Here at Ideate, we are always on the lookout for helpful tips and tricks that might be of value to our customers. While attending Autodesk Technical Academy this year, we were able to get a first-hand look at some of the additional features of Autodesk InfraWorks. One of these was the support of JavaScript for use when configuring data and for adding Tooltips to existing objects in the model. The Autodesk techs hosting the session were kind enough to share those scripts with us, and now we would like to share them with you.
The first of our scripts deals with Building Randomization. In many cases, our InfraWorks model may start with building footprint information that locates and defines areas that the buildings will occupy. In order to create buildings in the model, we can apply a user-specified height to those footprints to produce an extruded 3D model. Although this is a quick and relatively easy solution, it does not provide much in terms of variety. All buildings are generated at the same height, giving it an unnatural look. With the Building Randomization script, varying height, façade, and roof styles are assigned to the buildings based on pre-defined case criteria. To use the script, simply delete the default script and paste it in as a replacement.
Here are some screenshots of a sample model with the defaults, then with the randomization script applied.
Our second script was created to add a custom Object Tooltip that includes a Google Maps link in it. This script can be applied to buildings in your InfraWorks model and automatically launches and locates those buildings when clicked. It also includes user-defined Name, Description and User Data fields that can be edited for each object when the Tooltip is applied. It can also be copied and pasted, however this script is added to the Tooltip cell in the Object Properties palette for each individual object rather than applied to the entire data source like in our first example.
The screenshot below shows the Tooltip that appears when the object is hovered over in InfraWorks as well as the user-defined properties and link to Google Maps.
You can download a copy of the scripts here:
To see a video on how these are applied, view our video, InfraWorks Tips and Tricks.
For more information on the software solutions, training and consulting Ideate provides, please visit the Ideate, Inc. homepage.
Matt Miyamoto
ENI Manager & Senior Application Specialist
Matt is an ENI Manager and Senior Application Specialist in Ideate, Inc.’s Seattle office. He has a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and is a licensed Civil Engineer. Prior to joining Ideate, Matt worked as a civil engineer, using Civil 3D on a variety of projects including site development, roadway improvements and infrastructure design. With over 10 years of experience in the civil engineering industry, Matt now provides training, consulting, technical support, and implementation strategies for organizations transitioning to Civil 3D. Matt is an Autodesk Certified Instructor (ACI), as well as an Autodesk Certified BIM Specialist: Roads and Highway Solutions. Additionally, Matt is and Autodesk Certified Professional for AutoCAD, and AutoCAD Civil 3D. Find Matt on Twitter.