User Guide

Tutorial 2 - Modifying
Version 5.0 49
Changing one or two items in the model is best handled in this manner. However,
if you had to change a lot of members there is an easier way. This is where the
graphical selection and editing tools in RISA-3D become very useful. Let’s learn
more about the model view and how we can best put it to use.
Close the dialog without making any changes by clicking Cancel.
Model View
Next we will learn how we can modify the model view. Since we are currently
working in a model view the Window toolbar will look like this:
The first button is the Set Plot Options button. You have already used this to
color the members. We will save this button for last, as it is an important one and
will get a lot of attention.
Rotating
These buttons; , are used to rotate the model plot counter-
clockwise or clockwise about the global axes.
These buttons; , are used to “snap” the view to the particular plane
(XY , YZ , XZ). The button labeled Iso snaps to the default isometric view.
The best way to understand what these buttons do is to try them, so, with the
mouse, click on some of these buttons and experiment with rotating and snapping
the plot.
As you click on these buttons, look at how the plot is rotating. Also look at the
axes orientation shown in the top left hand corner of the model view window.
That's this box:
When you're finished experimenting place the model in an isometric view by
clicking .
Zooming
These buttons; , are used to zoom the model view in and out. This
button;
, is used to zoom in on part of the model. To use this option, first
click on this button, then move the mouse over to the model plot. You will then
draw a window around the part of the model you wish to zoom by holding down
the left mouse button while dragging the mouse. Press and hold down the left
mouse button and then start moving the mouse. You will see a box drawn from