Did you know you can adjust layer thickness of complex profile walls without creating new walls?
To adjust complex profiles in Archicad without rebuilding elements, use Offset Modifiers to dynamically edit layer thicknesses, dimensions, and surfaces. This method saves time by modifying existing profiles instead of creating new ones.
What are Complex Profiles in Archicad?
Complex Profiles in Archicad are powerful tools that allow you to create custom cross-sectional shapes for building elements such as walls, columns, beams, railings, and certain library parts. These profiles are defined in 2D using the Fill tool and then extruded perpendicular to their profile plane to form 3D building elements.
Archicad includes a predefined set of profile attributes, defined at Options > Element Attributes > Profile Manager.
Working with Offset Modifiers
Setting up Offset Modifiers
Open Profile Manager and select your complex profile.
Click the plus (+) icon to add a new modifier. For example, to adjust insulation thickness.
Select the insulation layer’s bottom node and side edge.
Use the arrow to set stretch direction in which the layer will expand or contract.
Open the Profile Manager and select the complex profile you want to modify.
Make multiple layers move together
To link the outer layer movement with the insulation:
Click the + icon next to the existing modifier.
Press Tab to switch selection modes.
Click the adjacent infill edge to link its movement to the insulation layer.
This ensures both layers adjust thickness simultaneously when you use the modifier.
Save it.
Modify Foundation Profiles
In the Profile Manager, select your foundation profile.
Add as many modifiers as needed to control wall thickness, foundation height, and width.
For complex intersections, use the Tab key to choose the correct anchor point, ensuring precise control over which parts of the profile are affected.
