If you need help with ModelSmart3D, browse this page. If you don't see what you're looking for, use the link below to request a "How to Video". We'll make and post a "How to Video" here that plays on Windows Media Player (or other .AVI file player). Additional helpful hints are placed below some video links.
After the first joint is placed, you can use the "Joints|Properties..." dialog to add joints using coordinates. When you click the "Add" button at joint is created at the global coordinates 0,0,0. If you don't use it, remember to delete it!
Move the XY GuidePlane forward
It's easier to move a GuidePlane if you don't have to select through another GuidePlane - rotate the WorkSpace around to get a clear view of where you what to move it.
Place a joint at a percent distance from the end of a member
If you click the member close to one end, it will be apparent whether you clicked close to the start or end of the member.
You can change the load at a joint using the "Joints|Properties..." dialog.
Replicate Joints (Page 3-10 of the manual)
When replicating joints (for the step on page 3-10), don't select all of the joints. Two of the joints in the rear truss are already there - if you replicate joints on top of existing joints the option will fail. Also rotate the WorkSpace around so that you can see the joint that you are replicating to without a GuidePlane in front of that joint.
Resetting the Path to the Online Help (Re: the ModelSmart3D cover letter instructions)
If you change the standard location or name of the ModelSmart3D folder, you will need to reset the path for the online help. Also, if you don't already have the pdf viewer plug-in, you can get it from www.adobe.com. This video shows how to enter the "Preferences" dialog from the "Edit|Preferences..." menu option.
This is a very useful navigation tool. See pages 5-1 through 5-3 of the manual for other navigation tools.