> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.dalus.io/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Model Navigation

> Understanding the Dalus workspace layout and navigation

The Dalus workspace provides an intuitive interface for creating, editing, and navigating complex system models. This guide covers the key components and navigation patterns.

## Workspace Overview

The workspace is organized into three main areas:

<img src="https://mintcdn.com/dalus/nVXGKHGeIs6KRnCF/images/model-navigation/mod1.png?fit=max&auto=format&n=nVXGKHGeIs6KRnCF&q=85&s=84d708c694d7d23e717e0f013e88a12d" alt="Dalus workspace overview" width="1436" height="811" data-path="images/model-navigation/mod1.png" />

## Left Sidebar

The left sidebar is your primary navigation hub.

<img src="https://mintcdn.com/dalus/nVXGKHGeIs6KRnCF/images/model-navigation/mod2.png?fit=max&auto=format&n=nVXGKHGeIs6KRnCF&q=85&s=a8ef3027cdfc5a7ad41ee86845ba324a" alt="Left sidebar" width="463" height="673" data-path="images/model-navigation/mod2.png" />

### Pages

Navigate between different views of your model:

* **Requirements** — Manage and trace requirements
* **Mission Planning** — Define operational scenarios
* **Architecture** — Build structural and behavioral models
* **Documents Hub** — Access and manage documentation
* **Trade Studies** — Compare design alternatives
* **Hazards** — Track and analyze system hazards
* **Test Cases** — Define and manage test cases

### Element Tree

Below the pages, the hierarchical element tree displays all parts, interfaces, and other elements in your model. Expand nodes to explore the structure and double-click to open elements on the canvas.

### Search

Use the search bar to quickly find elements by name across your entire model.

## Central Canvas

The main workspace where modeling takes place.

<img src="https://mintcdn.com/dalus/nVXGKHGeIs6KRnCF/images/model-navigation/mod3.png?fit=max&auto=format&n=nVXGKHGeIs6KRnCF&q=85&s=00e374357feabc69ba3fcf1fcaad369c" alt="Central canvas" width="770" height="802" data-path="images/model-navigation/mod3.png" />

### Tab Bar

Open elements appear as tabs at the top. Click tabs to switch between them, or use the pin icon to keep frequently used elements open. The snapshot indicator shows when the model was last saved.

### Modeling Toolbar

The vertical toolbar on the left provides quick access to:

* **Selection and navigation tools**
* **Part creation**
* **Interface and connection tools**
* **Additional modeling options**

### Canvas Controls

At the bottom of the canvas:

* **Diagnostics** — View model validation and issues
* **Legend** — Show/hide the diagram legend
* **Zoom and fit controls** — Adjust the canvas view

<img src="https://mintcdn.com/dalus/nVXGKHGeIs6KRnCF/images/model-navigation/mod4.png?fit=max&auto=format&n=nVXGKHGeIs6KRnCF&q=85&s=cc1f5240157ab6dd56cca365868a4915" alt="Canvas controls" width="757" height="47" data-path="images/model-navigation/mod4.png" />

## Right Sidebar

The right sidebar provides context and AI assistance.

### Architecture Overview

When on the Architecture page, this panel shows a quick overview of parts in your current view for fast navigation.

### Dalus Copilot

Switch to the Copilot tab to ask questions about your model, get suggestions, and use AI-powered assistance for modeling tasks.

### Share

Click the **Share** button to invite collaborators or manage access permissions.

## Tips

1. **Collapse sidebars** — Hover over collapsed sidebars to temporarily expand them
2. **Use keyboard shortcuts** — Press `Cmd/Ctrl + K` for global search
3. **Pin important tabs** — Keep frequently accessed elements pinned for quick access
4. **Check diagnostics** — Review the diagnostics panel regularly for model issues
