Parametric Object Technology

1. Parametric Object Technology BIM Curriculum 09

2. Topics • Object Technologies • Techniques • Solutions

3. Object Technologies in CAD • Non-parametric • one object describes one product • Parametric • one object can describe many products • Internal • Objects used in the project are stored in the project file • External • Objects are stored in external libraries. The project file contains only references to these elements.

4. Benefits of the Parametric Approach • Compact object format resulting smaller project file size • Intelligent building elements automaticallyfollowing the changes ofthe project environment (e.g. Scale) • Design variations can be compared easily • Easy to maintain object libraries • Efficient way for manufacturers to publish their products

5. What is GDL? GDL=Geometric Description Language • Parametric programming language of Archicad library parts • Made to describe 2D and 3D elements • The object’s scripts contains the 2D symbol, 3D model and text description for quantity take-offs

6. Highlights of GDL • Parametric: one library part can describe many objects • Free: Allow users and manufacturers to develop custom libraries • Easy to learn: Based on the BASIC programming language • Open: Objects can be imported-exported to DWG, IFC and 3DS format • Optimized for the Internet:GDL objects can be published on the Internet with free tools

7. What can you do with GDL? • 2D symbols • Markers • Zones • Annotations • Building elements • Doors, Windows • Stairs • Furniture and equipment • HVAC elements and much more..

8. GDL Basics: Parameters • Users can define any number of custom parameters for GDL objects • Different parameter types are available including length, angle and material • Users are allowed to modify the name and description of each parameter

9. GDL Basics: 3D Shapes • 3D shapes are described with dedicated GDL commands in the library part’s 3D script • 3D commands have parameters to change the objects dimensions and materials BRICK a, b, c CYLIND h, r SPHERE r

10. GDL Basics: Complex 3D Shapes

11. GDL Basics: 2D Symbols • The objects 2D symbol is described with dedicated GDL commands in the library part’s 2D script • 2D commands have parameters to change the symbol’s dimensions, shape, color, line-type and fill type LINE2 x1, y1, x2, y2 POLY2_ n, frame_fill, x1, y1, s1, ... xn, yn, sn

12. GDL Basics: Transformations • 2D and 3D elements are defined in their own local coordinate system • Elements can be moved by transforming (moving, scaling, rotating) the local coordinate system ADD dx, dy, dz ROTZ beta

13. GDL Basics: Graphical Editing • Interactive graphical editing of length and angle type parameters • Special points (hotspots) of library parts can be adjusted in 2D and 3D views with the mouse

14. GDL Basics: Graphical User Interface • Scrollable Parameter List • Parametric Graphical User Interface • Preview Image • Product Info URLs

15. Free GDL Tools The following products offer the ability to use GDL objects in different environments and usage scenarios • GDL Adapter for AutoCAD • GDL objects work inside AutoCAD as common AutoCAD blocks. • GDL Explorer • Utility application for viewing GDL objects and full GDL catalogs without having to install Archicad • GDL Web Control (Plug-in) • provides ways of exploring GDL objects via the internet using popular web browsers. • GDL Publisher • authoring tool to publish GDL objects on web pages.

16. GDL Documentation GDL Reference Manual Professional GDL Technical Standards Advanced GDL Cookbook Introduction to Object making Beginner

17. Sources of GDL Libraries • The Archicad Library (more then 1000 objects) • Free objects on the web • Commercial GDL sites • DXF-DWG, 3DS Libraries • Manufacturers’ sites