Offset Options in ArchiCAD

By J.T. Burk

The offset tool is accomplished with the relative construction method within the control box.

By pressing the single offset method  

First, draw the defining polygon.

Next, define the offset distance by entering the R value. Note that the angle is locked to get a "perpendicular" distance entering, but you can unlock the A to a specific point through which the offset has to be done. To define the base polyline, you can also use the magic wand or press the SPACE BAR.  Always remember that the offset objects will be made with the current selected tool, such as line, slab, roof, or wall tool. 

IMPORTANT NOTE: if you try to offset a polyline defined by lines AND arcs, and then use the magic wand on it (with the line tool selected), you'll get line segments along the arcs (you can control how they are drawn in the tools, using the magic wand settings).

TIP: if you want arcs made of arcs, make the whole process with the circle tool instead of the line tools.  This will create offset arcs where the originals were arcs, and lines where the originals were lines.

You can also define multiple offsets by using this button instead.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JT Burk is the Principal of CADeshack, a value added reseller for Architects & Builders, and has used the 3D building process for over 13 years when he initially formed The OwneRep Group a project management & architectural company in Houston & Chicago. All projects are built in 3D to speed the overall process and increase communications with the entire project team. Mr. Burk is licensed in fifteen states (NCARB) including Texas as an architect. He has over 25 years experience in several different building types as well as an extensive corporate architectural background. He has a Master of Architecture Degree from the University of Wisconsin. Mr. Burk is also the principal of The Fountainhead Group, a fountain & waterscape consulting company. He can be reached at jtburk@jtburk.com or visit his web site at http://www.jtburk.com/

ABOUT GRAPHISOFT

Graphisoft_® is a leading provider of design and management software solutions for the architectural profession and the building industry.  Founded in 1982, Graphisoft is ranked today among the largest AEC CAD software developers in the world, with ten offices worldwide in addition to its Budapest headquarters.  ArchiCAD_® and other Graphisoft products are used by more than 100,000 architects, facility managers and building professionals all over the world.  Shares of Graphisoft are traded on the Budapest (GRAPHI) Stock Exchange.  More information about Graphisoft is available at http://www.graphisoft.com/.

All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective holders.  Graphisoft and ArchiCAD are registered trademarks of Graphisoft.  Other products are the trademarks of their respective companies. 

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