Creating a Parametric Drawing of Stacked Symmetrical Rectangles

[Anonymous]

I am working on a parametric model for clearances of rail cars.

We get dimensions from the field for cars that are considered dimensional. We get set of basic outline dimensions of widths at various heights.

The sections of the load are always symmetrical and the heights are from top of rail.

Is there a way to create a set of stacked rectangles that are constrained to be symmetrical about a centerline with horizontal lines all touching? The goal is to ensure that the car outline has enough clearance to pass through the constraints of the railway corridor.

I've attached a sample drawing to illustrate.

Thanks.

[Steve_Bessette]

From your description, I believe that the use of a Dynamic Block may be the best solution to your workflow. Dynamic Blocks contain rules / parameters that will allow the block reference to have different appearances depending on the design requirements. The links below will provide additional information.

About Dynamic Blocks

About Creating Dynamic Blocks

About Adding Actions to Dynamic Blocks

About Adding Constraints to Dynamic Blocks

About Controlling the Visibility of Objects in Dynamic Blocks

Please let me know if this helps. If it does resolve your inquiry, please click "Accept as Solution".

Best Regards,

[Anonymous · Accepted solution]

I completely rethought the approach and went with a set of parametric vertical lines on one side of the centerline. Then, I joined the vertical lines using horizontal lines - constraining the lines to intersect. This created a parametric outline on one side of the centerline.

We can enter the dimensions in the parameters manager and it will generate an outline for the load.

In the end, it is fairly simple for the user and works well.

Thanks for your suggestions.

Cheers.

Brian.