Let’s start out from the fact that you want to design a simple roof bracing. The diagonals are to intersect (without the gusset plate in the middle).

Select the command for bracing and select the ’Plate Middle’ for the UCS position.

Determine the position of the shape and the settings for bolts, plate thickness, etc. Since the two rods are to intersect, select the ‘Front’ rod position beforehand. Then click the BRACING button.

The program will prompt you to enter the system line of the bracing rod. Click one of the two system lines, e.g., the one leading from down below on the left to the top on the right.

You must determine the limit edges of the bracing rod (i.e. the edges from which the outermost rod edge is to have the distance as defined in ‘Options’).

Click the inner web line of the roof girder - as shown on the left.

Repeat this on the other rod end. If you have clicked the wrong line, you can cancel this by entering the letter b (Back).

When you have selected both limit edges, confirm this by pressing the ENTER key or by using the right mouse button. A dialog field will be displayed, which shows exactly the calculated rod length. You can round the value in the desired rod length field.

The rod is now displayed with drill holes. You must now determine the gusset plates.