User Guide

Tutorial 1 - Modeling
Version 5.0 15
Tutorial 1 - Modeling
So we have started RISA-3D and are ready to define our model. We should note
here that your picture might not look exactly like the screen above. Your
computer screen resolution and font sizes can change the appearance of the menu
and toolbars. This is simply cosmetic and should not affect your ability to go
through this tutorial.
Starting a New File
Starting a new file presents you with a clean slate with some initial options. A
blank drawing grid is placed in the workspace and you are given options in a
dialog box with the title Starting a Model. You can choose to start drawing your
model or open an existing model. To start a new model you may begin by
defining members, plates or use a template to generate it automatically, or click
Cancel and work on your own. Notice that a box is checked that reads “Open
the Global Parameters window also”.
Automatically Generating with Templates
RISA-3D has powerful templates that automate the generation of structures. You
may access them by selecting Structure on the Insert menu or clicking
.
Some of the templates are very specific such as the Rectangular Tank with
Stiffeners or the Warren Truss template. Some are general such as the Circular
Disk With Plates. This way you can generate just about any typical or repetitive
model or model component. The tutorials do not use the templates in order to
teach you how to model structures without them. Once you know this you will