How do I create a new object library?

[Reilly]

I am working on creating a library of objects for my office. Most of these objects have already been created as embedded objects, then exported into a folder on our company dropbox. How do I format this so it can be loaded as a linked library in the library manager? So far, when I try to link the new library folder, the objects do not appear when using the object tool. I have not tried making an lcf file yet as I am still working on and editing some of the objects, but that is next on my list to try once the objects are created.

Operating system used: Mac Apple Silicon

[scottjm · Accepted solution]

When you link the library folder, do you still have the objects in your emebded library? if so, it will only show the objects in one location in the object tool as it knows they are duplicates.

Try linking the library folder to a separate archicad file, or remove the objects from your embedded library.

The suggested workflow when developing objects is to work on the objects from a linked library folder.

If you are intending to upload your library to a BIMCloud Library, I would suggest packaging them as an LCF.  This will prevent them from accidently being modified by other users, and also has a slight performance increase when loading the library.  The only downfall is you have to repackage the lcf whenever you modify an object.

[Marc H · Accepted solution]

scottjm gives you a great overview of the choices: a) Export the objects (.gsm) to an external library folder, or b) create an (external LCF) and place in a centrally accessible location.

For my part, I am always editing, creating, or re-creating objects, mostly to represent various equipment. The setup working for me is to have two externally linked office library folders.  The first is an office library, wherein there is a 'final version' object LCF (these will load the fastest).  The second is also an office library, but non-LCF with sub-folders by category, filled with 'working' parametric or static object files which I can use, but might benefit from some additional enhancement. It also carries some sub-folders of imported Revit or other static 3D objects.  

I like the fact I can quickly see all the object (.gsm) sizes at-a-glance in the non-LCF library folders, especially those in the imported objects folders.  I can sort their directory by size to prioritize those imported objects that need to be re-created.  (Imported objects can easily top 1MB, while the same recreated object might be only 90kb.)  It also helps organize the library objects. I can add or edit the sub-folders and/or the object names within and re-load libraries within my session.

[Reilly]

Thank you, Scott. I was able to load the library into a new file without the embedded objects. When editing or replacing an object that I have already created, is there a way to edit and save the object, similar to AutoCAD's "edit in place" feature with blocks? Or would one have to essentially explode, edit, and then re-save a new object to replace the existing one?

[Reilly]

This is very helpful, thank you!

[scottjm]

Hi Reilly,

If you have the linked folder added to your library manager, if you then edit the objects that exists within the linked library you will be editing the .gsm file directly inside that folder. So if you have that same folder linked to a second Archicad file any edits made to the object will appear in the second file after a library reload. 

When I use the term editing a library object I am referring to editing the GDL code of the object. 

How did you create the objects originally? If it was through creating some 2D or 3D geometry in Archicad and using Save as Object then it is very difficult to modify that 2D or 3D geometry inside the object as it gets converted to GDL code when the library part is created. 

if you are using the Save as Object workflow I would suggest looking into the Library Part Maker addon. It allows for a much easier way to update a library part with updated the 2D and 3D geometry. 
https://graphisoft.com/downloads/addons/lpm/int

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=7qopY5TukJE

[Reilly]

So far, I have been using the Save as Object method, as most of the objects I am creating are only for use in specific kinds of 2D drawings (e.g. symbols, ornamentation, and typical section details). I started looking into the Library Part Maker, but it did not work the first time I downloaded it. I think this is because I need to have the administrator for my office signed in to download it, and I plan to try again when he is available.

[Marc H]

You can also originate an object in PARAM-O, then add parameters in the GDL Object Editor.  Works well for creating parametric objects with basic shapes (e.g., tables, carts, or design patterns, etc.). Once the PARAM-O object is saved, it can be opened in the Editor for further refinement.

[Barry Kelly]

Param-o is not very good for 2D objects.

It just creates the 2D view from the 3D elements if I am not mistaken.

So you need to create the param-o object in 3D.

Barry.

[Marc H]

Unfortunately, yes, PARAM-O only does 3D.  Modifying existing documentation objects via the GDL Object Editor works.  I've used it to customize drawing titles and the like.  Haven't tried the LPM for strictly 2D objects.  I've only gotten as far as static 3D (non-parametric) objects which do present in 2D.