Parametric array in a family

[chadwickt]

I am working on creating a parametric bookcase. There is a nested family of a shelf. The width and depth parameters are tied together. I have created an array with a formula that will array the shelves based on the height. When I change the height and/or the width it works fine. When I change the depth, however, each shelf is offset instead of going straight up. Any ideas what I am missing? I have attached the family just in case. Thanks in advance!

[ToanDN · Accepted solution]

Do an array to create the second instance only, constrain it properly depth wise, then assign the array parameter to the array. Now all of the instances should behave nicely.

[Sahay_R · Accepted solution]

A parametric array requires a minimum of 2 instances. Make sure the second instance is properly aligned and locked to reference planes just like the first instance.

[barthbradley · Accepted solution]

@chadwickt: It happens. After you make the array, align and lock it again. Click on Align Tool and tab-select one of the shelf's front edge face for your first pick, and then the front edge face of the cabinet for your second pick. Lock them together.  All the shelves will snap into place simultaneously. I made a couple of other changes for what it's worth.  It's an OCD thing. 

@Sahay_R: Congrats! 

[Sahay_R]

Thank you, @barthbradley !

[chadwickt]

You all rule! Thank you so much for the help! I was making some Inventor-like assumptions that the array would stay in place in 3D; I didn't even try to constrain the second shelf. I honestly didn't even know that I could align one instance of an array.

@barthbradleyI am with you on the OCD! That was bugging me too! This was more of a proof of concept. I have a student who is creating something similar, so I was just trying to focus on getting the darn shelves to array!

Thanks again to all of you for taking the time to help me out!

[Sahay_R]

@chadwickt - glad to help!

The first thing to do when entering the realms of Revit is to forget the other programs that you know - Inventor, Autocad, Sketchup, etc etc etc. Revit is a jealous mistress and does not tolerate any intruders in her presence......

[chadwickt]

It's tough to do when I go from teaching an AutoCAD class, to Inventor, and then Revit all in a row!