Master BT - CAD II - AR3B030
Introduction
- Learning objective
You can apply scripting in support of building technical design
You are acquainted with the possibilities of scripting for building technical design, using MEL (Maya . Firstly, a simple repetitive structure with a few variables is considered. An example is the generation of a load bearing structure consisting of columns and beams located on a regular grid. Secondly, a more complex repetitive structure is considered where the input is not only a number of parameters but also an existing geometric object, such as a curve or surface. An example is the construction of a 3D rafter where the repetition is guided by one or more 3D curves. Thirdly, dynamic expressions are considered in order to simulate moving structures, such as a dynamic shading device.
Assignments
You are required to apply one or more of these scripting techniques to a small individual project you can select yourself, for example the scripting of a part of your design project. Group work is allowed but only if composed of individually distinguishable project parts. At the end of the course, you will be required to submit the final script together with a short process report. During the course, you are required twice to submit the intermediate result of your project, before the second session (week 4) and before the fourth session (week 6). The final grade will be based on your final submission (script and report), but will be lowered one grade if either intermediate result is absent.
Exemplar scripts
Below you can find a number of exemplar scripts, mostly from the Maya MEL Scripts database
- Raster of columns and beams
Creates a raster of columns and beams (Thijs Welman).
- 2D rafter
Creates a 2d rafter from a single curve, by creating an offsetcurve (below the first curve) and connecting both curves.
- 3D Rafter
Creates a 3d rafter from a single curve, by creating three offset curves forming a T (in section, where the original curve forms the junction of the T) and connecting the three curves. The beam at the bottom of the T is slightly shortened.
- TrappenScript
Script with interface to generate stairs (Mark Wieringa).
