual building data. For example, instead of manually typing "Wall_102_Plan" for each wall drawing, you can set up a template like "Wall_#WNr#_Plan" that automatically generates "Wall_102_Plan", "Wall_103_Plan", etc. This ensures consistent naming conventions across all project deliverables while eliminating the risk of human error in numbering sequences. Variables also enable sophisticated conditional logic through systems like HRB guidelines and SmartTags, where material placement, machining operations, and component relationships can be automatically determined based on variable values like wall thickness, beam type, or assembly order position.

The practical applications of variables extend throughout the entire project lifecycle, from initial design through manufacturing and construction. In the design phase, variables enable intelligent templates where a single wall guideline can automatically adapt to different wall thicknesses, materials, and configurations by referencing slice thickness variables and MOS group assignments. During manufacturing, variables ensure that sorting numbers, item descriptions, and machine file names remain synchronized - if a component's dimensions change, replacement item numbers like "OSB/3 22mm" are automatically selected based on actual thickness rather than generic "OSB" placeholders. For construction management, assembly order variables create hierarchical numbering systems (like 3.6.12 for section.subsection.position) that coordinate with load planning to ensure components arrive in the correct sequence. Variables also facilitate project scalability - a single set of templates and guidelines can serve multiple building types and sizes, with the system automatically adapting labels, dimensions, and documentation to match each project's specific requirements.

EXPERTISE LEVEL:

Novice

PREREQUISITES:

• Basic navigation in Dietrich's interface

• Understanding of component properties

• Familiarity with building elements (walls, floors, roofs)

PARAMETERS:

• Variable Categories: Organized groups of related parameters

• Default Values: Preset measurements and specifications

• Units: Measurement systems for dimensional values

STEPS:

1. Access the Default Values dialog:

   • Navigate to Option 1-6 in the main menu. You will see this:

   

   • Click on "Definition of variables" in the dialog that appears

2. Explore variable categories:

   • Navigate through the tabs at the top (Roof, Rafter, Wall Structure, etc.)

   • 
   • Notice how variables are organized by building element type

   • Select the "Roof" tab to view roof-related variables

3. Examine variable properties:

   • Note the structure of each variable entry:

     • Variable name (e.g., "Beam Material", "Rafter_Height")

     • Current value (e.g., "DF", "4.5")

     • Units (e.g., "in" for inches, "ItemNoNp" for item numbers)

4. Modify a default value:

   • Select the VRH variable by clicking on it.

   • Click on "Definition of Variables"

   • Change the value from "4.5" to a different dimension (e.g., "5.5")

   • Notice how the change is reflected in the dialog

5. Load a predefined variable set:

   • Select the "Drop Down Menu" to select form predefined variables.

   • See the video below.

   
6. Create a new variable set:

• Type a name at the top (e.g., "MY SET Inch")

• Use the save button to store your custom variable set

EXPECTED RESULTS:

You should understand how default values provide centralized control over component dimensions and properties across your project, and how changing these values in one place affects multiple areas of your design.

COMMON VARIATIONS:

• Different measurement units (inches, millimeters, feet)

• Specialized variable sets for different construction types

• Project-specific vs. position-specific variable sets

TROUBLESHOOTING:

• If variables don't appear to update: Make sure you clicked "OK" to save changes

• If components don't use default values: Check if components have custom overrides

• If you can't find a specific variable: Use the search function in the detailed view

FOLLOW-UP ACTIONS:

• Create custom variable sets for different project types