What is ZomePad?
Zomepad is our new modeling software. With Zomepad Reader you will be able to open model files and follow interactive, step-by-step, graphic and written instructions for how to build a model.
Do We Really Need Software Now?
The short answer is No. But we’ve noticed that Zometool users faced certain challenges when trying to share models with their friends, a complex 3D structure simply doesn’t translate well into 2D (photograph, printed page or screen), and even if you drive over with your model in tow, it can be difficult to figure out what the proper assembly sequence should be just from looking at the finished structure, we all know the challenges of following 2D printed instructions to build 3D structures, there had to be a better way…
There are two “flavors” of Zomepad, the first to be released will be Zomepad Reader which will allow you to open model files and use them as sequential instructions to build a physical model. The assembly sequence is broken down into steps and each step has written instructions on what you need to do; you can rotate and zoom in or out of the model so you can make sure that you’re following the sequence correctly.
Zomepad Reader is custom designed with useful features like a parts dialog (see below) which lets you see exactly how many parts of each kind (strut and balls) you need for each step (as well as the total number of parts in a model). And you also have the choice of viewing the sequence in “Phantom Mode” (see pictures to the right) which highlights the new parts for each step and downplays the parts from previous steps which helps you to keep focused on the specific actions you need to take to move forward in your construction.
Parts Dialog
Soon we will also be releasing Zomepad Creator which will allow you to build models and instruction sequences! Stay tuned…
How Do I Get Started?
You have to download the appropriate version of Zomepad Reader (Mac or Windows) as well as the very brief Reader Quickstart Guide and the Tutorial Models, don’t skip these, the learning curve for Zomepad is quite mild if you read the documentation, but not so mild if you skip it!
