How do you usually create non rectangular collumns?

[Anonymous]

I can't see a way to create irregular shaped columns.

How do you usually handle such a case?

[Djordje]

Matthew wrote:

Djordje wrote:
Well ... most of the columns I have seen in my life are aither rectangular or round.

What about classical orders? Egyptian? Minoan?

OK, I have to elaborate.

Classical orders - GDL objects.

The STRUCTURAL columns IN the wall are usually following the outline of the wall - in the case of non-rectangular or non-linear design, then the walls have to be used for everything.

I agree with Matthew, the column tool has (sic!) a lot to be wished for!

[Aussie John]

Matthew wrote:

What about classical orders? Egyptian? Minoan?

Dont be silly ArchiCAD hadnt been invented back then.

[Anonymous]

David wrote:
Let's also not forget inclined/skewed columns for those designs that aren't always rectilinear.

I believe those are called braces or butresses. Columns are by definition vertical.

[Anonymous]

If the inclined column is not possible even a bigger problem i have:
I cannot use inclined beams because ... is missing
I usually use at top of (roof trimmed ) walls objects made with truss maker
for the wall profile
SORRY - Matthew Lohden but if the column and beam traditionally are horizontal and vertical , the idea is to have more flexible and powerful tools to have clean and logical BIM . Because Graphisoft claim a BIM approach.
The columns and beams are not strictly horizontal and vertical.
I SAY .

[David Larrew]

Matthew wrote:
I believe those are called braces or butresses. Columns are by definition vertical.

Apparently you've never worked with an organic architectural design. In my past and present experience columns are NOT always vertical... As well, beams are NOT always horizontal.

...And since GS has not provided us with the "technically correct" structural elements that you list the argument is moot.

[Anonymous]

As you can see in my wish list item (http://www.graphisoft.com/community/archicad-talk/viewtopic.php?t=1394), I am in favor of including braces and buttresses as alternate forms in the column tool. I was just questioning the use of the word.

I also realize that some projects call for non-vertical elements that are probably most properly described as columns. Gaudí's Park Güell is an excellent example, and I have worked on a project in the Netherlands which also used them. I just wonder if there is a word to describe them without needing an adjective.

Part of my reasoning is that it would be better to have language that clearly indicates the different functions that to be included in the column tool.

[Anonymous]

so, for a newbie like me, how would i create an 18" square column, 42" tall that tapers to 10" square at the top? it's very common on older bungalow houses around here. i've tried making four roof planes, but that didn't seem to work...also tried the canted wall, but the corners aren't right...thanks

[Ignacio Azpiazu]

marta wrote:
how would i create an 18" square column, 42" tall that tapers to 10" square at the top? i

A mesh would be fast to generate and easy to edit.

[Anonymous]

ignacio, i tried that, but it didn't seem to work. i've only used meshes so far for sites. i'm VERY new to archicad. any other ideas? thanks

[Ignacio Azpiazu]

Why didn't it seem to work?

It should work. It also allows you to start the taper at mid height if you want, and define different materials for the straight (the skirting) and tapering sides.

For the tool use and settings go to the Help Menu, hit the third button 'Search', type 'mesh' and go to the first hit 'Mesh Tool and Settings'. The illustrations are surprisingly clear.