Ability/Tool for Repeating Geometry

[Josh Verran]

I think it would be great if there was a tool (or maybe an addition to select existing tools) that allowed repeating geometry in a model element. The Curtain Tool and Complex Profiles have their place, but I think the examples below might show their shortfalls and might demonstrate how a new tool might be useful.

In the example image below, there is a black component, with an obvious repeating pattern, we could create that exact item (length) perhaps using the beam tool with various (locked) segments. However, what happens when you drag the node to extend? 
Having multiple Curtain walls might work but seems like a complicated workflow, similar would be the Railing tool.
A complex profile could reproduce part of the element, but doesn't allow altering of certain depths and widths.


There are a couple of third party add-ons that can achieve the above using the detail element tool, but these don't translate to the model. 

[Josh Verran]

After a bit more pondering, I think some kind of addition to the Beam and Column Tool would be powerful.

At the moment there are two options with segments; "Fixed Length" or "Flexible Length".

I can imagine a third option that allows for repetition of that segment, perhaps with options for set number etc.

This would allow for some amazing geometry when combined with the current two options.

[Lingwisyer]

It would be pretty easy to make an object that does that. You just take an INTeger of the overall length divided by the interval, then loop your geometry placement using your interval by your integer. If you want to define your geometry using external objects or complex profiles, their dimensions can be determined too and that becomes your interval.

[Josh Verran]

That would be a cool addition, thanks for the comment.

I think there would be benefits if the native construction elements could repeat too, objects are great, but have limitations with intersecting etc.
I would definitely use an object like you described if one was available.
My example of the Detail Element tool by Central Innovation, accesses the Complex Profiles for geometry which is great.

[Lingwisyer]

By the looks of it, that CI object is basically doing just the 2D of what you are wanting?

You could try the object I link in this thread. It was not made for this, but it might work to some extent.

[Steve Jepson]

So it would be an adjustable 3d line type with an editable object at each nodes along the line?  

[Lingwisyer]

3D linetype that anchors objects? Now that is making things a whoooole lot more complicated...

[Barry Kelly]

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@Lingwisyer wrote:

3D linetype that anchors objects? Now that is making things a whoooole lot more complicated...

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Custom posts in the railing tool?

Barry.

[DGSketcher]

Why not do repeating geometry properly using the existing AC code...

Create selection set of elements / objects and apply the Multiply Tool. I assume you could make it sticky and editable by saving the selections, the overall box nodes and the applied Multiply settings in the database. The user just needs an Array Tool or GS could adapt the Multiply Tool interface to save the settings.

[thesleepofreason]

A generalised Dynamic Array/Sequence tool is very much needed and something I expect form a modern CAD application and as usual most of the concepts/tech is already in AC but hamstrung by preconceived use in terms of building parts. For your example there just have to be a distinction between individual elements/components placed in a pattern and one elements/component defined by a repeting pattern.