topic Re: Experimental Python add-on is available for ARCHICAD 23 in Archicad Python API

Experimental Python add-on is available for Archicad 23

Akos Somorjai — Wed, 05 Oct 2022 11:24:17 GMT

Hi folks,

See the blog post on the developer site: https://archicadapi.Graphisoft.com/experimental-python-add-on-for-archicad23

Good luck!

Akos

Re: Experimental Python add-on is available for ARCHICAD 23 beta

poco2013 — Sun, 21 Jul 2019 07:21:47 GMT

I see that Graphisoft has done some additional work on the Python interface, adding some functions and changing a few others. These are welcome additions but still short of a complete functional SDK.

I am wondering if the previous Python forum is going to be reconstituted and if the old group will be invited back or a new group used?

I recognize that this is still "EXPERIMENTAL" but there remains quite a bit of work to be addressed. Notably, the conflict of external third party Python add-ins, an interface to the interactive schedules and many items left on the work list which are needed to make this concept practical.

Wondering if Graphisoft is going to continue development or if this release is "IT" for the 23 update?

If this is the development expected for the 23 version, I expect it will be many,many, many years, if ever, that Python will be viable or useful in Archicad. My greatest concern among others is the limited exposure of data within the new and old functions and a efficient presentation method. This has yet to be addressed.

Hoping we can all get back to work on this valuable project.

Re: Experimental Python add-on is available for ARCHICAD 23 beta

Anonymous — Mon, 22 Jul 2019 13:25:07 GMT

Akos wrote:

Good luck!

Thanks, Akos for letting us know. When AC23 DevKit will be published? I assume that this version is only for Beta Program participants ?

Re: Experimental Python add-on is available for ARCHICAD 23 beta

Akos Somorjai — Mon, 22 Jul 2019 15:57:56 GMT

Only after the final version of ARCHICAD 23 is available, that means some time September.

Best, Akos

Re: Experimental Python add-on is available for ARCHICAD 23 beta

Anonymous — Tue, 23 Jul 2019 06:53:44 GMT

Akos wrote:
Only after the final version of ARCHICAD 23 is available, that means some time September.

Best, Akos

I see. Are you planning some additional sits for Beta tests before September? I am very eager to do some testing before September

Re: Experimental Python add-on is available for ARCHICAD 23 beta

Akos Somorjai — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 13:31:02 GMT

Yes, of course. Please apply on the beta site.

Best, Akos

Re: Experimental Python add-on is available for ARCHICAD 23 beta

Anonymous — Fri, 26 Jul 2019 08:35:39 GMT

Akos wrote:
Yes, of course. Please apply on the beta site.

Best, Akos

Thanks. I have applied.

Re: Experimental Python add-on is available for ARCHICAD 23 beta

Akos Somorjai — Fri, 26 Jul 2019 11:50:26 GMT

poco2013 wrote:
I see that Graphisoft has done some additional work on the Python interface, adding some functions and changing a few others. These are welcome additions but still short of a complete functional SDK.

I am wondering if the previous Python forum is going to be reconstituted and if the old group will be invited back or a new group used?

I recognize that this is still "EXPERIMENTAL" but there remains quite a bit of work to be addressed. Notably, the conflict of external third party Python add-ins, an interface to the interactive schedules and many items left on the work list which are needed to make this concept practical.

Wondering if Graphisoft is going to continue development or if this release is "IT" for the 23 update?

If this is the development expected for the 23 version, I expect it will be many,many, many years, if ever, that Python will be viable or useful in Archicad. My greatest concern among others is the limited exposure of data within the new and old functions and a efficient presentation method. This has yet to be addressed.

Hoping we can all get back to work on this valuable project.

Yes, I know and understand you concern, I have the same feelings .
In this AC23-based experimental version we plan to add only very small changes; and our main goal is to gather your thoughts to shape the future of the non-C++ API (C++ will always be there for those who want deep integration with AC). Also, we have a much bigger API "refurbishment" going on internally, which at first will cover only some areas of the application, and expose that in JSON and Python.
I also hope that this glimpse into the future is already usable in its current form; I have seen such posts on the previous beta forum already.

Best, Akos

Re: Experimental Python add-on is available for ARCHICAD 23 beta

poco2013 — Fri, 26 Jul 2019 21:15:39 GMT

Thanks Akos.

I first want to say that I was very pleased with the present release of Python. I am already using the functions, notably the Property dictionary. Lacking are the dictionaries for quantities and the elements which I hope will come soon?

As to gathering comments on its practical usage, with the end of the python forum , there isn’t a practical means now to do so. I think this Development section is not appropriate as it might cause confusion between the C++ API and Python. I suggest either resurrecting the previous python forum or adding a separate Python section in this forum. A Python section here would perhaps provide more exposure and interest.

I am, however, disappointed to hear of a yearly version rollout. I would prefer to see a SLOW, but continuous, rollout (several small additions/year) whereby the users could test each improvement and comment on their usability. This avoids inadvertent “left” turns and may better direct the workflow to the users concerns and their client’s requirements.

I think it is very important for the users to provide feedback to Graphisoft’s new senior management on this issue.

Thanks again for your efforts Akos, they are much appreciated.

Re: Experimental Python add-on is available for ARCHICAD 23 beta

Anonymous — Wed, 31 Jul 2019 16:48:09 GMT

Maybe a stupid question - Does this mean that ARCHICAD 23 will support writing API with python?

Re: Experimental Python add-on is available for ARCHICAD 23 beta

Akos Somorjai — Wed, 07 Aug 2019 12:49:19 GMT

No, it's not

And the answer is: not officially, but you can experiment with it by installing the PythonSnippets add-on.

We'll provide the version which works with the final build, and we may update it as well as time passes.

Best, Akos

Re: Experimental Python add-on is available for ARCHICAD 23 beta

poco2013 — Wed, 07 Aug 2019 20:25:31 GMT

Akos wrote:
No, it's not

And the answer is: not officially, but you can experiment with it by installing the PythonSnippets add-on.

We'll provide the version which works with the final build, and we may update it as well as time passes.

Best, Akos

As a early user of the Python Experiment, I recognize the importance of this tool in Archicad. But frankly I don’t like the direction its development is seeming to take now.

It seems to have fallen into the same odd category of: the list schedules, wall framing and other goodies that were never fully developed to their full potential. Never developed until more usage was shown and not used because of limited development. Basically the “the chicken or the egg”.

The causal user may not appreciate the power and productivity of the Archicad C++ API. It is, however, the most complex and convoluted API that I have ever seen.

The Python experiment solves those problems-times ten. It's obvious the developers recognized previous problem areas and have smartly alleviated the “road blocks” through the clever use of the Python Dictionaries. This puts the whole potential of the API features within the understanding and capability of the typical office director or even the single owner as a logical tool. IOW, It greatly expands the capability of Archicad for the Architect’s office and allows us to offer more services to our clients with little extra effort.

The knowledgeable developers of Archicad seem to have set a course of developing a tool of maximum convenience while maintaining access to most of the programs capability.

---BUT----

Without user support, it is also obvious that it may be years before its full potential could be realized to any useful value , if ever– again the “ Chicken/Egg scenario”. Leaving another great idea to die in Archicad.
IMNOHO, if you want to see this feature developed, as it should be, a massive show of user support is needed now. We must advise Graphisoft’s management of OUR support. I‘m suggesting that more than one/two users interest need be shown.

You can best show support by adding your comments here or by directly communicating your thoughts to your local supplier.

A sub-topic here, whereby, users could comment, ask questions, demonstrate applications and trade snippets would be most helpful.

Re: Experimental Python add-on is available for ARCHICAD 23 beta

gavinNZz — Thu, 08 Aug 2019 10:58:01 GMT

This sounds more than interesting and I just hope that this is developed with a view to help AC users to develop the software in directions that suit their businesses and clients. The old fashioned idea that 'one size fits all' is just not applicable in the modern world.

I would love AC to open up its API more broadly to allow users to develop aspects that have been neglected over the years or areas that can provide true efficiencies. I can only see this as being of benefit to GS.

How about creating an 'add-on marketplace' where new tools can be supplied to users through an official GS channel? Surely there is money to be made for GS in taking a % of sales.

Allow the users to direct the software development by which add-ons they buy. This will then highlight the aspects of AC that users feel need new solutions applied. They don't have to be huge add-ons just little tweaks here and there to increase usability of the software.

Hopefully the adoption of Python will open the door to a larger array of productive add-ons.

Re: Experimental Python add-on is available for ARCHICAD 23 beta

Anonymous — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 21:29:47 GMT

Akos wrote:
No, it's not

And the answer is: not officially, but you can experiment with it by installing the PythonSnippets add-on.

We'll provide the version which works with the final build, and we may update it as well as time passes.

Best, Akos

So it will still be beta when Archicad 23 is out?

Re: Experimental Python add-on is available for ARCHICAD 23

Anonymous — Wed, 11 Sep 2019 22:23:17 GMT

I have to agree totally with poco2013 and have the same fears...
I am a fan of thoughtful, cautious development, BUT at this speed we will lose a lot...

BIM has already spread and the next and IMPORTANT step to exploiting the benefits that BIM brings is AUTOMATION. - Only then will BIM make economic sense.
Development intervals of 1 year are insanity - that is lethargic "old economy".

I look after / consult several large companies or groups (5000+ employees, 100+ locations, 50+ states) during system conversion / integration of "BIM" into existing and current IT systems and processes...

In these environments, Autodesk is present in all areas, because it can be extended with almost any programming language - if a function is needed, I can program it easily and cheaply - have to use C / C ++, this is much more complicated and expensive.

If we (actually Graphisoft) are not finally accelerating in the area of automation, "simpler but stronger API", data import and export using 'scripts' (parameters, properties, ...), we will lose our current leadership position in CAAD BIM software...

Think of automation in ARCHICAD at night, I can't sleep anymore ...

Best regards from Vienna,
Klaus

Re: Experimental Python add-on is available for ARCHICAD 23

leceta — Mon, 07 Oct 2019 13:49:56 GMT

Hi, I'm having problems with AC23 3003. The addon seems to compiled for AC23 3000 as said in the addon manager dialog.
Am I missing something or an updated python addon will be uploaded (shortly)?
thanks,
aitor leceta

Re: Experimental Python add-on is available for ARCHICAD 23

Tibor Lorantfy — Tue, 08 Oct 2019 09:12:18 GMT

leceta wrote:
Am I missing something or an updated python addon will be uploaded (shortly)?

Hi leceta,

The updated python Add-On should be compatible with any ARCHICAD 23 versions (build number higher than 3000).
Please note, that Python 3.7 must be installed to your machine. Are you sure you have it?
Make sure it's added to your PATH environment variable. You can check it by starting a Command Prompt and type in: python
By default Python 3.7 was installed to this path: c:\Users\<username>\AppData\Local\Programs\Python\Python37\

Quote from the documentation:

ARCHICAD searches for python at your computer. On macOS it searchs at the following fixed path: /Library/Frameworks/Python.framework/Versions.
On Windows platform it uses PATH environment variable, so please add the path to the installed python to your PATH environment variable.
You can download Python installer for free from the official site of Python:
Download Python 3.7 installer for macOS: https://www.python.org/ftp/python/3.7.3/python-3.7.3-macosx10.9.pkg
Download Python 3.7 installer for Windows: https://www.python.org/ftp/python/3.7.3/python-3.7.3-amd64.exe

Re: Experimental Python add-on is available for ARCHICAD 23

leceta — Tue, 08 Oct 2019 14:34:17 GMT

oh, python 3.7!! my bad

thank you Tibor!!

Re: Experimental Python add-on is available for ARCHICAD 23

Joe Putnam — Fri, 11 Oct 2019 16:12:27 GMT

there does seem to be a few issues with resolving dlls but this at first glance appears to "work". Could be interesting to add a few examples the the snippets folder.

Re: Experimental Python add-on is available for ARCHICAD 23

Laszlo Nagy — Sun, 13 Oct 2019 15:13:24 GMT

Rhino Inside ARCHICAD?
Joe, can you tell a bit more about the above example?