Drawing

Learn how to create structural geometry in AutoCalcs.

Entering Draw Mode

Press Ctrl+D or click the Draw tool in the toolbar to enter Draw mode.

Creating Nodes and Members

  1. Click anywhere on the canvas to place a node
  2. Click again to place another node - a member is automatically created between them
  3. Continue clicking to create connected members
  4. Press Escape to finish the current chain
  5. Click on an existing node to start a new chain from that point

Snapping

AutoCalcs provides intelligent snapping to help you draw accurately:

  • Node Snap - Snap to existing nodes
  • Midpoint Snap - Snap to member midpoints
  • Axis Snap - Snap to X, Y, or Z axes from the last point
  • Angle Snap - Snap to 30° or 45° increments

Toggle snapping options in Settings → Snapping.

Coordinate Input

For precise placement, use the coordinate input field:

  • Absolute: Enter X, Y, Z coordinates (e.g., 5, 0, 3)
  • Relative: Prefix with @ for relative to last point (e.g., @5, 0, 0)
  • Distance/Angle: In side view, enter distance and angle

Drawing Tips

  • Use standard views (1-9 keys) for drawing in specific planes
  • Hold Shift while clicking to constrain to axes
  • Zoom in for more precise node placement
  • Use the coordinate input for exact dimensions