topic Re: Making parametric 2D objects with GDL in GDL

Making parametric 2D objects with GDL

Reilly — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 15:56:53 GMT

I am currently working on creating a library of objects for my office. I have had success creating customizable 2D objects with certain parameters and options such as different views and elements that can be turned on and off (e.g. a sink with the option of showing/hiding the pedestal, or a bed with headboard and footboard that can be turned off). So far, though, I am limited to objects with fixed dimensions and want to create objects that can stretch and be more customizable. For example, I can create an object like a bed, which has a number of set standard sizes, and toggle between these sizes as options in the settings. However, I want to create an object like a couch which can be stretched to custom sizes without the arms being distorted.

Essentially, how can I make specific lines stretch without distorting other lines in a 2D object?

Operating system used: Mac Apple Silicon

Re: Making parametric 2D objects with GDL

cuba — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 20:14:42 GMT

There are some great tutorials about this on barking dog bim:

https://www.youtube.com/@BarkingDogBIM/videos

Re: Making parametric 2D objects with GDL

Reilly — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 21:32:01 GMT

I have been going through his tutorials but I haven't found a quick answer to this specific question yet. I'm sure it will come up but I figured it couldn't hurt to ask here in case someone has experience with this.

Re: Making parametric 2D objects with GDL

Barry Kelly — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 01:14:24 GMT

You need to learn how to script in GDL.

Use parameters for your various lengths, widths and heights.

Then instead of scripting a fixed size line (LINE2 0,0 3,0) you would use the parameters in the command.

i.e. this will give you an adjustable cabinet (box made of lines - you could also just use RECT2)

LINE2 0,0,cabinet_length,0

LINE2 cabinet_length,0,cabinet_length,cabinet_depth

LINE2 cabinet_length,cabinet_depth,0,cabinet_depth

LINE2 0,cabinet_depth,0,0

RECT2 0,0,cabinet_length,cabinet_depth

There is much more involved though.

Barry.