Twin window not parametric

[Anonymous]

I need an extra pair of eyes on this window. I am missing something that is not clicking with this window changing dimensions per type. Anybody know what's up?

[Alfredo_Medina]

You need to create a complete skeleton of reference planes first, before proceeding to create the solids. Do not constrain solids to other solids, but solids to reference planes. 

[Anonymous]

I thought I was on a good start and things were working well, then something went wrong again.

[Alfredo_Medina]

I think you´re going too fast, trying to make a family with multiple types and multiple variations, without understanding some basic principles first. Make a full skeleton of reference planes (you don't need reference lines for this family, and you have some of those at the top of the window). Then, make dimensions and parameters. Then test if the skeleton responds to all your parameters. And then, add the solids, constraining only to reference planes.

[Keith_Wilkinson]

Hi Lindsey,

I agree with @Alfredo_Medina - I think you are going too fast.  Take a step back and look at a single panel window first and understand how everything needs to work in terms of reference planes, parameters etc and how the geometry is linked to these.  Then expand this thinking to complete the full window.

Personally speaking I'd probably do this type of window with nested families as I find that approach more robust and overall easier to control however that might be a step too far for you just now - you should be able to accomplish what you need in a single family.

[Anonymous]

Unfortunately, if the boss asks for something and you cannot find it online you've got to figure it out- and fast. If you know of a twin double hung window family already created that would be great. If not, I will keep trucking along until I figure it out. Thanks for the opinions.

[Keith_Wilkinson]

Learning to build families properly will ultimately make your practice more flexible and ultimately save you time and effort.  But building families is something that takes time and practice to get right.  it's a shame your boss doesn't understand that but it's not uncommon - some people have very little time or respect for things they don't understand.

I'm not suggesting you don't continue to build what you need, I'm simply suggesting you break the process down into smaller chunks and build it up.  So for example start with your opening and a frame around the perimeter - put in the ref planes you need to get this to work, flex it then add the geometry you need, flex it again.  If it's all working move on to the next bit.  As Alfredo said, if you get the framework of ref planes working right it will be much easier.  If you don't plan it out you will inevitably come a cropper...